Former Islip Town Supervisor Peter McGowan, who once served three months in jail for taking bribes, has died at 83.
McGowan was a powerhouse within the Suffolk County GOP. He served as town supervisor for 14 years before stepping down in 2006 amidst a corruption investigation — led by then District Attorney Tom Spota. Spota faced corruption charges of his own more than a decade later.
McGowan pleaded guilty to taking bribes, witness tampering and misusing campaign funds.
While in office, McGowan was praised for keeping taxes low and expanding Long Island MacArthur Airport.
