Mob turncoat describes Gigante as Genovese boss

BROOKLYN, New York (CNN) -- A former captain of the Lucchese crime family testified Monday that on several occasions he heard Vincent Gigante referred to as the boss of the Genovese crime family.

Peter "Big Pete" Chiodo said a member of the Genovese crime family became upset that Chiodo had used Gigante's name in conversation instead of the word "Chin" -- Gigante's nickname -- as preferred by mob bosses.

As many as four mob turncoats are expected to testify beginning with Chiodo, who was shot 12 times in 1991. Doctors said his 400-pound bulk slowed the bullets and saved his life

While the government continues to claim that Gigante is the head of the nations largest crime family, defense attorneys assert that he suffers from Alzheimer's disease and has a heart condition.

Gigante, 69, is charged with ordering the execution of seven fellow gangsters and plotting to kill three others -- all of whom allegedly violated a Mafia rule against committing murders not sanctioned by mob chieftains.

Related stories:

• Opening remarks heard in Gigante trial - June 25, 1997
• Gigante arraigned on charges of racketeering and murder - September 6, 1996
• Judge: Mob boss fit to be tried - August 29, 1996
• Judge to rule on alleged mobster's competence - August 22, 1996
• New Jersey says organized crime has ties to health care - August 21, 1996 
• Gigante could be tried for murder - March 5, 1996

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