Closing arguments wrap in case against former DEA agent

Patrick Ryan

April 3, 2024 at 9:46 AM·1 min read

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — It was a marathon day in court Tuesday as federal prosecutors and defense attorneys in the weeks-long trials against former DEA agent Joseph Bongiovanni presented their closing arguments.

Bongiovanni is facing several serious charges, including bribery, conspiracy and obstruction of justice. Prosecutors claim Bongiovanni used his position to shield allege drug traffickers, friends and associated with ties to Italian organized crime, in exchange for bribes totaling $276,000.

‘Little dark secret’: DEA agent on trial accused of taking $250K in bribes from Mafia

The defense looked to debunk claims that Bongiovanni and Peter Gerace, the owner of Pharaoh’s Gentlemen’s Club, had illegal dealings.

Gerace currently stands accused of selling drugs and women for sex through the club. Jury deliberations in the Bongiovanni case begin early Wednesday morning.

Patrick Ryan is an award-winning reporter who has been part of the News 4 team since 2020. See more of his work here and follow him on Twitter.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.

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Closing arguments wrap in case against former DEA agent

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