Matthew Madonna a former Lucchese crime family boss and a one-time member of the families three-man ruling panel was sentenced to five years in prison on racketeering charges.
Madonna is headed to state prison after being indicted as part of “Operation Heat” which investigated a mafia controlled illegal gambling enterprise. According to prosecutors and the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice, the mob operation brought in billions of dollars in illegal sports betting wagers and relied on violence and extortion to collect debts. The 79-year-old mobster plead guilty to charges of second-degree racketeering back on June 17.
“Matthew Madonna“
Madonna was at one time part of a three-man ruling panel, which controlled the Lucchese crime family. According to the feds, he controlled the crime families illegal gambling operations along with fellow mobster Joseph DiNapoli, who himself was a one time member of the same family ruling panel. The 80 year old DiNapoli currently has charges pending against him as well. Four other alleged members of the New York Mafia and the Lucchese family, specifically have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing including powerful captain Ralph V. Perna. Former Underboss Martin Taccetta has already been sentenced to 8 years for his role in the illegal operation.
Ralph Perna plead guilty to first degree racketeering charged back in June and is facing a recommended sentence of eight years. Along with Ralph his sons, John G. Perna and Joseph M. Perna also plead guilty and each is facing recommended sentences of 10 years each. Lucchese mobster John Mangrella has also plead guilty and is facing a recommended sentence of eight years behind bars. Attorney General John J. Hoffman said the far reaching investigation, which extended to the top bosses of the Lucchese family sends a powerful message that they are attacking organized crime and the NY mafia in the most effective ways possible.
