The mob life could land a 78-year-old man in prison for the second time.
Prosecutors in Bridgeport say Nicola Melia, a reputed associate of the Gambino crime family, made high-interest "street loans" in Fairfield County and threatened violence if the debts were not paid.
His arraignment is scheduled for Friday.
In 2005, Melia was sentenced to 33 months in prison for what was considered a minor role in a loan shark operation. He and 18 other mob members and associates were accused of racketeering, extortion and illegal gambling.
Melia faces up to 20 years in prison for this latest charge.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
