Drug Charges Against Gravano to Stand

A Phoenix judge denied a request to drop drug charges against Salvatore “Sammy the Bull” Gravano after lawyers argued the former mob hit man was arrested without a proper warrant and was denied an attorney at his initial hearing. Attorney Larry Hammond made the arguments during a bond hearing for Gravano, who was arrested Feb. 24 and charged with involvement in an Ecstasy-selling ring. Hammond argued that Gravano’s $5-million cash bond would not have been so high had he been at the initial appearance. Superior Court Judge Ronald Reinstein dismissed the complaints but will hold a follow-up hearing on the bond. Gravano and 44 others were indicted on charges including conspiracy and racketeering. He was also charged with money laundering and weapon violations.