By: Richard L. Smith
A Newark expediter admitted in federal court to orchestrating multiple schemes involving bribery of city officials, falsification of documents, and fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications, according to a statement released by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Lamont Baxter, 49, of Newark, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge William J. Martini to seven criminal counts, including conspiracy to commit bribery, wire fraud, and fraudulently securing COVID-19 relief funds.
His plea reveals an extensive pattern of corruption connected to real estate and construction projects in Newark from 2017 to 2022.
Federal prosecutors said Baxter served as a middleman between developers and Newark officials, offering expediting services for permits and approvals.
As part of his role, Baxter routinely facilitated and paid cash bribes to public officials—often describing these payments as “taking care of” city employees—to fast-track permits like Certificates of Continued Occupancy (CCOs) and Code Compliance Certificates (CCCs).
Among those involved was former Newark Councilmember Joseph A. McCallum Jr., who previously pleaded guilty to accepting bribes.
Baxter admitted delivering more than $5,000 in cash to McCallum on behalf of a local developer seeking help with project approvals.
In one instance, Baxter pocketed a $10,000 payment by falsely telling a client it was intended as a bribe for a Newark official. No such bribe occurred, and he kept the money for himself.
Baxter also participated in producing and distributing fake municipal documents, including inspection certifications and cut-in cards—used to verify properties for electrical utility service.
These fraudulent documents were sold to individuals involved in real estate transactions.
In a separate scheme, Baxter exploited the federal COVID-19 relief effort by submitting falsified PPP loan applications using fake tax forms and inflated revenue numbers.
One loan application was for a business he didn’t even own. In total, he secured more than $40,000 in pandemic relief funds.
Baxter faces serious penalties.
Each wire fraud count carries a maximum of 20 years in prison, while the bribery charges carry up to 10 years.
He also faces fines of up to $250,000 per charge or twice the financial gain from the crimes. His sentencing is scheduled for August 12, 2025.