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George Anastasia on the Next Generation of Mobsters

Anastasia is a reporter for the Philadelphia Inquirer. His beat is the Mafia; most recently he's been covering the Robert Simone trial where the prosecution rested its case today. Simone was attorney for Philadelphia mob boss Nicky Scarfo and has been accused of crime activity, attempted extortion and participating in discussions of murder. Simone was turned in by a government informant. Anastasia says he's seeing a new generation of mobsters -- the grandchildren and great-grandchildren of older mafia members who don't have the same sense of family loyality and who crack under government pressure faster--often turning informant.

16:53
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Other segments from the episode on November 20, 1992

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, November 20, 1992: Interview with Pete Earley; Interview with George Anastasia; Review of Nat Hentoff's book "Free Speech for Me--But Not for Thee."
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22:29

A Reporter on Surviving Leavenworth Prison

Pete Earley spent two years observing life at the federal penitentiary in Leavenworth, Kansas. He was given complete access to the prisoners, guards, staff, and warden -- on the condition that he did not hold the prison staff responsible for his safety. He writes about prison life in his book, "The Hot House."

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A Controversial Take on Free Speech

Commentator Maureen Corrigan reviews "Free Speech for Me--But Not for Thee," by Nat Hentoff. The iconoclastic writer gives his opinions on various free speech issues -- many of which he reported on as a journalist.

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Reporter George Anastasia

Reporter George Anastasia has been covering the Philadelphia mob scene for the Philadelphia Inquirer for 15 years. Hell discuss the recent trial of reputed mob boss Joseph 'Skinny Joey' Merlino and his associates, which just wrapped up last week. The jury acquitted Merlino and his associates of the serious charges of murder, attempted murder, and drug trafficking, but convicted them of racketeering. During the 15 week trial, 90 witnesses took the stand and 943 evidentiary exhibits were introduced.

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