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In a shocking turn of events, retired Judge Stewart Rosenwasser, 72, took his own life as FBI agents arrived at his Campbell Hall, New York home to arrest him on federal corruption charges. The incident unfolded on Tuesday, marking a tragic end to a career once held in high regard.
Rosenwasser, who had served as a prosecutor and judge in Orange County, New York, was under investigation for allegedly accepting $63,000 in bribes. The charges against him included bribery, conspiracy, wire fraud, extortion, and making false statements. The indictment, unsealed just a day before his death, accused Rosenwasser of using his position to launch investigations to benefit a longtime associate, Marty Soudani.
According to sources, when FBI agents arrived at Rosenwasser’s home, he pointed a gun at an agent, prompting the agent to fire a shot. Rosenwasser then barricaded himself inside his home and ultimately took his own life. The FBI has stated that the incident is under review by its Inspection Division, as is standard procedure in agent-involved shootings.
Rosenwasser’s alleged misconduct dates back to 2022 when he was working in the District Attorney’s office. He was accused of launching an investigation to help Soudani, who had accused his nephew of embezzling nearly $2 million. Court documents revealed that Rosenwasser had received money orders and checks made out to him, and in one exchange, he allegedly assured Soudani, “I will always protect you. And help you”.
The former judge abruptly resigned from the Orange County District Attorney’s office in June, a move that raised suspicions among his colleagues. In a statement, his former boss expressed heartbreak over the tragic outcome, extending condolences to Rosenwasser’s family.
This case underscores the severe consequences of corruption and the tragic outcomes that can result from such situations. Rosenwasser’s death not only marks the end of a legal career but also serves as a stark reminder of the pressures and potential pitfalls faced by those in positions of power.
The FBI’s Investigation into the corruption case continues, and further details are expected to emerge as the review progresses. For now, the legal community and the public are left grappling with the shocking and tragic end of Stewart Rosenwasser’s life and career.
