First Juror Picked in “Uncle Joe” Ligambi’s Mob Trial

Think we can get through this post without making a reference to famous mobster movies? Fuhgeddaboutit. The Associated Press reports that the first juror has been chosen in the federal trial of alleged Philadelphia mob boss “Uncle Joe” Ligambi. He’s accused of illegal gambling activities, and while there’s “little violence alleged,” authorities aren’t taking any chances with these proceedings: All of the jurors will remain anonymous, and they’ll be brought to and from court from a remote location to reduce the chances that somebody might try (ahem) a little extrajudicial persuasion regarding Ligambi’s guilt or innocence. Ligambi has reportedly run the Philly mob since former boss Joey Merlino went to prison in 1999. [The Associated Press]