De Blasio to Repay $330K for Misusing Public Funds During Presidential Run

Former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio will pay a $329,794 fine to settle a complaint from the city's Conflicts of Interest Board. The board alleged that he misused public funds by using taxpayer money to cover his security detail's expenses during his short-lived 2019 presidential campaign.

<img src="https://www.syracuse.com/resizer/v2/SATW5JYUWJGYTPTDKUJ35S4WPE.jpg?auth=2798766d2438b1d23c8dafb32b34c3a60ac62a375d897bd4f1ef497e02cb4e7e&amp;width=1280&amp;quality=90" alt="De Blasio Settlement">

This settlement marks the largest repayment in the board's history. De Blasio initially faced a potential penalty of $475,000 but the reduced amount reflects his stated financial situation. As part of the agreement, he admitted to receiving warnings about the illegality of using city funds for his out-of-state security expenses during the campaign.

Key Terms of the Settlement:

• De Blasio will pay $100,000 immediately, followed by quarterly installments of nearly $15,000 over four years. Failure to make a payment results in the full $475,000 fine.
• The repayment covers approximately $320,000 in travel expenses (airfare, lodging, and meals) for his security detail. An additional $10,000 fine is also included.
• De Blasio dropped his appeal and admitted to his mistake.

The former mayor's presidential bid was widely criticized, with residents accusing him of neglecting his mayoral duties.

Since leaving office in 2021, de Blasio has taken up lecturing positions at universities and has given paid speeches.