This episode of Mob Talk with George Anastasia and Dave Schratwieser takes a closer look at the Merlino trial and a potential plea offer that remains on the table.
The Joey Merlino trial has been delayed until Jan. 29 after the 55-year-old mobster was hospitalized with a heart issue as detailed here. The guys give us one last look at the evidence against the alleged Philadelphia mafia boss which includes over 800 hours of tapes and recordings and at least three cooperators waiting to take the stand. But Merlino still remains defiant and alleges that he didn’t do anything wrong and is still on track to roll the dice and take his chances in court. George and Dave make some great points about the risk involved in going to trial even if the fed’s case may have some flaws.
The flamboyant Cosa Nostra bosses trial will definitely be one of the more interesting ones of the year. The guys also have some information on Philly mafia soldier Gaeton Lucibello and a recent parole violation that could send him back to prison. According to the report, Lucibello violated his supervised release restrictions by meeting with fellow wiseguy Salvatore “Sonny” Mazzone. Sonny is the brother of high ranking Philly mobster Steven Mazzone. Lucibello a one time captain in the organized crime family reportedly met Sonny during a brief encounter at a bocce ball game in South Philly. His supervised release was set to end on Feb 1st. As always no one covers the mafia in Philadelphia any better than George and Dave and hopefully, they will be keeping close tabs on the Joey Merlino trial.
