Blog Feed: Five Families of New York City

Fire puts off alleged mob drug ring leader's plea

Published on 2012-05-25 15:02:00

A Massachusetts man authorities say was a leading member of the New York Colombo crime family tried for the third time to plead guilty to racketeering charges Thursday, but a transformer fire in the federal courthouse forced postponement of the proceeding.Ralph DeLeo, 69, of Somerville had just admitted conspiring with others to run a drug ring that sold cocaine and marijuana in Arkansas, Florida, Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, and New York when the hearing came to an abrupt end. [..] > read more

Daughter pens family memoir about notorious crime boss

Published on 2012-05-24 11:07:00

Notorious crime boss Vincent "The Chin" Gigante was not your "average" mobster; he was, in fact, the Capo di tutti capi -- the head of all five New York crime families: the Bonannos, Colombos, Gambinos, Genoveses, and Luccheses. In an effort to protect himself and his family, Gigante created a facade of a mentally unstable person, complete with public theatrics, often wearing his infamous Golden Nugget bathrobe around town. > read more

Former mob hitman says his son is a bum

Published on 2012-05-24 11:04:00

The troubled son of retired gangland hired gun John Martorano is “a bum,” the fed-up father told the Herald.“He’s a bum. He breaks everybody’s heart,” the convicted executioner of 20 souls said yesterday to Herald columnist Howie Carr about his son Vincent Martorano, 41, who remains held on $15,000 bail.The younger Martorano is accused in an alarming five-day spree that led to charges of domestic violence on his wife, car theft and the assault and robbery of a young stranger.Saug [..] > read more

Government snitch says John Gotti ruined the life

Published on 2012-05-24 01:28:00

A mob rat took a few whacks at John Gotti on Wednesday, saying the limelight-loving Dapper Don “ruined everything” for wiseguys.Peter "Bud" Zuccaro once thought the Gambino boss was the “best thing that walked the planet” — but he didn’t mourn when Gotti died in prison in 2002.“There was no love lost for me,” Zuccaro testified in Brooklyn Federal Court.Then — with Gotti unable to retaliate from his resting place in a Queens cemetery — Zuccaro boldly declared the Mafia king [..] > read more

John Gotti's grandson busted with a stash of steroids

Published on 2012-05-23 02:07:00

The grandson of John "Teflon Don" Gotti was busted with a stash of steroids in Queens on Tuesday, police sources told the Daily News.A team of narcotics cops collared 18-year-old John Gotti — namesake of the notorious Gambino crime family boss — at a house near 92nd St. and 158th Ave. in Howard Beach shortly before 6 p.m., the sources said. It was not immediately clear what led police to Gotti, but the teen was later charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, cops said.B [..] > read more

Colombo mobster’s beautiful wife pleads guilty to stealing $40,000 from union

Published on 2012-05-22 15:31:00

THE BEAUTIFUL wife of a Colombo gangster pleaded guilty Tuesday to embezzling thousands of dollars in union benefit funds from their Staten Island trucking business.Alicia DiMichele admitted that she conspired with hubby Edward Garafolo, Jr., to steal about $40,000 owed to Local 282 of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters."My role was I worked as a bookkeeper," DiMichele, 38, told Magistrate Roanne Mann in a soft voice.DiMichele added that her job duties included submitting to the unio [..] > read more

New Jersey Genovese family crew taken down for online betting operation

Published on 2012-05-22 14:48:00

Thirteen individuals, including one alleged member of the Genovese organized crime family and 12 members and associates of its LaScala Crew, were charged today in connection with an illegal, on-line gambling operation, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced. The defendants are charged with racketeering conspiracy in a complaint unsealed this morning in conjunction with arrests in the case. Two defendants remain at large. A 14th defendant is charged with transmission of wagering informatio [..] > read more

Divided loyalties in the Philadelphia crime family

Published on 2012-05-22 13:37:00

> read more

Murder victim's brother works on Bulger script

Published on 2012-05-22 13:29:00

Steven Davis, brother of murder victim Debbie Davis, is cooperating with a screenwriter to pen the story of his life. The screenplay, now simply entitled "Boston," was written by Writer/Director Paul Hapenny, and it tells the story of Steven and Debbie Davis' interactions with accused South Boston mobster James "Whitey" Bulger and his partner Steven Flemmi. Debbie Davis was Flemmi's girlfriend. She was allegedly murdered by Bulger in 1981, and her body was discovered along the banks of the [..] > read more

Researcher identifies gunman in famous murder of gangster Bugsy Siegel

Published on 2012-05-20 14:21:00

Sometimes only someone close to a killer can recognize them, unless that person comes forward -- and without DNA evidence – unsolved murders become cold cases that never leave the deep freeze.Consider the notorious killing of the "Black Dahlia," Elizabeth Short, whose remains were found dismembered with gruesome precision. There was speculation at the time the killer had to have possessed the skill of a surgeon.But which one?Years later, former LAPD detective Steve Hodel wrote a book id [..] > read more

Family says Mob Wives: Chicago star is a joke

Published on 2012-05-20 14:19:00

A decades-old mob murder has been making national headlines again, thanks to a reality show taping in Chicago. John Fecarotta was gunned down in 1986, and now a relative is joining a show called Mob Wives Chicago. Fecarotta’s son spoke to CBS 2′s Dave Savini to express his outrage. He said a cousin, who had little to do with his dad, is trying to cash in on a reality show that is not so real.“My father was a victim of a crime,” said James Fecarotta. “He was murdered.” James Fec [..] > read more

Branded a mobster, Staten Island caterer Frank DiMattina says his life went to hell

Published on 2012-05-20 13:42:00

Frank DiMattina calls it the fight of his life. The 44-year-old catering hall owner is staring down a six-year prison sentence, after being convicted at a federal trial on extortion charges, but he maintains his innocence and wants the world to know he's not a mobster. "It's like I went to hell and I came back," he said. "That's not me, what they're portraying as a gangster, as an organized crime figure, as an associate." DiMattina used to own Ariana's Catering Hall in New Dorp, and he's st [..] > read more

Former Colombo crime boss Tommy Shots blogs that God was on his side in the jury room

Published on 2012-05-17 22:33:00

HE SAYS he’s going to hell for whacking a former nun, but Colombo crime boss Thomas Gioeli is still on speaking terms with God.In his first public statement since a Brooklyn jury acquitted him of six gangland murders last week, Tommy Shots blogged from prison that he owes the stunning verdict to divine intervention. He gave no credit to his defense team.Of course, the jury knew Gioeli was a religious wiseguy — mob rat Dino Calabro testified that Gioeli passed the order to kill former und [..] > read more

FORMER DOCKWORKER PLEADS GUILTY TO EXTORTION CONSPIRACY INVOLVING CHRISTMASTIME TRIBUTE PAYMENTS

Published on 2012-05-17 20:37:00

A former International Longshoremen’s Association (“ILA”) member admitted today that he conspired to extort ILA Local 1235 longshoremen on the New Jersey piers for Christmastime tribute payments, New Jersey U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman and Eastern District of New York U.S. Attorney Loretta E. Lynch announced. Edward Aulisi, of Flemington, N.J., pleaded guilty today to conspiring to extort Christmastime tributes from the ILA Local 1235 members – Count Three of the Second Superseding Indi [..] > read more

Gambino consigliere refuses to acknowledge the existence of the mafia during his plea

Published on 2012-05-17 18:33:00

Mafia? What Mafia?The reputed consigliere of the Gambino family pleaded guilty yesterday to racketeering — but is sticking to the mob playbook of refusing to admit membership in La Cosa Nostra.Joseph “JoJo” Corozzo “absolutely denies” allegations that he’s been a made member of the Gambinos since the 1980s and rose to become part of their three-member “administration,” said his son and lawyer, also named Joseph Corozzo.The younger Corozzo also insisted his dad had nothing [..] > read more

Feds say Colombo family prince might be fooling around with his lawyer

Published on 2012-05-16 22:09:00

A PRINCE of the Colombo crime family may have found his princess — but she will have to get him off the hook on murder charges if he wants to live happily ever after.Federal prosecutors confronted reputed mob associate Michael Persico last week on allegations he’s romantically involved with his defense lawyer, legal eagle knockout Sarita Kedia.Persico, 55, the suave, soft-spoken scion of Colombo crime boss Carmine "The Snake" Persico, goes on trial next month in Brooklyn Federal Court char [..] > read more

Flemington man pleads guilty to role in mafia extortion scheme

Published on 2012-05-16 15:56:00

In a Christmastime scheme allegedly involving the mafia and maritime union leaders, a Flemington man admitted his role today in conspiring to extort money from longshoremen for a notorious crime family, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office of New Jersey.Edward Aulisi, 52, pleaded guilty to conspiring with members of the Genovese organized crime family, and former leaders of the International Longshoreman's Association (ILA) Local 1235, to force ILA workers to make Christma [..] > read more

Dead Man Talking

Published on 2012-05-15 15:24:00

> read more

Don't mess with John Travolta and his role as Dapper Don, says John Gotti's widow Victoria

Published on 2012-05-15 13:20:00

John Gotti's widow defended actor John Travolta — who’s set to play her late husband on the big screen — in a way that surely has the macho Dapper Don spinning in his grave.“What difference does it make if he were gay?” Victoria Gotti told the Daily News in an expletive-filled defense of the actor, who’s been embroiled by a sex scandal for more than a week.“Who the f--k really cares? Does it make him less of a beautiful human being? No. . . .Leave him the f--k alone. Whatever the t [..] > read more

Broward man who fled is relieved that the feds, not the mob, were chasing him

Published on 2012-05-15 00:03:00

When the early morning knocking started on his front door, Robert Lis fled in his pajamas, scaled two fences and was eyeing a third when he realized the people chasing him were the feds — not the mob."I was very distraught and relieved when I realized it was law enforcement," Lis testified in federal court in Fort Lauderdale on Monday.Lis, 34, of Pembroke Pines, is facing federal charges in the Long Island area of New York. But that pales in comparison to what he fears from the Gambino org [..] > read more

Mob boss cries poverty

Published on 2012-05-14 16:05:00

Hard times have fallen in two high-profile mob-related cases, where the feds are attempting to seize assets.Reputed Mafia godfather Anthony DiNunzio, 53, rounded up by the FBI in the North End last month on racketeering and extortion charges, has told authorities he’s dependent upon an $800 monthly disability allowance and has only a 1998 Audi to his name, according a memorandum refusing him bail by U.S. District Court Magistrate David L. Martin, who cited a sealed financial affidavit.“ [..] > read more

Businessman shot five times in the head and killer turns gun on himself during Russian Mafia meeting in New York hotel

Published on 2012-05-14 13:54:00

A man shot in a New York hotel on Thursday was involved in a disreputable business and may have had links to the Russian mafia, according to police.Shot five times in the head in front of four witnesses, Brian J. Weiss, 31, was a top official in a Florida dietary supplement company that has been the target of thousands of consumer complaints.His killer, Gary L. Zalevsky, 47, was observed by video surveillance footage standing up during a meeting with Weiss and four others at the Hilton G [..] > read more

Mob Wives recap: Last supper, Gravano and D'Avanzo face-off

Published on 2012-05-14 00:02:00

The show started with a big bang. It ended with a big dinner party. Well, a bigger dinner party than the previous dinner parties.For the first time since Renee's birthday bash, Karen and Drita shared words in the same room...without unleashing the claws. Renee and Big Ang couldn't stand the feud any longer and arranged a time and a place for the pair to clear the air.Karen had to "mentally prepare" for the meeting by getting riled up by her partner in crime, Ramona.On the heels of the season fin [..] > read more

Victor Bruno, son of mob boss Big Al Bruno, says investigators could have prevented father's murder

Published on 2012-05-12 21:14:00

Victor Bruno, the son of murdered mob boss Adolfo "Big Al" Bruno, was critical of the government on Thursday at a press conference on Worthington Street in the restaurant bearing his late father's name. Bruno, 40, who attended two trials in the case in federal court in Manhattan last year and this year, told reporters that he intends to file a complaint with the U.S. Justice Department's Office of Professional Responsibility — the watchdog of federal law enforcement agencies — asser [..] > read more

85 year old former mob boss is sentenced to over 5 years in prison for shaking down strip clubs

Published on 2012-05-11 12:51:00

Luigi “Baby Shacks” Manocchio, the longtime former boss of the New England crime family, was sentenced Friday to 5 1/2 years behind bars for his role in shaking down strip clubs for protection money. Manocchio, who turn 85 in June, has already spent 16 months in federal custody since arrest in Jan. 2011, so he has 50 months left to serve. He will then be under the thumb of supervised release for three years.In court, his defense attorney Joseph Balliro warned any prison stay for a man o [..] > read more

State murder charges might be brought against Tommy Shots

Published on 2012-05-11 00:39:00

A COLOMBO CRIME boss and his alleged hit man — who beat federal charges of killing an off-duty NYPD cop — may not be off the hook yet.Brooklyn District Attorney Charles Hynes could bring a state murder case against Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli and Dino "Little Dino" Saracino, sources told the Daily News.Should he do so, it wouldn’t be double jeopardy, because murder charges brought in state court would differ from the federal racketeering murder charges that the two men just faced, forme [..] > read more

Three Union Leaders Found Guilty In Manhattan Federal Court Of Racketeering, Extortion, Money Laundering, And Witness Tampering Charges

Published on 2012-05-10 21:26:00

Defendants Convicted for Extorting and Stealing Over $1 Million from Union, Pension Fund, and EmployersPreet Bharara, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that ANTHONY FAZIO SR., ANTHONY FAZIO JR., and JOHN FAZIO JR. (collectively, the “FAZIOs”) were found guilty today in Manhattan federal court of racketeering, and extortion in connection with their leadership roles in Local 348-S of the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union [..] > read more

Former New England crime boss awaits sentencing tomorrow

Published on 2012-05-10 19:57:00

Luigi Manocchio had just sat down to a bowl of soup at a restaurant on Federal Hill when a familiar face with a familiar delivery approached him. Thomas Iafrate, then a bookkeeper for the Cadillac Lounge strip club in Providence, was there to hand him an envelope stuffed with cash.It was 2008 and Manocchio was still the head of the New England crime family. The money, according to federal investigators, was his tribute: a weekly payment by the Lounge and other adult entertainment hot spot [..] > read more

FBI agents swarm reputed mobster's home in Connecticut

Published on 2012-05-10 13:34:00

FBI agents on Thursday searched the property of a reputed Connecticut mobster suspected of having information about the 1990 robbery of a Boston museum that remains the largest art heist in history. Agents examined a car in the driveway, searched a wooded area and removed boxes of evidence from the ranch-style suburban home of 75-year-old Robert Gentile, who has been detained since February on federal drug and weapons charges.A lawyer for Gentile, A. Ryan McGuigan, said the F [..] > read more

Former Gambino associate nearly got whacked for vigilante killing

Published on 2012-05-10 13:32:00

An ex-Gambino associate on trial for three murders nearly got whacked for boldly blasting away a rival drug dealer without telling his crew first, a mob turncoat testified yesterday.John Burke had a blessing from Gambino soldier Anthony “Fat Andy” Ruggiano in 1982 to kill drug dealer Daniel Zahn with a shotgun in retaliation for Zahn shooting Burke in the head and neck, Ruggiano’s son Anthony Jr. testified in Brooklyn federal court yesterday.But Burke then circumvented a plan to carr [..] > read more

Colombo mobsters cleared of killing NYPD cop

Published on 2012-05-09 18:24:00

A Brooklyn jury today cleared two notorious mobsters on all murder charges they faced, in a stunning setback for federal prosecutors.Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli beat the rap on six murder counts while soldier Dino "Little Dino" Saracino was cleared for three rubouts. They were both cleared in connection to the infamous Aug. 25, 1997 slaying of NYPD officer Ralph Dols.Gioeli and Saracino were convicted on lesser charges -- three murder conspiracies on “Tommy Shots” and a single murder [..] > read more

Man with ties to Mafia in Montreal missing

Published on 2012-05-09 15:46:00

The Montreal police are investigating the disappearance of a man with known ties to the Mafia in Montreal. Giuseppe Renda, 53, was last seen leaving his home on Friday and was reported as missing later the same day, said Montreal police Lt. Ian Lafrenière. The police later recovered his car on St. Urbain St., in Little Italy, either late Friday night or early Saturday morning. It is being examined for possible evidence, Lafrenière said, adding that so far investigators have found no sign [..] > read more

FBI apprehends former Gambino associate who went on the run in Brooklyn

Published on 2012-05-09 13:22:00

A former mob associate wanted for a bank robbery in Brooklyn last year — after his release from prison for robbing more than 20 banks in the 1990s — was arrested on Sunday in Brooklyn, the Federal Bureau of Investigation said Monday.Michael Wilson writes on crimes in the city.The suspect, Jack Mannino, 44, was arrested without incident during a car stop at 2 p.m. in Park Slope, at the corner of Sixth Avenue and 17th Street, the F.B.I. said. He was expected to appear for his arraignment [..] > read more

Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli and Dino Saracino convicted of racketeering but cleared of cop killing in mob trial

Published on 2012-05-09 12:58:00

A former Colombo mob boss and his henchmen were convicted Wednesday of racketeering — but acquitted in the 1997 murder of off-duty cop Ralph Dols.Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli was found guilty in Brooklyn Federal Court of plotting two gangland murders from the early 1990s, and conspiring to kill members of a rival faction during the Colombo War.But he and Dino "Little Dino" Saracino beat the rap on all the slayings they were charged with, including the hit on Colombo underboss William "Wild [..] > read more

Lawyer says his client quit the Gambino crime family

Published on 2012-05-08 17:51:00

An FBI surveillance photo of suspected mobsters Thomas "Tommy Sneakers" Cacciopoli, John "Junior" Gotti and John Cavallo A longtime Gambino associate went on trial Tuesday for two Queens murders that a government witness has previously claimed were sanctioned by John A. "Junior" Gotti.Assistant U.S. Attorney Whitman Knapp did not mention Gotti’s name in his opening stat [..] > read more

Poll Results: Do you support Hector "Junior" Pagan's decision to cooperate against Anthony "TG" Graziano?

Published on 2012-05-08 15:41:00

Joe Massino spotted leaving his doctor’s office in Staten Island with Anthony "T. G." GrazianoYes: 90 (9%)No: 851 (90%)Total Votes: 941 The vast majority of our readers dont support Hector Pagan Jr's decision to wear a wire and cooperate against Anthony Graziano, his wife's father, last year. Stay tuned to our site as we continue to cover everything Mob Wives related.Bs sure to vote in our new poll!Related articlesHector Pagan Jr wont testify this week due to slew of new mob charges against Bo [..] > read more

Joseph "Skinny Joey" Merlino is still the boss of the Philadelphia crime family

Published on 2012-05-08 15:17:00

Related articlesDocument Says Joey Merlino Still Runs Philly Mob (fivefamiliesnyc.com)Is Joey Merlino or Joe Ligambi the boss? (fivefamiliesnyc.com)Joey Merlino is still running the Philadelphia mob (fivefamiliesnyc.com)Poll Results: Do you believe Joey Merlino is ultimately running the Philly mob from Florida? (fivefamiliesnyc.com)Transcript reveals how wisegusy are initiated in their own words (fivefamiliesnyc.com)Feds try to unravel mystery of Teamster who died of hear attack with $180K in hi [..] > read more

Tapes reveal Gambino and Philly mobsters gossiping about business

Published on 2012-05-08 14:42:00

Giovanni "John" GambinoThe players have changed, but in the Philadelphia underworld the story remains the same — wiseguys again caught in unguarded moments, talking about all manner of murder and mayhem as a cooperating witness wearing a body wire records them for the FBI.A bail-detention motion filed against two North Jersey wiseguys last week in U.S. District Court offered up excerpts of conversations that prosecutors hope to introduce as evidence in the pending racketeering case again [..] > read more

New England Mafia a shell of former self

Published on 2012-05-08 01:06:00

Anthony DiNunzio, the alleged don of the New England Mafia, sat in a federal courthouse in Rhode Island last week, draped in tan prison garb, nodding as a federal judge said he faces a lengthy prison term if convicted of racketeering and extortion.Luigi Manocchio, DiNunzio’s 84-year-old predecessor, will go before a judge in Rhode Island on Friday to be sentenced for extorting protection payments from strip clubs.And Mark Rossetti, one of the most feared captains in the New England mob [..] > read more

Former con ousted from job at MTA after newspaper exposes his past

Published on 2012-05-08 01:04:00

> read more

Former mobster's lawyer says his client is not a snitch

Published on 2012-05-08 00:59:00

Frank SalemmeRetired New England Mafia godfather Francis “Cadillac Frank” Salemme has been a lot of things, including an underworld assassin, but he’s no rat, his lawyer said yesterday.“He’s not cooperating against anybody and he never will,” attorney Steven Boozang told the Herald.The now 78-year-old ex-mobster’s name was dropped Thursday at a detention hearing in Providence for the reputed new boss, Anthony DiNunzio, 53, of East Boston, who was charged last month with racke [..] > read more

Former top state cop: FBI informant protection ran deep

Published on 2012-05-07 23:39:00

Retired Massachusetts State Police Col. Tom FoleyAn explosive new book by the former head of the state police who spent 20 years chasing Winter Hill mob boss James “Whitey” Bulger details a decades-long FBI protection racket that he says went well beyond one rogue agent, and fingers a host of feds who allegedly abetted the Southie mob boss’ murderous crime spree.“I know I’m going to take some flak on this thing, but it had to be told,” retired state police Col. Thomas J. Foley [..] > read more

Tommy Gioeli returns to the radio waves as jury deliberates his fate

Published on 2012-05-07 20:10:00

Click on the link below to listen to Thomas Gioeli on AM970's Frank Moranohttp://sliwonics.com/Morano/GioeliUnedited.mp3 > read more

Chicago Outfit: The Mob's Last Gasp?

Published on 2012-05-07 12:05:00

Art Rachel (left); Bobby Pullia (middle) in a 2011 FBI photo; and Jerry Scalise (right) at Chicago’s Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in January.In an enclave of mostly multifamily dwellings in Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood, the brown-and-gray brick house stands out like a palace. Flanking the front door are opulent bow windows etched with a diamond pattern. Wood shingles cover the entrance to the driveway leading to a detached four-car garage. And it is all enclosed by a six-foot-high bric [..] > read more

Colombo family leader of mob drug ring to plead guilty

Published on 2012-05-07 11:34:00

A Massachusetts man authorities say was a leading member of the New York Colombo crime family is expected to plead guilty to racketeering conspiracy charges this week. Ralph DeLeo of Somerville was indicted along with three others in Massachusetts in 2009. Prosecutors said he led a group known as the "DeLeo Crew" that sold cocaine and marijuana in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, Florida and Arkansas. DeLeo has a change-of-plea hearing scheduled in U.S. District Court in [..] > read more

Mob Wives recap: Puppy Love

Published on 2012-05-07 01:22:00

The D'Avanzo-Gravano showdown was put on hold for yet another episode as the women instead fought to keep their family lives intact. Carla vented her frustrations about her ex-husband Joe over martinis with Big Ang at Buddha Lounge. When he initially returned from prison, he stepped up his fatherly game to make up for the time he missed with his children. Lately though, he's been MIA and Carla was determined to find out if a new fling was to blame."I feel like my kids have been cheated out of a [..] > read more

Man falsely accused of mob ties files lawsuit

Published on 2012-05-07 01:16:00

He says he was guilty of having a name ending in a vowel.A longtime restaurateur has filed an $8 million lawsuit against the city and the Queens District Attorney’s Office, claiming he was wrongly accused of being involved in a mob-run gambling ring because he has a common Italian name.“The other guys told the detectives that I was the wrong Cono, and they didn’t listen,” said Cono Natale Jr., owner of the since-shuttered Cono & Sons O’Pescatore Restaurant in Williamsburg, Brook [..] > read more

Feds fear for jurors and witnesses safety as mob trial gets underway

Published on 2012-05-07 01:11:00

New York is about to experience a mob murder trial where the safety of witnesses and jurors will become an unusually high priority.Gambino crime-family associate John Burke is charged with three different hits, at least one dating back to the iron-fisted mob days of John “Dapper Don” Gotti.Brooklyn federal prosecutors say they are particularly wary about this case.Burke, 51, is charged with the shotgun murder of Daniel Zahn in August 1982, just months after Zahn allegedly shot him in t [..] > read more

Associate pleads guilty in mob case

Published on 2012-05-05 18:40:00

Accused mob associate Albino “Albie” Folcarelli pleaded guilty Friday morning to his role in the extortion of a used car salesman. In federal court, Folcarelli, 54, admitted to being an associate of the New England Cosa Nostra and pleaded guilty to one count of Hobbs Act extortion, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office. He faces up to 20 years imprisonment when he is sentenced on July 26.Investigators say Folcarelli, along with longtime mobster Edward “Eddy” L [..] > read more

Is Joey Merlino or Joe Ligambi the boss?

Published on 2012-05-05 11:48:00

Joseph LigambiIt’s an 83-page racketeering indictment designed to cripple the Philadelphia mob, but the U.S. Attorney’s Office is playing a last-minute game of who’s-the-boss while 14 defendants are awaiting trial.When Joseph “Uncle Joe” Ligambi was busted last year, the indictment described him as a “made” member of the city’s La Cosa Nostra family who “rose through its ranks to become its underboss, then acting boss, and then, after the incarceration of his predecessor [..] > read more

Mob enforcer deported from Canada for a third time

Published on 2012-05-05 11:39:00

Maybe Canada will get lucky on the third try. Rizzuto mob enforcer Joe Bravo — jailed in 2004 for planning a hit on a fellow mobster — was deported to Spain in April after his 12-year prison term for conspiring to commit murder and importing a tonne of cocaine ended.The concern now is whether he’ll try to sneak back into Canada as he did twice before after being deported to Europe.Law enforcement officials expect that’s exactly what he’ll do, sources say.A theory police sources cite [..] > read more

Transcript reveals how wiseguys are initiated in their own words

Published on 2012-05-03 22:55:00

A detention memo filed this week in U.S. District Court by federal prosecutors provides a “fly-on-the-wall” look at a May 2010 mob meeting in an unnamed New Jersey restaurant. The memo was filed in support of a government motion to deny bail to Joseph “Scoops” Licata, 70, and Louis “Big Lou” Fazzini, 45, who were added as defendants in a racketeering case against Philadelphia mob leader Joseph “Uncle Joe” Ligambi and 11 others.The memo includes more than a dozen references [..] > read more

AJ Pagan from Mob Wives faces assault charge after Staten Island incident

Published on 2012-05-03 18:22:00

The teenage son of "Mob Wives" reality-TV star Renee Graziano is accused of attacking a 15-year-old girl during a fight in Greenridge last month.Anthony Pagan, 18, of the 100 block of Guyon Avenue, Oakwood, yesterday surrendered himself to a detective at the 123rd Precinct's Tottenville station house, accompanied by his mom, according to an NYPD source familiar with the case.The incident happened at about 9 p.m. April 6, at the corner of Kenilworth Avenue and Arthur Kill Road, NYPD spokes [..] > read more

New England mob boss held without bail until trial

Published on 2012-05-03 16:26:00

The reputed acting boss of the New England mafia on Thursday was ordered to remain held without bail while awaiting trial on charges he participated in the shakedown of Providence strip clubs. Anthony L. DiNunzio, who lives in the East Boston neighborhood of Boston, has been locked up since his arrest last week on charges including racketeering conspiracy and extortion conspiracy. He has pleaded not guilty.The 53-year-old DiNunzio is the nin [..] > read more

Colombo associate blames turncoat older brother for bringing him into the life as he is sentenced to 3 years

Published on 2012-05-03 12:26:00

A COLOMBO associate who pleaded guilty to wire fraud and loansharking got 41 months in prison Wednesday — and blamed his mob rat sibling for falling in with a crime family.Anthony Calabro says he threw away an honest six-figure job as a union carpenter at the World Trade Center site after his older brother, hit man Dino "Big Dino" Calabro, corrupted him.Reading from a pre-sentencing report, Brooklyn Federal Judge Kiyo Matsumoto said the younger Calabro feels “betrayed” by Dino, blames [..] > read more

Feds try to unravel mystery of Teamster who died of hear attack with $180K in his backpack

Published on 2012-05-03 12:23:00

The mystery began with a heart attack, a man with a past, and a bag of money that federal authorities now want to keep. Last August, a retired Teamster from Boston stepped off an Amtrak train in New York City and collapsed on the platform at Pennsylvania Station. As medics tried to revive him, police searched his backpack for identification. Inside, they found the stuff that “Law & Order” episodes are made of: $179,980 in cash, bundled with rubber bands and tucked inside two plastic bag [..] > read more

Joey Merlino is still running the Philadelphia mob

Published on 2012-05-03 12:15:00

During 12 years spent in prison on racketeering charges, Joseph “Skinny Joey” Merlino continued to control the Philadelphia crime family, and despite the fact that he is now living in Florida, Merlino, 50, still sits atop the organization’s management chart, according to a government document filed Wednesday in U.S. District Court.The surprising disclosures were contained in a 21-page detention memo filed by prosecutors seeking to deny bail to the two latest defendants in a racketee [..] > read more

Document Says Joey Merlino Still Runs Philly Mob

Published on 2012-05-03 12:11:00

Document Says Joey Merlino Still Runs Philly Mob: MyFoxPHILLY.comA bomb has been dropped on the Philadelphia mob as new information has come out about Joey Merlino and jailed boss Joseph Ligambi. Federal prosecutors filed a document that includes shocking revelations about the mob, including that Merlino was still running things while he spent 14 years in jail.FOX 29's Dave Schratwieser joined "Good Day" with the details on Thursday morning.Related articlesPoll Results: Do you believe Joey M [..] > read more

Mob Wives recap: Window of opportunities

Published on 2012-05-02 20:28:00

When opportunity knocked, the 'Mob Wives' answered in full force in the latest episode. Taking a minor break from the feuds, they focused on their passions and hobbies.After ruffling some feathers with the debut of her biography, Karen Gravano was ready to take on a new business venture with celebrity plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Fiorillo. Dr. Fiorillo was gearing up to open a new spa in Manhattan and thought Karen could be a great partner for the business and, of course, planner of the launch [..] > read more

Genovese gangster beats two murder charges but found guilty of racketeering

Published on 2012-05-02 20:13:00

After a two-week trial and two days of jury deliberations in federal court in Manhattan, Emilio Fusco, of Longmeadow, was acquitted of the 2003 Western Massachusetts murders of crime boss Adolfo "Big Al" Bruno and low-level associate Gary Westerman. Jurors convicted Fusco, 43, of racketeering conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute marijuana, conspiracy to commit extortion, and interstate travel in aid of racketeering. However, the panel cleared him of involvement in the murders, direct partic [..] > read more

Appeals court upholds Chicago Family Secrets mob convictions

Published on 2012-05-01 22:28:00

Federal Bureau of Investigation mugshot of Frank Calabrese, Sr.The prison door is staying slammed shut on the five mobsters convicted in the historic Operation Family Secrets prosecution.A federal appellate court on Tuesday upheld the convictions of Chicago Outfit boss James “Little Jimmy” Marcello, top mobster Joseph “Joey the Clown” Lombardo, prolific mob killer Frank Calabrese Sr., mob associate Paul “The Indian” Schiro and former crooked Chicago cop Anthony Doyle.The convicti [..] > read more

