A former Paterson zoning inspector has been sentenced to three years in prison for a scam involving the sale of fake permits.

Jose Fermin, 54, and two codefendants were charged in connection with the criminal operation that occurred between 2020 and 2022.

Prosecutors say Fermin took payment from people seeking home improvements and provided fraudulent city permits bearing forged signatures.

He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit official misconduct in May. His codefendants also entered guilty pleas and were previously sentenced.

In addition to his prison sentence, the judge also ordered Fermin to forfeit all public employment and permanently barred him from holding any future public office in New Jersey.