Bernard grew up in Broker (South Slopes). His mother's Italian heritage allowed him to work with some of his "connected" relatives. As a teenager in the late 60s until the early 70s, he spent his time doing jobs with a crime syndicate including robbery, protection, and intimidation. His mother left when he was 13. Bernard had on going arguments with his father about his work with the local Families.

After Bernard's cousin was killed in a gang war, Bernard decided he would go straight. He attended college in Alderney but soon after dropped out. Around age 20, Bernard moved out to Las Venturas where he made a living as a bartender. He gained employment at a casino as a table games dealer, and worked his way up over several years to eventually become casino manager.

Bernard left his casino manager position abruptly, after a falling out with the owner. He believes there are well connected people trying to hunt him down and kill him at the behest of his former boss. He's come to Los Santos to start over, make connections, gain allies, and survive in anonymity.