Seven of eight inspectors convicted for their involvement in a bribery scheme involving produce inspections at the Hunt's Point Terminal Market entered guilty pleas in New York District Court.
The eighth inspector pled guilty in December in a plea bargaining arrangement to cooperate with the government.
Sentencing of the seven will take place May 22. Each will face 18-33 months in prison and fines up to $60,000
In addition, two of the 13 wholesale company employees charged in the scheme have also pleaded guilty, with charges still pending against the 11 others.
"This is a positive first step in securing restitution for companies damaged, and improving our present inspection service," United Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Association Chairman Bruce McEvoy, said. "Companies who do business at Hunt's Point-and throughout the country-need to regain trust in the system," he said.