Carmine Persico, reputed boss of the Colombo crime family, stunned observers by serving as his own attorney in the high-profile Commission Trial. Although he aimed to seem personable and challenge the notion of a unified Mafia, many felt he harmed his defense by acknowledging criminal activities during cross-examination. Prior to that, Persico had already received a 39-year sentence for racketeering in the Colombo Trial. After he and his co-defendants were convicted on all charges in the Commission Trial, he was sentenced to an additional 100 years with no parole. Despite the harsh outcome, the judge called Persico a “tragedy” and praised his intelligence, lamenting its waste in organized crime.
(Carmine Persico depicted as a cartoon snake with gold-rimmed glasses and a rumpled suit slithers up to a courtroom lectern. A nervous witness sits on the stand.)
Snake Persico (leaning in, holding a folder): “So, when did you say you met me?”
Witness (sweating): “Uh, w-well, Mr. Persico, I—”
(Snake Persico grins toothily.)
Panel 2
(Snake Persico addresses the jury, tipping his glasses in a friendly manner.)
Snake Persico (with a warm smile): “Now, folks, don’t let the word ‘Mafia’ mislead you. We can be very nice people. Really!”
(A co-defendant in the background facepalms.)
Panel 3
(Judge Keenan towers over the snake, banging a gavel. A large speech bubble shows the famous quote and sentencing.)
Judge Keenan (sternly): “Mr. Persico, you’re a tragedy—one of the most intelligent people I’ve ever seen. But I hereby sentence you to 100 years, no parole!”
(Snake Persico slumps, comically muttering.)
Snake Persico: “I guess I can’t slither my way out of this one…”
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