Video

John (Sonny) Franzese was acquitted in a hitman’s murder during the era when he was a high-profile figure in city nightclubs, especially the Copacabana. The club drew the era’s most famous performers, and Franzese mingled with them all.


Long Island

Investigations

American Gangster: In Court and on the Town

Newsday

American Gangster: Episode 2

inSONNY19XXXX

John (Sonny) Franzese had beaten a dozen cases before. His supporters still say he was framed, but prosecutors say his guilt — and his proclivities for violence — were beyond dispute. Read the full story and watch the series at newsday.com/Sonny.

Sonny was sentenced to 50 years for a bank robbery. He always insisted he didn’t do it.

American Gangster: Episode 3

INSONNYONE200130_video_PART3

His brother Michael had become an informant too, but John Franzese Jr.’s testimony was far more damaging to the mob. And it helped send Sonny Franzese back to jail at 93.


The Prodigal Son: Why John Jr. testified against his father

American Gangster: Episode 4

INSONNYONE200130_video_PART5

Sonny Franzese’s inability to stay out of prison, along with the other pressures of mob life, devastated his wife and children. Their bond unraveled in dramatic ways.


As Sonny went in and out of prison, the Franzese family fell apart

American Gangster: Episode 5

American Gangster: The Sonny Franzese Story

OTTposters_photos

Most Popular

Latest Videos

Latest videos

Andrew Dykes' defense team added another attorney as the 66-year-old suspect is accused of killing Gilgo Beach victim Tanya Denise Jackson, also known as "Peaches." NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie reports.

'Mr. Dykes did not cause the death of Miss Jackson'

Lines out the door at open houses, offers above asking price: NewsdayTV's Macy Egeland and Newsday real estate reporter Rachel Weiss talk to local professionals about how to navigate this hot market.

It's Your Business: Tips on navigating another hot year for real estate

New court papers reveal details of Rex Heuermann's first 24 hours in custody. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa reports.

'They include a prisoner log which noted he appeared calm'

Two months after Manuel Hernández Zelada disappeared after being arrested by ICE, his family has found him, in a federal facility in New Mexico.

Family reconnects with ICE detainee after judge intervenes

Republican Bruce Blakeman took the oath of office to begin his second term as county executive on Monday night. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa reports.

Blakeman formally begins second term

Sign up for the Morning Update newsletter

Homepage Newsletter Widget

Sitewide Article Bottom Module

Sitewide Video Playlist

The deposed Venezuelan leader made his first court appearance on Monday in Manhattan as large crowds gathered outside the courthouse. NewsdayTV's Andrew Ehinger reports.

Maduro makes first court appearance

Hundreds attended the funeral for Edeedson Cine Jr., 23, in Dix Hills on Friday.

Final farewell for CVS worker

Port Washington's Rapid Response Network aims to prevent or stop federal officials from making arrests by warning immigrants of ICE sightings. NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie has more.

'This is not the way we operate in this country'

A South Setauket father, Vincent DiStasi, was sentenced to 17 years in prison on Thursday for beating his infant son to the point where he needed brain surgery. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa reports.

The infant was 5 weeks old

Each semifinalist will receive $2,000 and their school will receive a matching amount. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa reports.

'I'm ecstatic'

Gov. Kathy Hochul said she is preparing a legal fight. NewsdayTV's Andrew Ehinger reports.

'Child care is needed more than ever'

John Pilaccio pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder charges in the fatal stabbing of CVS employee Edeedson Cine Jr. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa reports.

'A violent criminal record'

Video - megaslot

See the latest video reports on Nassau & Suffolk news, entertainment, things to do and more.

Most Popular

Latest Videos

Stay logged in.