Scutari

Linden Mayor Richard J. Gerbounka said he respects State Sen. Nicholas P. Scutari and does not believe “we should rush judgment,� in sizing up Scutari’s involvement in a developing federal investigation.

“I think it’s premature,� said the mayor.

On Monday the U.S. Attorney’s Office served the 22nd district Senator and two other Democratic legislators -- State Sen. Joseph Coniglio and Assemblyman Brian Stack -- with subpoenas. At issue is whether or not the three may have violated conflict-of-interest laws by funneling $3.4 million in special grants, or “Christmas tree� funds, to organizations employing their family members. Scutari allegedly received a subpoena over grants accepted by a non-profit in Elizabeth where his estranged wife works.

The two Democratic State Senators who were served with subpoenas by the U.S. Attorney on Monday are from Democratic districts that could potentially be in play if allegations of a scandal are substantiated.

Nicholas Scutari was elected to the Senate in 2003 after Joseph Suliga dropped his bid for re-election -- he defeated Republican Martin Marks, the Mayor of Scotch Plains, by a 55%-45% margin.

Joseph Coniglio won a Senate seat in 2001 when he ousted three-term GOP incumbent Louis Kosco. He was re-elected in 2003, winning 56%-44% against Assemblywoman Rose Marie Heck.

Subpoenas were served on three Democratic legislators today in connection with a federal probe of legislators receiving an alleged personal benefit from state budget items.  State Sens. Joseph Coniglio of Bergen and Nicholas Scutari of Union , and Assemblyman Brian Stack of Hudson were served with subpoenas today, according to individuals with knowledge of the investigation.