One of the star witnesses in the upcoming O.J. Simpson trial is hatching a scheme to make money from the onslaught of publicity. Memorabilia dealer Thomas Riccio wants to sell ad space during his appearance at the trial. News 3's Steve Crupi took a look at the price list.
$7,000 for a magnetic ad on his limo. $6,000 for your logo on his hat. And $5,000 for him to dine at your restaurant on the night that he testifies. Busted along with O.J. Simpson, Thomas Riccio is one of the most important figures in the robbery/kidnapping case against the former football star.
With immunity from prosecution, he's been the most talkative of the shady characters with O.J. during the armed shakedown at the Palace Station Hotel. And when he returns to Las Vegas, Riccio hopes to become a walking billboard for anyone desperately seeking attention.
Advertising Executive Jon Fondy is with a local company hoping to broker the deal. "The attention is enormous," says Fondy. "We've been approached now by online gaming companies, clubs - it's a little more enticing for them."
Riccio's ad agency insists that the commercials will not be present in the courtroom. The focus will be on television appearances, press conferences, and other opportunities to grab attention.
Jury selection in the O.J. Simpson trial is scheduled to being one week from Monday.