Trenton Steak Shop Owner Gets 6.5 Years In Bribery Case

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — A Trenton sandwich shop owner who compared himself to Boss Tweed has been sentenced to 6½ years in federal prison for his role in a drug-dealing network and a bribery scheme that brought down the city's mayor.

Joseph "JoJo" Giorgianni pleaded guilty last year.

Giorgianni did not testify against Mayor Tony Mack and Mack's brother when they were convicted earlier this year on extortion and bribery charges. But the cheesesteak shop owner's voice could be heard on recordings played during the trial.

Prosecutors said Giorgianni used code words "cheesesteaks" and "Uncle Remus" to mean cash payments. He could also be heard bragging about his influence with officials.

His lawyer argued he should be placed under house arrest. The judge rejected that.

Both Mack brothers have been sentenced to federal prison.

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