Boston based Gambino soldier charged with extortion

Published on 2012-05-01 20:35:00

An alleged member of the New York-based Gambino crime family was charged in an indictment unsealed Tuesday with extorting more than $1 million from a business over five years, according to court records.Oreste Abbamonte, 63, of Port Washington, N.Y., faces up to 20 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine for the alleged extortion if he is convicted. Authorities say he extorted the money from the company between January 2006 and January 2011. The com [..] > read more

Two more mobsters indicted in case against Joe Ligambi

Published on 2012-05-01 20:33:00

Related articlesWannabe wiseguy likely to be a key witness in Mob trial (fivefamiliesnyc.blogspot.com)Jailed Philly mob figure agrees to plead guilty (fivefamiliesnyc.com)Potential government witness in Ligambi trial commits suicide (fivefamiliesnyc.blogspot.com) > read more

Emilio Fusco's fate now in jurors' hands at mob murder trial

Published on 2012-04-30 20:54:00

Lawyers in the mob murder trial of Longmeadow gangster Emilio Fusco wrapped up closing statements in U.S. District Court in Manhattan Monday afternoon. > read more

New England mob boss wants out on bail

Published on 2012-04-30 15:43:00

The man federal prosecutors claim is the acting boss of the New England crime family is asking that he be released on bail pending trial. Anthony DiNunzio, 53, of East Boston, was arrested last week and charged with seven counts in a sweeping probe into organized crime.DiNunzio’s lawyers say there is “no likelihood” he will skip out on bail because he has been aware of federal investigation against him for more than year.“He clearly decided not to flee, and the alleged recorded co [..] > read more

Mobster's attorney turns to Psalms for final remarks during murder trial, calls witnesses rats

Published on 2012-04-30 15:33:00

It's a Mafia trial that sounds more like a scholarly lecture at a theological seminary.The defense attorney for Colombo crime family street boss Thomas “Tommy Shots” Gioeli adopted a religious tone today in his final remarks to the jury, quoting Biblical and Talmudic passages with the authority of a religious scholar."Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies," attorney Adam Perlmutter intoned, quoting Psalm 27."For false witnesses are risen up against me," the attorney continued [..] > read more

Five Gambino Crime Family Members and Associates Plead Guilty in Manhattan Federal Court

Published on 2012-04-28 14:30:00

Preet Bharara, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that VINCENZO FROGIERO, TODD LABARCA, JOHN BRANCACCIO, CHRISTOPHER REYNOLDS, and SEAN DUNN—all of whom are either members or associates of the Gambino organized crime family of La Cosa Nostra—pled guilty to crimes including racketeering, narcotics trafficking, assault, and extortion. LABARCA also pled guilty to conspiring to commit the January 2002 murder of Martin Bosshart, which was part [..] > read more

Turncoat Hector Pagan Jr is set to testify next month in trial of Bonanno underboss

Published on 2012-04-27 16:17:00

The real-life drama on “Mob Wives” is again starting to outshine the stuff on TV.The gangster ex-husband of the show’s undisputed star, Renee Graziano, is “likely” to take the witness stand in a Brooklyn mob trial early next month — his first appearance as a government informant — sources tell The Post.Turncoat Hector “Junior” Pagan wore a hidden microphone to tape conversations with at least six organized crime figures after he agreed last summer — while taping the VH1 [..] > read more

Transcripts show reputed mob boss’s violent streak

Published on 2012-04-27 15:00:00

The man owed him money, tens of thousands of dollars for the purchase of his cheese shop in the North End, and Anthony DiNunzio was furious and wanted to send a message. “So I grabbed him,’’ DiNunzio, the reputed boss of the New England Mafia, allegedly told an associate last December.“Twenty-five [thousand dollars] comes to me.’’DiNunzio’s associate, a senior member of the Gambino family, was sympathetic. And he responded, “He’s going to pay [..] > read more

Acting boss seen as aspiring for the official slot

Published on 2012-04-26 23:09:00

As the accused “acting boss” of the New England Mafia, Anthony DiNunzio was just a seat warmer for his caged big brother — but the taped rants in a federal indictment suggest the alleged second banana might not have been above plotting a coup d’etat, organized crime experts said yesterday.“When I hear ‘acting boss,’ that means the boss is in prison. It’s also an opportunity to take over, if they’re that brazen,” said author Allan May, a noted gangland historian.DiNunzi [..] > read more

Emilio Fusco jurors in New York hear 7 days of testimony in mob murder trial

Published on 2012-04-26 21:08:00

Western Massachusetts mob figures mentioned in the Emilio Fusco murder trial in New York include, clockwise from top left, Fusco and Anthony Arilllotta, and Adolfo Bruno and Gary Westerman, both deceased. > read more

Colombo lawyers argue lack of physical evidence in cop slay

Published on 2012-04-26 20:46:00

Defense attorneys for Colombo crime family soldier Dino Saracino argued in closing statements Thursday that despite sprawling investigations and forensic analyses, not a single shred of physical evidence links the mobster to the murder of NYPD officer Ralph Dols.Defense lawyer Sam Braverman told a Brooklyn federal court jury that an extensive forensic search of the car used in the 1997 Dols hit uncovered many fibers, but contained nothing that points to his client."They don't come back to [..] > read more

Two more mobsters indicted in case against Philly mob boss

Published on 2012-04-26 14:01:00

Joseph “Scoops” Licata, long-time leader of the North Jersey faction of the Philadelphia mob, was indicted on racketeering charges today as federal authorities expanded a pending case against alleged mob boss Joseph Ligambi and more than a dozen of his associates.The indictment adds Licata and reputed North Jersey mob soldier Louis “Big Lou” Fazzini as defendants and includes two new charges against Ligambi tied to an alleged “no show” job at a South Philadelphia trash disposal [..] > read more

Mob Researcher Gets More Acccess to FBI Data

Published on 2012-04-26 13:59:00

The FBI must release more records about one of its informants in the Mafia, Gregory Scarpa Sr., a federal judge ruled. > read more

Feds takedown the acting boss of New England's Patriarca crime family

Published on 2012-04-25 17:58:00

Alleged mob boss busted in sting: wpri.comThe man federal authorities say is the acting boss of the New England crime family pleaded not guilty to charges in a sweeping indictment accusing him of racketeering and extortion. Anthony DiNunzio, 53, of East Boston, appeared in federal court in Providence wearing a black jogging suit and glasses. He is being held without bail until a detention hearing next month.“As of this morning at approximately 6 a.m. the New England La Cosa Nostra became [..] > read more

Adolfo Bruno shooter Frankie Roche resumes testimony in murder trial

Published on 2012-04-25 17:09:00

Frankie Roche, the admitted shooter in the 2003 contract hit on Springfield organized crime boss Adolfo "Big Al" Bruno, offered jurors in federal court more hours of dispassionate testimony about a string of beatings, attempted killings and a murder he said he carried out almost robotically. On trial is Emilio Fusco, a Longmeadow man accused in the plot against Bruno prosecutors say included gangsters from Greater Springfield to the highest ranks of the Genovese crime family in New York. [..] > read more

Former Colombo crime boss refuses to leave cell to go to court

Published on 2012-04-25 16:55:00

On the day prosecutors in the Colombo mob trial were to deliver their final summations to the jury, former street boss Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli suddenly refused to leave his cell -- causing a delay in the wrap-up of the murder racketeering case."Mr. Gioeli has refused to proceed with the Marshals to the courthouse," defense attorney Adam Perlmutter told the judge this morning.Also noticeably absent from court were Gioeli's family members who have been a constant fixture throughout the [..] > read more

Gambino associate sinks global plea deal

Published on 2012-04-24 20:36:00

It was an offer he could refuse.A reputed Gambino crime family associate backed out of a plea deal today in a move that will force three co-defendants to go to trial.John Brancaccio had agreed last week to take part in a "global" agreement to resolve the charges against him and four other alleged mobsters busted in last year's massive Mafia crackdown.But Brancaccio changed his mind at the last minute in Manhattan federal court after prosecutors said he couldn't seek less than 15-plus year [..] > read more

Guilty plea put off for Colombo's Ralph DeLeo

Published on 2012-04-24 17:33:00

A Massachusetts man who authorities say was a leading member of New York's Colombo crime family won a two-week postponement of his scheduled guilty plea after his lawyer cited health concerns.Ralph DeLeo had a change-of-plea hearing scheduled in U.S. District Court in Boston on Tuesday, when he was expected to plead guilty to a racketeering conspiracy charge.DeLeo's lawyer, Tim Watkins, asked for a postponement, saying DeLeo's blood pressure was "very high" Tuesday. Watkins said the 68-ye [..] > read more

Boston mobster Darin Bufalino sentenced to another seven years in Suffolk Superior Court

Published on 2012-04-24 16:55:00

Just days after he was ordered to serve a seven-year prison term for armed robbery, New England mobster Darin Bufalino today was sentenced to another seven years for his role in an organized crime ring allegedly led by Mark Rossetti, who has been identified in court records as both a top Mafia leader and an informant for the FBI.A prosecutor said Bufalino was an “assistant and an associate” of Rossetti and collected gambling and loan debts, as well as protection money, for him.Bufalino [..] > read more

New Jersey Attorney General may investigate lawyer payments by reputed mob figures

Published on 2012-04-24 14:05:00

Matthew MadonnaThe state may pursue an investigation of possible money laundering by more than 20 defendants to pay for legal services after they were indicted in 2010 for allegedly participating in a $2.2 billion international gambling ring operated by the Lucchese crime family, a Superior Court judge has ruled. Judge Pedro Jimenez, sitting in Trenton, ruled last Friday that the state Attorney General’s office may issue subpoenas to obtain the information because it may provide evidenc [..] > read more

Former Gambino crime family's consigliere agrees to global plea deal

Published on 2012-04-24 14:00:00

The Gambino crime family’s former reputed consigliere has agreed to settle all remaining charges against a group of mobsters busted last year, a lawyer revealed yesterday.Joseph “Jo Jo” Corozzo and four co-defendants struck the “global” agreement late last Friday, lawyer Bruno Gioffre Jr. told a judge in Manhattan federal court.Gioffre’s client, high-school dropout Sean Dunn, pleaded guilty to selling marijuana for the Mafia in exchange for a recommended sentence of up to seve [..] > read more

Mob boss gets cold feet and wont testify in own defense at trial

Published on 2012-04-24 13:52:00

Former Colombo crime boss Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli told a judge he wanted to testify in his own defense Tuesday — then chickened out an hour later.Gioeli raised the specter of taking the stand while the jury was out of the courtroom in the morning but said he needed time to prepare.“I don't want to jump into a cold pool. I'm not an attorney,” he said.“But I've been saying from day one that I'd like to testify . ... I think my attorneys did an excellent job but there was very little [..] > read more

Cousin's testimony backfires for Tommy Shots defense during murder trial

Published on 2012-04-24 13:50:00

Tommy Shots decision to call his cousin as a witness in his murder and racketeering trial backfired Monday.Colombo crime boss Thomas Gioeli had hoped mob turncoat Thomas McLaughlin’s testimony would clear him of any role in the 1991 rubout of Frank "Chestnut" Marasa in Brooklyn. Instead it did the opposite.McLaughlin testified that Gioeli had approved the killers on the hit team.After Marasa was gunned down, McLaughlin said he drove shooter Dino Calabro to meet his cousin at the Cropsey Diner. [..] > read more

Turncoat Anthony Arillotta concludes testimony as star witness at Emilio Fusco mob murder trial

Published on 2012-04-23 22:08:00

Anthony Arillotta on Monday bolstered his role in the growing ranks of mob turncoats who have taken down legions of their former comrades; not with guns, but from witness stands in federal court. Following in the footsteps of notorious Mafia “cooperators,” Salvatore “Sammy the Bull” Gravano, Michael “Mikey Scars” DiLeonardo and Michael “Cookie” D’urso, all homegrown gangsters from New York City, Arillotta, of Springfield, concluded four days of testimony in Manhattan as [..] > read more

Former Colombo family street boss to plead guilty to drug charges

Published on 2012-04-23 20:35:00

FBI mugshot of Ralph DeLeoA Massachusetts man who authorities say was a leading member of New York's Colombo crime family plans to plead guilty to a federal racketeering conspiracy charge, according to a person familiar with the case.Ralph DeLeo, of Somerville, was indicted along with three others in Massachusetts in 2009. Prosecutors said he led a group known as the "DeLeo crew" that sold cocaine and marijuana in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, Florida and Arkansas.DeLeo initiall [..] > read more

The mob boss and the nun

Published on 2012-04-23 09:16:00

Colombo boss Thomas "Tommy Shot" Gioeli was allegedly part of a botched gangland hit that killed a beloved former nun — and now a Brooklyn jury will learn the unholy details thanks to hisdefense team.Mob turncoat Dino "Big Dino" Calabro claims that a guilt-ridden Gioeli confessed, “I’m going to hell!” after the accidental murder of Veronica Zuraw in 1982.Federal prosecutors had asked to use Calabro’s allegations in Gioeli’s current racketeering and murder trial. But Brooklyn Fede [..] > read more

Mob Wives recap: Karen Gravano books showdown with Drita

Published on 2012-04-23 00:27:00

The stage was set last week for a pair of catfights between Karen and Drita, and Renee and Carla ...again. They solved their issues just like they always do: meeting and eating.Renee met Ramona at Joe's of Avenue U to catch up. Though still coping with her ex-husband's betrayal that resulted in the arrest of her father, "the sparkle" was back in Renee's eyes. Ramona had her own frustrations with "the feds" to vent on. Apparently she left $200,000 worth of jewelry – yes, she said $200,000 – i [..] > read more

Boston mobster gets 7 years for robbery

Published on 2012-04-21 13:37:00

It's a crime that sounds like a scene out of a movie: a young businessman is lured into a too-good-to-be-true deal for road salt, only to be robbed at gunpoint beside a deserted golf course in the middle of winter. But it actually happened three years ago in Middleton, and now a reputed high-ranking Boston mobster will spend seven years in prison as a result. Darrin Bufalino, 51, of Winthrop, admitted, in what's known as an "Alford" plea, that there is evidence to prove that he stole $11 [..] > read more

Defense lawyers begin cross examining Genovese turncoat

Published on 2012-04-20 12:40:00

A defense lawyer for mob murder defendant Emilio Fusco on Thursday began battering prosecution witness Anthony J. Arillotta in an ongoing trial in U.S. District Court in Manhattan. Arillotta, 44, of Springfield, was once a mob soldier in Western Massachusetts before his arrest for the 2003 contract hit on his onetime boss, Adolfo "Big Al" Bruno. He entered the Witness Protection Program shortly after and has been a central witness in prosecutions of gangsters from the Pioneer Valley to New York [..] > read more

Emilio Fusco's lawyer tries to erode star prosecution witnesses'credibility in federal mob case

Published on 2012-04-20 12:38:00

A defense lawyer for mob murder defendant Emilio Fusco began trying to erode the star prosecution witness’ credibility on Thursday in U.S. District Court, highlighting a history of broken promises, murderous intentions and a beholden status to the government. Fusco, of Longmeadow, Mass., is facing a life sentence if convicted of racketeering and murder charges after what is expected to be a three-week trial in federal court in Manhattan, listened to nearly three days of testimony by Mafia tur [..] > read more

Mobsterr testifies about murder his brother did in their basement

Published on 2012-04-20 01:33:00

This took betraying the family to a whole new level.A reputed Colombo crime-family soldier disavowed his own brother after the wiseguy-turned-rat took the witness stand in Brooklyn federal court in a bid to help prosecutors put him away for life.“I’m not your brother!” Dino “Little Dino” Saracino shouted after his turncoat sibling, Sebastiano “Sebby” Saracino, identified him as the gunman who in 1995 murdered an ex-Marine in their parents’ Bensonhurst basement.“Stop lyin [..] > read more

Mob associate enters plea to extortion charge in federal court

Published on 2012-04-19 14:55:00

Mob associate Albino "Albie'' Folcarelli has agreed to plead guilty to a charge of extortion conspiracy stemming from his arrest and indictment last year in the shakedown of worker for $25,000 at an auto body shop in Johnston. Folcarelli, 54, signed the plea agreement on Tuesday and it was filed in U.S. District Court in Providence. According to the deal, the mob associate is recognized as a ``career offender'' for having two prior convictions for crimes of violence. As a result, he face [..] > read more

"Dont call me your brother no more!" mobster yells to turncoat older brother

Published on 2012-04-19 14:41:00

> read more

Mob Wives star Big Ang reveals the best restaurants in Staten Island

Published on 2012-04-19 12:30:00

Big Ang, a.k.a. Angela Raiola, the larger-than-life breakout star of VH1’s hit reality series Mob Wives, knows how to make a meal that will melt a wise guy’s heart. But sometimes a girl needs a night off from cooking for known felons. Here, the Staten Island resident shares her top restaurant picks.Angelina’s Ristorante: “This is my number one favorite place. I like everything here, and everything Angelina makes is the best. Her Bolognese sauce is amazing, her branzini fish, her vea [..] > read more

Cop tried to give clues on his mob killers as he laid dying in a hospital bed

Published on 2012-04-19 12:26:00

An NYPD officer ambushed by mob hit men outside his Brooklyn home valiantly tried to finger the shooters for a police detective even as he lay dying in a hospital trauma unit, dramatic testimony revealed yesterday.After the shooting, off-duty Officer Ralph Dols hung on long enough to answer several questions about the attack and start police on the hunt for his killers before he was wheeled into surgery at Coney Island Hospital.“Dols was only able to respond to my questions with one-wor [..] > read more

Officials Say a Little Italy Tradition Is Back: The Mob at San Gennaro

Published on 2012-04-18 22:23:00

Feast of San Gennaro in New YorkLittle Italy — or Littler Italy, as certain wits have called it — has lost a good deal of its square footage and authentic flavor over the years. Caught between an encroaching Chinatown and a growing SoHo fashion trade, its pork stores and red-sauce joints have been left to huddle largely on its main drag, Mulberry Street. The 2010 census failed to find a single neighborhood resident — not one — who was born in Italy.Imagine the surprise, then, when [..] > read more

Mob snitch survived bullets but finished off by shovels

Published on 2012-04-18 19:59:00

A Manhattan federal jury heard how the target of a mob rubout survived a few slugs only to be finished off with shovels.Prosecutors offered a preview of the evidence they gathered in the slaying of suspected mob snitch Gary Westerman during opening statements Tuesday in the racketeering trial of Genovese mobster Emilio Fusco.Prosecutor Daniel Goldman said that after Westerman was shot several times, Fusco bashed him in the head with a shovel “to make sure the job was done.”Westerman was a lo [..] > read more

Philly mobster withdraws from racketeering plea deal

Published on 2012-04-18 19:44:00

The deal was signed, but it wasn't sealed or delivered.In a surprise move Tuesday, mobster Gaeton Lucibello withdrew his guilty plea to racketeering charges, rejecting a government plea deal that called for a 63-month sentence in the case.During a brief hearing before Judge Eduardo Robreno, Lucibello, 59, turned down a deal he had signed off on earlier this month.The signed plea agreement was the basis for Tuesday's hearing. Lucibello is one of a dozen reputed mob figures charged in an indict [..] > read more

Genovese turncoat takes witness stand for second day at trial of Emilio Fusco

Published on 2012-04-18 17:54:00

Anthony Arillotta, take two. Arillotta, 44, a Mafia soldier-turned-informant from Springfield, resumed the witness stand Wednesday for the second day in a mob murder trial in Manhattan. On trial is Longmeadow loan shark Emilio Fusco, a fellow "made man" in the New York-based Genovese organized crime family. Both Arillotta and Fusco were indicted for a string of crimes including the 2003 murder of their onetime boss, Adolfo "Big Al" Bruno, amid a power play in 2003. Arillotta, however, ent [..] > read more

Feds round up a bunch of Genovese crime family members

Published on 2012-04-18 08:33:00

The FBI busted 11 reputed gangsters and union bosses Wednesday, charging that the most powerful mafia family in America continues to infiltrate unions around the city.Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Loretta Lynch unsealed an indictment naming 11 individuals in a variety of schemes tied to the Genovese crime family.One of those arrested was Salvester Zarzana, a former president of Carpenters Local 926 who was identified by the feds as a soldier in the Genovese family.Zarzana has been connected to a gr [..] > read more

Missing mob bodies vanished during construction projects

Published on 2012-04-18 08:31:00

Prosecutors at the slay trial of reputed Colombo boss Thomas “Tommy Shots” Gioeli yesterday introduced aerial photos that showed buildings atop an alleged mob graveyard on Long Island.The structures explain why the bodies of two mobsters were never found after they were murdered in a Colombo crime-family war, a law-enforcement source told The Post.The source said Manhattan federal prosecutors and the FBI believe that the decomposed corpses are either buried beneath the buildings or we [..] > read more

VH1 approves new Big Ang spinoff show

Published on 2012-04-17 19:25:00

Big Ang has made a big impression on everyone watching Mob Wives this season. She’s only been in the limelight since January, but ever since her debut on the show, people have flocked to her Staten Island bar, The Drunken Monkey, begged her for retweets on Twitter, and paid homage to her with some amazing artwork and music. And now, the woman is getting her own show. The spinoff, simply called Big Ang will debut this summer and will be a season of all Big Ang, all the time. We can’t wait. Fo [..] > read more

Genovese turncoat caps first day of testimony in mob murder trial

Published on 2012-04-17 18:18:00

Following opening arguments in what is expected to be a three-week mob murder trial, the first day of testimony opened quietly but wrapped up with a bang – and the government's star witness, turncoat Mafia soldier Anthony J. Arillotta. > read more

Mobster willing to accept plea deal if he would have gotten hip replacement

Published on 2012-04-17 17:41:00

> read more

Mob boss laments loss of favorite juror during rambling radio spot

Published on 2012-04-17 09:13:00

Maybe he got the nickname for shooting his mouth off.Accused Mafia big Thomas “Tommy Shots” Gioeli took a break from his murder and racketeering trial to lament the loss of his “favorite juror” during a radio interview from jail.“This guy was right on the ball. We loved him and we didn’t hide the fact,” Gioeli said of the man he identified as “Juror No. 5,” a man with long dreadlocks who was dismissed from the panel last week.Juror 5 was dismissed after a mysterious enco [..] > read more

While on trial for six murders Colombo crime boss Tommy Shots returns to the radiowaves

Published on 2012-04-16 21:16:00

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN Thomas Gioeli's third interview with AM 970's Frank Morano > read more

Mob Wives recap: Rumor Control

Published on 2012-04-16 21:07:00

The cameras continued to capture the ramifications of the headline heard round the Island, "Hubby a snitch": crying, yelling and finger pointing.While Renee cried and tried to understand how her ex-husband could conspire to bring down her father, VH1 had the video clips of Junior's deceitful soothing words handy. "You have nothing to worry about," Junior had said. The flashbacks of his good guy words, hand holding in the park and fake smiles stung.Drita – who hadn't spoken to Renee since her e [..] > read more

Jurors seated in Emilio Fusco mob murder trial in Manhattan

Published on 2012-04-16 21:02:00

They include a fashion house assistant, an accountant, a reporter, a genetics scientist and a hotel lounge employee. Those were among 16 anonymous jurors empaneled Monday for the trial of Emilio Fusco, a Longmeadow man accused in a racketeering conspiracy that spanned a decade and included the murder of onetime Greater Springfield Mafia boss Adolfo “Big Al” Bruno, plus a string of extortions and drug deals, according to federal prosecutors.Although jurors were subjected to an entire day [..] > read more

Union president visits jailed Genovese associate

Published on 2012-04-15 22:42:00

A breakaway union that dubs itself the “clean” alternative to the corruption-plagued District Council of Carpenters apparently didn’t get the memo about avoiding ties to the mob.Joseph Firth, who’s listed as president of the upstart Amalgamated Carpenters and Joiners, confirmed to the Daily News he recently visited a federal prison in New Jersey to chat with Joe Olivieri, a Genovese crime family associate.Olivieri, tagged by the feds as an underworld liaison to two of the city’s [..] > read more

Judge tells prosecutor not to show cop's wife photo in mob case

Published on 2012-04-14 12:36:00

Federal Bureau of Investigation 2007 federal prison mugshot of Joel CacaceLawyers for two gangsters, charged with killing a cop because he had married a Colombo crime boss’ ex-wife, have made sure a Brooklyn jury won’t see the couple together.They convinced Federal Judge Brian Cogan to preclude the prosecutor from showing jurors a photo of slain cop Ralph Dols with wife, Kim Kennaugh.“It’s a picture of the woman who he was killed over,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Cristina Posa said Thu [..] > read more

Feds say Emilio Fusco angled for mob boss Al Bruno's murder since 1990s

Published on 2012-04-14 12:34:00

Jurors in an upcoming mob murder trial will hear details about Longmeadow loan shark Emilio Fusco's rise in the Springfield faction of New York's Genovese crime family, including his longstanding desire to kill rival Adolfo "Big Al" Bruno, according to prosecutors. > read more

Mob Wives creator Jennifer Graziano regrets not knowing Hector Pagan Jr was working for the DEA

Published on 2012-04-14 12:32:00

Looking back, says Jennifer Graziano, the creator and producer of “Mob Wives,” she missed one big clue that her sister’s ex-husband was not a model mobster.Last summer, when the hit reality series was taping a second season, she asked Hector “Junior” Pagan if he really wanted to be on the show as a regular cast member.“It’ll ruin you on the street,” she recalls telling him.“ ‘No,’ he told me. ‘I don’t care about that anymore. I want to be in it.’“I should have kn [..] > read more

Colombo mobster used noisy bowling alley to conduct business

Published on 2012-04-13 23:48:00

A Long Island bowling alley gave new meaning to “family” fun when a mob boss turned it into his criminal hangout.Colombo crime-family street boss Thomas “Tommy Shots” Gioeli set up shop at the County Line Bowling Center near his Farmingdale home because he wanted the sounds of falling pins and screaming kids to mask his underworld conversations from the prying ears of federal agents, according to testimony at his ongoing mob-slay trial in Brooklyn federal court.As locals bowled near [..] > read more

Jailed Philly mob figure agrees to plead guilty

Published on 2012-04-13 23:45:00

South Philadelphia mob figure Gaeton Lucibello, who beat a federal racketeering charge in 1996 by testifying on his own behalf, has apparently decided to fold rather than take a chance on another jury trial.Indicted along with mob boss Joseph "Uncle Joe" Ligambi and 11 others in May, the 59-year-old former ironworker and reputed gambling operative is scheduled to appear Tuesday in U.S. District Court for a change-of-plea hearing.Notice of Lucibello's intention to plead guilty was filed Thurs [..] > read more

Getaway car sat in garage of Tommy Shots cousin

Published on 2012-04-12 23:53:00

The cousin of Colombo crime boss Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli testified Thursday that he unwittingly stored a getaway car used in the murder of an off-duty NYPD cop.Brooklyn federal prosecutors granted Salavatore Tese immunity to testify against his kin.Tese said he never really looked at the car Gioeli parked in the garage of his Long Island home in 1997, but recalled it was brown, U.S.-made and used.“[Gioeli] said he had purchased a car for one of his daughters and wasn't sure if she was [..] > read more

Authorities arrest nephew of Lucchese family captain

Published on 2012-04-12 14:56:00

A Yonkers man was arrested as a fugitive from justice after he went to bail his 30-year-old son out of a Tuckahoe jail, police said. But, before his son was released from the village jail, he was arrested again by Yonkers police who wanted him on a May, 23, 2011 arrest warrant.Now, both father, Frank Salerno, 59, of 25 McArthur Ave., in Yonkers, and son, 30-year-old Adam Salerno of 12 Washington St., in Tuckahoe, are behind bars.The two arrests began with a minor traffic stop on Main Stre [..] > read more

Plane ticket, phone records seized in homicide probe

Published on 2012-04-12 14:52:00

Cell phone records and a plane ticket could be key pieces of evidence as Danbury police hunt for the person or people who killed 43-year-old Mario Imbesi in his Farview Avenue apartment last > read more

Mobsters drafted pothead for mob war

Published on 2012-04-12 14:43:00

They made him an offer he couldn’t refuse.A self-described pothead said he was drafted into a mob war against his will when a Mafia associate took him out for what he thought would be a night of club hopping — but he was instead given a gun and told to participate in a gangland hit.Robert Ventriglia — who wasn’t even in the mob — yesterday told jurors in the trial of two Colombo Mafia members, that he was taken to a street in North Massapequa, Long Island, and told to “shoot a [..] > read more

Witness says wiseguy Dino Saracino schemed to shake down dying cancer victim

Published on 2012-04-12 00:59:00

A sicko Colombo gangster proposed shaking down the family of a young leukemia victim in exchange for life-saving bone marrow, a government witness testified Wednesday.The scheme was revealed during the cross-examination of mob associate David Gordon in Brooklyn Federal Court.Defense lawyer Sam Braverman accused the turncoat of hatching a plan to extort $20,000 from cancer patient Jonathan Nigro after learning his bone marrow was a match for transplant.A visibly upset Gordon shot back that his mo [..] > read more

3 Alleged Mobsters Face Off in Broward Court in Gus Boulis Murder Case

Published on 2012-04-11 21:11:00

Three alleged mobsters faced off against each other in a Broward courtroom Tuesday, with one of them testifying for the state in the Gus Boulis murder case.“I was told a very long time ago to keep your friends close and your enemies closer,” said James “Pudgy” Fiorillo from the witness stand, perhaps inadvertently quoting from the movie classic, “The Godfather Part II.”Fiorillo was once friends with his former codefendants, Anthony “Big Tony” Moscatiello and Anthony “Litt [..] > read more

Colombo wiseguy renovated Brooklyn basement after two gangland murders

Published on 2012-04-10 22:51:00

Alleged "slaughterhouse" on 76th St. in Bensonhurst is where witness alleged two gangland hits took place. > read more

Renee Graziano's father Anthony pleads guilty to collecting an illegal debt

Published on 2012-04-10 21:31:00

The wiseguy father of “Mob Wives’’ star Renee Graziano faces up to three years in prison after pleading guilty yesterday to collecting an illegal debt.Anthony “TG” Graziano, a 71-year-old consigliere of the Bonanno crime family, could have been hit with 20 years behind bars before he accepted a plea deal from Brooklyn federal prosecutors that is expected to slash his prison time.He now faces 30 to 37 months in prison, said Patrick Parrotta, his attorney.The mobster was ensnared l [..] > read more

Staten Islan man who stabbed groom is cleared of murder charges

Published on 2012-04-10 17:19:00

The man who fatally stabbed a groom-to-be during a wild fight outside a Staten Island nightspot last month has been cleared of murder charges, The Post has learned.After weighing testimony and evidence presented over the past three weeks, a grand jury this afternoon voted a “no-bill” in an indictment against Redinel Dervishaj, 35, who plunged a butcher’s knife into bricklayer Antonio Lacertosa, 27, outside the Espana eatery in Annadale, said the Staten Island District Attorney’s o [..] > read more

Mobster Linked To Gardner Art Theft Hit With Weapons Charges

Published on 2012-04-10 12:56:00

The ConcertFederal prosecutors have filed weapons charges against mobster Robert Gentile, adding to the potential prison sentence faced by a man authorities believe may have information about the world's most sensational art heist, the theft of 13 masterworks from Boston's Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.The U.S. Attorney's office said Monday that a federal grand jury has returned a new indictment based on a variety of weapons seized during a search in February of the 75-year-old Gentile' [..] > read more

FBI May Have to Give Up the Goods on Gambinos

Published on 2012-04-10 12:41:00

A Pulitzer Prize-winning author may yet access FBI records on two underbosses of the Gambino crime family after a federal judge ordered the agency to take another look at records it withheld. > read more

Cops to examine phone records in homicide case

Published on 2012-04-10 12:39:00

Investigators plan to scour Mario Imbesi's phone records, which they hope will yield leads in the March slaying, court papers > read more

Mob Wives rat Hector Pagan Jr dodges testifying as Bonanno crime boss Vinny TV pleads guilty

Published on 2012-04-09 20:37:00

> read more

Emilio Fusco teed up for trial in Al Bruno murder case

Published on 2012-04-08 13:06:00

Lawyers for Emilio Fusco – a convicted loan shark from Longmeadow soon to stand trial in federal court in Manhattan for two organized-crime murders – have long denied his ties to the Mafia. Prosecutors contend, though, that Fusco was recruited in the early 1990s for the Western Massachusetts faction of the Genovese crime family by onetime capo Albert “Baba” Scibelli, who died in February from Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 91. Fusco began building his stock in the rackets he [..] > read more

Alleged Genovese family hitman shares his connection to heaven in memoir

Published on 2012-04-08 12:12:00

He’s La Cosa Nostradamus.Paul “Doc” Gaccione, 65, says he knows for a fact that there’s an afterlife — and it’s not because he once put someone there with his fist.The beret-wearing alleged gangster, awaiting a June murder trial in a 1992 mob rubout in The Bronx, claims he speaks to the dead, has viewed the hereafter and witnessed miracles.While out on $1 million bail, the Godfather of Souls decided to share his special gifts with the world, penning an autobiography, “Beyond [..] > read more

List of members from Persico and Orena factions from 1993 Colombo war

Published on 2012-04-07 14:28:00

Persico factionCarmine PersicoLittle Allie Boy PersicoMichael PersicoDanny PersicoTeddy Persico JrAndy "Mush" RussoTeddy Persico SrGreg Scarpa SrRichie FuscoJoe "T." TomaselloCarmine SessaJoJo RussoAnthony "Chuckie" Russo"Black" Sam NastasaJohn PateLawrence MazzaJames DelmastroFrank PontilloJoe "Monte" MonteleoneTony FerraraFrank GuerraHank "the bank" SmurraSteven MancusiJoe AmbrosinoAlan QuattracheRalph Scopo SrThomas McLaughlinJohn Minerva (switched to the Orena side)Michael SessaLarry SessaRo [..] > read more

List of casualties from all three Colombo family wars

Published on 2012-04-07 14:26:00

Made members are listed with an M.First Colombo warFeb 27, 1961 - Joseph Magliocco (M), Frank Profaci (M), John Scimone (M) and Sally Musacchio (M) kidnapped by the Gallos.They were all released two days later when Joseph Profaci agreed to start negotiations with the Gallos.Early May 1961 - Joe Gallo (M) fired upon but he escapes unharmed.Aug 20, 1961 - Larry Gallo (M) survives a murder attempt at the Sahara Lounge. The attempted strangulation leaves a nasty scar around his neck. Aug 1961 - J [..] > read more

Mob Wives star Renee Graziano's home site of attempted burglary

Published on 2012-04-06 20:19:00

Now that’s one brave burglar. “Mob Wives” star Renee Graziano’s Staten Island home was the site of an attempted robbery this week, sources tell us. A rep for Graziano confirmed that her house alarm was set off and police arrived to find some “open windows.” But, the VH1 diva’s rep added, nothing was taken and no intruders were found inside. “Everything’s fine. The police came. She’s worried to the degree that anyone would be [in this situation],” the rep said. Grazian [..] > read more

Poll Results: Do you believe Joey Merlino is ultimately running the Philly mob from Florida?

