BUFFALO, N.Y. — A federal jury has convicted Peter Gerace, the 57-year-old owner of Pharaoh’s Gentlemen’s Club, on charges including conspiracy to defraud the United States, bribery, sex trafficking conspiracy, drug distribution, witness tampering, and maintaining a drug-involved premises. The charges carry a maximum sentence of life in prison, according to U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross.
Prosecutors said Gerace operated a years-long criminal enterprise at Pharaoh’s Gentlemen’s Club in Cheektowaga, New York. Between 2005 and 2019, Gerace paid bribes to former DEA special agent Joseph Bongiovanni, who shielded Gerace from law enforcement investigations. Bongiovanni, who was previously convicted for his role in the scheme, is awaiting sentencing.
During the same period, Gerace used the club as a hub for distributing cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and Adderall, while coercing club dancers—some battling addiction—into commercial sex acts. Authorities also revealed that Gerace and others threatened a witness via Facebook messages to prevent her from testifying in an official proceeding.
“Peter Gerace preyed on the most vulnerable victims, using them to grow his business and his profits,” said U.S. Attorney Ross. “This investigative and prosecutorial team worked tirelessly, gathering the evidence, and connecting the dots.”
Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia of the FBI’s Buffalo Field Office called the case a stark example of how trafficking crimes intertwine with drug activity. “This case showcased the reality of trafficking in Western New York and across the country,” Miraglia said. “Today’s verdict is a win for victims of human trafficking and hope to those who don’t have a voice.”
Gerace’s conviction follows years of collaborative investigative efforts by federal and local law enforcement agencies, which emphasized their commitment to pursuing justice for victims of trafficking and corruption.
