Reputed mob boss reportedly on way to Chicago

CHICAGO (AP) – A reputed former Chicago mob boss is reportedly heading back to his old stomping grounds from a California prison so he can take part in his appeal for a new trial.

Jurors convicted James Marcello and several cohorts in 2007 of a racketeering conspiracy that included 18 murders.

The U.S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago will hear oral arguments Monday on the appeal. They'll also hear from attorneys of Marcello's co-defendants, including Joseph "Joey the Clown" Lombardo.

The Chicago Tribune reports that Marcello was only recently transferred from Chicago to an Atwater, California prison. But his trial judge on Thursday ordered he be returned immediately so he can more easily participate in his appeal.

The convictions at the 2007 Family Secrets trial are credited with weakening Chicago's mob.