Buffalo, N.Y. — Peter Gerace, the owner of Pharaoh’s Gentlemen’s Club in Cheektowaga, has been convicted on numerous charges, including drug and sex trafficking, as well as bribery, following a lengthy federal court case. The verdict comes after a seven-week trial that featured the testimonies of over 40 witnesses, including former club employees.
The charges against Gerace included two counts of bribery—conspiracy to bribe a public official and the act of bribing a public official. Additionally, the jury found him guilty of running a drug-involved business, conspiracies related to distributing various drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine, Adderall, heroin, and marijuana, conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, two counts of witness tampering, and distribution of cocaine. Out of the nine counts he faced, the jury found him guilty of eight, sparing him a conviction on one count of witness tampering.
The U.S. Attorney Trini Ross praised the persistent efforts of FBI and HSI agents along with the trial team, led by prosecutor Joseph Tripi, in securing Gerace’s conviction. Ross highlighted the challenges posed by the complexity of the case and Gerace’s attempts to conceal his activities, including through bribing a federal agent. The investigative team’s dedication played a crucial role in gathering and presenting the evidence needed to secure the verdict.
Joseph Tripi elaborated on the nature of Gerace’s crimes, stating that Gerace exploited vulnerable women using drugs and coercion to profit from their trauma repeatedly over the years. This exploitation was facilitated in part by Gerace’s connections with corrupt officials, including a former DEA agent, Joseph Bongiovanni, who was also convicted for related crimes.
The testimonies given during the trial shed light on the harsh realities and manipulation endured by the club’s employees, revealing the extent of the exploitation under Gerace’s management. The case served as a harsh reminder of the exploitation inherent in such illicit operations and the hidden struggles of those caught in this unfortunate web, many of whom remain unidentified according to Tripi.
In light of the serious nature of the charges, particularly the sex trafficking conspiracy, Gerace now potentially faces life in prison for this count, with the other counts each carrying a possibility of up to 20 years.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 15, 2025, marking a crucial upcoming date in the closure of this significant case.
This detailed investigation and subsequent trial underscores the importance of rigorous law enforcement efforts and the judiciary’s role in addressing crimes that exploit the vulnerable. It also serves as a critical reminder of the broader implications of drug and sex trafficking, which extend far beyond the immediate criminal enterprises to corrode public trust in institutions through corruption and abuse of power.
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