Judge Considers Dropping Charges In LIRR Disability Pension Scandal

MINEOLA, N.Y. — A New York judge is considering a request to drop criminal charges against a longtime Long Island Rail Road employee linked to a disability pension scandal.

Nassau County Judge John Kase heard arguments Wednesday from defense attorneys seeking to dismiss a 49-count indictment against Fred Kreuder.

He was charged last year with official misconduct. Attorney General Andrew Cuomo's office says that while on duty, Kreuder was advising co-workers on the proper way to file disability forms after they retire.

His arrest followed revelations that virtually every LIRR employee who applies is granted disability pension benefits from a federal railroad agency.

Kreuder's attorneys contend he may have violated ethical standards, but did not break the law. They say he is being made a scapegoat.