6 Men Sentenced for Role in 'Operation Fistfull' Gambling, Loansharking Scheme

Six individuals believed to have ties to the Genovese Crime Family were sentenced Friday for their role in operating a sports betting and loan sharking ring out of New Jersey and New York.

The business, which also conducted unlicensed check cashing, netted $9 million.  The loan sharking arm took in $4.7 million in interest.

"When those involved in traditional organized crime engage in schemes such as loansharking and illegal gambling, they profit at the expense of victims who are struggling with debt, gambling problems, and other issues," Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal said.. "By prosecuting the men who ran these schemes and putting key defendants behind bars, we send a message that we will not tolerate these corrosive criminal activities that harm individuals, families and society as a whole."

The following six individuals were sentenced:

Domenick Pucillo, 61, of Florham Park, N.J., was sentenced to 10 years in prison. He pleaded guilty to first-degree conspiracy to commit money laundering.

Robert Spagnola, 72, of Morganville, N.J., was sentenced to five years in prison. He pleaded guilty to second-degree criminal usury.

Vito Alberti, 60, of Morristown, N.J., was sentenced to five years in prison. He pleaded guilty to second-degree criminal usury.

Manuel Rodriguez, 54, of Chatham, N.J., was sentenced to four years in prison. He pleaded guilty to second-degree conspiracy to commit money laundering.

Vincent Coppola, 42, of Union City, N.J., who previously served 103 days in jail, was sentenced to time served and two years of probation. He pleaded guilty to third-degree promoting gambling.

Jerry Albanese, 52, of Scotch Plains, N.J., was sentenced to two years of probation. He pleaded guilty to third-degree promoting gambling.

- Jagajeet Chiba, Gambling911.com