[Printer Friendly Version]   [How to E-mail This Article to A Friend]

WEEKLY NEWS 4: Mob Boss Released From Prison

Recently in New York, John A. "Junior" Gotti was released from prison after more than 5 years behind bars. Gotti Jr., whose father was late mob boss John Gotti, was imprisoned for racketeering charges in 1999 and was released after posting a $7 million bail. The 41-year-old father of five was originally supposed to be freed last year, but new charges were brought against him, including loan sharking, extortion and attempted kidnapping.

Gotti Jr., who took the position of “street boss” for the Gambino crime family in the 1990s after his father went to prison and died of cancer, did not testify at his own trial. Prosecutors, however, described his involvement with organized crime and witnesses gave accounts of his crimes. One witness in particular, Curtis Sliwa, explained that he was shot on Gotti Jr.’s orders after criticizing the older Gotti on a radio show.

After being released from prison, Gotti said in a statement, "I am thankful to finally be reunited with my wife and five children. I did my time in prison and have moved on with my life. I hope and pray that everyone will try to understand that my past is behind me and to please focus on my future and what I do from here on out." He has also given up all ties to organized crime.

Gotti Jr. now faces four months of house arrest. He is scheduled for another trial early next year. He will also be electronically monitored and has been warned by a federal judge to refrain from contacting witnesses who testified during his trial.

--Written by Renee Clara

Write your own story telling us what you think about this article!

Read WEEKLY NEWS 1: NY Skyline Dimmed For Birds