Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins faces federal extortion trial

Testimony in the federal corruption trial of Suffolk County Sheriff Steven Tompkins has revealed a close personal relationship between the sheriff and the prosecution’s star witness, cannabis executive Frank Perullo. During the trial, Perullo read aloud private texts and emails that included expressions of affection and brotherhood between the two men.

Prosecutors allege that Tompkins used his position to pressure Perullo into selling him $50,000 in stock in Perullo’s company, Ascend Wellness Holdings, before it went public. When the stock value dropped, Tompkins allegedly demanded that Perullo refund the full investment amount. Perullo, who has accepted immunity from prosecution in exchange for his testimony, stated that he repaid the money in increments of approximately $12,000 to $12,500. He further testified that some checks included memos intended to ensure the funds remained untaxed, allegedly at the urging of Tompkins.

Tompkins, who is currently on leave from his elected position, maintains his innocence against the extortion charges.