TRUE CRIME I MP
He was later given the nickname “The Teflon Don” because several attempts to convict him of crimes in the 1980 resulted in either a hung jury or an acquittal (i.e. the charges wouldn’t “stick”). fall. While his peers would go out of their way to shun attention, especially from the media, Gotti was known as the “The Dapper Don” for his expensive clothes and personality in front of news cameras. He was later given the nickname “The Teflon Don” because several attempts to convict him of crimes in the 1980 resulted in either a hung jury or an acquittal (i.e. the charges wouldn’t “stick”). Gotti’s underboss Salvatore “Sammy the Bull” Gravano is credited with the FBI’s success in finally convicting Gotti. In 1991, Gravano agreed to turn state’s evidence and testify for the prosecution against Gotti after hearing Gotti on wiretap make several disparaging remarks about Gravano and questioning his loyalty. In 1992, Gotti was convicted of five murders, conspiracy to commit murder, racketeer-
less. But as Americans face a graver menace, the up-from-the-streets antihero we loved to fear is a reminder of a time when crime was, if not more simple, at least more explicable. It was not fanaticism and hatred that drove John Gotti to violence but another, more recognizable American value: greed.
•We sell a great selection of used RVs, Trailers, Toy Haulers & 5th Wheels •We Buy & Consign units, bring your RV to SELL! •We offer a wonderful selection of rental units. Plan your Spring Break/Summer Vacation TODAY! 1338 E. Main St., El Cajon, 92021
(at the corner of E. Main & 2nd St. next to Coco’s)
619.459.8173
www.sdurv.com
Sammy The Bull ing, obstruction of justice, illegal gambling, extortion, tax evasion, and loansharking. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole and was transferred to the Marion Penitentiary. Gotti died of throat cancer on June 10, 2002 at the United States Medical Center for Federal Prisoners in Springfield, Missouri. His death provided the local tabloid media with yet another chance to spin the myth of the Godfather--in commemorative pullout sections no
For advertising information call: (858) 537.2280
April 15, 2011 THE MILITARY PRESS Page 31