Published on 2012-04-05 23:21:00

Yes - 275 (61%)No - 103 (22%)He should leave the life while he can - 72 (16%)Total votes: 450Over 60 percent of our readers believe that Joseph "Skinny Joey" Merlino is running the Philadelphia crime family since being released from jail and relocated to Florida. Stay tuned to updates as we continue to bring you updates on jailed Philly mob boss Joseph "Uncle Joe" Ligambi and Skinny Joey Merlino.Be sure to vote in our new poll!Related articlesTommy Shots from the Colombos takes to the radio wave [..] > read more

Vito Rizzuto to return to a Canada with a changed underworld

Published on 2012-04-05 22:12:00

In less than six months Vito Rizzuto, a man described in the past as ``the Godfather'' of the Mafia in Montreal, is expected to return to a city whose underworld has undergone a seismic change in his absence.After serving five years in a U.S. prison, Rizzuto, 66, is expected to re-enter Canada a free man. And experts predict 2012 will be another tumultuous year for organized crime in Montreal, as the once untouchable criminal family Rizzuto headed moves to reassert its dominance against a [..] > read more

Press pass among items FBI found in Tommy Shots Long Island home

Published on 2012-04-05 22:08:00

This press pass for Long Island's Nightlife magazine was issued to Thomas Gioeli in 1980s. The pass was used as evidence in the trial of the alleged Colombo family crime boss. FBI agents searching the suburban Long Island home of Colombo crime boss Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli made a startling discovery — [..] > read more

Former union head wants separate trial from relatives due to mob connections

Published on 2012-04-05 12:57:00

He wants some distance from his family — and that family.A former union president charged with labor racketeering wants to be tried separately from his dad and cousin because the feds plan to link them to the Genovese crime family.A lawyer for Anthony Fazio Jr. argued yesterday that the “so-called Mafia evidence has nothing to do with my client” and could poison jurors against him.The judge said she’d decide the issue “very shortly.” > read more

Feds reveal mob associate is close to being a made member of the mob

Published on 2012-04-05 12:47:00

Just before his arrest accused mob associate Albino “Albie” Folcarelli was told he would be recommended for “membership” into the Patriarca crime family by a high-ranking member of the mob now working for the government, the Target 12 Investigators have learned. Prosecutors spearheading the sweeping mob case – just weeks from trial – filed a motion Wednesday that goes into greater detail at just how much the unidentified turncoat mobster is willing to share about the operation [..] > read more

Boom not examined when crane at MTA site was OKd for use

Published on 2012-04-05 12:45:00

A half-baked city inspection, slipshod contracting safeguards and mob corruption were key ingredients in the deadly recipe that led to a hardhat’s death under a falling crane at a subway construction site. > read more

Twists and turns as FBI agents followed Colombo boss Tommy Shots around Long Island

Published on 2012-04-04 22:06:00

TAILING TOMMY Shots was a challenging assignment for an elite FBI surveillance squad.Five weeks after Colombo crime boss Thomas Gioeli allegedly passed the order to murder an off-duty NYPD cop, the gangster proved a handful for four agents in separate undercover vehicles, retired FBI supervisor Gerald Ryan testified Wednesday.The mobster vigilantly scanned the area for possible law enforcement, the ex-G man recalled. "I radioed the team, 'He's looking hard, give him room,'" Ryan told Assist [..] > read more

Mob turncoat caught in lie at Colombo boss trial

Published on 2012-04-04 19:02:00

He’s a killer at lying.A Mafia hitman-turned-government witness was caught in a series of misstatements, contradictions and an outright lie today — as a defense lawyer suggested he was concocting tall tales about reputed Colombo boss Thomas “Tommy Shots” Gioeli.The turncoat, Joseph “Joey Caves” Competiello, has testified at Gioeli’s ongoing Brooklyn federal court murder and racketeering trial that Gioeli was at two meetings about hits on Colombo capo William “Wild Bill” [..] > read more

Mob informants expected to testify against Ligambi

Published on 2012-04-04 11:20:00

North Jersey mob informant Peter "Pete the Crumb" Caprio is expected to testify against reputed mob boss Joseph "Uncle Joe" Ligambi and 11 codefendants when they are tried on racketeering charges in September.Caprio, 82, of Newark, is one of two veteran mobsters whose names surfaced on a witness list the prosecution recently turned over to defense attorneys.Eugene "Gino" Milano, 52, a South Philadelphia hit man turned informant, also may make a return appearance for the prosecution.Though ne [..] > read more

Mob trial halts over alleged hand signals between wiseguys

Published on 2012-04-04 08:15:00

Bet it wasn’t rock-paper-scissors.The trial of reputed Colombo crime family boss Thomas “Tommy Shots” Gioeli ground to a brief halt yesterday after a juror told the judge that Gioeli appeared to be exchanging hand signals with the Mafia rat testifying against him.The alleged gesticulations between Gioeli and Joseph “Joey Caves” Competiello could not be seen from the gallery, and weren’t described in open court.But Brooklyn federal-court Judge Brian Cogan was not amused.The jud [..] > read more

Mob rat testifies Tommy Shots and his crew pondered quitting the life

Published on 2012-04-04 08:12:00

> read more

Authorities reveal witness list in upcoming trial of Philly mob boss Ligambi

Published on 2012-04-03 15:06:00

> read more

Former Chicago cop who was part of mob burglary crew gets 4 years in prison

Published on 2012-04-03 14:14:00

A corrupt former Berwyn police officer who cased homes while on duty and then took part in burglaries with members of a violent crime ring linked to the Chicago Outfit was sentenced today to about 4 years in prison.James Formato, 45, pleaded guilty in federal court nearly two years ago to racketeering and obstruction of justice, acknowledging that he passed sensitive law enforcement information to mobsters and often acted as a lookout for robberies and burglaries, sometimes while he was o [..] > read more

Appeals court denies DNA testing sought by Bonanno killer Thomas "Tommy Karate" Pitera

Published on 2012-04-03 12:23:00

An imprisoned mob killer's bid for DNA testing of guns and other evidence was shot down today by a Manhattan appeals court.Thomas "Tommy Karate" Pitera claimed in court papers that the proposed tests could clear him of three murders and pin the blame on turncoat accomplice Frank Gangi.But the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously ruled that even if genetic material from Gangi and the victims was found on the items, it wouldn't prove Pitera's innocence.The 11-page decision says G [..] > read more

Colombo rat cracks jokes during testimony of Thomas Gioeli

Published on 2012-04-03 12:11:00

> read more

Jurors gasp as mob informant calls former pal his friend on the stand

Published on 2012-04-03 12:08:00

With a “friend” like this, who needs enemies?A Mafia rat yesterday admitted to coldblooded murders, a comically botched bank robbery and an aborted laundry-detergent heist — but sent jaws dropping in Brooklyn federal court only after calling the mobster he was testifying against, “my friend.”Joseph “Joey Caves’’ Competiello’s show-stopper moment came after a prosecutor asked him, “Do you recognize any other member of the Colombo family?”“My friend Dino Saracino,” [..] > read more

Mobster Joey Gallo was assassinated in Little Italy 40 years ago and his widow remembers being there as bullets flew

Published on 2012-04-03 12:05:00

It’s been 40 years since Joey “Crazy Joe” Gallo was gunned down in Little Italy’s Umberto’s Clam House, but the mobster’s bride of only three weeks remembers the notorious gangland slaying as if it were yesterday.“It was very dramatic,’’ recalled Sina Essary, whose daughter Lisa, then 10, was also there when the assassins’ bullets rang out. “This was the first time in history that the Mafia had shot and killed someone in front of his sister, wife and child,” she sai [..] > read more

Mob Wives smell a rat in latest episode

Published on 2012-04-02 23:54:00

In one swoop, Renee Graziano lost the two most important men in her life, taken into Federal custody. Coincidence? Maybe, but not likely. Rumors of her ex-husband Junior Pagan's betrayal that involved giving up his father-in-law swirled among her circle of friends.Ramona met Big Ang at her bar, the Drunken Money, to fill her in on the baffling turn of events that sent Renee reeling, including Junior's decision to turn himself over to the police right before Thanksgiving. The two also offered a g [..] > read more

Mob Wives smell a rat in latest episode

Published on 2012-04-02 23:54:00

In one swoop, Renee Graziano lost the two most important men in her life, taken into Federal custody. Coincidence? Maybe, but not likely. Rumors of her ex-husband Junior Pagan's betrayal that involved giving up his father-in-law swirled among her circle of friends.Ramona met Big Ang at her bar, the Drunken Money, to fill her in on the baffling turn of events that sent Renee reeling, including Junior's decision to turn himself over to the police right before Thanksgiving. The two also offered a g [..] > read more

20th anniversary of John Gotti's murder conviction

Published on 2012-04-02 21:13:00

John "Teflon Don" Gotti > read more

20th anniversary of John Gotti's murder conviction

Published on 2012-04-02 21:13:00

John "Teflon Don" Gotti > read more

Mob war feared after Scarcella's release in Canada

Published on 2012-04-02 21:11:00

Some organized crime watchers say Pietro “Peter” Scarcella could be a target in a continuing mob war against Montreal’s Rizzuto crime family. But others believe the man solidified his place in the murderous hierarchy of organized crime and will emerge stronger than when he entered the prison system — that the risk of his demise is no greater than anyone else in the world of organized crime, police sources say.After serving six years in jail for his role in the wounding of Louise R [..] > read more

Mob war feared after Scarcella's release in Canada

Published on 2012-04-02 21:11:00

Some organized crime watchers say Pietro “Peter” Scarcella could be a target in a continuing mob war against Montreal’s Rizzuto crime family. But others believe the man solidified his place in the murderous hierarchy of organized crime and will emerge stronger than when he entered the prison system — that the risk of his demise is no greater than anyone else in the world of organized crime, police sources say.After serving six years in jail for his role in the wounding of Louise R [..] > read more

Mob case heading for May trial

Published on 2012-04-02 20:40:00

Two remaining defendants in the sweeping mob case that has already lead to guilty pleas from six mobsters or associates will be heading for trial in less than a month. Alleged mob associates Albino Folcarelli and Theodore Cardillo have been given May 1 as a trial date at U.S. District Court in Providence.Folcarelli, 54, is charged with extortion conspiracy. Investigators say he was part of a crew that shook down a used car salesman for $25,000.Cardillo, 68, is charged with racketeering co [..] > read more

Mob case heading for May trial

Published on 2012-04-02 20:40:00

Two remaining defendants in the sweeping mob case that has already lead to guilty pleas from six mobsters or associates will be heading for trial in less than a month. Alleged mob associates Albino Folcarelli and Theodore Cardillo have been given May 1 as a trial date at U.S. District Court in Providence.Folcarelli, 54, is charged with extortion conspiracy. Investigators say he was part of a crew that shook down a used car salesman for $25,000.Cardillo, 68, is charged with racketeering co [..] > read more

Gambino associate convicted of murder in slaying of custodian in Queens

Published on 2012-04-02 20:35:00

A Gambino crime family associate was found guilty Monday of masterminding the 2009 slaying of a Queens custodian killed defending his father from a gang of thieves.Francis LaCorte, 29, betrayed little emotion as the Queens Supreme Court jury of eight women and four men convicted him of second-degree murder after barely three hours of deliberations over two days. A LaCorte relative left the courtroom sobbing.Gerardo "Jerry" Antoniello, 29, was shot in the back of the head by an unknown ass [..] > read more

John Gotti's old social club is turned into Italian ice cream parlor

Published on 2012-04-02 08:32:00

There’s a new iceman working at John Gotti’s old social club in Queens — but he serves up sweet, frosty treats instead of gangland murders.Businessman John Conza last month opened Uncle Louie G’s — part of a chain of Italian ice and ice-cream parlors — in the space where the Teflon Don once held court, the former Bergin Hunt and Fish Club in Ozone Park. The site is where the Mafioso made his bones and blasted his way from obscurity to the front pages. Now, its hits are icy fla [..] > read more

Joseph Competiello's guilty plea vanishes as hit man to testify against mob boss Thomas Gioeli

Published on 2012-04-02 08:27:00

A Colombo hit man’s guilty plea from three years ago has vanished like many of his victims.Joseph "Joey Caves" Competiello pleaded guilty to two gangland murders in 2008 during a secret appearance in Brooklyn Federal Court. As part of the deal, he signed up as a government witness.Competiello is now set to testify against his former crime family’s boss, Thomas Gioeli, in his murder and racketeering trial. But there’s a hitch — no one can find evidence of Competiello’s guilty plea, [..] > read more

Staten Island caterer Frank DiMattina sentenced on extortion and gun charges

Published on 2012-04-01 15:49:00

A federal judge today slapped a six-year prison sentence on a reputed mobster who threatened to beat a rival over a bid for the lucrative cafeteria contract at a Staten Island Catholic high school. But Frank DiMattina, 44, isn't heading to prison just yet. District Judge Jack B. Weinstein is allowing the former owner of Ariana's Catering Hall in New Dorp to remain free on bond, in home confinement, pending appeal, said a spokesman for Brooklyn federal prosecutors. During the recent trial, W [..] > read more

Meet the Mafia’s First Blogger, Tommy Gioeli

Published on 2012-03-30 11:37:00

The first and only alleged Mafia boss to maintain a blog is now on trial in Brooklyn federal court. The charges against 59-year-old Thomas “Tommy Shots” Gioeli include six murders, among them the killing of a police officer. He has been remanded for more than three years to the starkly real Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center, but he periodically manages a virtual escape into cyberspace, thanks to a restricted email system provided by the federal Bureau of Prisons an [..] > read more

Colombo hitman reveals he bedded the girlfriends of his murder victims

Published on 2012-03-30 10:31:00

A mob trial took a soap opera twist Thursday when Colombo hitman Dino Calabro revealed that he bedded the girlfriends of two mob associates he killed.After Richard Greaves and Frank Marasa were 6 feet under, Calabro admitted, he put a couple of extra notches on his gun belt.The testimony came during Calabro’s fourth day on the witness stand in the trial of Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli — while the jury was out of the courtroom.He recalled that Greaves had suggested a three-way romp with h [..] > read more

Prosecutors say Gambino associate ordered robbery because he knew of cash

Published on 2012-03-29 19:25:00

A Gambino crime family associate directed a murderous team of ex-cons to rob Queens neighbors he believed had a ready stash of cash at home, a Queens prosecutor said Thursday.Francis LaCorte, 29, faces a murder charge for masterminding the September 2009 home invasion that led to the slaying of custodian Gerardo "Jerry" Antoniello, a cop's brother who died coming to his father's defense."This man betrayed his own neighbors," prosecutor Brad Leventhal told jurors during closing arguments in [..] > read more

Victims demand investigation into Karen Gravano shooting incident

Published on 2012-03-29 11:47:00

Family members of mob underboss Sammy “Bull” Gravano’s victims are pushing for an investigation into whether his daughter, Karen, broke the law by firing a gun on her reality show, “Mob Wives.”The move is the latest bad blood between the families and Gravano after they tried to block her from receiving earnings from her book, “Mob Daughter,” last month. On a recent episode of the VH1 show, Karen and her cohorts — including Renee Graziano, Ramona Rizzo and Carla Facciolo — h [..] > read more

Lawyer says reputed mobster is clueless in gardner art heist

Published on 2012-03-29 11:42:00

A reputed Connecticut mobster federal investigators believe has key information on the decades-old theft of priceless paintings from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum doesn’t have a clue who took them or where they are, as officials grill him on one of the world’s most baffling art heists, his lawyer said.“He doesn’t know a Rembrandt from an Elvis velvet painting,” attorney Ryan McGuigan said of his client Robert Gentile, an overweight 75-year-old with chronic pain and a heart [..] > read more

Courtroom drama: Mob rat Dino Calabro and brother Vincenzo in Mafia family split

Published on 2012-03-29 11:15:00

COLOMBO crime boss Thomas Gioeli’s trial turned into a scene from “Godfather: Part II” Wednesday when the brother of the turncoat witness showed whose side he’s on — sitting with the mobster’s family in court.Hit man Dino Calabro was asked on cross-examination if he remembered calling his brother Vincenzo a “s---bag” and accusing him of stealing $65,000.“I didn’t call him a s---bag,” Calabro shot back.Defense lawyer Adam Perlmutter asked Vincenzo Calabro to stand up so h [..] > read more

Priest sits beside Tommy Shot's wife during racketeering amd murder trial

Published on 2012-03-28 18:10:00

The Colombo boss’s family priest appears to have taken a vow of silence.Meet “Father Peter,” possibly the only man of the cloth who clams up when asked his name.Over the past week, he has made on-and-off appearances at the racketeering and murder trial of gangsters Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli and Dino "Little Dino" Saracino. When he attends, Father Peter sits in the front row next to Gioeli’s wife, Maureen, giving jurors a clear view of his black suit and priest collar.But when asked [..] > read more

Feds believe 75 year old mobster involved in Gardner Art Heist

Published on 2012-03-28 18:08:00

A federal prosecutor acknowledged in court Tuesday that the FBI believes that 75-year-old Hartford mobster Robert Gentile has information about the world's most sensational art heist, the theft of 13 masterworks from Boston's Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum."The government has reason to believe that Mr. Gentile had some involvement with stolen property out of the District of Massachusetts," said Assistant U.S. Attorney John Durham. What Gentile, reputedly a sworn Mafia member, does or [..] > read more

Gangster prayed as signal for murder of victim

Published on 2012-03-28 12:50:00

William Cutolo > read more

Hit on cop shocked killer

Published on 2012-03-28 12:47:00

He never saw it coming.A coldblooded killer told in chilling detail yesterday how he and another mob hit man calmly walked up to an NYPD officer — marked for death because he’d married a Mafia bigwig’s ex-wife — and gunned him down outside his Brooklyn house nearly 15 years ago.“What’s up?” housing cop Ralph Dols asked the two men as they approached him on Aug. 25, 1997, one of the killers, mob rat Dino “Big Dino” Calabro, told rapt jurors in Brooklyn federal court yeste [..] > read more

Colombo crime boss Thomas Gioeli gave sign to kill while praying in garden of Long Island church

Published on 2012-03-27 17:50:00

In the garden outside a Long Island church, Colombo crime boss Thomas Gioeli folded both hands to pray — or placed just one over his heart to kill.Mafia killer Dino "Big Dino" Calabro recounted the wordless 1999 gesture that permanently silenced Colombo capo William "Wild Bill" Cutolo in an infamous ‘90s mob hit long shrouded in secrecy.The unholy, one-handed message from Tommy Shots was delivered inside the grotto at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Massapequa, L.I., the chief witness agai [..] > read more

Mob turncoat details the 1997 slaying of NYPD cop Ralph Dols

Published on 2012-03-27 12:14:00

A mob hit man today detailed the sickeningly intricate steps taken to rub out NYPD cop Ralph Dols, who'd innocently asked “what’s up” to his killers just seconds before they pumped him up with lead.Mafia capo-turned-stool pigeon Dino “Big Dino” Calabro told jurors in Brooklyn federal court that Dols, who was killed because he was married to an ex-mob wife, never saw it coming on that deadly 1997 night in Brooklyn.Calabro is testifying against his cousin Dino “Little Dino” Sar [..] > read more

Colombo capo details various killings with his mob family

Published on 2012-03-27 12:12:00

Carmine "The Gorilla" Gargano Jr. wouldn’t stay down even after his Colombo family mob buddy put a bullet in his body and another in his eye.Joseph "Joey Caves" Competiello eventually had to slam the 6-feet-2, 230-pound Gargano in the head with sledgehammer to kill him, mob turncoat Dino "Big Dino" Calabro testified Monday in Brooklyn Federal Court.The 1994 slaying at a Brooklyn auto body shop was among a lengthy list of murders Calabro detailed as the government’s star witness against Col [..] > read more

Chicago mob part of Havana's history

Published on 2012-03-26 22:29:00

Pope Benedict XVI arrived in Cuba Monday after a three-day trip to Mexico. He will travel to Havana on Tuesday for meetings, events and an outdoor Mass. The pope is on the final leg of his Latin American tour. The visit to Cuba comes 14 years after John Paul II's historic visit. Moments after his plane touched down in Santiago, Cuba's second largest city, Pope Benedict blessed a group of children. The pontiff is on a mission to renew the faith in Latin America's least Catholic country. [..] > read more

Michael Shannon plays legendary mob assasin in upcoming Iceman movie

Published on 2012-03-26 21:00:00

Michael Shannon may be best known for his role fighting the mob, but soon, he'll be starring as one of organized crime's most legendary assassins.Shannon takes the lead in The Iceman > read more

Renee Graziano has Breakdown on Mob Wives

Published on 2012-03-26 19:43:00

Reality television star Renee Graziano had an emotional episode which captured the "Mob Wives" star having an emotional breakdown after receiving news of her father's arrest.During the episode which aired Sunday night on VH1, Graziano received a phone call about her father being taken into custody and then is heard screaming hysterically."They're taking my dad! The feds are taking my dad!" the cameras caught an anguished Graziano as she learns of the news about her father.As the cameras c [..] > read more

Colombo turncoat admits to eight murders during devastating testimony

Published on 2012-03-26 19:03:00

A mob turncoat copped to killing eight people, in a bloody prelude to his explosive testimony today against two former Colombo hoodlums.Made man-turned-cooperating witness Dino “Big Dino” Calabro nonchalantly admitted to those slayings during the federal murder and racketeering trials of Thomas “Tommy Shots” Gioeli, 59, and Dino “Little Dino” Saracino, 39.Before launching into the meat of his testimony against Tommy Shots and Little Dino, Big Dino was asked: “What’s the wo [..] > read more

Colombo capo testifies that Tommy Shots taught him how to kill

Published on 2012-03-26 19:01:00

Tommy Shots taught me how to kill, a former Colombo capo squealed Monday.The government's chief witness against Colombo crime boss Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli took the stand in Brooklyn against his mob mentor, describing their greatest hits together.Sicilian-born former capo Dino "Big Dino" Calabro has pleaded guilty to eight gangland killings - six with Gioeli.By the time Calabro met Gioeli at a Getty gas station in Brooklyn in 1989, he had already chosen the glitz of a gangster's life over [..] > read more

Mystery mobster cooperated and wore wire after being charged

Published on 2012-03-26 18:55:00

Mystery mobster cooperated after charge: wpri.comThe unnamed made member of the Mafia who wore an FBI wire in a sweeping organized crime case was himself indicted and threatened with arrest before he agreed to cooperate with investigators, the Target 12 Investigators have learned. In court documents filed this week, prosecutors William Ferland and Samuel Nazzaro say the made member of the mob was confronted on Feb. 12, 2011, with the pending charges and about to be placed in handcuffs. The [..] > read more

New Jersey law enforcement group gives citizenship award to reputed mobster Frank DiMattina

Published on 2012-03-26 18:53:00

He's a convicted gun-toting extortionist and a reputed mobster, but that didn’t stop a New Jersey statewide law enforcement group from saluting a local caterer as “honored citizen of the month.”Frank "Frankie D" DiMattina was nominated for the award from the New Jersey Honor Legion — a nonprofit with more than 6,000 members in law enforcement — on Feb. 1, three weeks after his Jan. 6 conviction for using a gun to shake down a rival bidder for a Staten Island school lunch contract [..] > read more

Second time the charm in mob plea deal

Published on 2012-03-13 21:46:00

Second time the charm in mob plea deal: wpri.comAfter a series of false starts, two made members of the New England crime family pleaded guilty for their roles in shaking down strip clubs for protection money. Mobsters Edward “Eddie” Lato, 64, of Johnston, and Alfred “Chippy” Scivola, 71, of Providence, pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy and will be sentenced in June.The hearing for Lato didn’t come without some bumps. When asked by the judge if he agreed with all the fact [..] > read more

Cast of VH1's Mob Wives Chicago revealed

Published on 2012-03-13 19:42:00

You likely have never heard of the five women who will star in VH1’s “Mob Wives Chicago” – the spinoff to the successful New York-based “Mob Wives” – but people who are up on their local mob history may recognize the infamous men who raised each of them.The reality TV show stars Nora Schweihs, daughter of alleged Mob enforcer Frank “The German” Schweihs, Pia Rizza, daughter of Vincent Rizza, a dirty cop who worked for the mob before testifying against them, Christina Scoler [..] > read more

Mob Wives go nuts in the Poconos

Published on 2012-03-13 19:39:00

After the Halloween party smoke cleared, the women decided it was time for some peace and quiet. Karen and Ramona met Big Ang and Carla for lunch to discuss taking a trip to the Poconos in Pennsylvania. The fun loving peacemaker Big Ang unfortunately couldn't make the trip due to thyroid surgery, which was probably less painful than the cabin fever she would have been stuck with in the woods. Drita looks to curb her temper with anger management. Apparently, there were no hard feelings for Carla [..] > read more

Whitey Bulger penned two memoirs while on the run from the FBI

Published on 2012-03-13 15:54:00

Notorious alleged gangster James “Whitey” Bulger may have penned two memoirs, one of which was titled “My Life in the Irish Mafia Wars.” Now they may be used against him in court.Also, investigators have found a photo bolstering Bulger’s claim that he visited Las Vegas during his 16 years on the run.Investigators seized what appear to be two separate autobiographies written by the 82-year-old Bulger while conducting searches at his former homes in Santa Monica, Calif., and South Bo [..] > read more

Mob informant kills self after settling debt, Skinny Joey Merlino turns 50

Published on 2012-03-13 15:28:00

> read more

Viva Mob Vegas

Published on 2012-03-12 23:36:00

These days, attach “speakeasy” onto the name of your Vegas restaurant or bar, and it’s a recipe for instant success. We Las Vegans are Cosa Nostra-obsessed right now — and with good reason. There’s a fun new experience around every corner (most have hitched their wagons to the decade-long awaited Mob Museum’s star.) The skeletons are (mostly) out of the closet, and the families of our founding fathers here have been increasingly cooperative about sharing their historic relics w [..] > read more

Accused mobster Tommy Gioeli blogs as he awaits trial

Published on 2012-03-12 23:30:00

Outrage seems to come easily to Tommy Gioeli. But headlines last May about the government's assertion that he was involved with the accidental killing of an ex-nun during a mob hit and feared going to hell drove the alleged former Colombo family mobster from Farmingdale to a new level."What a disgrace!" he wrote in a post on his prison blog, denying the accusation. "My saintly, elderly mother who just buried my father, my poor wife, my precious children, my priest, the rest of my family, [..] > read more

Contract is out on old Queens gang lair

Published on 2012-03-12 20:50:00

In the old days, the place was packed with wiseguys. In the kitchen, a Gambino capo would stir the gravy for men with names like Louie Gags and Sammy Piss Clams.There was a gangland hit amid the tomato plants in the garden, and the FBI seized a picture of Curly from the Three Stooges during one raid.But the glory — and gory — days of Cafe Liberty in Ozone Park, Queens, are long gone. The gangsters who once filled the social club are in the ground or behind bars.The 13 remaining dues-payi [..] > read more

Whitey Bulger's girlfriend to plead guilty and avoid testimony

Published on 2012-03-12 17:58:00

The girlfriend of notorious gangster James "Whitey" Bulger plans to plead guilty this week and will not be forced to testify when she goes on trial for conspiracy to harbor a fugitive and two other charges, The Boston Globe reported.Catherine Greig, 60, is planning to enter a guilty plea in federal court in Boston on Wednesday, relatives of victims allegedly murdered by Bulger told the paper after meeting with prosecutors.They said prosecutors also told them that Greig could serve 32 months [..] > read more

