Joseph Scalise and Robert Pullia Plead Guilty

Reputed Chicago mobster Joseph Scalise pleaded guilty today on the eve of trial to plotting a series of strong-armed robberies, including an armored car heist and the holdup of the home of a deceased mob boss.

Scalise, 73, said after court that the offer from federal prosecutors was too good to refuse. He and co-defendant Robert Pullia, 70, who also pleaded guilty, both face about 9 to 10 years in prison under the deal. “I think we could have won at trial,” said a relaxed and smiling Scalise, 73. “You just got to be realistic.”

Scalise’s co-defendant, Robert Pullia, 70, also pleaded guilty, but a third defendant, Arthur Rachel, 73, plans to go ahead with a bench trial slated for Thursday before U.S. District Judge Harry Leinenweber.

Scalise and Pullia are scheduled to be sentenced May 10.

All three have convictions that stretch back to the 1960s and long, storied histories in Chicago.

Scalise and Rachel, both of whom have reputed ties to the Chicago Outfit, were convicted of robbing a London jeweler in 1980 of gems worth $3.4 million, including the 45-carat Marlborough diamond, which is still missing.

Outside court, Scalise remained coy about the gem’s whereabouts – hinting that the insurance company that covered its loss might be able to buy the answer. “If Lloyd’s wanted to pay enough money, maybe they could (find out where it is),” said Scalise, whose attorneys said is not cooperating with authorities.

Scalise, who has consulted with Hollywood producers on movie plots, also told reporters he was writing a book.

Pullia, meanwhile, left the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse without commenting but asked his attorney, Marc Martin, to make one statement to the court and reporters on his behalf. “Mr. Pullia is not cooperating,” Martin said.

Thanks to Annie Sweeney

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Jury Selection Begins Today for Trial of Alleged Mobsters, Jerry Scalise, Art Rachel and Bobby Pullia

Don't let their age fool you.

That might be the message from prosecutors this week when three alleged Chicago mobsters -- Joseph "Jerry" Scalise, Arthur "The Genius" Rachel, and Robert "Bobby" Pullia -- go on trial. All the defendants are in their 70s.

Some people look towards pensions and 401k plans to get by when they retire, but prosecutors say these three defendants were looking for another way to find financial security in their golden years.

Prosecutors say Scalise, Rachel, and Pullia were planning to rob the Southside family home of the late Angelo LaPietra when they were arrested outside the mansion in April 2012. There was speculation that the famous 45 karat Marlborough diamond was hidden inside the home of the late mob boss. The diamond still hasn't been found.

Scalise and Rachel had already been busted in 1980 for stealing the diamond from a London jewelry store. They served 13 years behind bars.

Prosecutors said they were trying to profit from the home invasion in addition to plotting to rob a West Suburban bank.

Their lawyers insist they're innocent.

Scalise in recent years hadn't been shy about his past and even served as a consultant to the Paramount movie "Public Enemies," in which Johnny Depp played John Dillinger.

Jury selection begins Tuesday morning, opening statements could come by the afternoon or maybe Wednesday. The trial is expected to last about two weeks.

Thanks to Larry Yellen

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Mob Month Panel & Book Signing: Son of a Gun: How to Diss Your Hitman Dad and Keep Friends

Mob Month: Son of a Gun: How to Diss Your Hitman Dad and Keep Friends

1/17/2012 • 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.


Clark County Library
1401 E. Flamingo Road
Las Vegas, NV 89119
Room: Main Theater

Childhood friends Billy Cutolo, Jr. and Andrew DiDonato will discuss growing up in opposing mob families and how Andrew survived the hit put out on him by Billy’s father, “Wild” Bill Cutolo. Moderated by Surviving The Mob and The Battle For Las Vegas author Dennis Griffin.

Book sales/signing will be available at each event. All seating will be on a first come, first served basis. Entry wristbands will be issued starting at 6 p.m. from the Theater box office on day of event only. For more information about any of our Mob Month events, please call 702-507-3458.

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