Police arrested a celebrity Staten Island chef on Wednesday on suspicion of leading a drug ring, according to the New York Post.
Ettore Mazzei was arrested on suspicion of leading a drug trade and exploiting drug addicts as “slaves.” according to According to the New York Post, Mazzei was arrested following an overnight raid on his home, Chez Vous Catering and a construction company he owns. Staten Island District Attorney Michael McMahon said Mazzei’s criminal activities were extensive and included drug trafficking, extortion and fraud against government programs.
New York City chef Ettore Mazzei arrested for masterminding major drug ring after taking credit for local business, prosecutors say https://t.co/WPDgJGGa6O pic.twitter.com/r0igw9FxJJ
— New York Post (@nypost) May 22, 2024
“Like a modern-day Fagin, the character from Dickens’ Great Expectations, Mazzei preyed on vulnerable people suffering from addiction, oppressing them into slavery for his catering business, housing and ultimately the drug trade,” McMahon said in a statement, reported the New York Post. (Related: Minnesota woman pleads guilty to drug trafficking in Midwest)
During a 14-month undercover operation starting in March 2023, Mazzei and his co-defendants allegedly sold large amounts of heroin, cocaine and suboxone to undercover agents, the paper said. Approximately 20 people were involved in the operation, with Mazzei identified as the “principal leader” of these operations. His businesses and properties have reportedly been the scene of various violent crimes, including shootings and armed home invasions.
Belgian customs officers weigh cocaine on a scale at Zaventem airport in Brussels, April 6, 2023. – Belgian bunnies will be a treat for Easter for children around the world this weekend, but not all of them are made from Belgium’s famous chocolate. A batch of rabbits seized by veteran customs officer Pol Mournaire this week was made from solid chunks of MDMA, the ingredient in the rave drug ecstasy tablets. (Photo: KENZO TRIBOUILLARD/AFP via Getty Images)
According to the New York Post, Mazzei’s alleged involvement in the drug trade has been linked to multiple overdose deaths on Staten Island, further increasing the seriousness of the allegations against him. Despite previously being recognized by the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce for his community outreach and participation in anti-drug efforts, Mazzei now faces felony charges including sale of a controlled substance and grand theft. At his arraignment, he was held on $3 million cash and $5 million bond.