Tommy Shots from the Colombos takes to the radio waves on the eve of his upcoming trial

Published on 2012-03-12 15:52:00

http://sliwonics.com/other/morano/Gioelifull.mp3Above is a link to listen to a live interview between my Thomas Gioeli (from Metropolitan Detention Center) and Frank Morano on AM970 The Apple. There will be a follow up next week. Hope you all enjoy it.MG http://tommygioelisvoice.blogspot.com/ Related articlesSecret jury pool in Colombo slay trial of Tommy Shots Gioeli and Little Dino Saracino (fivefamiliesnyc.blogspot.com)Colombo captain Junior Lollipops gets six months (fivefamil [..] > read more

Families dont want mobster and his victim remembered as rats

Published on 2012-03-12 08:22:00

Don’t call these guys rats.Not the mobster who whacked himself after wearing a wire for the feds and agreeing to testify against his former cronies. And not the guy whom he allegedly killed for dropping a dime on him in the first place.The daughter of Nicholas “Nicky Skins” Stefanelli, the mobster, insisted to The Post that her pop was far from a canary. “He was no rat. He killed himself to spare all his friends and their families [a trial] . . . My father didn’t kill himself out of [..] > read more

Mob social club, closing after five decades, seeks new home for cat mascot named Obama

Published on 2012-03-12 08:19:00

For five years, he's kept the rats away.The oldfellas who inherited Cafe Liberty from the mob have a mascot: a black cat they named Obama.But with the social club set to go the way of the Tommy Gun, they're looking for a new home for the former stray."We don't want to throw him out in the street," said Sam Digristina, 72, as Obama curled up in a wicker basket under a wall-mounted TV.Mob associate Alfred "Freddy Hot" DiCongilio, who has since died, recruited the club's four-legged member in 2006. [..] > read more

Questions Linger After Arrest in Rossi Murder Case

Published on 2012-03-10 17:17:00

Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray and Special Agent in Charge Michael Ward of the FBI have announced an arrest has been made in connection with the homicide of Bloomfield business owner Joseph Rossi, Sr.Rossi, 58, of Verona, was found shot to death on February 24 at his Floyd Avenue business, an arcade company called Phoenix Amusements.According to a statement issued by the prosecutor’s office Friday evening, detectives from the Essex County Prosecutor’s Major Crimes Task [..] > read more

Bulger’s girlfriend may opt to plead guilty

Published on 2012-03-10 15:09:00

James “Whitey’’ Bulger’s girlfriend, Catherine Greig, is considering pleading guilty to charges of helping the gangster evade capture for more than 16 years, according to several relatives of Bulger’s alleged victims.Steven Davis, whose sister Debra was one of 19 people allegedly slain by Bulger, said a victims’ advocate for the US attorney’s office told him Friday that Greig’s lawyers have indicated that she wants to plead guilty to the single charge of conspiracy to harbo [..] > read more

Mob suicide snitch's aide charged in payback murder

Published on 2012-03-10 15:03:00

In a stunning twist to the case of the guilt-ridden mob rat, officials yesterday busted a Mafia hanger-on nicknamed “Lucky” for helping the turncoat wiseguy kill an old enemy before he committed suicide last month.The FBI and local prosecutors believe José Luis “Lucky” Rivera served as “muscle” and a possible lookout when Nicholas “Nicky Skins” Stefanelli blew away Joker Poker machine peddler Joseph Rossi Sr. on Feb. 24, sources said.Stefanelli wanted to kill Rossi becaus [..] > read more

RCMP nabs man with reported ties to mafia drug ring

Published on 2012-03-10 15:01:00

Bruno “Playboy” Duguay The RCMP arrested a fifth man in Quebec with suspected ties to a mafia drug ring that allegedly imported hundreds of pounds of marijuana into the U.S. every month.Bruno “Playboy” Duguay, 36, was arrested Tuesday in his home south of Montreal and charged with conspiracy to traffic drugs and conspiracy to possess property obtained by crime.Duguay, along with four other people suspected of mob ties, all face the same charges as well as extradition to the U.S.The r [..] > read more

Do over scheduled in mob plea deal

Published on 2012-03-07 19:21:00

Two reputed mobsters who backed away from their plea deals at the 11th hour are going to try again in federal court. Alfred “Chippy” Scivola and Edward Lato will appear before U.S. District Court Judge William Smith next Tuesday, three weeks after both men had second thoughts in the same courtroom.Both men signed an agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s office last month pledging to plead guilty to racketeering conspiracy and admitting their membership in the New England La Cosa Nostra. [..] > read more

Longtime Genovese soldier dies while awaiting trial on racketeering

Published on 2012-03-07 08:01:00

A Genovese crime-family soldier awaiting trial on racketeering and extortion charges has died after a long illness, his attorney said yesterday.Daniel “Uncle Danny” Cilenti, 84, was inducted into the family in 1947 and rang up arrests for bookmaking, extortion, gambling and impeding a grand-jury probe during a New York crime career that spanned “more than six decades,” Brooklyn federal prosecutors recently wrote. http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/brooklyn/mob_uncle_dies_ZcqUayBxsR [..] > read more

Mob Cases On Hold

Published on 2012-03-06 20:09:00

> read more

Chris Paciello ratted on mob bosses new documents show

Published on 2012-03-06 18:06:00

Chris Paciello with business partner Ingrid Casares and Jennifer Lopez. Paciello's mug shot from a recent DUI arrest. Clockwise from top left: Alphonse "Allie Boy" Persico, Anthony Graziano, Joseph "Big Joe" Massino, and William "Wild Bill" Cutolo.His hair is thinning and he's starting to show a double chin, but as Chris Paciello strolls past the mirrored walls and into the restaurant's scented main room, he's instantly recognizable as the handsome impresario who dominated the [..] > read more

Authorities line up turncoat Massino to testify against Bonanno boss Vinny TV

Published on 2012-03-06 00:59:00

This mob boss just won’t shut his trap.Having made Mafia history last year by testifying against his hand-picked successor — the first time a mob boss took the stand for the feds — former Bonanno crime family boss Joseph “Big Joey” Massino will take the witness stand again next month to rat out the family’s alleged acting street boss. Massino — once dubbed as “The Last Don” for his former omerta-adhering ways — is set to testify at the upcoming racketeering trial of Vin [..] > read more

Bay Ridge police officer cops to gun smuggling charges

Published on 2012-03-06 00:58:00

A disgraced Bay Ridge police officer accused of smuggling more than $1 million in guns and stolen goods across state lines has copped to his crimes — federal charges that could leave him rotting in jail for the next 10 years.Eddie Goris, a 68th Precinct officer who was arrested with seven other active duty and retired cops last year, pleaded guilty to two counts of conspiracy in Manhattan federal court on March 1, ensuring that he will lose his job, as well as pay a $30,000 fine when he [..] > read more

Feds Giving Hedge Funds The Mob Treatment to Fight Insider Trading

Published on 2012-03-05 21:24:00

Today's American mafia bears little resemblance to the shadowy, fearsome organization that captured the nation's imagination throughout the 20th century. During the 1980s and early 1990s, crime bosses like John Gotti, Vincent "The Chin" Gigante, and Paul Castellano routinely found their names in the headlines - and their wrists in handcuffs – with federal prosecutors looking to break their organizations after decades of apparently looking the other way. For more than 10 years, Gigante [..] > read more

Victoria Gotti slams Mob Wives as "train wreck," says she doesn't have much in common with Karen Gravano

Published on 2012-03-05 21:21:00

They may both be daughters of Mafia members, but Victoria Gotti doesn't think she has much in common with Karen Gravano.At least that's what she implied in a radio interview with Frank Morano on AM 970 The Apple.Morano asked Ms. Gotti for her thoughts on "Mob Wives" in general and Karen Gravano's attempts to make herself a celebrity."God bless them, is what I say," Ms. Gotti said. "If you ask me, do I see any major talent there in each of them, or any of them? No."CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE I [..] > read more

Mob Wives recap: It's my Halloween party and I'll cry if I want to

Published on 2012-03-05 21:18:00

It was Halloween in the land of "Mob Wives" and the ladies were eager to celebrate. Carla Facciolo was all smiles while pumpkin shopping with pal Drita D'avanzo, who was set to plan a drama-free party. There's just one problem.Karen and Ramona are having a Halloween party on the same night as Drita. Who would have guessed?Big Ang got in the Halloween spirit by dressing up as Drita. Carla continued down her path of making peace with the "frenemy" as she met Karen at Silver Lake Golf Course for a [..] > read more

Family of mobsters getting paid big bucks to work at the ports

Published on 2012-03-05 07:59:00

Nice work if you can get it.A small band of longshoremen — including relatives of famous mobsters — were paid for working more than 24 hours a day, every day of the week, at the ports of New York and New Jersey, The Post has learned.And the Port Authority is warning the industry that if it wants public funds for waterfront improvements, it has to stop handing out outrageous perks to favored workers.Many of the top earners raked in over $400,000 — a seemingly-impossible-to-achieve am [..] > read more

Secret jury pool in Colombo slay trial of Tommy Shots Gioeli and Little Dino Saracino

Published on 2012-03-05 07:56:00

FIVE HUNDRED prospective jurors will report Monday to federal court in Brooklyn for the upcoming trial of two Colombo gangsters.Former street boss Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli is charged with six mob killings and reputed soldier Dino "Little Dino" Saracino is accused of three.Both are charged with carrying out the murder of off-duty NYPD cop Ralph Dols, who was marked for death after marrying the ex-wife of then-boss Joel Cacace.Judge Brian Cogan shot down Saracino’s bid for a separate jury.Co [..] > read more

Longmeadow bookmaker Louis Santos caught in immigration sweep

Published on 2012-03-04 14:13:00

Longtime bookmaker Louis "Lou the Shoe" Santos had dodged a $10,000 mob contract hit and any significant prison time despite a number of criminal convictions. But, the Longmeadow resident and native of the Dominican Republic couldn’t evade the reach of federal immigration officials as he was arrested recently in a widespread sweep of non-citizens with felony convictions in their pasts who are slated for deportation. “Everyone knows what a great guy Louie is and feels just terribly about [..] > read more

My life as a Colombo family hitman

Published on 2012-03-04 12:20:00

She seduced him over wine and M&M’s.He was 18, a clean-cut delivery boy at Danza’s supermarket in Bensonhurst who attended John Jay College and wanted to become a firefighter like his dad, an FDNY lieutenant.She was his customer, a Brooklyn housewife and dark-haired looker who offered soft drinks after he brought her groceries.One day, out of the blue, she asked him point-blank, “Do you fool around?”“No girl had been that forward, and it struck me as almost insulting,” recalled [..] > read more

Chicago mob: From hit men to Wives in hit TV shows

Published on 2012-03-03 19:24:00

During his long career as a mob enforcer, Frank “The German” Schweihs gained a reputation as a fearsome hit man relied upon by the Chicago Outfit to eliminate its enemies, including potential government witnesses who might talk out of school. Schweihs, who was said to be so psycho scary that even other tough guy mobsters went out of their way to avoid him, died of cancer in 2008 while waiting to go on trial in the landmark Operation Family Secrets case.Later this week, sources tell me, [..] > read more

Howard Beach mobsters face life in jail after guilty pleas

Published on 2012-03-03 13:42:00

Two members of the Gambino family pleaded guilty to arranging for women to illegally enter the country and coaxing some of the women to work in Queens strip clubs, according to federal authorities.Four Gambino crime family members from Howard Beach pleaded guilty last week in Manhattan federal court to a multitude of charges, including narcotics trafficking, extortions, assaults, loansharking, racketeering and gambling, according to federal authorities.Alphonse Trucchio, Christopher Colon, [..] > read more

Man shot in St. Léonard had Mob related past

Published on 2012-03-02 12:43:00

A 38-year-old man shot dead in St. Léonard at the supper hour Thursday, near a known Mob hangout, had a colourful and extensive history with the Montreal Mafia. Giuseppe "Closure" Colapelle had gotten into the Montreal Mafia’s bad books in 2005 – “tarnishing everyone,” according to a Mob leader's assessment recorded by police – when a serious conflict arose between the Rizzuto organization and an organized-crime group based in Granby and known for smuggling marijuana.According [..] > read more

Poll Results: What should be done with the Colombo family?

Published on 2012-03-02 12:22:00

Carmine PersicoMembers absorbed by other families - 102 (21%)The Persico's should relinquish power - 238 (50%)Cut off all relations with other families - 41 (8%)Let the FBI continue their onslaught - 93 (19%)Total votes: 474 Over 200 of our readers believe that the Persico clan should relinquish control of the Colombo crime family. As many of us know, the Colombo's have been on the receiving end of an onslaught from federal authorities that has severely handicapped its leadership on the street [..] > read more

Judge orders Gambino soldier to speed up restitution to NASCAR

Published on 2012-03-02 12:16:00

A Gambino crime-family mobster who owes thousands of dollars to NASCAR needs to put the pedal to the metal.Mob soldier Ernest Grillo was ordered by a federal judge yesterday to speed up restitution payments he owes for shaking down NASCAR back in 2006, when the racing association was contemplating the construction of a stock-car track on Staten Island.After sending Grillo to prison on extortion-conspiracy charges, Brooklyn federal Judge Jack Weinstein also ordered the wiseguy to pay $4,000 [..] > read more

Bronx firefighter among eight busted in alleged $2M a year mob crime ring

Published on 2012-03-01 19:09:00

A Bronx firefighter has been busted in an alleged $2 million-a-year, mob-run gambling and money laundering ring.Thomas McMahon, of the FDNY’s Ladder 38 in Belmont, was one of eight men arrested and indicted by Bronx District Attorney Robert Johnson, charged with running sports betting ring tied to the Genovese crime family. McMahon, 33, was arraigned in Bronx Criminal court yesterday, along with reputed mob associates Joseph Sarcinella, 77, Frank Mastracchio, 56, Dominick Totino, 44, Dom [..] > read more

Sopranos cast members discuss feuds, flaws and confusing finale

Published on 2012-03-01 09:39:00

Even Tony Soprano was baffled by his show’s bizarre ending.James Gandolfini, the actor who brought the Jersey mob boss to life, admits that he was as confused as everyone else by the finale of “The Sopranos,” according to a new, wide-ranging oral history of the HBO show in April’s Vanity Fair, which will hit newsstands today.“When I first saw the ending, I said, ‘What the f--k?’” Gandolfini said. “I mean, after all I went through, all this death, and then it’s over like [..] > read more

Russian mobsters charged in $275M insurance scam

Published on 2012-03-01 00:12:00

A brazen gang of Russian crooks was busted today for allegedly running a record-setting, $275 million fraud that exploited New York's "no-fault" auto-accident law.The ring -- dubbed the "No-Fault Organization" -- worked with a "cadre of corrupt doctors" to set up more than 100 phony medical clinics across the city, Manhattan U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said.There, they generated bogus bills for treatment of injuries that "ranged from wild exaggerations to outright fabrications," he said d [..] > read more

Mobster Suspected Of Knowing About Art Heist Indicted On Drug Charges

Published on 2012-02-29 20:11:00

Federal prosecutors signaled Monday that they may try to confiscate mobster Robert Gentile's Manchester home after indicting him and a partner for the illegal sale of prescription painkillers.Outside of a forfeiture allegation directed at Gentile's suburban ranch and $22,000 in cash hidden in a grandfather clock, the indictment made public Monday by federal prosecutors appears to formalize the drug charges on which Gentile and partner Andrew Parente were arrested earlier in the month.The [..] > read more

Leaked FBI documents claim Skinny Joey Merlino is back in the game.

Published on 2012-02-29 19:35:00

EVEN AS Joey Merlino was settling into a South Florida halfway house last summer after 12 years in prison, the FBI issued a confidential alert warning law-enforcement officials that the former Philadelphia mob boss might try to set up shop in the Miami area with some of his old associates.The memo was contained in the first batch of some five million emails being released by the anti-secrecy group Wikileaks - including several FBI alerts obtained by a Texas-based private-intelligence firm [..] > read more

FBI busts ex-con in violent Bensonhurst bank heist; still hunting for alleged accomplice

Published on 2012-02-29 18:06:00

The FBI has arrested half of a bank robbery team wanted for a violent armed heist in Brooklyn.Ex-con Gary Fama was ordered held without bail Tuesday while the feds continued their hunt for his alleged accomplice, Jack Mannino, a prolific bandit who they said returned to knocking over banks after serving 10 years in prison for 23 bank jobs.Fama and Mannino, both wearing masks, invaded the Capital One Bank in Bensonhurst on Dec. 29 and ordered the customers to lie on the floor, authorities said [..] > read more

Life in supermax prison looks amazingly good on Mob boss Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano

Published on 2012-02-29 07:18:00

Vinny’s still gorgeous.Former Bonanno crime boss Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano spends 23 hours a day in an 80-square-foot cement cell in the country’s toughest clink, but the hard time hasn’t put a dent in his dimples.And he wants the whole world to know he looks just mah-velous.In a photo obtained by the Daily News, Basciano grins ear to ear and waves to the camera while sporting a trim figure in prison-issued sweatpants and a T-shirt at the Supermax federal prison in Colorado.His [..] > read more

Gambino mobsters plead guilty to extortion and racketeering

Published on 2012-02-29 00:01:00

Three Gambino wiseguys pleaded guilty today to mob extortion and racketeering charges.Anthony "Nighthawk" Licata, a Gambino soldier, pleaded guilty in Brooklyn federal court to racketeering charges related to construction industry shakedowns.William "Big Billy" Scotto, another Gambino soldier, also admitted to attempting to shakedown a man in the construction industry.A Gambino associate, Emmanuel "Manny" Garafolo, pleaded guilty to extortion conspiracy charges.All three wiseguys were all a [..] > read more

Gambino turncoat awaits sentencing for his role as a cabby in assualt of Guardian Angel

Published on 2012-02-28 23:09:00

A murderous mob rat who tried to help the feds bring down John “Junior” Gotti will soon reap his reward.A judge yesterday set a July 10 sentencing for ex-Gambino soldier Joseph “Little Joey” D’Angelo, who switched sides in 2005 just ahead of his trial alongside the son of “Dapper Don” John Gotti.D’Angelo admitted serving as a fake cabdriver in the 1992 abduction and near-fatal shooting of Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa, which D’Angelo said came after the younger Got [..] > read more

Feds bust mob associate for Brooklyn bank robbery

Published on 2012-02-28 23:07:00

FBI agents today arrested a reputed mob associate in New York City on federal bank robbery charges.Gary Fama, an ex-con with a string of prior arrests, was taken into custody by a team of FBI agents during an early morning raid, officials said.Fama was suspected of operating with another reputed mob associate, Jack Mannino, in the Dec. 29 robbery of a Capitol One Bank on New Utrecht Avenue in Brooklyn, a source said.In that incident, the robbers brandished a weapon, and one vaulted the count [..] > read more

Donnie Brasco 15th Anniversary: 25 Things You Didn't Know About Johnny Depp's Classic Mob Movie

Published on 2012-02-28 23:05:00

Donnie Brasco was like no mob movie that came before it. Based on a true story, that of FBI undercover agent Joseph D. Pistone, who spent years infiltrating New York's Bonnano crime family, its mobsters were decidedly unglamorous petty criminals, guys who had to resort to breaking into parking meters to make their monthly nut. It was directed by an Englishman best known for a Hugh Grant romantic comedy. Its hero, who never fires a gun except on the FBI firing range, was played by Johnny De [..] > read more

Vermont may consider adopting RICO statute

Published on 2012-02-26 00:31:00

The chairman of a Vermont Senate committee says the panel may consider whether Vermont needs a RICO statute targeting a growing number of gang members dealing drugs in the state. RICO stands for Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations and it's been used in other states to prosecute targets ranging from the Gambino crime family to alleged Boston gangster James "Whitey" Bulger. Sen. Dick Sears, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, says Vermont doesn't currently have a RICO statu [..] > read more

Meet Julius Bernstein who was the last Jewish New York mobster

Published on 2012-02-25 19:33:00

Julius Bernstein was a relic of a different era: Raised in the Depression, a genuine World War II hero — and the last of New York’s great Jewish gangsters.While the Brooklyn native connived for decades in anonymity, his once-secret FBI file — obtained by the Daily News — exposes for the first time a life devoted to earning crooked cash with the Genovese family. Pages of confidential documents provided via the Freedom of Information Law detail Bernstein’s extraordinary mob life an [..] > read more

Big Ang of Mob Wives as Marilyn Monroe

Published on 2012-02-25 19:20:00

http://photos.toofab.com/galleries/marilyn_monroe_tributes#tab=fab_photos&id=732563 > read more

Mob Wives star Renee Graziano BUSTED in Florida

Published on 2012-02-25 19:17:00

Mob Wives lovely Renee Graziano brought out the huge, er, guns by showing off her $30,000 post-op buxom bod​ in a sexy blue bikini at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel in Florida the other day.Renee is guilty of rack-eteering. http://www.tmz.com/2012/02/21/mob-wives-renee-graziano-bikini/?adid=hero2#.T0mHXfUt1EM > read more

Standing stakeout at John Gotti’s house and living to tell the tale

Published on 2012-02-24 00:53:00

Before the klieg lights finally found him, John Gotti spent a few weeks as the Greta Garbo of criminals.He had been fingered in the mob-coup murder of Paul Castellano, boss of the Gambinos, outside an East Side steakhouse on Dec. 16, 1985. But the press had no current photograph of the new don.And that is why I found myself on a cold morning in January 1986 huddled with Daily News photographer Paul DeMaria in a car outside Gotti’s modest split-level home on 85th Street in Howard Beach, Queen [..] > read more

Gambino family associate hit with child molestation charges

Published on 2012-02-24 00:44:00

A reputed Gambino crime family associate is facing sex-crime charges for allegedly molesting an underage girl over a period of five years, The Post has learned.Robert Wehnert has been charged with felony first- degree sexual abuse of a child less than 11 years old, court papers show. The victim, the daughter of a friend of his, was allegedly fondled and kissed by the reputed mobster at his home from January 2006 to November 2011. Queens Criminal Court Judge Suzanne Melendez released him on [..] > read more

No Sympathy for Marshal Who Helped the Mafia

Published on 2012-02-24 00:40:00

Former Deputy U.S. Marshal John Ambrose cannot overturn a conviction that he passed information to the mafia about people under witness protection, the 7th Circuit ruled. The 48-page opinion opened with a history of the U.S. Marshals Service and description of its duties. "One of the most sensitive functions of the Marshals Service is the Witness Security Protection Program," Judge Ilana Rovner wrote for a three-judge panel. "Since the program's inception in 1971, the U.S. marshals [..] > read more

Amuso steps down and Lucchese crime family names Crea the new boss

Published on 2012-02-23 18:55:00

Underworld sources are abuzz with news that the Lucchese crime family has named Steven "Stevie Wonder" Crea the new official boss. Crea, who had been serving as the family's underboss since 1993 was officially given the spot after jailed for life boss Vittorio "Vic" Amuso was prodded to step down by the family. The Bronx based boss is heavily involved in labor racketeering and construction.Crea was inducted into the Lucchese family sometime in the 1980s, probably under the reign of boss Anthony [..] > read more

Judge OKs Dominican Republic vacation for Lucchese crime family member awaiting trial

Published on 2012-02-23 17:13:00

Joseph Perna, left, and Ralph M. Perna are seen during their arraignment proceedings on charges related to racketeering; in NJ Superior Court in Morristown in this June, 2010 photo. Joseph Perna, an alleged member of the Lucchese crime family indicted on racketeering charges, will be allowed to travel to the Dominican Republic on a family vacation, a judge ruled Thursday.State Superior Court Judge Thomas V. Manahan made the decision after listening to the state’s argument against let [..] > read more

U.S. blocks yakuza godfather from its markets

Published on 2012-02-23 17:11:00

The United States on Thursday moved to block seven international organized crime leaders from the country's financial markets, including a Japanese yakuza godfather and key members of a gang operating in four continents.Under a new Obama administration order to disrupt global criminal organizations, the U.S. Treasury imposed sanctions on two leaders in a yakuza network involved in human trafficking, drug trafficking, extortion, prostitution and money laundering.The godfather and deputy g [..] > read more

No deal for another accused mobster

Published on 2012-02-23 17:10:00

No deal for another accused mobster: wpri.comDespite signing an agreement with prosecutors, another accused mobster has backed away from a plea deal. Alfred “Chippy” Scivola, 70, held off on changing his plea to guilty Thursday. His lawyer, Victor Beretta asked for a continuance to work out some of the details in the agreement.Scivola is one of eight defendants in a sweeping mob case that took down the reputed former boss Luigi “Baby Shacks” Manocchio.Scivola had signed a deal to ple [..] > read more

Manocchio pleads guilty, Lato rejects plea deal

Published on 2012-02-22 17:02:00

The former reputed boss of the New England organized crime family pleaded guilty Wednesday to federal racketeering conspiracy, while a co-defendant balked at the plea deal that he signed. As part of his plea agreement, Luigi (Louis) “Baby Shacks” Manocchio, the former reputed boss of the Patriarca crime family, admitted to racketeering conspiracy in his involvement in organized criminal activity. Edward "Eddie" Lato, a crime family "capo", was also expected to plead guilty. However, [..] > read more

Another mob plea deal may be in works

Published on 2012-02-22 17:00:00

On the eve of a plea hearing with the reputed former mob boss of the New England crime family, the lawyer for one accused mob associate is sending signals they too may be close to an agreement with federal prosecutors. In a court filing on Tuesday, John F. Cicilline – the lawyer for Theodore Cardillo – asked the court to “vacate” the trial because “the counsel is attempting to resolve the case.”It was Cicilline who called for a series of closed door meeting with U.S. District [..] > read more

Fugitive from justice Edwin Spears arrested in Canton

Published on 2012-02-22 00:57:00

Edwin Spears, 37, Neptune New Jersey, was arrested by St. Lawrence County Sheriff's Deputies in Canton Friday morning.Spears was charged as a Fugitive From Justice from the state of New Jersey.According to online reports, Spears was an alleged Bloods gang leader who, in 2007, was accused of working with the Lucchese crime family and a Prison Guard, attempting to smuggle drugs and cell phones to inmates at East Jersey State Prison.He was arraigned in the Town of Pierrepont Court in front o [..] > read more

Tracking the Tentacles of Corruption

Published on 2012-02-22 00:55:00

On Friday, former State Senator Nicholas A. Spano, scion of the county’s most powerful family, took a legal bullet, acknowledging in federal court that, yes, yes, he tried to sidestep paying taxes. His affect — he joked with reporters before entering court — suggested he might have expected worse. And this week, the curtain rises on a political bribery trial in Manhattan. It might appear a strictly Off Broadway production, as federal prosecutors ensnared a Democratic former Yonkers [..] > read more

Two crooks caught robbing Big Ang from Mob Wives bar

Published on 2012-02-22 00:51:00

Don’t monkey around with a “mob wife.”Two dim-witted crooks learned that the hard way after they were busted hauling away a trailer full of kitchen equipment from the Drunken Monkey bar — a Staten Island watering hole featured on the reality-TV show “Mob Wives,” The Post has learned.The heist took place early Sunday at the hot spot co-owned by big-lipped, raspy-voiced “Mob Wives” star Angela “Big Ang” Raiola and her cousin Sallyann Lombardi, daughter of late Genovese c [..] > read more

Bonanno rat Hector Pagan Jr pulled trigger in recent murder of a Lucchese family mobster

Published on 2012-02-21 21:49:00

The ex-husband of “Mob Wives” star Renee Graziano may have to answer for a Mafia murder carried out just months before he assumed a featured role in the show, sources told The Post.Hector Pagan, then a Bonanno crime family associate, took part in the robbery-murder of James Donovan, a Lucchese family associate, in the Gravesend section of Brooklyn in July 2010, according to sources and official documents.Roughly a year later — while the VH1 reality series was still taping — Pagan se [..] > read more

Reported Detroit Mob Capo Dies, May Take Hoffa Secret With Him

Published on 2012-02-21 21:48:00

One of metro Detroit’s most notorious alleged mobsters is being laid to rest with a memorial service at 10 a.m. Tuesday at St. Thecla Catholic Church in Clinton Township.Vito “Billy Jack” Giacalone, of Clinton Township, died Sunday of natural causes. The alleged Detroit mob captain was 88.Many believe he could have taken the secret of where Jimmy Hoffa is buried with him.Hoffa, the former head of the Teamsters who was trying to reassert control, told a relative on the day he disappeared [..] > read more

Paramount Pictures wants "Godfather" prequel whacked, files lawsuit in Manhattan Federal Court

Published on 2012-02-21 17:24:00

Paramount Pictures wants an upcoming book sequel to “The Godfather” to sleep with the fishes.The movie studio filed suit Tuesday in Manhattan Federal Court, putting a legal hit on the scheduled July publication of “The Family Corleone.”The book, based on an unpublished screenplay written by “Godfather” author Mario Puzo, could damage “the integrity and reputation of the Godfather trilogy — one of the most acclaimed and beloved artistic works of the past 50 years,” the lawsu [..] > read more

Assassin for Chinese mob gets 25 years after turning rat

Published on 2012-02-21 13:08:00

A cold-blooded killer was sentenced to 25 years in the slammer today after helping the feds bring down the head of a notorious Chinese gang based in Queens.Hoa Duc Nguyen, who turned rat after becoming the first fugitive extradited from China in 2003, admitted taking part in at least three murders for his vicious criminal mentor, Hui Sin "Frank" Ma.Two of those killed were innocent victims mistakenly targeted during a botched 1994 hit on a Toronto drug dealer who got marked for death in a [..] > read more

Likeable Gambino Captain seeks leniency with help from family, friends

Published on 2012-02-21 08:22:00

A “likeable” mobster hopes his devotion to family and friends will outweigh his crimes of extortion, loan-sharking and bookmaking.Reputed Gambino crime-family captain Louis Mastrangelo yesterday submitted more than two dozen letters — including two from granddaughters who miss their “Poppop” — in a bid for leniency when he’s sentenced next month.Defense lawyer Eric Franz described Mastrangelo, 67, as “likeable, pleasant and respectful” in the Manhattan federal court filin [..] > read more

Mob Wives recap: Angry birds

Published on 2012-02-20 23:34:00

Though the 'Mob Wives' had heftier family issues to confront, the chirping between Drita's camp and Karen's continued. Drita went on a mission to tame her aggressiveness, so naturally she went to Evolution Boxing to improve her high-flying right hooks. She reminisced to the camera about the first time she let her fists go in kindergarten. The taunts from a bad haircut and parents' fashion choices did not go unpunished. When her daughter later asked her, "do you fight?" on the heels of a police o [..] > read more

Brooklyn mobster stricken with emphysema is busted for trafficking in illegal cigarettes

Published on 2012-02-20 15:01:00

His Mafia nickname ought to be “Chimney.”Reputed Colombo crime family soldier John Maggio, 50, is under house arrest for illegally trafficking in some 300 cartons of contraband cigarettes. His wife, however, insists he wasn’t planning to sell them but to smoke them — despite his suffering from emphysema. “Mrs. Maggio sent a letter suggesting the cigarettes were purchased by Mr. Maggio for personal use,” Judge Kiyo Matsumoto said during a recent hearing in Brooklyn federal court. [..] > read more

Colombo mobster's girlfriend bails on him after he turns rat

Published on 2012-02-20 14:43:00

The beautiful moll of an indicted Colombo gangster bailed on her beau’s $2.5 million bond after she learned he turned rat.Kim Juliano, 49, filed notice in Brooklyn Federal Court last month, begging out of the financial arrangement that helped spring her made man, Reynold Maragni, from jail.The change of heart came after prosecutors revealed the high-ranking capo had secretly begun wearing a wire to record other mobsters while he was free on bail.“I am very uncomfortable having this bond [..] > read more

Celebrity Apprentice 2012: Who is Victoria Gotti?

