'Bobo' Marrapese turns down offer from prosecutors

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - As it turns out, it was an offer Frank "Bobo" Marrapese could refuse.

The infamous Rhode Island mobster turned down a plea deal from state prosecutors that would have meant nine years in prison if he accepted responsibility for his role in an alleged large-scale organized crime gambling operation.

Dressed in all black, Marrapese, 69, appeared in Superior court Tuesday to formally hear the offer from the Attorney General's office. Associate Justice Netti Vogel explained to Marrapese he faced a maximum of 10 years behind bars if he were found guilty of the charges at trial.

"There would be no credit given to you for time served as a parole violator,” said Vogel. “It would be a straight nine years without a credit given."

Marrapese has been in prison since his arrest in 2011.

It was apparent Marrapese had his mind made up before walking into the courtroom. He quickly turned down the deal.

Defense attorney John Harwood said he believes Marrapese's decision was "well thought out."

"Mr. Marrapese is pretty set in his ways and he believed the nine year offer on the charge is not fair in his mind," Harwood said.

Marrapese was picked up in a state police sweep that netted more than a dozen mobsters or associates allegedly involved in a statewide gambling operation. Marrapese faces seven counts of conspiracy.

At the time, investigators said Marrapese used his "standing" as a made member of the mob to take part in several schemes including extortion.

Marrapese was granted parole in 2008 after serving a 25 year sentence for the gangland slaying of Richard "Dickie" Callei. His recent arrest means he is a parole violator and could face additional time when the parole board decides to revisit his case.

At one point during the hearing Vogel asked Marrapese if was under the influence of alcohol or drugs; a routine inquiry in many court proceedings.

"No," Marrapese said. "Do you have any alcohol?"

While the joke was met with silence by the judge, Harwood later said Marrapese has a good sense of humor.

"At times, he's enjoyable to be with," said Harwood.

Tim White ( twhite@wpri.com ) is the Target 12 investigative reporter for WPRI 12 and Fox Providence. Follow him on Twitter: @white_tim