Mariano Is Free

Okay, first off, how hilarious is this photo from Rick Mariano’s official City Council page, after his little trip to the top of city hall? I can’t believe I didn’t notice this before. (That’s result No. 1 on Google for “Rick Mariano.” Results number 5 and 6 are none other than Philadelphia Will Do. How fun!)

Yesterday, Rick Mariano was released from jail after 11 days in jail. This is a good thing. As much as we here at Philadelphia Will Do mock Rick Mariano on an almost daily basis — and by “we,” I mean “I” — he should certainly have the right to see his family before he heads to prison for a few years. It’s not like he’s going to go running around City Hall in his last few days of freedom, taking bribes left and right, punching out Anna Verna and giving a wedgie to Brian O’Neill. (That last one would be awesome, actually.)

Despite what was previously said, Mariano won’t be in City Council tomorrow, which is kind of a shame, since he could surely provide some unintentional comedy in his final days in office. I mean, I don’t even really fault my boy Ricky for not relinquishing his post; the law doesn’t require him to, and, really, what would you expect? (It’s the other City Council members who are like, “Oh, he should get to keep his post!” that’s much more disgusting.)

Now that he’s out, though, Mariano has acually stopped causing his own hilarity and has started causing some media hilarity:

Mariano’s first public appearance since the verdict, a simple 20-foot walk from the federal courthouse in Center City to a waiting taxi, turned into a carnival. As he left, the councilman squeezed awkwardly through an aggressive pack of journalists. In the confusion, two photographers tumbled onto Market Street. [...]

Reached at his home last night on a quiet, treeless street in Juniata Park, Mariano, dressed in an olive-colored T-shirt, looked like he was relaxing - not expecting company.

He said he had no comment, and told a reporter: “Don’t come to my house.”

He then quickly shut the door.

But what kind of pants does he wear, Inquirer? All the facts, please!

In first public appearance, Mariano says ‘I’m fine,’ but nothing more [Inky]
Philadelphia City Council: Rick Mariano [Phila.gov]
Oct. 21: Mariano mayhem!
Archives: Rick Mariano