sonny speaks

Newsday talked with John (Sonny) Franzese, 102, who is famous for not talking. He broke his silence with Newsday. Credit: Newsday staff

Sonny Speaks

as sonny went in and out of prison, the franzese family fell apart

Sonny Franzese’s inability to stay out of prison, along with the other pressures of mob life, devastated his wife and children. Their bond unraveled in dramatic ways.

American Gangster: Episode 5

sonny was sentenced to 50 years for a bank robbery. he always insisted he didn’t do it.

John (Sonny) Franzese had beaten a dozen cases before. His supporters still say he was framed, but prosecutors say his guilt — and his proclivities for violence — were beyond dispute. Read the full story and watch the series at newsday.com/Sonny.

American Gangster: Episode 3

video: sonny speaks

John (Sonny) Franzese was the oldest prisoner in federal custody when he was released in 2017 at age 100. In subsequent exclusive interviews with Newsday after he was freed, Franzese shared details that became the foundation of a deep look into his life, the Mafia and the justice system itself.