Ex-Crime Boss Rico Shirazi Released After 14 Years, Vows to Leave Underworld

Rico Shirazi, once considered one of Israel's most dangerous crime bosses, was released Friday from Rimmonim Prison in the Sharon region after serving 14 years of actual prison time. Shirazi has reportedly told associates that he has no intention of returning to the criminal underworld, stating, "I'm done with crime. I've had enough. I realized it's not worth it. I'm on a completely different path in life. I'm not looking to get revenge on anyone." He added, "I sat in prison for too many years and paid a heavy price. Enough, that's it, enough. I have a wife, a child. I'm going to invest in my family."

Associates believe Shirazi may settle in a moshav in northern Israel or return to his apartment in Herzliya Marina. His long prison sentence and the fates of other crime leaders have influenced his decision, with one associate noting, "Rico is a very smart man. He saw what happened to the heads of crime organizations and understood he doesn't want to leave prison in a black bag."

The Israel Prison Service (IPS) expedited his release to around 5:30 AM to prevent a high-profile release party outside the prison walls. A senior IPS official explained, "It has become a norm that when senior figures in crime organizations are released from prison, they have publicized release parties. We stopped this phenomenon. Let them celebrate at home. These are not heroes but criminals who harmed society."

During his 14 years of incarceration, Shirazi did not take a single furlough. Even after his son Shin was murdered, he was not permitted to attend the funeral and was later brought to the grave under heavy guard. Approximately two years ago, his request to attend his newborn son's circumcision ceremony was denied due to fears of violence.

An IPS source described Shirazi as a quiet prisoner who respected the guards and was not involved in disciplinary incidents. However, the police intend to closely monitor his activities in the coming period to ensure he does not return to criminal activity.