'Mob Wives' VH1 Star Collapses After Ex-Husband Turns on Father in Federal Bust

By Benge Nsenduluka, CP Reporter Monday, January 30, 2012

"Mob Wives'" Renee Graziano was rushed to a New York hospital Friday after learning that her father, Anthony "TG" Graziano, was arrested in a federal bust.

Graziano, best known for her tough girl persona, reportedly had trouble breathing before collapsing and was taken to the ER for treatment shortly after it was revealed that her ex-husband, Hector "Junior" Pagan and father of their teenage son, likely played a role in the early morning raid, according to TMZ.

Mr. Graziano, 71, is believed to be a highly respected mafia boss in the Bonanno crime family and was arrested and charged with extortion and racketeering following allegations that he tried to collect on a mob debt whilst in a half-way house.

Several other mob members were also arrested, and Pagan is rumored to have been the police informant, which led to dozens being arrested and remanded in custody.

VH1's "Mob Wives" is a reality show that follows four women and their complex lives after the mob.

Each woman is faced with the challenges of adjusting into "normal" society after having once lived in a mafia dominated world, which has seen many of the beloved men in their lives imprisoned for mob crimes.

The show, currently in its second season, attracts 2.2 million viewers per episode, according to VH1.

While some critics claim the show glorifies criminals, others insist that it acts as a stern warning for those considering entering the mafia, as it showcases broken families and the everyday struggles of shunned deviants.

Mr. Graziano's arrest will likely be inserted as a plot line for the controversial reality show, which never fails to capture raw footage of all things mob-related including the gruesome brawls.

Graziano is believed to have suffered from a panic attack, and it is unclear when she will be released from hospital.