A Lawyer's Fight: Defending a Boxer in a Drug Trafficking Case

High-Profile Lawyer Under Scrutiny

Joseph Corozzo Jr., a lawyer renowned for his defense of mob-related cases, is now in a legal battle to remain on the defense team of boxer Goran Gogic, who stands accused of drug trafficking. The government has been actively seeking to remove Corozzo from the case, citing allegations of jury tampering and witness intimidation. Corozzo and his co-counsel Angela Lipsman vehemently deny these claims, asserting that the government has been targeting Corozzo for decades.

A Career Marked by Controversy

Corozzo's legal career has been punctuated by numerous attempts from federal prosecutors to disqualify him from high-profile cases. In 2005, prosecutors attempted to remove him from the trial of Gambino captain Dominick Pizzonia, citing his ties to the Gambino crime family. Despite these efforts, the judge allowed Corozzo to remain on the case, and Pizzonia was ultimately convicted of racketeering and conspiracy to commit murder. In 2010, Corozzo faced similar challenges in two separate cases, with varying outcomes.

Defense Team Stands Firm

Despite the government's persistent efforts, Corozzo and Lipsman remain steadfast in their defense of Gogic. They argue that the allegations against them will not impede their ability to represent their client effectively. Gogic's trial was disrupted in November when the FBI uncovered an alleged plot to bribe a juror. The defense team acknowledged that protected legal documents may have been inadvertently left with Gogic in jail, but they maintain that this was not intentional.

The Stakes Are High

Gogic is accused of playing a pivotal role in a drug trafficking operation that moved over 20 tons of cocaine through U.S. ports. The case has garnered significant attention, and the outcome will have profound implications for all parties involved.