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.

George Norcross III had been accused of unlawfully obtaining property along the waterfront in Camden, N.J., and fraudulently collecting millions of dollars in tax breaks.

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.