CAMPBELL HALL, NY – A dramatic incident unfolded in a quiet senior retirement community in rural Orange County, New York, as a former judge and assistant district attorney took his own life amid an FBI arrest operation. The man, identified as Stuart Rosenwasser, faced federal bribery charges linked to his actions during his tenure in the district attorney’s office.
The confrontation began early in the morning when FBI agents arrived at Rosenwasser’s residence to execute an arrest warrant. According to sources, the situation escalated quickly when Rosenwasser allegedly pointed a firearm at one of the agents. In response, an agent discharged his weapon, though it remains unclear if any shots struck Rosenwasser. Following this, Rosenwasser reportedly barricaded himself inside his home and ultimately succumbed to a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Rosenwasser, 72, had been under investigation for his involvement in a bribery scheme. Federal prosecutors accused him of leveraging his position to initiate an investigation in 2022, aiming to assist a longtime associate, Marty Sudani. Sudani claimed that his nephew had embezzled nearly $2 million from him, prompting Rosenwasser to assure him in a text message that he was putting “maximum effort” into the case.
Court documents reveal that Rosenwasser received $63,000 in bribes in exchange for his assistance. Evidence included copies of money orders and checks made out to the former judge. In one message, Rosenwasser allegedly wrote, “I will always protect you and help you,” underscoring the depth of his involvement in the scheme.
Rosenwasser abruptly resigned from his position earlier this year, a move that raised eyebrows at the time. In a statement, his former superior expressed deep sorrow over the tragic conclusion of Rosenwasser’s career and life, extending heartfelt condolences to his family.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving residents and law enforcement officials grappling with the violent and unexpected turn of events. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the FBI operation and the fatal confrontation continues.