Chapter 19 - VINCENT’S OWN CASES
Vincent’s legal problems finally reached court.
Not because of me.
Federal prosecutors charged associates in financial and organized-crime offenses.
Vincent faced charges involving conspiracy and unlawful business practices.
No murder count.
No melodrama.
He stepped down from management of several companies while case proceeded.
I asked:
“Did you do it?”
He looked at me.
“Some things I’m accused of, yes. Some, no.”
Honest.
Terrifying.
“Will you plead?”
“Lawyers are working.”
I stayed away from strategy.
No crime tutorials.
No family intervention.
Eventually Vincent pleaded guilty to narrower financial conspiracy and unlawful influence-related charges.
He accepted a custodial sentence.
His legitimate companies moved under professional management.
I visited once.
Through glass.
He looked smaller without the suit.
“You okay?” I asked.
“No.”
“Fair.”
He smiled.
“I’m proud of you.”
“Don’t.”
“Why?”
“You’re not my father.”
“Thank God.”
We laughed.
Then:
“I thought power meant no one could make me answer.”
“What do you think now?”
“It means more people should.”
Good.
May you like
No redemption erasing harm.
Consequences.
