Prosecutor who brought down Ill. Gov Rod Blagojevich named Special Counsel in ‘Bridgegate’ probe

The New Jersey General Assembly investigating the lane closures on the George Washington Bridge announced it has brought on former Assistant U.S. Attorney Reid Schar as special counsel into the probe. Schar was the lead prosecutor in both corruption trials of former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich.

Mr. Schar is a partner at the law firm of Jenner & Block LLP and co-chairs the firm’s White Collar Defense and Investigations Practice. 

In a statement released by Assembly Democrats, legislative leaders praised Schar’s experience adding that it will help them in the on-going investigation led by the New Jersey Assembly.

“It’s vital to have someone of the caliber of Mr. Schar joining us in this effort,” said Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto (D-Hudson/Bergen). “A potential misuse of taxpayer resources for political purposes is a serious matter that requires an astute legal eye with experience in this realm to help guide the process. I look forward to the assistance he will offer under the leadership of Chairman Wisniewski.”

“We will move forward with this investigation deliberately and methodically,” said Assembly Majority Leader Lou Greenwald (D-Camden/Burlington). “Mr. Schar’s stellar experience and record of success will add to the great work already undertaken by Chairman Wisniewski and ensure we get the answers the people of New Jersey need and deserve.”

The special counsel will advise a legislative committee investigating a plot that shut down lanes to the George Washington Bridge for four days in September.

The shutdown caused massive traffic jams in the town of Fort Lee. The plot apparently was hatched as a political vendetta, possibly against the town’s Democratic mayor for not endorsing the Republican governor’s re-election.

Four members of Christie’s circle have been fired or resigned.

Christie, a possible 2016 presidential candidate, has apologized.