After Patriarca's death, the New England Mafia began a long period of decline, resulting from both legal prosecution and internal violence. Jerry Angiulo attempted to take over as boss, despite being in jail, while Larry Zannino, the family's top lieutenant, backed Patriarca's son Raymond Patriarca, Jr. for the position. The National Commission approved Patriarca, Jr.'s ascendancy to leadership and his position was confirmed. Zannino was made "consigliere", but he was sentenced to 30 years in prison in 1987. Gennaro Angiulo was sentenced to 45 years in prison on racketeering charges, along with Charles Tashjian.