Former Nassau Detective on Trial for Allegedly Aiding Bonanno Crime Family

In a compelling courtroom drama set to unfold in Brooklyn Federal Court, Hector Rosario, a former Nassau County detective, stands accused of navigating the sinister waters of organized crime. Rosario, who lost his badge in 2022, is charged with obstruction of justice and lying to the FBI, allegations rooted in his alleged collaboration with the notorious Bonanno crime family. Prosecutors argue that Rosario leveraged his police authority to dismantle competing gambling rings, employing a mix of deceit and brute force to favor the Bonanno’s lucrative interests.

Central to the prosecution’s case is an incident at Sal’s Shoe Repair in Merrick, Long Island, around 2013 or 2014. The shop, operated by Salvatore “Sal the Shoemaker” Rubino, served as a gambling hub for the Genovese crime family. Prosecutors contend that Rosario, acting under Bonanno family orders, staged a bogus raid, intentionally damaging a gambling machine and coercing Rubino to turn over information about Genovese associate Joseph “Joe Box” Rutigliano, who was responsible for collecting gambling proceeds. This dramatic element is pivotal in illustrating Rosario’s complex entanglement with the Bonanno family.

Central to the prosecution’s case is an incident at Sal’s Shoe Repair in Merrick, Long Island, around 2013 or 2014. The shop, operated by Salvatore “Sal the Shoemaker” Rubino, served as a gambling hub for the Genovese crime family. Prosecutors contend that Rosario, acting under Bonanno family orders, staged a bogus raid, intentionally damaging a gambling machine and coercing Rubino to turn over information about Genovese associate Joseph “Joe Box” Rutigliano, who was responsible for collecting gambling proceeds. This dramatic element is pivotal in illustrating Rosario’s complex entanglement with the Bonanno family.