And, write, write, write, he does with gusto and pleasure, adding the title of "author" to his list of guidance counselor at Sing Sing Prison, parole officer, Commissioner of the New York State Board of Parole, Westchester County's Correction Commissioner and private investigator.

Recognizing Mr. Maffucci's tough reputation on crime, the New York Times reported, "At some time during his nine years on the State Board of Parole, he earned the nickname, 'Maximum John.'"

"The Sing Sing Connection," provides an insider's view of the warped psyches and brutal conduct of violent criminals, of particular interest to those who live in such proximity to the "Big House." The novel focuses on the decision to authorize a comprehensible experimental project designed to eliminate the aggressive behavior of 25 of Sing Sing's most vicious prisoners by implanting an externally programmable microchip in their brains. Quite believable, given the possibilities of current technology.

A parallel theme is the love affair about a paroled journalist attempting to redeem himself through his commitment to AA and a nurse employed in the microchip project.

Mr. Maffucci's descriptions of the journalist's parole hearings and arrival at the half-way house are vivid with authenticity. It is easy for local readers to visualize: "The less than half mile walk (from the prison) to the Ossining railroad station would pass quickly as Phillips focused on catching the 10.02 to New York City."

The criminals' moral codes sound equally genuine as reflected in their dialogue. One of the inmates tells friends about his plans for two other inmates he despises for beating and raping his niece, "They got no place to hide now. When the time comes they ain't gonna know what hit em."

As the mystery unfolds against a background of betrayal, violence, fear, rage and love, the reader will inevitably be surprised to discover who ultimately discovers who exacts the ultimate revenge. Mr. Maffucci skillfully weaves a trail of worthy red herrings.

"The Sing Sing Connection" is definitely a page-turner. However, when goes into its second edition, it may be worth running it through spell and punctuation check programs on the computer once more. The question mark seems to have taken on a life of its own throughout the book.

Copies of "The Sing Sing Connection" may be ordered through Ingram's Books in Print Database, directly from the publisher at www.1stbooks.com or through the book order hotline at (888) 280-7715. Suggested retail prices are $17.75 Quality Trade Paperback, $22 Quality Dust Jacket Hardcover.