By: Richard L. Smith
A former senior aide to the Mayor of Newark has admitted to his role in a bribery scheme involving city compliance documents, federal officials announced.
According to a statement released by Acting U.S. Attorney and Special Attorney Alina Habba, Al-Tarik Onque, 49, of East Orange, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge William J. Martini to one count of conspiracy to commit honest services fraud.
Federal prosecutors said Onque, who once served as a senior aide responsible for handling constituent complaints and working with community organizations, exploited his city position for personal gain.
Court documents show he solicited cash payments from individuals seeking Certificates of Code Compliance (CCCs) or Certificates of Occupancy (COs), promising to expedite the process in exchange for bribes.
Investigators revealed that Onque and others accepted payments tied to multiple properties in and around Newark.
Under Newark regulations, property owners must secure a CCC from the Department of Engineering’s Office of Inspections and Enforcement before certain occupancy changes.
A CO — sometimes referred to as a Certificate of Continued Occupancy (CCO) — is also required to confirm buildings meet city code standards.
The conspiracy charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Sentencing for Onque is set for January 15, 2026.