Reputed Genovese capo Federico “Fritzie” Giovanelli was among nearly two dozen alleged mobsters pleading not guilty yesterday to a 105-count extortion and conspiracy indictment charging them with running a network of automobile chop shops.
“The only thing I’m a member of is my family,” defendant Edward Puglisi told The Post as he left Brooklyn Supreme Court.
“Whatever they claim – I’m not guilty,” said fellow defendant Michael Angelo. “We’re not animals.”
Baloney, say federal and local authorities, who say they’ll prove their case with evidence that includes 15 months of wiretaps and videotape surveillance.
The men operated a network of used auto body shops in four boroughs that resold stolen parts and committed insurance fraud, investigators say.
Authorities say Giovanelli, 71, was a silent partner in the illegal chop shops, giving them his permission to operate and providing protection from anyone trying to muscle in on the business.