UPDATE: D.A.: Carlucci Not Linked to Corruption Scandal

Prosecutors involved in the political corruption scandal that broke on Tuesday say the one person who upheld his duties and responsibilities as others were arranging bribes and an illicit land deal was state Sen. David Carlucci.

Rockland County District Attorney Thomas Zugibe said Carlucci, a New City Democrat whose district includes Spring Valley, had no role in alleged corruption activities that led to the arrest of six elected officials and political leaders — including the mayor of Spring Valley.

Zugibe said that FBI agents posing as real estate developers went to Carlucci about a supposed project in Spring Valley, but that Carlucci did not provide any support for the bogus project.

"When approached by the undercover FBI agent, Senator Carlucci acted appropriately, and in a manner one would expect from an elected official carrying out his or her sworn duties," Zugibe said. "During the course of this investigation, Senator Carlucci was clearly acting in the best interest of the public and the people he serves."

Zugibe said that when Carlucci was approached to help support the proposal in Spring Valley, he asked for detailed information about the project. Zugibe said that at the time, Carlucci was surprised that the "developers" did not have back up information that he usually sees from constituents seeking support for the project.

"In a sense, he passed the honesty test," Zugibe said. "As made eminently clear by United States Attorney Preet Bharara and confirmed by my office, Senator Carlucci was not involved in any wrongdoing whatsoever. Unfortunately,  as a result of a reference in the Federal corruption indictment of six public officials and public figures, questions have been raised about the potential involvement of Senator Carlucci."

Carlucci's spokesperson Jason Elan commented on the district attorney's statement.

"Senator Carlucci has always acted with the utmost professionalism and integrity to the office he serves throughout his entire career," said Elan. "The senator was in no way involved in this investigation. It is our office policy we don't comment on any ongoing investigation."

The federal investigation, however, has led to allegations that state Sen. Malcolm Smith, D-Queens, promised to provide $500,000 for a road that would support the illicit Spring Valley project as part of a bribery deal that would get him the Republican endorsement in a New York City primary for mayor.