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- calendar_today November 14, 2026
Testimony Reveals Pressure in City Hiring Process
Former Department of Correction Commissioner Louis Molina testified in Manhattan court Friday about efforts by former mayoral adviser Eric Ulrich to secure a job for the daughter of a friend, unveiling a new level of detail in an ongoing public corruption trial.
Background: Referral from Eric Ulrich
In February 2022, Eric Ulrich—then a senior adviser to Mayor Eric Adams—called Molina to recommend the daughter of his friend, Michael Mazzio, for a position at the Department of Correction (DOC). Molina, responding to Ulrich’s call, arranged a meeting with the recent college graduate within the same week.
Job Offer and Response
According to court testimony and audio recordings, Molina’s one-on-one meeting with Kristina Mazzio resulted in a conditional offer for an entry-level analyst position. Molina stated, "She had the job if she wanted it." The role, which paid $50,000, was offered immediately after the conversation, and human resources completed the vetting process before hiring her. Molina testified that no other candidates were considered for the position.
Allegations of Political Favors
Prosecutors have alleged that Michael Mazzio bribed Ulrich with premium New York Mets season tickets in exchange for favors, including the effort to secure his daughter's employment. Both Ulrich and Mazzio have pleaded not guilty, and the trial continues in Manhattan.
Inside the Hiring Recommendation
Phone calls presented in court revealed Ulrich’s persistent involvement. In one call, Ulrich emphasized, "Mazzio’s the priority," to which Molina replied, "You got it." Molina testified that he would not have interviewed Kristina Mazzio had it not been for Ulrich’s direct referral, a practice he said occurred "six to 12" times during his two-year tenure whenever mayoral staff made recommendations.
Not the Originally Suggested Job
Ulrich initially sought a director of special projects position for Mazzio's daughter. Molina explained that this role involved coordinating visits to Rikers Island for officials and advocates—a position for which he felt Kristina Mazzio was not qualified. Instead, Molina suggested she consider a food service job or an analyst post, based on her interests and skills. "She told me she was interested in the policy analyst position," Molina testified.
Corruption Allegations Broader in Scope
The Manhattan district attorney’s office has accused Ulrich of leveraging his position to benefit associates like Mazzio, sometimes in return for perks or cash. Prosecutors claim Ulrich also attempted to assist Mazzio with licensing issues for a towing company he owned.
Context: Turbulent Times for DOC Leadership
During Molina’s tenure as commissioner, he faced scrutiny for deteriorating conditions at Rikers Island and a spike in jail deaths, making 2022 the deadliest year for New York City jails in 25 years. Molina left his position for a new job in City Hall after continued criticism and high-profile oversight.
Courtroom Audio and Reactions
In court, recorded phone conversations depicted Ulrich complimenting Molina’s leadership and encouraging him amid negative media attention. In an April 2022 call, Ulrich said, “You can’t let them tell the story for you,” to which Molina responded, “Exactly. And then we’ve got these constant hit pieces.”
Continuing Trial and Response
Both Eric Ulrich and Michael Mazzio have denied wrongdoing, and the trial on alleged public corruption and job hiring irregularities remains ongoing.
Source: gothamist.com.
