Central to US Attorney Preet Bharara's successful case against Silver was a bribery scheme in which the former speaker directed state grants to a Columbia University oncologist who specialized in mesothelioma research in exchange for the doctor directing his patients to Weitz & Luxenberg, netting Silver lucrative legal fees. (nystateofpolitics.com)
Mr. Silver traded public money to fund mesothelioma research in exchange for patient referrals to line his own pockets, they charge, and also took kickbacks, described as «referral fees,» after directing real estate companies Glenwood Management and the Witkoff Group to use the law firm of his former counsel. (observer.com)
The verdict came after a three - week trial in which the government sought to show Mr. Silver traded state research grants for mesothelioma research in exchange for lucrative legal referrals of mesothelioma patients exposed to asbestos; and, in a separate scheme, that he directed real estate firms with business before the state, including Glenwood Management, to hire a friend's law firm — netting him more referral fees. (observer.com)