Detectives: Graziano wanted wife dead

PALM HARBOR - The father of the Marine involved in Nick Hogan's car crash has been arrested and charged with plotting to kill his estranged wife.

Pinellas County sheriff's detectives said Ed Graziano held multiple meetings and negotiations with a tipster and an undercover detective posing as "go-between" to a "hit man," to discuss how to kill Debra Graziano.

"Graziano paid $1,100 in cash -- $1,000 in a personal check, and a $13.06 gift card to Westshore Pizza -- to have his estranged wife murdered," the sheriff's office said in a statement.

The sheriff's office said this was the culmination of a two-month investigation, which included multiple meetings in public places. Graziano discussed his plans at shopping malls, a hospital, and a gas station, according to investigators.

The sheriff's office said Ed Graziano, 53, "provided his wife's schedule, in order to give the 'go-between' possible options on days to conduct the hit and ensure an alibi for himself."

Clearwater attorney George Tragos released a brief statement on behalf of Debra Graziano: "The family is saddened by this. The last thing they need is more tragedy in their lives."

Ed and Debra Graziano are the parents of John Graziano, who was severely injured in an August 2007 car crash involving former pro wrestler Hulk Hogan's son Nick. Graziano, who was 22 at the time of the crash, suffered severe head injuries and remains in a semi-conscious state, Tragos said.

Investigators said Nick Hogan, the driver, was intoxicated when he smashed his bright yellow Toyota Supra into a palm tree on Court Street in Clearwater. Hogan later plead no contest to reckless driving charges and served roughly five months in the Pinellas County jail. His license was recently reinstated with conditions.

Mr. and Mrs. Graziano have been seeking damages from the Hogan family, but have not always seen eye-to-eye in the civil suit. Tragos said the couple, though separated, has not filed for divorce.

The sheriff's office said Mrs. Graziano and Mr. Tragos were notified of the threat late last year. Tragos said Mrs. Graziano spent extra time at the VA hospital since then because, in addition to being able to see her son there, the hospital is a secure environment.

Graziano was arrested at his private residence located in the 500 block of Daventry Square in Palm Harbor Thursday at 11:30 a.m., according to deputies. He was being transported to the Pinellas County jail early in the afternoon.

Graziano will be charged with solicitation to commit murder, the sheriff's office said.

Stay with FOX 13 for updates.