Buffalo Ledger

A federal jury has found Peter Gerace, 57, of Clarence, New York, guilty on multiple charges including conspiracy to defraud the United States, bribery, sex trafficking conspiracy, maintaining a drug-involved premises, narcotics conspiracy, witness tampering, and distribution of cocaine. These charges could result in a maximum life sentence.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph M. Tripi, Nicholas T. Cooper, and Casey L. Chalbeck revealed that between 2005 and 2019, Gerace operated Pharaoh's Gentlemen's Club and conspired to defraud the United States by bribing Drug Enforcement Administration special agent Joseph Bongiovanni. In return for these bribes, Bongiovanni protected Gerace from law enforcement investigations into his activities at Pharaoh’s club. Bongiovanni has already been convicted and is awaiting sentencing.

Gerace also maintained the club as a drug-involved premises from 2006 through 2019 where cocaine, Adderall, marijuana, and heroin were distributed. He used drugs to coerce dancers into engaging in sex acts within the club and sent threatening messages via Facebook to deter witnesses from testifying.

"Peter Gerace preyed on the most vulnerable victims," said U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross. "This investigative and prosecutorial team worked tirelessly...and Peter Gerace now stands convicted of some of the most heinous crimes."

Matthew Miraglia of the FBI's Buffalo Field Office stated that this case highlights human trafficking issues in Western New York: "Today’s verdict is a win for victims...The FBI remains committed to eradicating human trafficking."

Erin Keegan from Homeland Security Investigations emphasized their commitment to public safety: "With his conviction...Peter Gerace must face the reality that he is not above the law."

Ryan T. Geach of the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Inspector General noted: "Today, a jury found that Gerace was guilty...He also paid hundreds of thousands of dollars to corrupt DEA special agent Joseph Bongiovanni."

The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations under Erin Keegan's direction; the FBI under Matthew Miraglia; and the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Inspector General under Ryan T. Geach.

Sentencing is set for August 15, 2025 at 9:30 a.m., with Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo presiding over the trial.