Whatever he pleads to would have to be exempt from any future rico case. Example, spitting on a side walk could never be used as part of a rico case irregardless of any previous convictions or crimes.
Im quite sure Merlino’s lawyers are very cognizant of that. If they can ever prove Merlino is getting cash kicked up to him as a leader or even part of a criminal enterprise, he will be history. Same goes for him being caught merely giving an “ OK “ to commit a crime. He better learn sign language.