Lawmakers arrested in alleged plot to rig NYC mayor's race

New York state Sen. Malcolm Smith and a New York City councilman have been arrested in an alleged plot to rig the New York City mayor's race.

The FBI says Smith and City Councilman Dan Halloran were arrested early Tuesday at their homes.

U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara says in a statement that Smith "tried to bribe his way" into a shot at the New York City mayoral race.

Bharara says Smith "drew up the game plan" and Halloran found party chairmen who were open to receiving bribes.

Also charged are: Bronx County Republican Party Chairman Joseph Savino; Queens County Republican Party Vice Chairman Vincent Tabone; Spring Valley Mayor Noramie Jasmin; and Spring Valley Deputy Mayor Joseph Desmaret. It's unclear how they are involved.

The prosecutor says charges in the case include bribery, extortion, and wire and mail fraud.