US mobster 'Big Tony' guilty of ordering hit on Florida businessman

Reputed US mobster Anthony "Big Tony" Moscatiello was convicted of first-degree murder in the 2001 slaying of a prominent Florida businessman during a power struggle over a lucrative fleet of gambling ships.

The jury also found Moscatiello, 77, guilty of murder conspiracy in the shooting death of Konstantinos "Gus" Boulis, founder of a chain of casinos and restaurants. Evidence showed Boulis was killed by a mob hit man, and Moscatiello was accused of ordering the slaying.

He faces the death penalty or life in prison. A sentencing hearing was scheduled for September, after which jurors will make a punishment recommendation. The judge has the final decision.

Moscatiello's wife, Marion, fainted after the verdict was read after yelling out that someone else was responsible for the Boulis murder. She was taken to a hospital.

Anthony "Little Tony" Ferrari, who handled Florida matters for Moscatiello, was convicted previously and sentenced to life in prison.

Prosecutors said Moscatiello was a member of New York's Gambino crime family when he issued the fateful order for a hit. Moscatiello did not testify in his own defence, but his lawyers insisted that it was Ferrari and others who were to blame for the February 6, 2001, slaying.