A reputed low-level mob associate convicted of killing an off-duty New York police officer during a botched burglary has been sentenced to life in prison without parole. His co-defendant, former "Sopranos" actor Lillo Brancato, goes on trial next week.
Steven Armento was convicted of murder last month in the shooting of Officer Daniel Enchautegui on Dec. 10, 2005.
Authorities say Armento and Brancato broke into a Bronx basement apartment to steal prescription drugs after a night of drinking at a Yonkers strip club. Enchautegui, who lived next door, came out to investigate.
Armento blasted the 28-year-old officer with his .357 Magnum, hitting him in the heart. The dying officer fired back, wounding both men.
Brancato has said he didn't know Armento had a gun. The 32-year-old actor played an aspiring mobster in HBO's "The Sopranos" and starred alongside Robert DeNiro in "A Bronx Tale."
