Government Witness
With Vitale's conviction in 2001, Cantarella became acting underboss for the family. However, in October 2002, Cantarella was himself indicted on racketeering charges that included the Perrino murder, arson, kidnapping, loansharking, extortion, illegal gambling, and money laundering. Lauretta and Paul Cantarella were also indicted on racketeering charges. In December 2002, Cantarella accepted a plea bargain deal to avoid prison time for his family and became a government witness. In early 2003, the Bonanno family realized that Cantarella had become an informant.
In June 2004, Cantarella testified at the murder trial of Bonanno boss Joseph Massino, admitting in court his own role in the 1983 Mazzeo killing. Also in 2004, Cantarella testified that he attended the Bonanno family induction ceremony for Perry Criscitelli, who was then the president of the Feast of San Gennaro Association. In July 2007, Cantarella testified at the murder and racketeering trial of Bonanno mobster Vincent Basciano. As of 2011, it is assumed that Canterella and his family are part of a Witness Protection Program.
Read more about this topic: Richard Cantarella
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