A New Jersey judge on Wednesday dismissed racketeering charges against George E. Norcross III and his five codefendants, delivering a stunning setback to prosecutors who had accused the Democratic power broker of using threats and intimidation to obtain valuable waterfront property in Camden and millions of dollars in tax credits.

A judge has dismissed the racketeering and corruption charges against New Jersey power broker George Norcross, stemming from his efforts to acquire valuable waterfront property.