Mob boss DiNunzio admits to strip club shakedown

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- The acting head of the New England mob pleaded guilty in federal court Thursday morning to shaking down Rhode Island strip clubs for protection money.

As part of the plea deal, Anthony L. DiNunzio, 53, of East Boston, will serve between just over five years and up to 6 1/2 years in prison when he is sentenced Nov. 14.

According to the indictment unsealed by the Rhode Island U.S. Attorney’s Office following his arrest in April, DiNunzio is accused of receiving monthly protection payments from adult entertainment businesses in Providence including the Cadillac Lounge, The Satin Doll, Foxy Lady and Desire.

He initially pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.

As part of the plea deal, DiNunzio admitted to being the boss of the New England mob. He assumed control two years ago, replacing Luigi "Baby Shacks" Manocchio.

Manocchio pleaded guily to similar charges in connection with a superseding indictment. He's currently serving a prison sentence in a federal prison in Virginia.

DiNunzio's brother, underboss Carmen "The Cheesman" DiNunzio, is currently serving a six-year sentence for bribing an undercover FBI Agent posing as a state official.