Statue of Former Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman Unveiled
Earlier this month, a statue of former Las Vegas Mayor, attorney and past CYInterview guest Oscar Goodman [see here] was unveiled.
The sculpture captures Oscar Goodman, during his days in Las Vegas as a defense attorney, with his famous former client, mobster Tony Spilotro. The gangster was the inspiration for the character of Nicky Santoro, played by actor Joe Pesci, in the 1995 Martin Scorsese film, Casino.
The reveal took place at the Plaza Hotel and Casino in Downtown Las Vegas. The resort is home to the former Mayor’s restaurant, Oscar’s Steakhouse. The eatery just celebrated its 10-year anniversary.
There is no doubt that it is controversial to have a statue featuring, in part, a mobster. However, it is undeniably true that everyone in America is entitled to legal representation in a court of law. Though attorneys may represent unpopular figures, they are the unsung heroes in protecting the every-person’s rights.
Congratulations to former Mayor Goodman on the new statue. Oscar has consistently been a champion for individual rights and civil liberties and he deserves to be recognized for that.