Published on 2012-02-20 08:32:00

Who is Victoria Gotti? The daughter of famed Gambino Mafia crime family boss John Gotti is known for doing a lot of things, but her charity hasn’t been one of them… until now. When her celebrity friend Donald Trump tapped the former mafia daughter to appear on season 5 of Celebrity Apprentice everyone expected fireworks. Sparks of anger were flying between she and all the other female contestants who were on her team during the episode that aired February 19th. Surprisingly enough the [..] > read more

U.S. Ordered to Pay $1 Million to Family of Man Murdered by Gangster Whitey Bulger

Published on 2012-02-20 08:31:00

The federal government went too far in shielding an FBI informant from the 1970s through the 1990s, not only tipping him off about state and local police investigations, but even covering up his involvement in several murders. Last week a three-judge panel of the First Circuit Appeals Court in Boston ruled that the family of one of those murder victims, Louis Litif, who was murdered by Boston organized crime boss James “Whitey” Bulger in 1980, was entitled to government compensation of [..] > read more

Westies gang back in new way

Published on 2012-02-20 08:27:00

The Westies are back — with a twist.Manhattan’s former “Irish Mafia’’ gang — long infamous for running loan-sharking and extortion rackets out of the tenements of Hell’s Kitchen through the early 1990s — has suddenly resurfaced with a highly sophisticated scheme using a fleet of superfast private jets to smuggle high-grade marijuana from California to cities across the country, authorities said.“It’s rare to run into an organization that’s wealthy enough and sophistic [..] > read more

Load of Bull! Gravano girl getting rich angers sister of killed brother

Published on 2012-02-19 18:16:00

It was the Summer of Sam.And Alan Kaiser, just 16, would soon learn that 1977 was also the Summer of Sammy Bull.“I want Sammy Gravano’s daughter Karen — who was born in 1977, the same year my brother was killed, and who is now getting rich and famous on a classless TV reality show and from her ghoulish book about her father — to know that her father didn’t just murder other mobsters,” Alan’s sister says. “He also murdered a teenage boy. I want her to see my brother’s pictu [..] > read more

Federal appeals court criticizes prison officials

Published on 2012-02-18 22:11:00

A federal appeals court in Chicago says was "outright disturbing" that federal prison officials sent a convicted former U.S. deputy marshal to the Texas prison where his father, a convicted former Chicago police officer, died decades earlier.The unusual criticism of the U.S. Bureau of Prisons came as a panel of the 7th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals upheld the 2009 conviction of John Ambrose for leaking sensitive details about a cooperating witness to the mob. A three-judge panel of the [..] > read more

Former Miami nightlife kingpin and flipped mob associate arrested for DUI

Published on 2012-02-18 14:15:00

Former Miami club owner Chris Paciello was arrested early Friday morning on a DUI charge. Paciello, who has had past trouble with the law, was pulled over by Miami Beach police at around 4:30 a.m., according to an arrest affidavit. Paciello, 40, was going 80 miles per hour when he was stopped by police in the 2100 block of Miami Beach Drive, said Juan Sanchez, a Miami Beach police spokesman. Paciello was charged with driving under the influence and refusing a breath test. Booked under [..] > read more

Husband and wife sentenced in Rockland based gambling ring

Published on 2012-02-18 12:34:00

Husband-and-wife members of a Rockland-based multimillion-dollar gambling ring have been sentenced on federal charges resulting from a county investigation into the organized crime-linked operation.Alfred Joseph Fea, 46, received a 27-month federal prison sentence while his wife, Tracey Kosierowski-Fea, 42, will serve three years’ probation after the federal judge rejected the recommendation of up to a year in prison from prosecutors.Alfred Fea’s father, Frank, supplied most of the mo [..] > read more

Former mobster's wild night may have violated probation

Published on 2012-02-18 01:37:00

Robert Kulick was arrested Wednesday after allegedly taking as many as 40 pills and calling his estranged wife, Michelle Mattioli-Kulick, and members of her family. His 2011 release from prison included a set of behavior guidelines, and Kulick is also barred from contacting Mattioli-Kulick, her family or their Bear Creek Township home due to a protection-from-abuse order. Former mob associate Robert Kulick could be headed back to federal prison after his arrest Wednesday following a wild [..] > read more

Gambino crime family defendants plead guilty

Published on 2012-02-18 00:19:00

Four men pleaded guilty Friday in a New York federal court to organized crime charges linked to the Gambino crime family, officials said.The charges result from a variety of activities that include assault, loansharking, drug trafficking and trying to recruit illegal aliens to work in adult entertainment clubs.The Justice Department described the four men, Alphonse Trucchio, Michael Roccaforte, Anthony Moscatiello and Christopher Colon, as being "a captain, two soldiers and an associate o [..] > read more

Genovese mobster from Patterson gets 2 years for extortion

Published on 2012-02-18 00:13:00

A reputed Genovese crime family associate from Patterson was sentenced today to two years in federal prison for extorting a construction industry executive.Peter Pace, 50, who was sentenced in Brooklyn federal court, was among 127 reputed Mafia members and associates charged in a historic FBI takedown in January 2011.He was charged with extortion and racketeering, accused of conspiring with longtime Genovese soldier Daniel Cilenti, 84, of Yonkers to shake down the executive. They were als [..] > read more

Growing Up Gotti Boys Returning for New Reality TV Series

Published on 2012-02-17 19:11:00

The "Growing Up Gotti" boys are back. Fiore Films and producer Ted Field are partnering to bring Victoria Gotti's brood back for a new reality television series. Field would co-produce the project through his Compelling Entertainment and Radar Pictures banners. For the uninitiated, "Growing Up Gotti" ran on A&E from 2004 to 2005, with its 41 episodes serving up a cornucopia of conspicuous consumption, hair product and thick accents. Critics hated it, but it initially was a huge ratings hi [..] > read more

Plea deal reached in New England mob case

Published on 2012-02-17 15:47:00

Plea deal reached in mob case: wpri.comA plea deal has been reached in the mob case against the former reputed mob boss Luigi "Baby Shacks" Manocchio. Manocchio and three other defendants have pledged to plead guilty to racketeering conspiracy, one will plead to extortion conspiracy, according to court paperwork filed Thursday afternoon. All other counts against the defendants will be dropped.Only accused mob associates Theodore Cardillo and Albino Folcarelli have not signed on to the agreem [..] > read more

Records detail alleged mobster Enrico Ponzo’s Idaho charges

Published on 2012-02-17 15:41:00

A federal grand jury indicted alleged mobster Enrico Ponzo with illegally keeping 33 firearms in his Marsing home, as well as using false driver’s licenses and social security cards. The 16-count indictment filed Tuesday charges Ponzo with unlawful possession of firearms and identity theft.It also calls for the forfeiture of Ponzo’s Hogg Road ranch, about $120,000 in seized cash, dozens of gold and silver coins, and eight vehicles, including a Harley-Davidson motorcycle and a motor [..] > read more

NYPD cop who won top department honors became Genovese associate

Published on 2012-02-17 11:20:00

As a cop, Dominic Caramanica won the NYPD’s highest award for bravery after he was shot and badly wounded during a drug arrest.But after leaving the department, Caramanica crossed over to the dark side and became a Genovese crime-family associate.Caramanica is being sentenced today on mob extortion charges, and his lawyer wants a judge to know about his heroic past — winning the Combat Cross medal after a bullet from a Bronx drug dealer’s gun ripped into his torso, damaged his intestines, [..] > read more

Gambino soldier pleads guilty to Brooklyn real estate investment shakedown

Published on 2012-02-17 11:19:00

A Gambino crime-family soldier yesterday pleaded guilty to a sophisticated extortion scheme aimed at a blue-chip real-estate investment firm.Anthony Scibelli, charged with racketeering extortion, admitted that he shook down the owners of Sitt Asset Management.The Gambino approach was unusual: A mob-linked contracting firm placed a lien on a high-rise that Sitt was constructing in Brooklyn, claiming it had not been paid for its work, prosecutors said.The contractor allegedly never did any work, b [..] > read more

Former mob boss Manocchio, four others agree to plead guilty to federal charges

Published on 2012-02-16 18:02:00

Luigi "Baby Shacks'' Manocchio, the former head of the New England mob, and four other Rhode Islanders with underworld ties have agreed to plead guilty to federal criminal charges that will keep them in prison for several years. Manocchio, 84, of Providence, and two other made members of the mob, Edward C. Lato, 64, and Alfred "Chippy'' Scivola Jr., 70, signed plea agreements admitting that they are guilty of racketeering conspiracy. Two mob associates, Richard Bonafiglia, 59, and Raymond [..] > read more

Appeals court upholds conviction of former Bonanno boss "Vinny Gorgeous"

Published on 2012-02-16 18:00:00

The ugly truth is that "Vinny Gorgeous" was convicted fair and square, according to a Manhattan appeals court.Ex-mob boss Vincent Basciano failed today in a bid for a new trial on charges that got him the first of his two life sentences.The US Second Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously rejected claims that prosecutors improperly withheld evidence that could have cleared the former Bonanno crime-family chief in the murder of a renegade underling.A three-judge panel said the information "sugg [..] > read more

Brooklyn mob wife Alicia DiMichele accused of embezzlement and conspiracy

Published on 2011-07-05 14:46:00

She's no Carmela Soprano. Alicia DiMichele may have an alleged mobster husband -- but she's anything but a traditional big-haired mob wife who spends her day cooking pasta dinners for her made man. Alicia is an equal partner with her hubby, Edward > read more

Experts say Whitey Bulger could cash in on his brutal bio

Published on 2011-07-04 13:33:00

CRIME PAYS? The signature of accused mass killer Whitey Bulger could be worth good money on the murderabilia market, experts say. If convicted, accused mass murderer James “Whitey” Bulger could make a killing selling his blood-soaked biog > read more

Whitey's shadow loomed large behind his politician brother in Boston

Published on 2011-07-04 13:28:00

Richard Gaines, then a rising star at the Boston Phoenix, was putting the final touches on his story about the incoming Senate president when a colleague at the paper delivered a chilling message. It c > read more

Push to execute mobster Vinny Gorgeous was 'waste of time,' juror says

Published on 2011-07-04 13:23:00

Vinny Gorgeous was found guilty of giving the order to kill mob associate Randolph Pizzolo. One of the jurors who convicted Bonanno boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano of murder called the government's bid for the death p > read more

Despite notoriety, Bulger no easy case

Published on 2011-07-03 12:56:00

The lineup of potential witnesses include characters such as former Bulger cohort Stephen “The Rifleman’’ Flemmi. He’s a legendary gangster, accused of 19 grisly murders and a vast criminal conspiracy. He was a fugitive from justice for 16 > read more

In search of the real Al Capone

Published on 2011-07-03 12:54:00

The recent arrest of Boston gangster James "Whitey" Bulger after 16 years on the lam got us to thinking about an earlier hoodlum ... and the long shadow he still manages to cast. Dean Reynolds went in search of the real Al Capone, the Chicago mobs > read more

Mobster beat pizza attack rap but faces jail after failing federal drug test

Published on 2011-07-02 14:58:00

Battista (Benny) Geritano beat the rap on a pizza slashing case only to face jail time after failing federal 'whiz' test. Reputed mob associate Battista (Benny) Geritano beat the rap for viciously stabbing a famous Brooklyn pizzamake > read more

Bride asks for $1 Million From Photographers

Published on 2011-07-02 00:35:00

A bride claims a photography studio violated her privacy by selling her wedding photos to the New York Daily News, which used them to embarrass her and her "close knit Italian-American family" by publishing with caption such as "Mob Wife Whines," > read more

‘Whitey’ Bulger to get court-appointed lawyer

Published on 2011-07-01 06:57:00

James “Whitey” Bulger, the alleged former crime boss from Boston who eluded the FBI for 16 years and had more than $800,000 in his apartment when he was arrested in California, will get a court-appointed attorney, a federal magistrate judge ru > read more

North Little Rock Alderman turned Colombo Associate reports to Federal prison

Published on 2011-07-01 06:42:00

Former North Little Rock Alderman Sam Baggett reported to federal prison Monday to begin serving a 23-month sentence on federal weapons convictions.Baggett reported to the Federal Correction Complex at Forrest City, said a spokesman for the federal > read more

Mob Figure May Unearth Corruption of Lawmen

Published on 2011-06-30 19:59:00

During the 16 years James (Whitey) Bulger spent on the lam, several of his former partners in crime testified that he had made payoffs to two dozen Boston police officers and half a dozen F.B.I. agents over his long criminal career — giving them > read more

Mob Book Has Strong Queens Ties

Published on 2011-06-30 18:17:00

Author Anthony DeStefano and his new book, “Mob Killer: The Bloody Rampage of Charlie Carneglia.” For anyone who grew up in South Queens in the latter half of the 20th Century, the mob is something we all seem to have a connection to; either > read more

Mob Wives Star Drita D'avanzo Opens Up About Karen Gravano, Ending Her Marriage & Her Infamous Temper

Published on 2011-06-30 18:15:00

Drita D’avanzo Those sultry good looks, that raspy voice and the hair-trigger temper: Drita D’avanzo is the embodiment of a dangerous femme fatale. There is something so beautiful and yet d > read more

Did the Russian mafia kill MI6 agent Gareth Williams?

Published on 2011-06-30 07:23:00

Source claims Williams was working on system to foil Russian money-laundering MI6 agent Gareth Williams, who was found dead zipped into a holdall in his London flat last year, was working on technology designed to thwart money-laundering by the > read more

Celeb-poker promoter roughed up by 'thugs' fearful she was blabbing to feds

Published on 2011-06-30 06:44:00

A sexy Manhattan poker princess who attracts A-listers like Ben Affleck, Leonardo DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire to the high-stakes West Coast card games she runs found a far less glamorous -- in fact, downright dangerous -- crowd drawn to her tables > read more

Mob boss held without bail

Published on 2011-06-29 21:56:00

Philly Mob Boss Joe LigambiAlleged Philadelphia mob leader Joseph "Uncle Joe" Ligambi was denied bail in a sweeping racketeering case Wednesday by a judge concerned about his potential access to cell phones and computers while on house arrest. > read more

Mobster posed as white supremacist in rural Ohio while on the lam from the mob and the FBI

Published on 2011-06-29 18:26:00

ENRICO PONZO When North End gangster Enrico Ponzo went to ground out West, he tried to go native as a white supremacist, and had a bust of Adolf Hitler in his house, membership patches for two race-baiting groups, and literature on the Arya > read more

Russian Mob Tied To A-List Poker Ring, Games’ Ringleader Violently Assaulted

Published on 2011-06-29 18:25:00

Members of the notoriously brutal Russian mafia participated in the multi-million dollar underground Hollywood poker games involving A-List actors, Star magazine is reporting exclusively.In a terrifying twist, Star magazine has also learned Molly B > read more

This’ll make you view the neighbors in a new light

Published on 2011-06-29 17:22:00

Here’s the tale of my only near brush with the fame that sometimes comes to people who witness mob violence firsthand: It was a sunny June morning in 1989, and I was the editor of an alternative newspaper serving the North Shore of Boston. My mo > read more

Mobster card shark in jail for illegal gambling asks judge to let him play on pro poker circuit

Published on 2011-06-29 06:52:00

A card shark accused of supervising a mobbed-up illegal gambling den wasn't bluffing when he asked a judge for permission to travel out of state so he can play in poker tournaments.Anthony (Tiger) Arcuri is betting Long Island Federal Judge Leonard > read more

Ligambi to seek release on bail at hearing

Published on 2011-06-28 20:45:00

Joe LigambiJoe Ligambi wants out.Jailed since his arrest on May 23, the reputed mob boss will be in court Wednesday to argue that a federal magistrate judge erred when he denied him bail on racketeering-gambling charges last month. Ligambi, 71, is > read more

Reputed mob associate arrested again

Published on 2011-06-28 20:41:00

A reputed mob associate, who spent nearly two decade behind bars for a double homicide, was arrested Monday for allegedly harassing his estranged wife. Anthony Parrillo, 60, of Cranston, was charged with violating a restraining order after he alle > read more

Prosecutors drop early Bulger case to focus on murders; judge to decide on public defender

Published on 2011-06-28 17:39:00

Federal prosecutors on Tuesday dismissed a 1994 racketeering indictment against mob boss James “Whitey” Bulger in order to focus on a later indictment that charged the newly captured fugitive with being involved in 19 murders. Prosecutor > read more

'I want more junk in the trunk': Mob Wives star Renee Graziano gets a 'bottom lift' in $30,000 plastic surgery overhaul

Published on 2011-06-28 17:38:00

It seems that Mob Wives star Renee Graziano has taken inspiration from another famous reality TV alumni. The raven-haired Mafioso, who starred in the first season of the VH1 series, has undergone a bottom lift because 'she's always wanted junk in > read more

Mafia stool pigeon kept in jail so he can keep singing to authorities

Published on 2011-06-28 06:40:00

Mugshot of Peter Zuccaro, who was given a sentence of time served plus a year-and-a-half starting Monday. A murderous mob canary who was hoping for a get-out-of-jail card got another year behind bars instead - because a judge w > read more

Crime History: Colombo crime boss shot!

Published on 2011-06-28 06:34:00

On this day, June 28, 1971, New York crime family boss Joe Colombo was shot at a podium during a Italian Unity Day celebration.In response to the FBI's new interest in Mafia activities, Colombo formed the Italian-American Civil Rights League. The g > read more

'Vinny Gorgeous' lawyers file to have conviction overturned

Published on 2011-06-27 20:57:00

Former mob boss Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano's lawyers have filed court papers seeking to overturn his recent conviction for ordering the fatal hit of a mob associate.The defense team for the former Bonanno crime family boss argues that the w > read more

Bulger says he returned to Boston 'armed to the teeth' several times

Published on 2011-06-27 17:23:00

> read more

Was Whitey Bulger's apartment an FBI hideout?

Published on 2011-06-27 17:20:00

The Princess Eugenia apartments where Whitey Bulger hid out and was eventually arrested. Iceland. Seriously? We are expected to believe that a woman from Iceland watching TV spotted Whitey Bulger and his girlfriend in Santa Monica where he h > read more

New England Mafia weakened, but still pursued by federal officials

Published on 2011-06-27 07:05:00

When James “Whitey” Bulger ruled the streets of South Boston, the New England crime scene was a battleground for a bloody turf war between the Italian Mafia and Irish street crews.But some observers say the organized crime landscape that took > read more

'Mob Wives' Season 1 Finale recap: Spouse caught cheating, final meeting & blackout beating

Published on 2011-06-27 07:04:00

VH1 finished off the first season of Mob Wives with a real bang (and some obligatory hair-pulling of course). The infamous series came to a dramatic conclusion with Drita attacking Karen in an all out rage. Expletives were in abundance, drinks wer > read more

The Real Mob Wives: Scarpa Widow Linda Schiro's Lonely Life

Published on 2011-06-27 07:03:00

Greg "The Grim Reaper" ScarpaBig Linda and Little Linda are living proof that the glitzy stereotypes of life in a crime family are pure fiction. Their years as girlfriend and daughter of murderous capo Greg Scarpa have left them trapped by poverty > read more

The core business of the Philly Mafia

Published on 2011-06-27 06:45:00

Reputed South Jersey mob leader Anthony Staino, arrested on racketeering charges last month, once told an associate that he was a member of the "board of directors" and the "chief financial officer" for the crime family headed by Joseph "Uncle Joe > read more

'Sopranos' kin ripped off Mafia gambling dens

Published on 2011-06-27 06:43:00

There was a time when robbing Mafia card games in New York might have seemed like an idiotic career choice. But times have changed -- and the mob isn't what it used to be. Just ask Katosh Pantoliano, a cousin of Joe Pantoliano -- the actor who played > read more

State of Organized Crime in New England

Published on 2011-06-26 18:43:00

State of Organized Crime in New England: MyFoxBOSTON.comWhitey Bulger's capture is bringing back memories of his long and violent run as the head of the Irish mob in Boston. Organized crime isn't what it used to be. When Whitey Bulger fled he left b > read more

Wannabe mobster who stabbed pizza maker Mark Iacono calls victim a 'great guy'

Published on 2011-06-26 18:40:00

Battista (Benny) Geritano (left) was arrested in April for allegedly stabbing Lucali's pizza shop owner Mark Iacono. "Why don't you take a picture of my c---?" Geritano shouted > read more

Talking to one of the ‘Mob Wives’

Published on 2011-06-26 11:49:00

Think the Real Housewives shows push the envelope? VH1’s Mob Wives, which follows four Staten Island women as they cope while the men in their lives are behind bars, makes the Bravo hit look like Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. We caught up wit > read more

Mobster's run almost textbook case of evasion

Published on 2011-06-25 13:08:00

Boston mob boss James "Whitey" Bulger did almost everything right in evading capture for 16 years.The notorious mobster's run from the law was remarkable for its longevity, which was due mainly to the unremarkable new identity he built for himself > read more

James 'Whitey' Bulger draws crowds for his first Boston appearance in 16 years

Published on 2011-06-25 12:52:00

Boston mob boss James 'Whitey' Bulger was the FBI's most wanted man and a feared underworld figure linked to 19 murders in Boston. Boston gangster James (Whitey) Bulger returned to his hometown yesterday after 16 years on the > read more

Organized Crime In Detroit: Forgotten But Not Gone

Published on 2011-06-24 21:54:00

The Detroit mafia lives in the shadows. It always has, now, more than ever. “They don’t chase the news cameras like in other cities and a lot of them have been very adept of veiling themselves in legitimacy,” said former federal prosecutor an > read more

Poll Results: What do you think of the new reality show Mob Wives?

Published on 2011-06-24 19:29:00

Love it: 197 (53%)Hate it: 168 (46%)Total votes: 365More than half (53%) of our readers who voted in our monthly poll love VH1's new reality show Mob Wives. Check out our new monthly poll on the left side of the blog. > read more

Man who stabbed celeb pizzeria owner suspected of 'at least four' murders, says FBI agent

Published on 2011-06-24 18:49:00

The man who stabbed a Brooklyn celebrity pizzeria owner is a Gambino crime family associate suspected of committing "at least four" murders — including the execution-style hit of a suspected drug dealer in a Carroll Gardens park, an FBI agent te > read more

Nabbed Gangster 'Whitey' Bulger Could Spill FBI Corruption Secrets

Published on 2011-06-24 18:47:00

James "Whitey" Bulger, arrested Tuesday after 16 years on the lam, ruled over Boston for decades as a mythically untouchable crime boss. As leader of the feared Winter Hill Gang, Bulger reaped untold millions through theft, extortion, racketeering, > read more

Cuban crime family arrested in Houston-area credit card scam

Published on 2011-06-24 18:43:00

Blanca Valero-Morejon (upper left); Anet Valero-Morejon (upper center); Anna Lizeth Torres (upper right); Maikel Valdes (lower left); Livan Moya (lower right) Five members of a Cuban organized crime group have been arrested in Housto > read more

Three made guys in Philly in trouble

Published on 2011-06-24 18:39:00

Mob Talk: Fed. Racketeering Indictments: MyFoxPHILLY.comThree made guys with a whole lot of trouble on their hands top the agenda in this edition of Mob Talk.The trio is at the heart of the latest federal racketeering indictment that took down the > read more

Whitey Bulger's crime family tree

Published on 2011-06-24 06:49:00

Stephen "The Rifleman" FlemmiAs the boss of the Winter Hill Gang, Bulger was one piece of a criminal enterprise that had its fingers in lots of pies. The Irish mob organization is responsible for killing dozens of people. His crime family tree incl > read more

Charges dropped against Lucali's pizza chef Mark Iacono and reputed Mafioso for knife fight in April

Published on 2011-06-24 06:43:00

Lucali's pizza shop owner Mark Iaconoat State Supreme Court in Brooklyn where his charges of attempted murder in relation to a knife fight last April were dismissed. A famed Brooklyn pizza maker and a reputed Mafioso who were invol > read more

FBI arrests Mobster Whitey Bulger in Cailfornia

Published on 2011-06-22 23:45:00

Whitey BulgerJames "Whitey" Bulger, a notorious Boston gangster on the FBI's "Ten Most Wanted" list for his alleged role in 19 murders, was captured Wednesday near Los Angeles after living on the run for 16 years, authorities said. > read more

Wives and girlfriends of New York's most notorious mafiosi dish all in new TV series

Published on 2011-06-22 21:34:00

Heartbreak and tragedy: The real-life mob wives, clockwise, from left: Cheryl Caruso, 'Big' Linda Schiro, 'Little' Linda Scarpa, Angela Calvancante, Love Majewski and Andrea GiovinoForget omerta! These glamorous wives and girlfriends of some of Ne > read more

Mobbed-up thief Joseph Scalise targeted Daley pal, document says

Published on 2011-06-22 21:28:00

Joseph Scalise > read more

Deal offered to reputed mob associate

Published on 2011-06-22 21:25:00

Deal offered to reputed mob associate: wpri.comFederal prosecutors have offered a reputed mob associate a plea deal, according to court records obtained by Target 12. Thomas Iafrate was charged earlier this year in a national bust into organized cr > read more

'Mobsterland II' stars prison priest, defiant lawyer

Published on 2011-06-22 21:20:00

A Roman Catholic priest is free on $20,000 bond after pleading not guilty to federal charges that he went beyond the call of religious duty for a top Chicago mobster. In this Intelligence Report: Why the case has sparked a lopsided war of words. > read more

'Mayor of Little Italy' may testify in Chicago mob trial

Published on 2011-06-22 21:16:00

Three weeks from now Chicago's latest Outfit trial is scheduled to start in federal court. A trio of aging Chicago mobsters face racketeering/burglary charges. In this Intelligence Report: We've learned that the government witnesses may include > read more

Old Mafia File Sells At NY Auction For Nearly $11K

Published on 2011-06-22 21:14:00

Lucky LucianoIt was an unlikely — and coveted — find: a thick United States government file discovered on the backseat of a New York City taxi, its pages containing mug shots, criminal associates and favorite hangouts of over 800 Mafia members > read more

Suicide notes left by son of Lucchese Consigliere shot by police

Published on 2011-06-22 07:10:00

Former Lucchese Consigliere Frank "Big Frank" Lastorino Carl Lastorino grew up the son of a former member of the Lucchese crime family, authorities said. But he had no known connections to the mob, and at age 45 he lived a quiet life at home with h > read more

Old Mafia file going on NY auction block

Published on 2011-06-22 06:45:00

Meyer LanskyIt was an unlikely — and coveted — find: a thick United States government file discovered on the backseat of a New York City taxi, its pages containing mug shots, criminal associates and favorite hangouts of over 800 Mafia members > read more

New ammo charge for elderly Gambino associate

Published on 2011-06-21 20:53:00

A reputed Connecticut mob associate awaiting trial on loan-sharking allegations is facing a new weapons charge.The charge against 78-year-old Nicola Melia of Stamford was included in an indictment handed down by a federal grand jury in New Haven.Th > read more

Weakened by convictions, Chicago mob still running schemes, experts say

Published on 2011-06-21 20:31:00

The Spilotro family gravesite at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside includes the names of brothers Anthony and Michael. > read more

Brooklyn DA drops charges against pizzamaker and street hood

Published on 2011-06-21 20:25:00

Any way you slice it, they're both getting off. The Brooklyn DA dropped charges today against famed Brooklyn pizzamaker Mark Iacono and mob-linked ex-con Benny Geritano, who was busted for allegedly trying to slice up the celebrity restaurateur in > read more

Surveillance video: Lucchese capo's son caught on tape in hit attempt, before he's shot dead by cops

Published on 2011-06-21 20:22:00

Carl Lastorino (l.) takes aim at Peter Argentina Monday in a shooting at a Brooklyn tire shop caught on surveillance video. Dramatic surveillance footage released Tuesday shows the suicidal son of a Luchese mobster botching a rubout o > read more

Gambino linked Staten Island boiler room case resolved

Published on 2011-06-21 07:05:00

The final domino has fallen in the federal case against Gryphon Financial, a Staten Island boiler room with alleged ties to the Gambino crime family.Baldwin Anderson, a salesman at the firm, pleaded guilty to fraud charges last week shortly after > read more

FBI turns hunt for Whitey Bulger to girlfriend

Published on 2011-06-20 18:01:00

James “Whitey” Bulger’s longtime girlfriend in the hunt for the South Boston serial killer. Investigators hope that if they find Catherine Greig, they may find Bulger. A billboard in Times... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my webs > read more

FBI turns hunt for Whitey Bulger to girlfriend

Published on 2011-06-20 18:01:00

James “Whitey” Bulger’s longtime girlfriend in the hunt for the South Boston serial killer. Investigators hope that if they find Catherine Greig, they may find Bulger. A billboard in Times Square and television spots in 14 cities are being ro > read more

Accused mobster bets the farm

Published on 2011-06-20 17:59:00

HOME STAY: Enrico Ponzo — who is accused of attempting to kill former New England Mafia godfather Francis ‘Cadillac Frank’ Salemme and 13 others — wants to stay with his sister, Alexandria... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websi > read more

Accused mobster bets the farm

Published on 2011-06-20 17:59:00

HOME STAY: Enrico Ponzo — who is accused of attempting to kill former New England Mafia godfather Francis ‘Cadillac Frank’ Salemme and 13 others — wants to stay with his sister, Alexandria Divadkar, while he awaits trial. An alleged g > read more

Mob Wives: “Shadow of the Bull” Casts Drita Back Into Attack Mode!

Published on 2011-06-19 21:15:00

The evening of “Mob Wives” which airs on VH1 Sunday evenings was setting up for the season finale which will be next week. Renee found out that Junior has been stringing her along again, but it seems everyone else was able to see it coming exc > read more

Mob Wives: “Shadow of the Bull” Casts Drita Back Into Attack Mode!

