Vincent Basciano

Mobster and alleged acting boss of the Bonanno crime family, Vincent Basciano was sentenced to life in prison without parole on March 31, 2008.

Fast Facts:

1. Born: November 14, 1959
2. Arrested: November 19, 2004
3. Convicted of: Racketeering, Attempted Murder, Gambling
4. Sentence: Life in prison without parole
5. Was secretly taped by Joey Massino allegedly plotting to kill prosecutor
6. Basciano owned a beauty salon called "Hello Gorgeous" in the Bronx
7. Was acting boss of the Bonanno Crime Family
8. Basciano's lawyer plans to appeal

Brief Biography

According to the FBI, Basciano is the acting head of the Bonnano crime family. Even though Basciano was a high-ranking member, authorities believe he still engaged in murders, a job usually left to subordinates.¹ In 2004, he was arrested on gambling and racketeering charges. He was subsequently indicted on murder charges while in jail. In addition, he was later indicted on charges that he was plotting to kill the prosecutor in the case, Greg Andres.

Conviction and Possible Death Penalty

In 2006, a jury found the don guilty of racketeering, attempted murder and gambling, but the jury hung on the murder charge for the killing of Frank Santoro, a neighbor who was allegedly a drug dealer and mob associate. After a 2007 retrial, Basciano was convicted of the murder. In addition, if he is found guilty of plotting the murder of his associate Randolph Pizzolo, he could be sentenced to death.²

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