Murder Inc. Records founders Irv and Chris Lorenzo “Gotti” were acquitted of all counts in their money laundering trial today (Dec. 2). The brothers were found not guilty of conducting a financial transaction involving the proceeds of specified unlawful activity and conspiracy of committing money laundering with funds allegedly supplied by convicted drug lord Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff.
While the jury announced the verdict, members of the Inc. family struggled to hold in their joy. Several women began crying and the courtroom exploded in applause as soon as the announcements were finished.
Prosecutors contended Murder Inc. poured thousands of dollars into phony corporations controlled by McGriff, including Picture Perfect Films, which produced the film “Crime Partners.” But the defense said the Lorenzos only invested in the film because they had known McGriff for years growing up in Queens.
As they did yesterday, the jury kept asking for documents to examine. As the day progressed, the Lorenzo brothers sat in the court room while Judge Edward Korman went through several hearings, motions and one sentencing in which the defendant, a repeat drug abuser, was sentenced to seven months in jail.
Approximately 40 minutes after a lunch break, the jury asked whether it was possible to get further guidance regarding the second count, conspiracy to commit money laundering. The jury later asked to read transcripts of Phillip “Dalu” Banks’ testimony.
The Lorenzo family thanked and hugged jurors as they all exited the court. Producer 7 Aurelius, Black Child and R&B singer Lloyd were also on hand to show their support.
“The jurors wanted to hug Irv and Chris and meet their parents,” said defense attorney Gerald Lefcourt outside the courthouse. “They felt a connection.”
Meet the Murder Inc trial players, read back stories, review case filings and comment at SOHH.com.
