1st Anonymous Juror Chosen for Philadelphia Mob Trial

Submitted by Associated Press on

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Associated Press

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(Associated Press) - The first juror selected for a Philadelphia mob trial is a former Teamsters member who was a crime victim in her teens.

The FBI investigation involves alleged mob activity since about 1999, when former boss Joey Merlino went to prison.

Prosecutors say acting boss Joseph "Uncle Joe" Ligambi has led Philadelphia's La Cosa Nostra since then.

The case mostly involves illegal gambling and loansharking in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and there's little violence alleged.

The 73-year-old Ligambi and several co-defendants have pleaded not guilty, while others have pleaded guilty but don't have to testify against their associates.

Ligambi is also accused of defrauding the Teamsters by getting health benefits through a no-show job.

Jurors will remain anonymous and be brought to court from a remote location to enhance their security.

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