Published on 2011-06-19 21:15:00

The evening of “Mob Wives” which airs on VH1 Sunday evenings was setting up for the season finale which will be next week. Renee found out that Junior has been stringing her along again, but... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websi > read more

Al Pacino-starring 'Gotti' film undergoes title change

Published on 2011-06-19 14:25:00

Image via WikipediaA forthcoming film about the notorious Gotti crime family has undergone a title change. According to Entertainment Weekly, the film will now be called In The Name Of My Father rather than its original title Three Generations.The al > read more

Al Pacino-starring 'Gotti' film undergoes title change

Published on 2011-06-19 14:25:00

Image via WikipediaA forthcoming film about the notorious Gotti crime family has undergone a title change. According to Entertainment Weekly, the film will now be called In The Name Of My... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for fu > read more

Favara son whose dad accidentally killed Gotti boy has no grave to visit this Father's Day

Published on 2011-06-19 11:17:00

The house on 86th Street in Queens where John Favara lived. The story of John Favara's termination begins and ends with a blind spot.Favara was a decent, working man from Howard Beach, Queens. He labored at the Castro Convertibles fac > read more

Favara son whose dad accidentally killed Gotti boy has no grave to visit this Father's Day

Published on 2011-06-19 11:17:00

The house on 86th Street in Queens where John Favara lived. The story of John Favara's termination begins and ends with a blind spot. Favara was a decent, working man from... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website f > read more

Trial date set for Emilio Fusco, last of 4 to be charged in slaying of mob boss Adolfo 'Big Al' Bruno

Published on 2011-06-18 21:18:00

A federal judge on Friday set a March 5 trial date for accused mob murderer Emilio Fusco, the last of four defendants set to be tried for the 2003 murders of crime boss Adolfo "Big Al" Bruno and low-level associate Gary D. Westerman. Fusco, 42, o > read more

Trial date set for Emilio Fusco, last of 4 to be charged in slaying of mob boss Adolfo 'Big Al' Bruno

Published on 2011-06-18 21:18:00

A federal judge on Friday set a March 5 trial date for accused mob murderer Emilio Fusco, the last of four defendants set to be tried for the 2003 murders of crime boss Adolfo "Big Al" Bruno... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website f > read more

A rat in Philly? The "Bent Finger Lou" Case

Published on 2011-06-17 22:58:00

Mob Talk: The 'Bent Finger Lou' Case: MyFoxPHILLY.comThey call him "Bent Finger" Lou Monacello and he's in the current Federal case against alleged Philadelphia mobsters.Related articlesEx-mob consigliere Borgesi pleads not guilty (fivefamiliesnyc.bl > read more

A rat in Philly? The "Bent Finger Lou" Case

Published on 2011-06-17 22:58:00

Mob Talk: The 'Bent Finger Lou' Case: MyFoxPHILLY.com They call him "Bent Finger" Lou Monacello and he's in the current Federal case against alleged Philadelphia mobsters. Related... [[ This... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more

Judge to Gambino wiseguy: clean up your act or end up dead

Published on 2011-06-16 22:24:00

Apple iPhonesA judge gave an ultimatum to a Gambino wiseguy today — walk the straight and narrow or wind up dead. Federal Judge Sterling Johnson Jr. told mobster John Micali that if he doesn’t change course, he’ll wind up either "spending a l > read more

Judge to Gambino wiseguy: clean up your act or end up dead

Published on 2011-06-16 22:24:00

Apple iPhonesA judge gave an ultimatum to a Gambino wiseguy today — walk the straight and narrow or wind up dead. Federal Judge Sterling Johnson Jr. told mobster John Micali that if he doesn’t... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more

Key Philly Mob Defendant Staying In Prison

Published on 2011-06-15 22:08:00

&nbs > read more

Key Philly Mob Defendant Staying In Prison

Published on 2011-06-15 22:08:00

&n... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my w > read more

Ex-mob consigliere Borgesi pleads not guilty

Published on 2011-06-15 21:27:00

Making his first appearance in a Philadelphia courtroom in nearly a decade, jailed mob leader George Borgesi pleaded not guilty to racketeering charges Wednesday during a brief hearing in U.S. Magistrate Court.Borgesi, in a green prison jump suit, > read more

Ex-mob consigliere Borgesi pleads not guilty

Published on 2011-06-15 21:27:00

Making his first appearance in a Philadelphia courtroom in nearly a decade, jailed mob leader George Borgesi pleaded not guilty to racketeering charges Wednesday during a brief hearing in... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for > read more

Critics worry mob will follow Chicago gambling

Published on 2011-06-14 22:59:00

The way Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel sees it, thousands of craps players and slot machine pullers would flock to his cash-strapped city if it gets into the gambling business. It's a safe bet a seedier element will be right behind them. In this > read more

Church suspends priest accused of helping mobster

Published on 2011-06-14 22:56:00

Frank Calabrese There are new developments in the case of a ruthless Chicago mobster, a Roman Catholic priest and a priceless violin. That unusual combination is the focus of this Intelligence Report. Chicago Outfit boss Frank Calabrese Sr. enlist > read more

Sinatra, Gotti and Me: The Rise and Fall of Jilly’s Nightclub by Tony Delvecchio and Rich Herschlag

Published on 2011-06-14 22:47:00

He never blinked. He never bluffed. He never backed down. We're referring to neither Sinatra nor Gotti. It's the "Me" that was the tough guy here — and he was not a "wise guy". He was the kind of guy who could tell John Gotti, > read more

James Franco turns down role as John Gotti Junior in new movie

Published on 2011-06-14 22:24:00

Movie bosses behind the upcoming Gotti family biopic are struggling to fill the role of John Gotti, Jr. after Johnny Depp, Robert Downey, Jr. and James Franco all turned down the part.The star-studded cast of Gotti: Three Generations already inclu > read more

Man Tied to Mob Has to Fuggedabout the Permit

Published on 2011-06-14 21:46:00

Acting Gambino Captain Frank "Franky Boy" CaliApparent mafia connections are enough to block a man from operating his produce business out of the Bronx's bustling Hunts Point Terminal Market, a New York appeals court ruled. > read more

The wiseguy way

Published on 2011-06-14 21:43:00

Ex-mobster Louis Ferrante thought he was done with criminals when he got out of federal prison. But when he went to apply for a mortgage, he was shocked.“They’re all lying to me!” he recalls. “I’m going, what are you, kidding me? I worke > read more

Shocking knife fight between famed Lucali's pizza man, reputed mobster erupted over a woman

Published on 2011-06-13 22:30:00

Annette Angeloni was reportedly the cause of a knife fight between pizza maker Mark Iacono and Battista (Benny) Geritano. A judge borrowed a line from a Natalie Cole song Monday, telling the feds they don't have the evidence to > read more

Meet the boss of the Chicago Mob John 'No Nose" DiFronzo

Published on 2011-06-13 22:16:00

With last month's life sentences for several top hoodlums, Outfit investigators say John DiFronzo is now the undisputed boss of the Chicago mob.He's been called "No Nose" ever since part of his nose was sliced off while jumping through a window du > read more

Breaking Down The Philly Indictment

Published on 2011-06-13 22:13:00

Mob Talk: Breaking Down The Indictment: MyFoxPHILLY.comThey were three high-profile figures in and around the local mob. Now, they're sitting in prison, awaiting trial in a wide-sweeping racketeering indictment that could put them away for years.Re > read more

F.B.I. Agents Get Leeway to Push Privacy Bounds

Published on 2011-06-13 21:09:00

Federal Bureau of Investigation is giving significant new powers to its roughly 14,000 agents, allowing them more leeway to search databases, go through household trash or use surveillance teams to scrutinize the lives of people who have attracted > read more

Elmwood Park man pleads guilty to gambling charges in Lucchese family racketeering case

Published on 2011-06-13 21:06:00

A 35-year-old Elmwood Park man has pleaded guilty to gambling charges in a racketeering case linked to the Lucchese crime family. Gianni Iacovo, one of 35 defendants in the case, pleaded guilty in Superior Court in Morristown on May 20 to charges > read more

The Mafia Management Guru

Published on 2011-06-12 23:30:00

Mobster Louis Ferrante shot people, went to jail, became a Jew, and then an author. Now he has a few lessons for executivesThe beeping in Louis Ferrante's borrowed Lincoln SUV won't stop, so he finally snaps in his seat belt. "Don't tell anyone," he > read more

Mob Wives Recap: Drita Takes on New Jersey Coons with a Paintball Gun!

Published on 2011-06-12 23:25:00

The women of “Mob Wives” individually get together following the throw down last time at Renee’s house. The first to bury the hatchet (and not in each other’s head) was Renee Graziano and Carla Facciolo. Carla tells Renee to move on from J > read more

‘Mob Wives’ Renee Graziano’s Son AJ: ‘I’m Never Joining The Lifestyle!’

Published on 2011-06-12 23:24:00

AJ is hurt to be seeing his dad Junior locked up again — and doesn’t want this life for himself! He instead wants to go to college and become an engineer! Mob Wives star Renee Graziano‘s son AJ Pagan, 17, plans to far away from the famil > read more

Don't tell Jennifer Graziano that crime doesn't pay

Published on 2011-06-12 08:39:00

Jennifer Graziano is producer of the new VH1 reality show "Mob Wives, a show about daughters and wives of mobsters. > read more

The Kennedys: A new TV series portrays America's foremost political dynasty to be riddled with scandal from drug addiction to mafia bribes

Published on 2011-06-10 21:09:00

Against an evocative musical backdrop of soaring French horns, an American flag flutters in the breeze. The stirring imagery could easily be the opening sequence of Eighties soap-opera Dynasty, famous for its power suits, big hair and catfights. U > read more

Sealed with a kiss: How the mafia makes a deal

Published on 2011-06-10 21:04:00

Daniele D'Agnese locks lips with an associate in NaplesPledge of silence between members of the Naples Camorra is witnessed in public for the first timeThe long and passionate kiss between the two young men continued for several seconds, as onlooker > read more

An Albanian-American crime story, from 15 Mile Road to Pearl Street

Published on 2011-06-10 20:15:00

To understand the story of Albanian organized crime in New York City, where the murder and drug-trafficking trials of the notoriously violent Krasniqi brothers and their associates got underway this week, I had to go to Michigan.For five hours in > read more

The bookie and the Biq Squeeze

Published on 2011-06-10 07:14:00

Displaying a tattoo of her late husband Rocco is Danielle Romanoff-Maniscalco (center), with her kids.ROCCO MANISCALCO had reason to wear a bulletproof vest. Two reasons, actually.The South Philly auto-body-shop owner was a bookie on the side, and h > read more

Mob hit man harbored soft spot for his Ozone Park mom: Book

Published on 2011-06-09 18:19:00

Newsday reporter Anthony DeStefano is the author of "Mob Killer: The Bloody Rampage of Charlie Carneglia, Mafia Hit Man."He was a cold-blooded killer convicted of carrying out four murders for the Gambino crime family, but former Howard Beach reside > read more

Chaplain accused of passing mob killer's messages

Published on 2011-06-09 18:11:00

Rev. Eugene Klein, left, and Frank Calabrese Sr. A Roman Catholic priest who ministered to convicted mob hit man Frank Calabrese Sr. in federal prison all > read more

US to seek sentence cut for Florida Ponzi schemer

Published on 2011-06-08 22:37:00

Federal prosecutors will be seeking a reduction in the 50-year sentence imposed on convicted Florida Ponzi schemer Scott Rothstein because of his assistance in ongoing investigations.Prosecutors filed papers Wednesday indicating they will ask that > read more

Investigation Discovery's I MARRIED A MOBSTER Breaks Code of Silence as The Wives of "Family Members" Share Their Side of the Story

Published on 2011-06-08 21:36:00

If after your wedding, Colombo, Luchese, and Franzese are names in your new family, then having in-laws with baggage has a whole new meaning. Investigation Discovery's I MARRIED A MOBSTER provides an insider's perspective into the reality of New Y > read more

Video shows Merlino's handpicked Acting Boss in Philly in corner argument

Published on 2011-06-08 17:44:00

Angry 'Wiseguys' In Corner Argument: MyFoxPHILLY.comRelated articlesUncle Joe's arrest could put Skinny Merlino back in charge (fivefamiliesnyc.blogspot.com)The Case Against Philly Mob Boss Joseph "Uncle Joe" Ligambi (fivefamiliesnyc.blogspot.com)Pol > read more

Man who allegedly had knife fight with celeb pizzeria owner gets house arrest

Published on 2011-06-07 21:18:00

He’s getting another slice of freedom. Benny Geritano, busted in Brooklyn for allegedly engaging in a knife fight with a celebrity pizzeria owner over a woman, will be trading a federal detention cell for house arrest and an electronic bracelet. > read more

Basciano sentencing date set

Published on 2011-06-07 20:58:00

Vincent Basciano will be sentenced officially on July 20th at 2:00 pm in Brooklyn federal court. The result will be a foregone conclusion: life in a federal penitentiary. He already has one life sentence so this will > read more

Is Skinny Joey Merlino the new boss in Philly?

Published on 2011-06-07 20:53:00

> read more

Vito Rizzuto's mansion up for sale

Published on 2011-06-07 07:11:00

The palatial mansion of Vito Rizzuto, the Mafia boss of Canada whose family has been decimated by gangland rivals, is on the market for just under $2-million as the family seeks to “downsize.”“This beautiful stone residence was custom built t > read more

Carpenters Union Trustee Gets Prison For Perjury

Published on 2011-06-07 07:06:00

A former trustee of the Carpenters Union has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for perjury.Joseph Olivieri, 56, of Briarcliff Manor was also sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to pay a $10,000 fine.Olivieri is the > read more

Armenian mob 'godfather' Armen Kazarian gets sweetheart deal for massive Medicare fraud scheme

Published on 2011-06-07 07:04:00

An Armenian mob "godfather" who was facing a life sentence for a massive Medicare fraud scheme has cut a 3-year sweetheart deal with prosecutors.The "vor" - an Armenian word similar to the word "don" used for Italian mob lords - admitted Monday to > read more

Former Mafia whack site now home to a Pentacostal church

Published on 2011-06-06 06:16:00

Roy DemeoIt’s a former Mafia slaughterhouse where God — and not the Godfather — calls the shots now. A Brooklyn building that once housed the infamous Gemini Lounge — where Gambino crime-family soldiers carried out countless, unspeakable mo > read more

Russian Mafia to flood Olympics with drugs and prostitutes

Published on 2011-06-05 21:56:00

ABOVE: Russian Mafia gangsters are ready to target tourists around London’s Olympic Stadium OLYMPICS chiefs face a new hurdle in the run-up to the 2012 Games as the Russian Mafia is set to swoop on London. Gangsters from one of the world’s most > read more

Mob Wives' Drita D'Avanzo bikini photos

Published on 2011-06-05 21:54:00

Mob Wives star Drita D’Avanzo shared some more of her recent modeling photos on Facebook, including a number of revealing bikini pictures! According to one of her comments > read more

Mob on track to win: With OTB gone, bookies are riding high with Belmont Stakes on the horizon

Published on 2011-06-05 21:42:00

NYC OTB handled nearly $2.4 million in Belmont Stakes bets last year, a lucrative one-day windfall. A good portion of those wagers this year will wind up as illegal action. Looking for a sure thing at Saturday's 143rd running of the > read more

Jailhouse Summer for the Philly Mafia

Published on 2011-06-03 22:35:00

> read more

The Case Against Philly Mob Boss Joseph "Uncle Joe" Ligambi

Published on 2011-06-03 22:32:00

Mob Talk: The Case Against "The Uncle": MyFoxPHILLY.comRelated articlesJailed Philly Mob Boss In Spat With Relative? (fivefamiliesnyc.blogspot.com)Philadelphia mob boss Joe Ligambi, 12 others finally charged (fivefamiliesnyc.blogspot.com)Who's The Ne > read more

Dizzying Price for Seeking the Death Penalty

Published on 2011-06-03 06:51:00

In the middle of February, 300 men and women of voting age answered a special summons for jury duty at the federal courthouse in Cadman Plaza in Brooklyn. They were ushered into a grand ceremonial courtroom to see if they might be candidates to se > read more

Wiseguy's wisdom: Ex-mobster offers tips to legit businessmen

Published on 2011-06-03 06:37:00

Louis Ferrante, now 42, eventually spent more than eight years in prison. Who woulda figured that hijacking trucks, pulling heists and running a loanshark operation for the Mob was actually the sign of a good business manager?Louis > read more

Daughter of mob murder victim says Vinny Gorgeous should have been given death penalty

Published on 2011-06-03 06:36:00

The daughter of a mob murder victim said she is "very disappointed" that former Bonanno crime boss Vincent Basciano got life in prison instead of the death penalty for ordering the murder of her father.Connie Pizzolo said a second life sentence > read more

Angelina denied bail in Philadelphia mob case

Published on 2011-06-02 21:08:00

Mobster Martin Angelina was denied bail on racketeering-gambling charges Wednesday by a federal judge who cited his criminal history and what prosecutors called his "propensity for violence."Angelina, 48, showed little emotion as U.S. District Judg > read more

For Mobster, a Life Term, Not His First, Offers Relief

Published on 2011-06-01 22:42:00

On Wednesday afternoon, the federal Bureau of Prisons Web site suggested something of an uncertain future for Vincent J. Basciano, known in some circles as Vinnie Gorgeous for his stint as the proprietor of a Hello Gorgeous beauty salon in the Bro > read more

Jailed Philly Mob Boss In Spat With Relative?

Published on 2011-06-01 18:21:00

Jailed Mob Boss In Spat With Relative?: MyFoxPHILLY.comJailed mob boss Joe Ligambi has a new attorney tonight.High profile lawyer Edwin Jacobs has now taken over Ligambi's case.Jacobs represented mob boss Joey Merlino in the city's last big federal r > read more

Mob boss Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano dodges death penalty, sentenced to life in prison

Published on 2011-06-01 17:32:00

Undated surveillance photo of Vincent Basciano, the ex-Bonanno family boss convicted of murder. Murderous mob boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano will live to preen again.The former Bronx hair salon owner was spared the death pena > read more

Let my cousin Vinny live! Family member testifies for mobster Vinny Gorgeous in penalty phase

Published on 2011-06-01 06:49:00

Evidence photos of Vincent 'Vinny Gorgeous' Basciano include the mobster holding his young son. Vinny Gorgeous makes goofy face during pre-teen years.My cousin Vinny is loved by his family, lawyer Stephen DiCarmine testified Tuesday > read more

Two Philly mobsters get bail

Published on 2011-06-01 06:44:00

Two alleged mobsters, indicted last week in a takedown of reputed mob boss Joseph "Uncle Joe" Ligambi and a dozen other alleged members and associates, were granted bail yesterday.But U.S. Magistrate L. Felipe Restrepo set stringent conditions for > read more

Russian mob eclipses Italian Mafia in South Florida, FBI says

Published on 2011-06-01 06:41:00

The Eastern European mob has eclipsed the Italian Mafia on the FBI’s radar in South Florida, as several recent major cases have brought to light. > read more

Before he was the boss of the family, he was a regular family guy

Published on 2011-06-01 06:38:00

That's what lawyers for Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano are hoping to convey in this series of snapshots from the murdering mob boss' family photo album, which show Basciano as a happy-go-lucky youngster, a doting daddy and loving husband. In on > read more

Crime boss 'Vinny Gorgeous' saved my son's life testifies witness

Published on 2011-06-01 06:32:00

'Vinny Gorgeous' wouldn't respond to a judge about whether or not he'll testify. Yes or no, Vinny Gorgeous - will you testify?That's the simple question that led to a 40-minute standoff Tuesday between crime boss Vincent Bascia > read more

Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano squares off with Brooklyn judge in tense standoff

Published on 2011-05-31 19:07:00

Dodge City met Brooklyn, New York, when a formidable mob boss squared off today against a powerful federal judge.No one dove for the saloon doors, but the clock ticked and there was a "High Noon" feel to the dramatic courthouse showdown that began > read more

Mobster a suspect in witness' execution

Published on 2011-05-31 06:44:00

A mob goon linked to the Colombo and Lucchese crime families may be linked to the unsolved execution of a police informant on Long Island, federal prosecutors have revealed. The allegation emerged at last week's sentencing of Robert Spatafora, 38, > read more

Vinny Gorgeous faces ugly life in Colorado Supermax prison if he avoids death penalty

Published on 2011-05-31 06:36:00

View of cell block at Colorado Supermax prison where Vinny Gorgeous may reside someday. There's a special hell on Earth awaiting Vinny Gorgeous if a federal jury sentences him this week to life in prison instead of the de > read more

Mob Killer:The Bloody Rampage of Charlie Carneglia, Mafia Hit Man

Published on 2011-05-30 21:53:00

Tony DeStefano's new book, "Mob Killer:The Bloody Rampage of Charlie Carneglia, Mafia Hit Man," will be out officially on June7th from Pinnacle True Crime. It is available on Amazon and Barnes and Nob > read more

Mob Wives at war as vicious catfight breaks out over lunch

Published on 2011-05-30 21:30:00

A vicious catfight broke out during a Sunday lunch held by the mafia princesses of Mob Wives.The US reality TV show, which makes Jersey Shore look like tea with the queen, follows the lives of four women from Staten Island, New York who are all fr > read more

Uncle Joe's arrest could put Skinny Joey Merlino back in charge

Published on 2011-05-30 21:27:00

Here's the big question circulating in certain circles in South Philadelphia:With reputed mob boss Joseph "Uncle Joe" Ligambi in jail with several of his top associates, who's minding the store?Who's collecting the cash?Who's keeping the loan-shark d > read more

Miss the Sopranos? VH1's 'Mob Wives' are Goodfellas in high heels

Published on 2011-05-29 01:58:00

Mob Wives When: 8 p.m. Sundays. Where: VH1. Red hot mafia mamas (from left) Karen Gravano, Drita D'avanzo, Carla Facciolo and Renee Graziano. Hard as it is to believe, the Diva was not always fabulous. She was once a freelancer living in a > read more

The Big Philly Mafia Bust

Published on 2011-05-28 00:51:00

Mob Talk: The Big Bust: MyFoxPHILLY.com > read more

'Mousie' the mobster ordered held without bail

Published on 2011-05-27 17:51:00

Joseph C. Massimino Reputed mob underboss Joseph "Mousie" Massimino was ordered held without bail Friday on racketeering and gambling charges detailed in a 50-count indictment handed up earlier in the week.U.S. District Court Judge Felipe Restre > read more

US knew of Bulgarian PM’s alleged mafia links – WikiLeaks

Published on 2011-05-27 13:13:00

Image via Wikipedia The United States was aware of Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borisov’s alleged ties to the mafia and shady businessmen before he was elected in 2009, according to a leaked diplomatic cable yesterday.In the 2006 cab > read more

Philly Mob Boss Ligambi denied bail as Feds reveal secret tapes and cooperators

Published on 2011-05-27 11:22:00

No Bail For Alleged Mob Boss Ligambi: MyFoxPHILLY.comReputed mob boss Joseph "Uncle Joe" Ligambi was ordered held without bail Thursday after a federal prosecutor argued that he was a threat to the community and would continue to run the Philadelph > read more

Vinny Gorgeous penalty phase: Lawyers may be in hot water over alleged tip to mobsters

Published on 2011-05-27 11:16:00

Bonanno gangster Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano may be sentenced to death. Two veteran defense lawyers who mobsters say tipped them off to the dining habits of a federal prosecutor could be in legal hot water.Federal Judge N > read more

Massino admits failing two lie detector tests with the FBI

Published on 2011-05-27 01:20:00

It was an unexpected moment in the death penalty phase of Vincent Basciano's case when former boss Joseph Massino blurted out that he had failed two lie detector tests with the FBI. That fact had been known for years&n > read more

Suspected mobster returned to RI

Published on 2011-05-27 01:05:00

A suspected mobster arrested earlier this month in Las Vegas is back in Rhode Island to face charges in connection with an alleged gambling ring. State police said officers traveled to Las Vegas Wednesday and took custody of Alfred "Chippy" Scivol > read more

VH1 orders second season of widely succesful Mob Wives

Published on 2011-05-26 11:58:00

U.S. cable network VH1 has greenlit new autumn seasons of factual series Mob Wives (pictured) and Love & Hip Hop, and is bringing back its Pop Up Video series after a 10-year hiatus.The second season orders come after Mob Wives averaged 1.3 milli > read more

Philly mob used reputation and threats of violence to secure gambling racket

Published on 2011-05-26 11:54:00

Anthony Staino Jr. can be released on bail.They didn't break legs, because they didn't have to.They lived off the reputation of the organization and the gangsters who came before them.And they made a lot of money.That was the picture of the Philadelp > read more

Strauss-Kahn Lawyer Brafman Defended Rappers, Mobsters, Michael Jackson

Published on 2011-05-26 11:53:00

Former International Monetary Fund chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn’s criminal defense is in good hands, if a convicted racketeer is to be believed. When attorney Benjamin Brafman won the acquittal of rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs on gun and bribery ch > read more

To Avoid the Death Penalty, Kill Another Killer

Published on 2011-05-26 11:50:00

Here’s how the death penalty works — or, to be more accurate, doesn’t work — in New York. It’s usually not about the killer, but rather the victim. The case against one Vincent Basciano in Federal District Court in Brooklyn may be no exc > read more

Vinny Gorgeous wanted top prosecutor dead for humiliating his wife, mob rat Joseph Massino says

Published on 2011-05-26 11:41:00

Ex-Bonanno crime boss Joseph Massino (right) testified against Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano (left) in death penalty phase on Wednesday. > read more

Video Poker Machines Are Like Philly Mob's ATM

Published on 2011-05-26 11:33:00

Video Poker Machines Are Like Mob's ATM: MyFoxPHILLY.comEarlier this week, prosecutors announced a 50-count federal indictment against 13 alleged members of the Philadelphia mob. The reputed wiseguys are charged with a slew of crimes, from gambling a > read more

Massino returns to stand to testify against Basciano

Published on 2011-05-26 00:49:00

After making a star turn from the witness box of a Mafia murder trial last month, a former mob boss returned to the stand on Wednesday to testify again against the same man, this time in the trial’s death penalty phase.And the mob boss, Joseph C > read more

Feds: Mob lives off memories and video poker

Published on 2011-05-26 00:47:00

They didn't break legs because they didn't have to.They lived off the reputation of the organization and the gangsters who came before them.And they made a lot of money.That was the picture of the Philadelphia mob painted by federal prosecutors Wedn > read more

Reputed Mob Underboss Wins Bail Release

Published on 2011-05-26 00:46:00

Chalk up an early victory for the lawyers of one of 13 alleged Philadelphia mobsters named this week in a federal indictment. Reputed mob underboss Anthony Staino Jr. was ordered released Wednesday on $1 million bail and placed on house arrest late > read more

Vinny Gorgeous eyed hit on Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg Andres, mob turncoat testifies

Published on 2011-05-25 10:22:00

Vinny Gorgeous won't be a threat if he is locked up, his lawyer said in court on Tuesday. There > read more

Execution Is Sought for Mobster in Death Plot

Published on 2011-05-25 00:02:00

As the death penalty phase began on Tuesday in the trial of a convicted murderer and former mob boss, even the prosecutor acknowledged that capital punishment was not appropriate in most cases. But in the case of this man, Vincent Basciano, > read more

Head of Staten Island-based gambling ring boasted he should run OTB, authorities allege

Published on 2011-05-24 23:53:00

A strip mall in Castleton Corners served as home base for a sophisticated online betting scheme, and its head bragged that he ran the operation so well he should have been in charge of the state’s failed OTB, authorities allege. By as recently a > read more

Gambling At Heart Of Philadelphia Mob Indictment

Published on 2011-05-24 23:05:00

Philly Boss Joe Ligambi Philadelphia mob, as bail hearings are set to start on Wednesday. Some of Philadelphia's top mobsters will be back in court on Wednesday as they try to gain their freedom after a big mob takedown by the FBI. The takedown e > read more

Alleged threat may cost Philly mobster bail

Published on 2011-05-24 22:59:00

Reputed mob leader Anthony Staino had a reputation as a businessman-wiseguy who was more interested in making money than busting heads.But a conversation secretly recorded by the FBI presents a different side.In it, according to an indictment unsea > read more

Bonnano turncoats take stand to help prosecution put 'Vinny Gorgeous' to death

Published on 2011-05-24 22:44:00

Two former Bonanno mobsters took the stand Tuesday to help prosecutors put the mafia family's former boss to death.Jurors listened intently as the mobsters described planned beatings and murders they say were ordered by Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basci > read more

Police smash multi-million dollar SI gambling ring

Published on 2011-05-24 15:36:00

It wasn’t worth the gamble.A multi-million dollar gambling ring based on Staten Island was smashed today when investigators rounded up nearly 30 people involved with the international operation, authorities said.Joseph Stentella, 56, the ringlea > read more

The Day After The Big Philly Bust

Published on 2011-05-24 15:35:00

Mob Talk: The Day After The Big Bust : MyFoxPHILLY.comRelated articlesFBI Busts Philly Mob, New Boss Named? (fivefamiliesnyc.blogspot.com)Turncoat Philly Mob Boss A Free Man (fivefamiliesnyc.blogspot.com)Who's The New Philadelphia Mob Boss? (fivefami > read more

Mobster 'Vinny Gorgeous' has 'earned' death penalty, prosecutor says

Published on 2011-05-24 15:22:00

Federal prosecutors told a jury today that the former boss of the Bonanno crime family should be executed for ordering a mob murder while he was already serving a life sentence behind bars."Vincent Basciano has earned the most serious sentence Ame > read more

Vinny Gorgeous sentencing: Gangster will kill behind bars if he's not executed, says prosecutor

Published on 2011-05-24 11:02:00

Vincent Basciano, 51, was convicted last week in Brooklyn Federal Court of ordering the 2004 murder of a mob associate. > read more

Bonanno soldier shocks judge by renouncing mob membership to look after grandkids

Published on 2011-05-24 10:12:00

A Bonanno-crime family soldier told a federal court judge yesterday that he turned his back on the mob to become Mr. Mom. Armando "Mondo" Rea, 59, broke his sworn blood oath of lifetime allegiance to the crime family, saying his association with the > read more

Renee Graziano on fight: 'Why didn't I crack her?'

Published on 2011-05-24 01:28:00

Regrets, she has a few. Renee Graziano -- the tough-talking, hair-pulling diva at the core of the VH1 show "Mob Wives" -- wishes she'd been filmed with better cameras "because I don't want to look so fat." Sometimes she's disappointed to see herself > read more

Who's The New Philadelphia Mob Boss?

Published on 2011-05-23 20:26:00

Who's The New Philadelphia Mob Boss?: MyFoxPHILLY.comWith 13 reputed members of Philadelphia's La Cosa Nostra busted on Monday, there may be a few openings for crime leaders in the City of Brotherly Love. So who's the boss? Our Dave Schratwieser po > read more

FBI Busts Philly Mob, New Boss Named?

