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Prosecutors say 66 year old Gus Bax routinely recommended and promoted John Gross and his company, David Gross Contracting, to individuals and entities seeking permits and approvals from the city. They add Bax created a perception that it would be in the best interest of those seeking permits from the City to use Gross and his company and if they did so, they would have an easier time obtaining the approvals they sought. In exchange for, and as a reward for Bax's practice of steering business to John Gross and David Gross Contracting, the defendant received, at no cost, various items of value from John Gross and David Gross Contracting. The items included home repairs and maintenance services at Bax's personal residence, such as the remodeling of his bathroom and plowing of his driveway, an expense paid trip, free golf outings, and other benefits.
"As we have said in the past, this Office intends to root out public corruption wherever it occurs," said U.S. Attorney Hochul. "Every person or business is entitled to a level playing field when it comes to dealings with Government officials. Public employees, for their part, may not illegally or personally benefit from their position. While instances of public corruption are fortunately rare in Western New York, such will be treated firmly and decisively when they come to our attention."
Bax will be sentenced in May.
