Eric Ulrich bribery trial begins in Manhattan, prosecutors label him a compromised politician

Former New York City Buildings Commissioner Eric Ulrich and towing‑company operator Michael Mazzio faced opening statements in Manhattan Supreme Court on Monday, marking the start of a six‑week bench trial.

Manhattan prosecutors called Ulrich a “compromised politician” who would “do anything for cash,” alleging he accepted bribes that included a 20‑game Mets premium ticket package worth $10,000, electronic payments, and a $4,000 cash payoff in a parking lot.

Assistant District Attorney Guy Tardanico said Ulrich used his position to grant shortcuts for friends, then received “tens of thousands of dollars” in return, citing a scheme that helped co‑defendant Michael Mazzio’s daughter obtain a higher‑paying city job.

The indictment also details a specific incident at Aldo’s Pizzeria & Restaurant in Ozone Park, where Ulrich allegedly intervened to clear a mouse infestation after the Livreri brothers paid him to stop a health‑department shutdown. Prosecutors claim the commissioner initially hesitated, then acted within hours after the payment.

Evidence to be presented includes surveillance photos, financial and government records, phone calls and text messages, and a recorded conversation in which Ulrich was heard counting money.

Ulrich’s defense attorney, David Jason Cohen, portrayed his client as a “rising star” who fell victim to addiction and poor judgment, asserting that Ulrich’s “office was never for sale.” Mazzio’s lawyer, James Froccaro, described the relationship as that of “bestest friends” and denied any bribery scheme.

The trial, presided over by Judge Daniel Conviser, follows three years after the pair were indicted on 16 felony counts across five indictments. If convicted, Ulrich faces up to 15 years in prison. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg attended the opening arguments, and the court is set to reconvene Tuesday for the next day of testimony.