Published on 2011-05-23 18:17:00

More Action Possible In Philly Mob Bust: MyFoxPHILLY.comThe FBI effectively shut down much of the mob in Philadelphia on Monday, but the action may not be done when it comes to arrests and charges. Fox 29's Dave Schratwieser broke the news of the > read more

'Pizza fight' thug was robbing banks: feds

Published on 2011-05-23 16:56:00

You can't teach an old con new tricks. Benny Geritano, busted last month in Brooklyn for allegedly trying to slice up a celebrity pizzeria owner in a fight over a woman, had resumed his career burglarizing banks, federal prosecutors say. Geritano, > read more

FBI agent Lin DeVecchio and Colombo Hitman and star Informant "The Grim Reaper"

Published on 2011-05-23 15:53:00

Lin DeVecchio was a highly decorated FBI agent who helped put some of the mafia's most notorious leaders behind bars. He's also one of the few FBI agents ever charged with murder. It was his relationship with a violent mob informant known as "The > read more

Pictures of Indicted Philly mobsters

Published on 2011-05-23 14:23:00

& > read more

List of Philly mob guys indicted and their charges

Published on 2011-05-23 14:12:00

Name: Joseph Ligambiaka: "Uncle Joe" and "Unc"Age: 72Residence: PhiladelphiaCharges: Count One (RICO conspiracy); Count 39 (Conspiracy to Make Extortionate Extensions of Credit); Count 42 (Collection and Attempted Collection of Extensions of Credi > read more

Feds charge 13 in Philadelphia organized crime bust, including reputed head of city Mafia

Published on 2011-05-23 14:03:00

The reputed boss of the Philadelphia mob, his alleged lieutenant and 11 others were hit with federal racketeering and gambling charges in an indictment unsealed Monday, a case that federal authorities said shows that organized crime is far from de > read more

Ligambi: Ex-bartender kept low profile

Published on 2011-05-23 14:01:00

Angelo Bruno murder sceneJoseph "Uncle Joe" Ligambi is a former bartender and suspected hit man who allegedly took control of the Philadelphia mob a decade ago.No one in law enforcement - and few in the underworld - expected him to last this long.He > read more

Ligambi was 6th boss to follow Bruno

Published on 2011-05-23 13:59:00

Angelo BrunoWith his arrest today, reputed mob boss Joseph "Uncle Joe" Ligambi joins a line of modern-day Philadelphia Mafia leaders who have found themselves in the crosshairs of either underworld rivals or federal prosecutors.Here's a look at ho > read more

Death Penalty Phase Begins Tuesday

Published on 2011-05-22 23:31:00

The death phase of the trial of Vincent Basciano begins Tuesday, May 24 in Brooklyn federal court with prosecutors scheduled to bring in over a period of about two or three days witnesses like Joseph Massino, > read more

A plea to let N.J. adoptees find themselves

Published on 2011-05-22 23:17:00

I am case number KC 114343 in the New Jersey foster care system, and like thousands of other adoptees — some women like me, some black like me — I will not have a right to my birth certificate unless Gov. Chris Christie signs the Adoptees Birt > read more

Bio-Reference Laboratories Rise in Clinical Testing

Published on 2011-05-22 23:16:00

In a brick industrial park amid whizzing New Jersey freeways, Bio-Reference Laboratories screens millions of patients each year for heart disease, infection, cancer or inherited disorders. Founder Marc D. Grodman proudly notes that when he first > read more

Poll Results: Will Skinny Joey Merlino leave the "life" now that he is in Florida?

Published on 2011-05-22 22:51:00

Yes, he did his time and wants to move on 71 (25%) No, the life is in his blood &nb > read more

'Vinny Gorgeous' facing death penalty, but former mob boss may not fit mold of monstrous murderer

Published on 2011-05-22 19:28:00

Prosecutors are hoping to send Bonanno crime boss Vincent Basciano to the United States Penitentiary in Terre Haute, Ind. There are 60 convicted killers on feder > read more

Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano wants to suck it up and be a man -- even if it kills him

Published on 2011-05-21 09:05:00

The former crime boss's macho mentality was evident in court yesterday when he shouted out his refusal to be portrayed as a helpless victim. His life may hang in the balance when the penalty phase of his capital-murder trial starts and his defense > read more

Turncoat Philly Mob Boss A Free Man

Published on 2011-05-21 07:52:00

Mob Talk: Natale Is A Free Man: MyFoxPHILLY.comRalph Natale is a former mob boss who turned his back on the local mob.Tonight, he is a free man and apparently has a story or two to tell. He may write a tell-all book! Fox 29's Dave Schratwieser > read more

NY mob leaders busted since 9/11

Published on 2011-05-20 19:29:00

Genovese Family - 6 administration,19 captains/acting captains Boss: Vincent "The Chin" GiganteActing Boss: Ernest "Ernie" Muscarella, Liborio "Barney" Bellomo (former), Dominick "Quiet Dom" Cirillo, Daniel "Danny the Lion" Leo, Arthur "Artie" Nigr > read more

Persico Relative Shot To Death Inside His Freeport, Long Island Shop

Published on 2011-05-20 19:03:00

FREEPORT, LONG ISLAND (1010 WINS) – Forty-two-year-old Christopher Mignone, the president of Aimes Towing and Collision in Freeport, was shot to death Wednesday night.Police say the shooting happened at the body shop around 9:41pm Wednesday > read more

Rhode Island man accused of running gambling ring gets bail

Published on 2011-05-20 19:01:00

A man charged with running an illegal sports-betting ring that included three reputed members of the New England mob has been granted bail.The Rhode Island attorney general's office says Vincent Tallo was granted $130,000 surety bail on Friday. Th > read more

Vinny Gorgeous rips into his lawyer over possible use of the defense

Published on 2011-05-20 14:32:00

Vinny Gorgeous has shot down a "Daddy Dearest" defense that his lawyer hoped would persuade a jury to spare him from the death penalty. A simmering dispute between former Bonanno boss Vincent Basciano and his lawyer over introducing evidence that t > read more

Go ahead and charge me with nun's murder, Thomas (Tommy Shots) Gioeli rants in prison blog

Published on 2011-05-19 09:05:00

Thomas Gioeli says he wants feds to charge him for murder of ex-nun Veronica Zuraw (below) so he can 'prove his innocence.' > read more

Mob rat Joseph Massino to take stand against Vinny Gorgeous in death penalty phase

Published on 2011-05-19 09:02:00

Joseph Massino (right) will try to convince jury that Vinny Gorgeous (left) deserves death penalty. The mob's fat man sang - and now he's coming back for an encore.Joseph Massino, the highest ranking Mafia canary to ever testify in a > read more

Brothers admit extorting money from owner of Hawthorne landscape business

Published on 2011-05-18 23:56:00

Two brothers from Middlesex County pleaded guilty Wednesday to conspiring to extort thousands of dollars from the owner of a Hawthorne landscaping business, authorities said.Peter Ventricelli, 33, and Mark Ventricelli, 27, both of Parlin, invested m > read more

Former FBI agent calls informant who helped convict mafia leaders a friend

Published on 2011-05-18 16:42:00

A former FBI agent says he considered his star Mafia informant a friend and did not investigate when this informant let him know he had killed a rival mobster. Lin DeVecchio, who once headed the FBI's Bonanno and Colombo anti-crime squads in New Y > read more

'Mob Wives' Episode 5 recap: Blackouts and betrayals

Published on 2011-05-17 17:09:00

THE 'PLOT'This episode starts off with all four the lovely Mob Wives having dinner and drinks at Juliet Supper Club in Chelsea, Manhattan. We get to watch as Renee acts as uncouth as usual. Upon meeting a man from Staten Island, Renee finds it nec > read more

"Rats": Why Juries Believe Them

Published on 2011-05-17 16:58:00

Vinny "Gorgeous" Basciano has just been convicted of racketeering and murder in a federal court in Brooklyn, New York and faces the death penalty. His conviction was based in large part on the testimony of one of the most powerful and nefarious " > read more

Basciano Convicted-Death Penalty Phase To Start

Published on 2011-05-17 09:01:00

Monday's conviction of former acting Bonanno boss Vincent Basciano for conspiracy in the killing of a mob associate sets the stage for a mini-trial over whether the jury should order his death by lethal injection. > read more

Genovese gangster pleads not guilty

Published on 2011-05-17 08:52:00

Emilio Fusco, a Longmeadow, Mass., man and convicted loan shark accused in the 2003 murder of mob boss Adolfo "Big Al" Bruno, was arraigned in federal court in Manhattan Monday after more than a year in his native Italy. Dressed in prison garb and p > read more

'Gorgeous' guilty, could be executed

Published on 2011-05-17 05:38:00

Flamboyant Bonanno crime boss Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano could become the first head of a La Cosa Nostra crime family to get the death penalty, after being convicted yesterday of ordering a hit on a fellow hood. The verdict in Brooklyn fede > read more

Mobster Convicted in Case That Featured Boss’s Testimony

Published on 2011-05-17 00:33:00

A mobster who is already serving a life sentence for attempted murder was convicted Monday of ordering a gangland killing to cement his rise to power in the Bonanno crime family. A Brooklyn jury deliberated over the course of four days befor > read more

Gambino associate charged with murder for masterminding three home-invasion robberies

Published on 2011-05-16 22:35:00

Gaetana Antoniello and her husband Romeo pose for a photo with a photo of their son Gerardo "Jerry" on October 14. A Gambino crime family associate was hit with a murder charge today for masterminding three Queens home-invasion rob > read more

Bonanno crime family boss Vincent 'Vinny Gorgeous' Basciano found guilty in gangland hit

Published on 2011-05-16 16:19:00

A jury in the death penalty murder trial of former Bonanno crime family boss Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano convicted him today of ordering a hit on a mob associate considered to be a renegade.Basciano will now face a possible death penalty - t > read more

Mob boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano found guilty of murder, gangster faces death penalty

Published on 2011-05-16 16:15:00

A federal jury convicted former Bonanno crime boss Vincent Basciano of capital murder Monday - only the second time in 30 years that a Mafioso has faced the death penalty for a gangland rubout.Basciano, 51, must now wait as the jury decides whether > read more

Union whistleblowers: We were beaten and harassed after they accused bosses of looting

Published on 2011-05-15 12:38:00

Sebastian Taravella and Salvatore DiStefano are among several phone company employees who claim they were beaten or threatened. Unionized phone company employees say they were beaten or threatened after they accused their labor > read more

The suffering behind 'Mob Wives' glitz

Published on 2011-05-15 12:35:00

With their fur coats, glitzy bling and expletive-laced tirades, TVs Staten Island-based "Mob Wives" present a loud and tacky picture of life as the spouse or offspring of a criminal. But for four women whose relatives were gunned down by mobsters, > read more

The Long and Frustrating Hunt for One of America's Most Wanted (Psst: He's Not a Terrorist)

Published on 2011-05-14 20:00:00

James Bulger's story reads like the plot of a thousand mobster films. An Irish-American boy grows up in the poor neighborhood of South Boston — Southie — turns to a life of crime and ends up leader of the Irish Mob. Smart, charismatic and gene > read more

Convicted mobster alleges Feds planted biochip on him

Published on 2011-05-14 19:56:00

The story of Vincent Michael Marino, aka Gigi Portalla, is one of drugs, violence, the New England mob -- and on its surface, seemingly wacky allegations of the DEA implanting him with a microchip to track his movements in the 1990s. Marino was a b > read more

AG: Suspect led crime ring’s heroin supply

Published on 2011-05-14 10:45:00

The man who allegedly ran the heroin supply for what the attorney general calls the Rossetti Criminal Organization was held without bail after being arraigned yesterday in Suffolk Superior Court.Prosecutors from Attorney General Martha Coakley’s > read more

Gioeli spilled his guts about the former nun's killing to captain-turned-cooperator Dino (Big Dino) Calabro

Published on 2011-05-14 10:41:00

Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli was more scared of eternal damnation than prison. It's mob retribution on a higher plane: whacking a nun means eternal damnation - or so believed the mobster responsible."I'm going to hell!" accused Colombo > read more

6 Staten Islanders sentenced in wide-ranging mob case

Published on 2011-05-13 18:55:00

Some of the mobsters extorted victims, beating one with a baseball bat and another into unconsciousness. Others loansharked, ran illegal gambling rackets or trafficked in sex involving a 15-year-old girl. Six Staten Islanders were among nine m > read more

East Harlem Rent Tripling, Mob Linked Barber May Have to Close Shop After 60 Years

Published on 2011-05-13 18:48:00

Claudio Caponigro has cut hair in a tiny Manhattan barbershop since the early 1950s, but now his landlord wants him to pay $1650 rent or leave by May 31. For 60 years, Claudio Caponigro’s hole-in-the-wall barbershop on East 116th Street has be > read more

Convicted gangster Emilio Fusco, charged in Adolfo Bruno murder case, being returned to United States

Published on 2011-05-13 18:44:00

Emilio Fusco, a convicted gangster from Longmeadow and the fourth defendant in the Adolfo “Big Al” Bruno case, is en route to the United States after being arrested as a fugitive in southern Italy last summer, according to federal prosecutors. > read more

Murder, the Mob and the new Lady Macca: A father accused of Mafia links and claims of violence and extortion

Published on 2011-05-13 18:41:00

With her understated elegance, independent fortune, aversion to the limelight and no-nonsense job as the vice-president of a large New Jersey trucking company, Nancy Shevell could not be more different from the previous Lady McCartney.But appearan > read more

Nine Gambino Crime Family Members Sentenced in Manhattan Federal Court for Racketeering, Murder Conspiracy, Extortion, Sex Trafficking, and Other Crimes

Published on 2011-05-13 18:28:00

PREET BHARARA, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced the sentencing of nine members and associates of the Gambino organized crime family of La Cosa Nostra (the “Gambino Family”) who were charged, alo > read more

Accused Mob boss feared 'going to hell' for accidental murder of nun...in hit that targeted pornographer

Published on 2011-05-13 18:26:00

How many Hail Marys do you have to say if you kill a nun?Federal prosecutors claim alleged Mafia boss Thomas 'Tommy Shots' Gioeli told a government informant that he feared he was 'going to hell' because he and associates accidentally killed a nun > read more

Levinson: Lohan Probably Out of ‘Gotti’ Project, Producer Refutes

Published on 2011-05-13 18:21:00

The producer of "Gotti" refuted his director's suggestion that Lindsay Lohan may not be cast in the film.In a statement to TheWrap, Marc Fiore said:“Lindsay Lohan is a talented and beautiful actress, she is in the film and will be playing the role > read more

Loyal Gambino mobster gets 8 years behind bars after rejecting FBI offer to turn rat

Published on 2011-05-13 18:19:00

That's what you get for being a stand-up wiseguy. Reputed Gambino crime-family soldier Onofrio "Noel" Modica, who rejected an FBI offer to turn rat, was slapped with an 8 1/3-year sentence yesterday for a slew of crimes that included trying to tamp > read more

Vinny Gorgeous jury asks to review mob hit testimony

Published on 2011-05-13 18:17:00

The jury in the death-penalty murder trial of former Bonanno crime-family boss Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano asked to review more testimony yesterday about an order green-lighting a mob hit. On its third day of deliberations, the panel requeste > read more

Ex-mobster Henry Hill of 'Goodfellas' fame visits Dunedin

Published on 2011-05-13 18:16:00

In one of the first scenes of the biopic movie Goodfellas, real-life mobster Henry Hill visits a Tampa zoo with an associate. They dangle a man upside down over the lions' den and offer him an ultimatum: Pay up or become kitty dinner. The man quick > read more

Saying Farewell to a Gangster of a Bygone Era

Published on 2011-05-10 22:08:00

Mourners after the service for Jimmy McElroy, once the third-ranking person in the Westies, at the Church of the Holy Cross in Manhattan on Tuesday. The man and woman unfolded themselves from a cab at the corner of Ninth Avenue and 42nd Street, th > read more

FBI retirees fight to free John Connolly

Published on 2011-05-10 17:46:00

In March, a three-member panel of state appellate judges ruled against Connolly without issuing a written opinion, and Connolly is now appealing to the Florida Supreme Court."We need to get a good opinion out of that Florida appeals court," said W > read more

Jury deliberates in murder trial of Bonanno mob boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano

Published on 2011-05-10 17:12:00

Undated surveillance photo of mob boss Vincent Basciano, also known as 'Vinny Gorgeous.' A Brooklyn jury has begun deliberating in the capital murder trial of former Bonanno crime boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano.The nearl > read more

Al Pacino and James Toback Sign On for 'Gotti'

Published on 2011-05-10 11:40:00

At this point we're starting to think the film about the making of Gotti will be more interesting than "Gotti: Three Generations" itself.Al Pacino has agreed to co-star ion "Gotti" as Gambino Crime Family member Neil Dellacroce, who served as a m > read more

The Judge and the Wiseguys

Published on 2011-05-10 11:38:00

Broward Circuit Judge Cynthia Imperato made her name as a Mafia fighter. As a former prosecutor and cop, she has both presided over, tried, and investigated high-profile Mob cases. John "Johnny Meatballs" Piteo is an oft-convicted bookmaker with s > read more

Rizzuto mobster denied parole for threatening prison guard

Published on 2011-05-10 11:36:00

Juan Ramon Fernandez, Toronto muscle for Montreal Mafia boss Vito Rizzuto, has been denied parole because he threatened to use his organized crime connections to murder a Kingston prison guard, according to parole documents.“Several correctional > read more

Feds: Reputed NYC mob leader ordered hit

Published on 2011-05-09 23:49:00

Mobster "Vinny Gorgeous" ordered a hit on a disrespectful associate, and the proof is in testimony from former members of his crime family, federal prosecutors said Monday at his murder trial, where a defense attorney argued the mafia is full of > read more

Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano confessed role in murder plot on tape, federal prosecutor says

Published on 2011-05-09 17:22:00

An undated surveillance photo of Vincent Basciano, also known as "Vinny Gorgeous." His mob trial has moved into closing arguments. Former Bonanno boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano's own damning words caught on tape > read more

Manocchio lands big name Boston lawyer

Published on 2011-05-09 12:26:00

The reputed former boss of the Patriarca crime family has landed a well-known Boston criminal defense attorney to represent him in the federal organized crime case. Joseph Balliro and his daughter, Juliane, appeared with Luigi “Baby Shacks” Ma > read more

'Vinny Gorgeous' was a killer who 'ruthlessly' rose through Bonanno ranks: feds

Published on 2011-05-09 11:49:00

Bonanno crime family big Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano is a killer who "ruthlessly" climbed the mob ladder in an effort to gain control, federal prosecutors told a Brooklyn jury today during closing arguments. Basciano, who faces the death pen > read more

No-work and all pay at Ground Zero as rebuilding costs up $96 million under lax union rules

Published on 2011-05-09 10:26:00

In the next three years, no-work jobs could add $96.2 million to the cost of the many World Trade Center rebuilding projectsNo-work jobs in a mob-linked union could add nearly $100 million to the public cost of rebuilding Ground Zero, a new report c > read more

Mob Wives Recap: Junior to the Rescue…AGAIN!

Published on 2011-05-08 21:00:00

“Mob Wives” this evening was all about drama but then when isn’t it? This episode revolves around Renee and what Renee wants and what Renee does…ever the mafia princess and drama queen! First, she finds out that Junior was arrested for gam > read more

Mafia associates fined $1.1M

Published on 2011-05-07 21:54:00

Ten associates of the Rizzuto crime family have been fined a total of $1.1 million for a violent numbers racket that generated millions of dollars in revenues. Investigators busted the mob-backed racket by sneaking into the illegal casino and tapp > read more

Closing Arguments Expected in Basciano Trial

Published on 2011-05-07 12:52:00

After a final flurry of witnesses the previous week, the government and defense are scheduled to begin summations in the capital murder case of Bonanno captain Vincent Basciano on Monday, May 7th, in Brooklyn federal court. Th > read more

UPDATE: Frank "Bobo" Marrapese, Eddie Lato, Others Arrested in Sweep

Published on 2011-05-07 00:44:00

State Police announced Friday the arrests of 24 people, including several well-known organized crime figures, as a result of a six-month wiretap investigation into alleged illegal gambling operations, and other illegal activities. Lt. Col. Raymond > read more

Rhode Island police arrest 24 alleged mobsters, associates

Published on 2011-05-07 00:43:00

State police in Rhode Island arrested two dozen suspected mobsters and their associates Friday following a wiretap investigation into what authorities say was an illegal sports-betting ring.State police on Friday say the people arrested include th > read more

Reputed Montreal mobster sent to jail

Published on 2011-05-07 00:39:00

A man considered by police to be an influential member of a Mafia clan has been sentenced to a three-year prison term for walking around with a pistol during a turbulent time in the city's underworld.Nicola Di Marco, 41, of St. Léonard, was arres > read more

Mobster Restaurants Around the Country

Published on 2011-05-07 00:33:00

Image via WikipediaWhile there is nothing light-hearted about real crime families, TV shows like The Sopranos and countless movies have made loveable characters out mobsters. In reality, "Fat Tony" Rabito probably wouldn't be the best dinner compa > read more

Attorneys for 'Vinny Gorgeous' aim to discredit mobsters who testified against him

Published on 2011-05-07 00:29:00

Defense attorneys representing former Bonanno crime family boss Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano rested their case today, in a strategy that appears to be aimed chiefly at discrediting former mobsters who testified during the trial as government > read more

Mobster 'Vinny Gorgeous' Basciano put contract out on judge in his murder case, witness reveals

Published on 2011-05-07 00:25:00

A defense witness let slip an alleged contract hit involving the judge in the Vinny Gorgeous trial. Former Bonanno boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano once put out a contract to kill the judge currently presiding over his murder tr > read more

Mob investigator bought home across street from mistress of Vinny Gorgeous

Published on 2011-05-06 10:15:00

Bonanno gangster Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano is on trial for murder. A veteran mob investigator had just moved into his new Bronx home when he got the shock of his life - Bonanno gangster Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano's SUV > read more

Mobster Randy Pizzolo predicted his own killing week before hit ordered by Vinny Gorgeous

Published on 2011-05-06 10:11:00

A Bonanno crime family associate who was allegedly rubbed out on boss Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano's orders had confided to his daughter that he believed he was a marked man just one week before he was gunned down. The daughter of deceased Bo > read more

Former Genovese Captain sentenced to 10 years in prison for murder conspiracy

Published on 2011-05-05 15:11:00

Mobster Anthony “Tony D” Palumbo of the Genovese crime family was sentenced Thursday in Manhattan federal court to 10 years in prison for “murder conspiracy” that included a plot to bump off a hitman for the Russian mob.Palumbo, a so > read more

'The Family Corleone': 'Godfather' Prequel By Mario Puzo Set To Become Book

Published on 2011-05-05 09:52:00

Perhaps the most acclaimed and notable set of films of the 20th century, "The Godfather" films told the story of the complicated machinations and drama of the Corleone crime family, jumping from Vito's emigration from Italy to the mad, backstabbin > read more

Vinny Gorgeous bragged about killing Randolph Pizzolo, mob rat testifies

Published on 2011-05-05 08:17:00

Generoso (Jimmy the General) Barbieri (leftt) testified against Vinny Gorgeous (right) Wednesday. A mob rat said Wednesday former Bonanno boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano took credit for killing an associate while gloating over > read more

Move Over Gorgeous, Hello Johnny Bravo

Published on 2011-05-05 01:20:00

Image via WikipediaThere is alot in the papers about Vincent Basciano's trial, much of it old news, with the testimony of Dominick Cicale. But one new factoid from the testimony is the word that Basciano was kn > read more

More Mob Wives drama as cameras capture the moment star finds out her ex-husband is part of FBI crime bust

Published on 2011-05-05 01:14:00

She has already earned a reputation of being a drama queen on an already dramatic show.So there was no doubt that the moment Mob Wives' star Renee Graziano found out her ex-husband had been picked up by the FBI would bring anything less than a mel > read more

Kelly Preston to play Gotti wife in upcoming mob film

Published on 2011-05-04 11:32:00

John Travolta didn't have to look far to get someone to play the wife of former mob boss John Gotti. Kelly Preston, Tavolta's wife, will play the Dapper Don's wife Victoria Gotti in "Gotti: Three Generations" after Lindsay Lohan was tapped to play > read more

7-11 was the signal from the Bonanno hit team that Pizzolo has been gunned down testifies rat

Published on 2011-05-04 11:29:00

He figured face time was better than hard time -- even if it meant watching the Nets. A Bonanno crime-family capo-turned-canary testified yesterday that he sat courtside at a New Jersey Nets home game to establish an alibi during a mob hit he'd order > read more

Gangster was rubbed out after botching work on Vinny Gorgeous' mansion, mob rat testifies

Published on 2011-05-04 11:23:00

Mobster Vinny Gorgeous (right) is accused of ordering the hit on Randolph Pizzolo (left). A young gangster was marked for death after botching work on former Bonanno boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano's waterfront mansio > read more

'Mobwives' Renee Graziano's Father, Anthony a Real Charmer!

Published on 2011-05-03 22:44:00

Anthony "T.G." GrazianoThe Star of VH1's 'Mob Wives' Renee Graziano, is the daughter of the consigliere of the Bonanno Crime Family. Anthony Graziano 70, has spent the last five decades in organized crime. Graziano, has been either conv > read more

Oscar-winning 'Rain Man' filmmaker Barry Levinson takes on John Gotti crime story

Published on 2011-05-03 22:41:00

Image via Wikipedia"Rain Man" director Barry Levinson has signed on to tell a big-screen story about the John Gotti crime family. Academy Award winner Levinson is directing "Gotti: Three Generations," which stars John Travolta as John > read more

Man gets 27 years for fatal shooting outside Hackensack apartment building

Published on 2011-05-03 22:39:00

A parolee who gunned down the son of an alleged mobster outside a Hackensack apartment building four years ago was sentenced to 27 years in prison on Tuesday.“I would have put you away forever,” Superior Court Judge Liliana DeAvila-Silebi told Ro > read more

Appeals court upholds life sentences for ex-Colombo family boss, underling for whacking underboss

Published on 2011-05-03 17:48:00

A U.S. appeals court on Tuesday upheld the convictions of two Colombo family crime bosses jailed for life for the murder of one of their captains in an alleged struggle to control the New York Mafia family.The U.S. 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals denied > read more

Vinny Gorgeous green-lighted rubout of mob associate, ex-Bonanno capo Dominick Cicale testifies

Published on 2011-05-03 10:29:00

Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano (left) with Dominick Cicale in undated photo. An ex-Bonanno capo testified Monday he carried out ex-boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano's order to whack a mob associate.Dominick Cicale put the > read more

Vinny Gorgeous had girlfriend try to seduce me: Rat

Published on 2011-05-02 17:53:00

You’ve heard of the Mafia rub-out. This was the Mafia rub-up. A gangland killer-turned-rat testified in Brooklyn federal court today that Bonanno big Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano once tested his loyalty - by having his girlfriend try to sed > read more

Mob ties to steakhouses revealed

Published on 2011-05-02 06:52:00

Boulder Creek steakhouses are "family" restaurants. The Colombo crime family, that is. Sal Moscato, a founder of the Long Island-based chain, is a Colombo associate, according to testimony in the murder and racketeering trial of underworld kingpin > read more

Searches made in South Philly drug probe

Published on 2011-04-30 17:26:00

Searches Made In Potential Drug Probe: MyFoxPHILLY.comOnly on Fox 29: state investigators swooped down on South Philadelphia on Thursday as allegations surface about drug dealing and possible ties to the local Wiseguys.Agents from the Pennsylvania > read more

Leaked US Cables Reveal Organized Crime Running Amok In Montreal

Published on 2011-04-30 17:24:00

Massive telemarketing fraud. Brazen video piracy using hidden camcorders in theatres. Trafficking of underage girls for exploitation in strip clubs and prostitution rings. Montreal has literally become a "Bangkok of the West," a North American hot > read more

Informant set up deadly stick-up says jailed mobster

Published on 2011-04-30 10:50:00

A jailed gangster claims the case against him is about to collapse because a key informant set up a botched robbery that ended in murder. In court papers filed last night, reputed Gambino crime-family soldier Anthony Moscatiello cited an online new > read more

Marilyn Monroe 'spent her last night with mafia boss Sam Giancana at Frank Sinatra's lodge'

Published on 2011-04-29 21:22:00

Marilyn Monroe spent her last night alive at Frank Sinatra’s lodge with a Mafia boss, according to extraordinary new claims.The Hollywood actress is said to have spent the evening with Sam Giancana after taking the singer’s private jet to Cal-Ne > read more

Feds indict Belleville man for shaking down nonprofit used clothing company

Published on 2011-04-29 12:05:00

Image via WikipediaA Belleville man was indicted by a federal grand jury in Newark last Thursday for allegedly extorting a nonprofit company that collected used clothing from bins in local communities, including Belleville, Kearny and Bloomfield.U.S. > read more

Donald Trump's Mob Ties

Published on 2011-04-28 17:52:00

For years, Donald Trump has boasted that his casinos are free of the taint of organized crime, using this claim to distinguish his gambling ventures from competitors. But Trump's casinos turn out not to be so squeaky clean.One of his prime Atlanti > read more

Mob trial testimony links love child to Anthony LoBianco, former co-owner of Staten Island's Trattoria Romana

Published on 2011-04-28 17:20:00

As a former co-owner, Anthony LoBianco had been a public face for Trattoria Romana, one of Staten Island's most popular and celebrated restaurants. The Dongan Hills Italian eatery has served as the meeting place for a who's who of city, state and > read more

'Vinny Gorgeous' issued no-kissing edict

Published on 2011-04-28 17:15:00

He gave mob smooches the kiss of death. After Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano took control of the Bonanno crime family, he became so paranoid about the government that he ordered his underlings to stop kissing each other on the cheek, a mob asso > read more

Judge rules 'Vinny Gorgeous' can have a cafeteria sandwich for lunch

Published on 2011-04-28 17:11:00

The food fight is over. Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano will be allowed to have a hearty sandwich at lunch, rather than the one slice of bologna the US Marshal had been giving him throughout his murder and racketeeting trial, a federal judge sai > read more

Mobster Vinny Gorgeous gripes over court-issued baloney sandwich, but judge is not biting

Published on 2011-04-28 10:28:00

Giuseppe (Joey) Gambina (left) testified in murder trial of Vinny Gorgeous (right) on Wednesday. Vinny Gorgeous had a question about the baloney sandwich he got in court Wednesday: Where's the beef?The U.S. Marshal Service's rati > read more

Vinny (Gorgeous) Basciano trial: mobsters cough up serious cash for wedding gifts for gangster's son

Published on 2011-04-27 18:22:00

Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano (l.) gave $300 for a wedding gift for fellow gangster Emmanuel (Manny from the Bronx) Guaragna's son. It's a delicate question: What should a gangster give another gangster's son for a wedding gift? > read more

Police: Mobster's friend, neighbor raid Idaho home

Published on 2011-04-27 14:32:00

Burglars targeted the former home of a mobster who hid out in Idaho for more than a decade before his February arrest, authorities say. A friend and neighbor of 42-year-old Enrico Ponzo are each charged with felony conspiracy, burglary and grand th > read more

'Vinny Gorgeous' dressed to impress before being arrested, FBI agent testifies

Published on 2011-04-27 13:21:00

They don't call him "Vinny Gorgeous" for nothing.Acting Bonanno boss Vincent Basciano didn't have too much to say when he was arrested on racketeering charges early on Nov. 19, 2004, according to FBI agent Michael Breslin. But the dapper and alway > read more

Restaurant owner knocked up my wife and paid $50G to live, mobster testifies at Vinny Gorgeous trial

Published on 2011-04-27 06:41:00

Mobster Salvatore Volpe (right) testified in murder trial of Vinny Gorgeous (left) on Tuesday. A saucy Staten Island restaurateur who impregnated a Bonanno crime associate's wife had two choices once word got out about the bun in th > read more

John A. (Junior) Gotti's 'rat' buddy John Alite gets 10-year prison sentence

Published on 2011-04-27 06:39:00

John Alite, who was best friends with John A. (Junior) Gotti before turning government informer, was sentenced to 10 years in prison on Tuesday. John A. (Junior) Gotti's former best friend - and the feds' chief witness agains > read more

Convicted felon charged with ripping off Social Security after falsely claiming respiratory disease

