Former Brooklyn Prosecutor Edward McDonald Pens Memoir on ‘Goodfellas’ Ties

New York, NY, October 3, 2026 —

Edward McDonald, a former Brooklyn prosecutor, has released a new memoir recounting his experiences, including his professional dealings with mobster Henry Hill and his brief appearance in the acclaimed film ‘Goodfellas.’ The movie, which depicted Hill’s life in organized crime, was based in part on McDonald’s career and investigations.

The memoir delves into McDonald’s work prosecuting members of organized crime, focusing on his role in the cases that led to the downfall of figures like Hill, whose life and subsequent cooperation with authorities formed the narrative backbone of the 1990 film directed by Martin Scorsese. McDonald’s involvement with Hill, a former associate of the Lucchese crime family, played a significant part in the legal actions taken against the mob.

In addition to his prosecutorial duties, McDonald himself made a cameo appearance in ‘Goodfellas.’ The film’s depiction of his crime-fighting efforts and the subsequent memoir offer a firsthand account of the intersection between law enforcement, organized crime, and Hollywood’s interpretation of true events. The specific title of the memoir and the full scope of its contents beyond his connection to Henry Hill and ‘Goodfellas’ were not detailed in the summary provided.

The book details McDonald’s perspective on the complex investigations and legal proceedings that characterized his time as a prosecutor in Brooklyn. It aims to provide readers with an insider’s view of the fight against organized crime during a significant era, as well as the personal encounters that led to his unexpected role in a cinematic portrayal of that world.

Story summarized from the original created by Gavin Newsham on nypost.com, see more information here.

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