He is a known 'associate' of criminals. [=he is known to associate with criminals; people know that he works with or spends time with criminals]
She was promoted from assistant editor to 'associate' editor and may soon be promoted to senior editor.
He was 'associated' [='connected, identified'] 'with' a group of radicals in the government.
(..) It's time for recess. Simon says put your hands on your heads. - Let's go. - Don't fret. We won't be long. My associate will keep you company until our business is finished. This'll work nicely. Everly, right there. You can't do this. Agent Ressler. (..)2016 TvShow: The Blacklist Title: Alexander Kirk (No. 14): Conclusion Season: 3 Episode 23
(..) Yes. And I want things put right. ALEXANDER KIRK (NO.) "CONCLUSION" Thank you for coming on short notice. I understand my associate's already brought you up to speed in the basics of the task. The file? Everything you asked for. Photos of Tom Keen, his daughter. (..)2016 TvShow: The Blacklist Title: Alexander Kirk (No. 14): Conclusion Season: 3 Episode 23