John Ragano sentenced for threatening mob informant in Brooklyn

A soldier from the Bonanno crime family, John Ragano, has been sentenced to three years in prison. This comes after he was found guilty of threatening a mob informant, Vincent Martino. During a confrontation in July 2022, Ragano forced Martino to strip to check if he was wearing a recording device. Ragano, nicknamed “The Maniac,” was already serving a nearly five-year sentence for extorting Martino over a $150,000 loan. His lawyers argued that Martino was sent by federal agents to provoke Ragano into reacting violently just days before he was to report to prison. They claimed Ragano was trying to get his money back in a non-threatening way. In court, Ragano's attorney described his client as someone who had made positive changes, including trying to find a legitimate job and attending church. However, prosecutors disagreed, arguing that Ragano showed no signs of change and was still a threat. They highlighted the violent nature of his confrontation with Martino, which was recorded. Ragano's weight gain during his time in jail was also mentioned, as he reportedly gained 50 pounds due to poor food quality. After the sentencing, the judge expressed hope that Ragano would be too old to commit crimes when he is released. The sentence will begin after his current prison term ends.