Vento Targeted In Alleged Robbery Plot

Philadelphia police and the FBI investigate an alleged plot to rob one of the city's most visible businessmen, Joey Vento from Geno's Steaks.

Sources tell Fox 29 the alleged plot against Vento came to light during an investigation into a stolen police radio and the robbery of a South Street businessman.

Vento himself has confirmed that he was alerted two weeks ago by high-ranking police official that someone may try to rob him during a bank drop deposit. He's angry and taking steps to protect himself and his business, reported Fox 29's Dave Schratwieser.

It's no secret Joey Vento likes to speak his mind. So when police warned him recently that he may be targeted for a big time robbery, he was not too happy that someone might try to harm him.

"A guy like me is always a target...You should be able to walk down the street with money in your pocket and not have to worry about some thug coming over and robbing you," says Vento.

Vento, who owns Geno's Steaks, has given more than half a million dollars to the families of fallen police officers. This possible plot to rob him has him angry.

"I really don't feel comfortable with driving or making the deposit worrying that somebody's gonna come and blow my head off for my hard-earned money," says Vento.

Sources tell Fox 29 a tip on the plan to rob Vento during a bank deposit surfaced from two ongoing investigations. One involving the alleged theft of a police radio; the other, the recent $30,000 robbery of a South Street businessman on his way home to Delaware County.

"There is an element out there that has the audacity to even try to come up with a plan like that," Vento tells Fox 29.

Sources say Michael Micali was arrested at 4th Street and Oregon Avenue on June 5 in possession of a police radio and three batteries. The radio belonged to a Third District officer. He has been taken off the street while Internal Affairs investigates.

During the investigation of the South Street businessman's robbery, information also surfaced on the Vento plot. Vento, who is licensed to carry a gun, was alerted. He has a message for those who may try to rob him.

"If they did it and I got that gun out, you're dead. Let me tell ya something, I will not sit around trying to wound you in the arm. I'm putting you away," warns Vento.

Police and the FBI refuse to comment on the investigation. No one has been charged and no suspects have been named at this point.

Vento has taken steps to improve security on his business and his personal travel to and from work.