Guys I don't think the prison stories carry much weight in regards to the don't touch a made man rule, in prison buttons hardly matter. Everyone's doing time if you try to pull rank in there you might find yourself smashed out just for that. Nobody gives a fuck about who you were on the streets, you're in prison now it's a completely different world.
True (to a degree). An Italian goodfellas IS recognized in the can. And with the exception, and sometimes inclusion, of black gangbangers and Spanish gangs they are generally respected so long as they also show respect. Especially if the wiseguy is an older guy. Younger criminals usually look up in awe at these guys.
But as a general rule, when you go to the can, whether you were an associate, soldier, capo, or boss, TECHNICALLY everybody is 'equal.' whatever level you were on the outside doesn't mean anything on the inside. Yet, don't kid yourself, bosses received more respect because nobody wants to hit the streets again and have a boss have a hardon for you from the way you acted in the joint.
So the answer is yes, AND no.
But remember too, that there are lots of idiots and ignorant guys in jail who have no clue what's really what in life, or are doing life and don't really give two fucks also. So there's always that factor.
I was told when you're in the can, you give respect to get respect. reciprocal respect is important. say please, say thank you. It goes a long way!