Published on 2011-04-26 14:12:00

A convicted felon who pocketed $326,000 from the ill-fated Deutsche Bank demolition project was charged yesterday with raking in another $139,000 in disability payments - after falsely claiming he was too sick to work.Bruce Greenberg, the brother > read more

It's style first for Vinny Gorgeous: Basciano KOs headphones as secret mob tapes roll in court

Published on 2011-04-26 11:09:00

Mobster Vincent Basciano, also known as 'Vinny Gorgeous,' is on trial for murder. Vinny Gorgeous doesn't do headphones.Mafia boss Vincent Basciano has a solution to the dilemma of wearing clunky headphones over his perfectly c > read more

Wiseguy whacked for finding religion

Published on 2011-04-26 03:07:00

He found God -- and it got him whacked. A Bonanno family capo-turned-canary testified yesterday that a family associate who was the superintendent of deliveries at The New York Post was rubbed out because mobsters feared his born-again devotion wou > read more

Staten Island's 'Mob Wives' F-bomb the 'Family Business,' get show canceled

Published on 2011-04-25 12:39:00

Drita D'avanzo and Renee Graziano of VH-1's "Mob Wives" dropped some major F-bombs on the radio last night, but they're claiming ignorance after getting the show's host fired.D'avanzo told Page 6 that “all day that day, I was doing interviews on > read more

Rumors circulate that Whitey Bulger may be dead

Published on 2011-04-24 17:34:00

Rumors circulate that Whitey Bulger may be dead: MyFoxBOSTON.comIn the last few days, a tantalizing rumor has swept through Boston law enforcement. The rumor was that longtime South Boston fugitive mob boss Whitey Bulger is dead, and that he died o > read more

Once a bookie for the mob, now a man of God

Published on 2011-04-24 12:32:00

Dana Antal placed his trembling hands on the desk as his bookie's enforcer instructed. “He took out a cleaver and said, ‘For every week you don't pay me, I will cut one of your fingers off,'” Antal recalls.He raised the $10,000 he owed and kept > read more

'Baby Shacks' lawyer quits case

Published on 2011-04-23 15:29:00

The attorney for the reputed former boss of the Patriarca crime family has asked the courts to step down from the case, citing an “ethical conflict.” Providence lawyer Mary June Ciresi – who has represented Luigi “Baby Shacks” Manocchio > read more

Historic tour traces steps of mobsters from Little Italy to Williamsburg

Published on 2011-04-23 15:07:00

Find out about the 1928 murder of gambler Arnold Rothstein and other mobsters in a special historic mob tour that starts in Little Italy and ends in Brooklyn. If hunting Easter eggs is too tame, try this: Gangland games and a > read more

FBI pursuing murder case against one-time Genovese boss for hit on son

Published on 2011-04-23 11:13:00

The FBI is pursuing a murder case against one-time Genovese boss Dominick (Quiet Dom) Cirillo for allegedly ordering the Mother's Day murder of his son, the Daily News has learned.Renewed interest in the son's 2004 disappearance follows tesimo > read more

Former NLR alderman gets 4-month prison term for public corruption

Published on 2011-04-22 21:06:00

Former North Little Rock Alderman Cary Gaines was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to four months in prison for conspiring to rig city bids. Former North Little Rock Alderman Cary Gaines talks to reporters outside the federal courthouse in > read more

Tape in Vinny Gorgeous trial reveals mob king Dominick (Quiet Dom) Cirillo OKed his son's murder

Published on 2011-04-22 08:48:00

Dominick (Quiet Dom) Cirillo (in suit) may have given the order to kill his own son, according to a conversation between ex-Bonanno boss Joseph Massino and acting boss Vincent Basciano. > read more

Vinny's defense takes hit

Published on 2011-04-22 08:45:00

You lie, you die! That Mafia rule -- that anyone who lies to the godfather about an ordered murder soon dies -- single-handedly debunks Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano's defense in his ongoing murder trial, turncoat mob boss Joseph "Big Joey" Ma > read more

It's pizza guy to go at court

Published on 2011-04-22 08:44:00

The pizza tosser charged in a mob-linked Brooklyn knife fight was cut loose yesterday because his cases had yet to be presented to a grand jury. Mark Iacono, who owns the renowned Lucali pizzeria in Carroll Gardens, managed to walk out of Brooklyn > read more

Hot-shot pizzeria owner arraigned on attempted murder charge

Published on 2011-04-21 19:18:00

Hot-shot pizzeria owner Mark Iacono was arraigned today on attempted murder charges and released without bail pending a grand jury indictment. The street thug involved in the bloody knife battle with Iacono, mob-linked ex-con Benny Geritano, was i > read more

Carroll Gardens rallies around Mark, but not Benny

Published on 2011-04-21 15:13:00

Carroll Gardens rallied behind big shot pizzaiolo Mark Iacono this week, championing the man — not just his marinara.Last Friday, Iacono, 44, the owner of Lucali, was brutally stabbed in a vicious knife fight with lifelong paisan Benny Geritano, 3 > read more

Feds turned Bonnano boss Massino for 'Vinny Gorgeous' murder rap

Published on 2011-04-21 15:08:00

The site of Bonnano crime family head Joseph Massino's former restaurant, Casablanca, where he ran much of the family's busines Joseph Massino, the Howard Beach Mafia boss who ran operations of the Bonnano crime family often out of a restaurant in M > read more

Pizza rivals' 'lame' game

Published on 2011-04-21 09:37:00

The penitentiary is mightier than the sword. The tough guys charged with attempted murder after knifing each other during a Brooklyn street fight over a woman are now too fragile for jail. Ex-con Benny Geritano, 39, has been arraigned and held in > read more

Lindsay Lohan to play Junior Gotti's wife

Published on 2011-04-20 18:10:00

Lindsay Lohan is joining the big screen Gotti family as the wife of John Gotti Jr. in a biopic of one of New York's most infamous families.She called her casting in "Gotti: Three Generations" a huge honor and told The Associated Press on Wednesday > read more

Lindsay Lohan Dropped From Gotti Biopic

Published on 2011-04-20 15:49:00

Image via WikipediaLindsay Lohan is no longer being considered for a role in the upcoming John Gotti biopic, producers told NewsCore Wednesday. The 24-year-old had been the top pick for the role of Victoria Gotti in the film about the former head o > read more

Reputed mobster Joseph 'Joe the German' Watts gets 13-year max for murder plot, assault conviction

Published on 2011-04-20 15:46:00

Joseph Watts, a longtime associate of the Gambino crime family, was convicted of putting together a hit squad to take out a mob-connected trash hauler in 1989Once a gangster, always a gangster.A trusted henchman of the late John Gotti was hit with > read more

Victim in Mafia murder trial annoyed Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano, tapes reveal

Published on 2011-04-20 06:58:00

NYPD crime scene photo shows Randolph Pizzolo lying dead in Brooklyn street after mob rubout. > read more

'Last' Mafia hangout now dainty tea shop

Published on 2011-04-20 06:56:00

It's the kind of rubout that every pinky-ring-wearing, espresso-sipping mobster would shed a tear over. The Triangle Social Club in Greenwich Village -- an infamous Mafia hangout once run by Genovese crime-family boss Vincent "Chin" Gigante and con > read more

Wiseguy's words of wisdom

Published on 2011-04-20 06:55:00

It could be an instruction manual for ambitious mobsters called "How to Kill Enemies and Influence Wiseguys." Former crime boss-turned-rat Joseph "Big Joey" Massino has done more than just play stoolie at the recent trial of ex-pal and alleged Mafia > read more

VH1's "Mob Wives" Makes an Offer 2.2 Million Viewers Can't Refuse

Published on 2011-04-20 01:07:00

Sunday night’s 8:00 PM* series premiere of “Mob Wives” scored a .9 rating in the key P18-49 demo, marking a 92 percent increase over the network’s year-to-date average primetime rating on Sunday night. The premiere episode brought in 1.4 m > read more

Poll Results: Who will be the next mobster to get indicted?

Published on 2011-04-19 20:25:00

Vincent Badalamenti - Bonanno 32 (11%)Steven Crea - Lucchese 29 (10%)Joseph Ligambi - Philadelphia 107 (37%)John Gambino - > read more

Gotti's plan to whack me

Published on 2011-04-19 09:39:00

The feds saved Joseph “Big Joey” Massino’s life even before he turned rat. The former Bonanno boss testified he would have been whacked if the FBI hadn’t arrested John Gotti in 1990.Only years later did Massino learn that Gotti and Massino > read more

Love triangle spurred pizza slice-up

Published on 2011-04-19 09:36:00

This one's messier than a slice with extra cheese. A paroled night-deposit-box bandit accused hot-shot pizzeria owner Mark Iacono of trying to steal his girl -- sparking the knife fight that left both of them bleeding on a Brooklyn street, a sourc > read more

Mob snitch Howard Santos admits to taping girlfriend and self in sexual act

Published on 2011-04-19 09:33:00

Mob rat Howard Santos was caught on wire admitting he secretly recorded himself and girlfriend having sex but tape ran out as he showed it to buds. A mob snitch who wore a wire for the feds is looking worse than the targets he > read more

At a Mob Trial, Testimony Focuses on the Knife and Fork

Published on 2011-04-19 00:08:00

In 1972, the mobster Joey Gallo was killed as he fled gunmen who found him in Umberto's Clam House in Little Italy. It is no surprise that prodigious helpings of murder, betrayal and honor — or, some might say, the lack thereof — have been on > read more

Mob Boss Testifies Gotti Plotted to Kill Him

Published on 2011-04-19 00:04:00

John J. Gotti plotted with the No. 2 figure in the Bonanno crime family to assassinate Joseph C. Massino, the former Bonanno boss, Mr. Massino testified on Monday. Joseph C. Massino John J. Gotti&nb > read more

Mob Wives gets off to a violent start as bank robber's wife Drita Davanzo chokes Renee Graziano

Published on 2011-04-18 14:45:00

We have had the Real Housewives and seen the children of Orange Country grow up and move to the Hills and onto The City but U.S. reality TV has ventured into the criminal underworld with its latest offering - Mob Wives. The VH1 show, which aired > read more

Nick Cassavetes out as 'Gotti' director: report

Published on 2011-04-18 14:39:00

The movie "Gotti: Three Generations" has found its first casualty. Director Nick Cassavetes has been released from his contract to make the mob flick "due to scheduling conflicts" with another movie, it was reported today. Cassavetes is also commi > read more

Ex-Bonanno mob boss Joseph Massino at Vincent Basciano trial: John Gotti plotted to take me out

Published on 2011-04-18 14:38:00

Bonanno family boss Joseph (Big Joey) Massino (right) is testifiying at the trial of Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano (left). Feeling his oats after taking out his own boss in the Gambino family, the late John Gotti also plotted to t > read more

Brooklyn pizza man charged with attempted murder in street knife fight

Published on 2011-04-18 14:36:00

The famed Brooklyn pizza twirler-to-the-stars who was stabbed in a brutal knife attack was himself charged with attempted murder, authorities said today. Mark Iacono was charged three days after he was knifed Friday by ex-con Benny Geritano on Smit > read more

Bonanno mob boss 'Big Joey' Massino chats with successor 'Vinny Gorgeous' Basciano in jail gossip fest

Published on 2011-04-18 10:10:00

Bonanno family boss Joseph (Big Joey) Massino (right) chatted with successor Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano (left) in jail. The 2005 conversations were recorded.Bad food and bad roomies. Four-letter words and five-towel floods. Magazines, mozzar > read more

In street fight between beloved pizza man and mob associate, something doesn't sit right with locals

Published on 2011-04-17 12:05:00

The police say that pizza maestro Mark Iacono also had a knife when he was repeatedly stabbed on busy Smith St. on Friday afternoon.Longtime residents of Carroll Gardens are universally certain that in the unlikely event the 43-year-old Iacono real > read more

Sliced over dough? Mob goon may have been collecting 'loan' from Brooklyn pizzeria owner

Published on 2011-04-17 11:24:00

Second-generation gangster Benny Geritano may have been doing his half brother's bidding in a bloody street fight with pizza maker Mark Iacono. Mark Iacono's Lucali was closed S > read more

'Mob thug' in pizza man slice says he's the victim

Published on 2011-04-16 15:41:00

The pizza twirler may have put a hole in the bagelmaker. The owner of the famed Brooklyn pizza parlor Lucali, Mark Iacono, 43, who was brutally stabbed with a long kitchen knife in broad daylight yesterday afternoon, will likely also be charged wi > read more

Mark Iacono, pizzeria owner stabbed by mobster friend, faces assault charges for knife fight

Published on 2011-04-16 15:40:00

Mark Iacono inside his famous pizzeria in Brooklyn. > read more

Mountain mobster: Wise guy on the lam hid for years in Poconos

Published on 2011-04-16 12:15:00

Hidden away in the sleepy bedroom community of Milford, Joseph Massino, one of the mob's highest-ranking members, enjoyed weekends at Caesars Pocono Palace and lived for a short time in the gated community of Hemlock Farms while he was on the lam > read more

Boss rat Joseph Massino admits to court that Mafia Commission hasn't met in 25 years

Published on 2011-04-16 11:48:00

Classic scene from "The Godfather" featuring a meeting of the five crime families. > read more

NYC pizzeria stabbing possibly linked to Genovese shakedown

Published on 2011-04-16 01:32:00

A man with a long criminal history was arrested on a charge of first-degree assault Friday in a vicious, broad-daylight stabbing of the owner of a popular Brooklyn pizzeria that is a favorite of foodies and celebrities, police said. Authorities ca > read more

Elderly Mob Associate Charged Again

Published on 2011-04-15 23:14:00

The mob life could land a 78-year-old man in prison for the second time.Prosecutors in Bridgeport say Nicola Melia, a reputed associate of the Gambino crime family, made high-interest "street loans" in Fairfield County and threatened > read more

At Mob Murder Trial, Judge Criticizes Defense Lawyers’ Actions

Published on 2011-04-15 22:33:00

Judge Nicholas G. Garaufis A federal judge in Brooklyn chided defense lawyers on Friday for their actions during the trial of a Mafia boss accused of murder. The trial of the defendant, Vincent Basciano, who is charged with ordering the 2 > read more

Colombo crime family members stage mob protest inside their jail cells

Published on 2011-04-15 14:52:00

They get no respect.The Colombo crime family staged a protest today after its wiseguys were required to wear handcuffs during a hearing inside in Brooklyn federal court."They feel humiliated," Jonathan Marks, an attorney who represents one of the m > read more

Massino saved Vinny Gorgeous from being whacked by the Genovese Family

Published on 2011-04-15 09:45:00

He turned blood into gold. Former Bonanno boss-turned-rat Joseph "Big Joey" Massino's family home in Howard Beach was Queens' answer to Fort Knox. The man known as "The Last Don" had hundreds of gold bars stashed in the basement and millions in cash > read more

Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa begs city to boycott film 'Gotti' & not glorify the family

Published on 2011-04-15 01:32:00

Curtis Sliwa has begged the city in an open letter to deny filming permits for the upcoming Gotti film and not glorify the crime family. Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa is calling on the city to deny permits to the f > read more

Investigation Discovery's series 'I Married a Mobster' chronicles wives, their lives with mob bosses

Published on 2011-04-15 00:41:00

'I Married a Mobster' star Cheryl Caruso's husband was convicted of drug-dealing. Mob wives are a hot property.Just as VH1 is readying the launch of a reality show, "Mob Wives," the Daily News has gotten a first look at In > read more

Ex-Mob Boss Tells Jury, Calmly, About Murders

Published on 2011-04-15 00:25:00

The cross-examination of a Mafia turncoat started quietly and predictably enough on Thursday. Joseph C. Massino, the former boss of the Bonanno crime family, spoke matter-of-factly about having to kill one of his closest associates, simply because > read more

Former Mafia boss testifies in 'Vinny Gorgeous' case that FBI agent was tipster for NY mob

Published on 2011-04-15 00:22:00

Joseph MassinoA former head of the Bonanno organized crime family testified at a murder trial Thursday that a crooked FBI agent tipped off the mob in the early 1980s that he and other gangsters were about to be rounded up.Ex-Bonanno boss Joseph Ma > read more

Joseph Massino, ex-Bonanno crime boss turned mob rat, gave feds $7 million he hid in his attic

Published on 2011-04-14 20:40:00

Former Bonanno boss Joseph Massino paid a fortune to become the highest-ranking turncoat ever in the New York underworld.He revealed Thursday in Brooklyn Federal Court that as part of his deal to turn rat, he gave the feds $7 million hidden in the at > read more

Gotti clan praises John Travolta pick for Dapper Don movie role, endorse Lindsay Lohan for part

Published on 2011-04-14 07:38:00

Frankie Gotti Agnello, grandson of the late mob boss John Gotti, celebrated his 21st birthday in New York Wednesday night with family and friends. The Godfather's grandson wants to be just like him - up to a point.Franki > read more

Interesting points from Joseph Massino's Testimony

Published on 2011-04-13 23:40:00

Massino outside the Toyland Social ClubWhen he testified Monday, Joseph Massino told of a life of crime that began as a teenager. For the entire day, Massino, looking like he put on more weight&n > read more

At a Mafia Murder Trial, a Lesson in Mob Jargon

Published on 2011-04-13 23:27:00

With a clamor of jailyard voices echoing in the background, Joseph C. Massino asked his former crime family subordinate, Vincent Basciano, if he had used two men “to clip Randy.” After a series of expletives, Mr. Basciano responded, “ > read more

VH1's 'Mob Wives' reveals an unusual sisterhood

Published on 2011-04-13 19:05:00

From left, Renee Graziano, Karen Gravano, Drita D'avanzo and Carla Facciolo, from the new reality series, "Mob Wives," are shown in New York. The series premieres Sunday, April 17 on VH-1 Meet four women with family problems:— Renee Graziano's d > read more

Joseph 'Big Joey' Massino recordings reveal delusions of grandeur

Published on 2011-04-13 16:13:00

The Bonnanos think they’re the Corleone family, but not even Mario Puzo could have made up these clowns. Based on recordings former boss-turned-rat Joseph "Big Joey" Massino made of his successor Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano while wearing a > read more

Joseph Massino, ex-Bonanno crime boss, whined about wife to Vincent Basciano during taped talk

Published on 2011-04-13 14:35:00

Prison life was wearing down Joseph Massino, according to federal tapes released in court. > read more

Mob boss confirms hit while wearing wire during prison workout

Published on 2011-04-13 13:46:00

Former Bonnano boss Joseph "Big Joey" Massino wore a wire and got his successor, Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano to talk, while the two stood in separate prison exercise cages six inches apart. Prosecutors read transcripts of the recordings toda > read more

Nomerta! Mafia boss a squealer

Published on 2011-04-13 06:47:00

There isn't a hunk of cheese big enough for this rat. IT'S COME TO THIS: Jailed former Bonanno boss Joseph "Big Joey" Massino is pictured testifying yesterday in Manhattan federal court, fingering his successor, "Vinny Gorgeous" Bascian > read more

Mobster Thomas 'Tommy Shots' Gioeli decides against viewing dad's dead body in parking garage

Published on 2011-04-13 00:57:00

Thomas 'Tommy Shots' Gioeli changed his mind about viewing his father's dead body. A jailed mobster's family put the kibosh Tuesday on an undignified final viewing of his dead dad's body in a musty federal courthouse parking garage. > read more

A High Cost, to Little Effect, for a Window Into the Mob

Published on 2011-04-12 21:30:00

One day, after a bad couple of hours in court, the mob boss Joseph C. Massino turned to the marshals escorting him to a cell. “I would like to see the F.B.I. agents or the prosecutors,” Mr. Massino announced. It was purely logical. A > read more

A Mafia Boss Breaks a Code in Telling All

Published on 2011-04-12 21:28:00

It was a straightforward question, but not one usually answered by the likes of Joseph C. Massino. At least not with such candor. Joseph C. Massino, a former head of the Bonanno crime family, testifed in Brooklyn on Tuesday.The l > read more

Gotti biopic will feature John Travolta, Joe Pesci -- and possibly Lindsay Lohan

Published on 2011-04-12 19:02:00

The Gotti's have welcomed a new member to the family: John Travolta. A movie profiling the family of notorious mob boss John Gotti officially got off the ground today after the film's executive producer announced a star-studded cast, including Tra > read more

Mob Shuts Down Distribution Of Rapper Tony Testa's Music Video

Published on 2011-04-12 15:21:00

Mob-related rapper, Tony Testa, has been getting love from some New York rappers, but it seems as though, his familia don't want their business out there ... and recently asked that his latest music video be pulled from websites. The Italian rappe > read more

Mafia turncoat: Joseph Massino, ex-Bonnano boss, testifies against fellow mobster Vinny Gorgeous

Published on 2011-04-12 15:14:00

Mobster Joseph Massino turned on his fellow mobster Vinny "Gorgeous" Basciano, below, in court today. So much for Omerta.Ex-Bonnano heavyweight Joseph Massino made Mafia history Tuesday, becoming the first crime boss to take the stan > read more

Mobster Joseph "Big Joey" Massino taped Vinny Basciano ordering hit on Randolph Pizzolo

Published on 2011-04-12 11:10:00

The Battle of the Bonnano family bosses kicked off in Brooklyn Federal Court today. Former mob boss Joseph "Big Joey" Massino has started testifying against his successor Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano, who’s on trial for ordering the murder > read more

Thomas (Tommy Shots) Gioeli will have private viewing of deceased father in courthouse garage

Published on 2011-04-12 07:14:00

Thomas (Tommy Shots) Gioeli will pay his last respects to his father in the garage of the Brooklyn Federal Courthouse. His request to attend the funeral was denied. Thomas (Tommy Shots) Gioeli, accused of six murders, includin > read more

My mobster father stopped speaking to us: "Mob Wives" creator

Published on 2011-04-11 22:11:00

The first casualty of VH1's upcoming real ity series "Mob Wives" is already in the books. It's the relationship between Jenn Graziano, the creator of the series that starts Sunday night, and her father, Anthony Graziano, the alleged consigliere of > read more

New York Mob Boss to Testify for the Government

Published on 2011-04-11 22:01:00

When he appeared in a Brooklyn courtroom in 2003, Joseph C. Massino claimed to be a restaurateur and the owner of a catering company. This time, he will offer no such pretense; when he takes the witness stand on Tuesday, he will make history as th > read more

Feds finding it harder and harder to combat escalating presence of Mexican drug cartels in New York

Published on 2011-04-11 11:49:00

Federal officers escort accused drug trafficker and two other alleged drug cartel members in Mexico City in November. New York feds have more than doubled the time spent breaking up the growing network between local gangs a > read more

Massino to Testify!

Published on 2011-04-11 11:48:00

Joseph MassinoJoseph MassinoBasciano Trial Expected To Start This Week: Dust off the copies of "King Of The Godfathers." Federal prosecutors have made it official, what has been an open sec > read more

Drug raid targeted Dominican gang: police

Published on 2011-04-11 11:46:00

Montreal police say the massive raid carried out in and around Montreal on Thursday targeted a criminal organization active within the Dominican community in the US and Canada. Police suspect that the gang has been active for the past 15 years and > read more

'Mob Wives' show far from the Mafia reality

Published on 2011-04-10 15:41:00

They're calling it Mob Wives, although Mob Women might be a better name.The VH1 reality show, which will debut at 8 p.m. next Sunday, features the wives and daughters of wiseguys, including Karen Gravano, whose father, Salvatore "Sammy the Bull" Gr > read more

Judges reject bizarre bail pleas from reputed mob associates

Published on 2011-04-10 11:06:00

Reputed mob associates have been floating whoppers on why they need their bail conditions changed - and it's trying the patience of Brooklyn federal judges, a legal source says.Judges generally grant requests to defendants around this time of > read more

Staten Island TV mob scene

Published on 2011-04-10 10:59:00

Staten Island can't catch a break. The city's most disrespected borough will be taking another beating on April 17 when the reality show "Mob Wives" begins airing. The Post got a sneak peek of the VH1 series, which follows four Richmond County bro > read more

Manocchio files appeal for release

Published on 2011-04-09 22:09:00

The reputed former boss of the Patriarca crime family is looking to the the First Circuit Court of Appeals for help in an effort to spring out of prison while awaiting trial. The attorney for Luigi "Baby Shacks" Manocchio, 83 of Providence, inform > read more

Bosko Radonjic, Gambino Family Ally, Dies at 67

Published on 2011-04-09 22:06:00

Bosko Radonjic, a Serbian nationalist émigré who participated in the bombing of a Yugoslavian diplomat’s home in suburban Chicago in 1975 and who later became an associate of the Gambino crime family boss John Gotti, died on March 31 in Belgrad > read more

Feds reveal former Bonanno Boss Massino to rat out Vinny Gorgeous at trial

Published on 2011-04-09 11:06:00

Ex Bonanno crime boss Joseph Massino will take the stand against his successor Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano, the feds have revealed. The fat man is finally going to sing.The feds revealed Friday that roly-poly former Bonanno cr > read more

Stamford mob figure indicted on extortion charge

Published on 2011-04-07 18:41:00

Two weeks after his arrest on loansharking and extortion charges, longtime reputed Stamford Gambino crime figure Nicola Melia was indicted by a New Haven federal grand jury Wednesday for allegedly collecting high-interest loans by threats of violence > read more

Corrupt contractor praised as 'hero' for cooperating against crooked union leaders

Published on 2011-04-07 12:03:00

A corrupt contractor who ratted out a raft of crooked union officials was spared any jail time this morning by a judge who hailed him as a "hero."James Murray fled to his native Ireland to avoid arrest on fraud and embezzlement charges but later v > read more

FBI reveals details in rapper Notorious B.I.G.'s unsolved death, links to Genovese Crime Family

Published on 2011-04-07 11:56:00

New details have emerged in the murder of rapper Notorious B.I.G., pictured in 1995. > read more

Lindsay Lohan in final talks to play Victoria Gotti in new Gotti movie

Published on 2011-04-07 10:53:00

Let's just hope she doesn't cause a mob scene. Troubled starlet Lindsay Lohan is "on the verge" of signing her first big movie contract following her stint in rehab and could be on her way to playing John Gotti's daughter Victoria in the upcoming > read more

Cops break up Bonanno-linked Queens gambling ring

Published on 2011-04-06 18:20:00

Authorities busted up a Mafia-linked Queens sports gambling ring that used a website and offshore accounts to rack up more than $8 million over the past two-and-a-half years. The Queens district attorney’s organized crime and rackets bureau bust > read more

Judge scolds and punishes racist juror at Vinny Gorgeous death penalty trial

Published on 2011-04-06 16:49:00

An incensed federal judge sentenced a racist Brooklyn woman to indefinite jury duty on Tuesday after she trashed the NYPD and minorities."This is an outrage, and so are you!" Federal Judge Nicholas Garaufis told the woman, holding up her bile-fi > read more

Mob Scene: The Merlino Factor

Published on 2011-04-05 19:51:00

> read more

Vinny Gorgeous enjoys slow pace at death penalty trial

Published on 2011-04-04 20:55:00

Now this is a cell break. Jury selection continues at a snail's pace in the capital-murder mob trial of reputed Bonanno boss Vincent Basciano -- and the well-dressed wiseguy known as "Vinny Gorgeous" seems to relish every moment. A month into the > read more

Lawyer with mobster dad barred from representing accused cop killer, is under investigation

Published on 2011-04-04 18:11:00

Junior Corozzo’s family ties have gotten the mob lawyer into a bind.A Brooklyn federal judge today booted the mob-scion attorney — whose dad is is reputed Gambino consigliere Joseph "Jo Jo" Corozzo and whose uncle Nicholas is a family capo — > read more

Mobsters: Boss of Bosses Charles "Lucky" Luciano

Published on 2011-04-03 15:19:00

> read more

Trial Update: Basciano Still Looking Good

Published on 2011-04-02 22:33:00

Anybody who has read "King of the Godfathers" will note in Chapter 28 how Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano always looked tan and well coiffed. After nearly five years of solitary confinement, Basciano > read more

Fotios and Ty Geas, Arthur Nigro found guilty of murder, extortion, attempted murder, racketeering in Al Bruno murder case

Published on 2011-04-01 16:34:00

After just over five hours of deliberations, a federal jury in lower Manhattan found three defendants accused in the 2003 murders of Adolfo "Big Al" Bruno and street criminal Gary D. Westerman guilty of those slayings, racketeering, extortion, attem > read more

Feds Strike: Ligambi and Merlino taken down; Scarfo Jr. Flips

Published on 2011-04-01 11:48:00

April Fools! > read more

Colombo Mobsters Sentenced on Federal Drug Charges

Published on 2011-03-31 23:50:00

Alleged Cabot mobster George Wylie Thompson and Ralph F. Deleo of Somerville, Mass, were sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Little Rock for their involvement in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy. Christopher Thyer, U.S. attorney for Arkansas > read more

Judge rejects $1 million bond request for mob figure

Published on 2011-03-31 23:48:00

A federal judge rejected a $1 million request to release a reputed Gambino crime family connected loanshark adding that only "24/7 supervision" would protect the public from Nicola Melia. "And that is not possible," said U.S. District Magistrate Ju > read more

Missing Letter Describes Fate of Franzese Surveillance Records From Storied Bank Robbery Trial

Published on 2011-03-31 22:40:00

COSA NOSTRA NEWS EXCLUSIVEA letter from 1976 written by former District Attorney Bennett Cullison Jr. to Michael B. Pollack, attorney for John “Sonny” Franzese following his 50-year conviction in 1970 for “masterminding” a series of bank > read more

Al Bruno murder case goes to jury, with Geas brothers, Artie Nigro facing life sentences

Published on 2011-03-31 20:45:00

After three weeks of testimony in a Western Massachusetts mob murder case, jurors in a federal court in Manhattan began their deliberations just after 3 p.m. on Thursday. Facing life sentences if they are convicted on charges of murder, racketee > read more

Prosecutor's closing argument in Al Bruno murder trial: Geas brothers, Artie Nigro involved in 'epic spasm of violence'

Published on 2011-03-31 09:12:00

Lawyers for three defendants accused in an organized crime murder and racketeering case in lower Manhattan took their parting shots at the prosecution's prime witnesses: government cooperators who admitted to murder and other misdeeds on the stand > read more

John Travolta set for 'Gotti'

Published on 2011-03-30 22:39:00

Image via WikipediaIt's official: John Travolta will portray John Gotti Jr., known as the "Teflon Don," in Fiore Films biopic "Gotti: Three Generations."The indie producer has set an April 12 news conference in New York with Travolta, Gotti's son > read more

Al Bruno murder trial update: Felix Tranghese is cross-examined; expected to be final prosecution witness

Published on 2011-03-29 20:37:00

Western Massachusetts mobster Felix Tranghese underwent cross-examination on Tuesday in the federal court trial involving the murder-for-hire killing of Adolfo “Big Al” Bruno in 2003. Tranghese, 58, of East Longmeadow, is expected to be among > read more

Mob Scene, Wiseguy Out On $1.2 Million Bail

Published on 2011-03-29 17:40:00

Reputed mobster Stephen Depiro, who authorities allege controlled the North Jersey waterfront for the Genovese crime family, was ordered free on $1.2 million bail, weeks after he was arrested in one of the biggest mob roundups in FBI history.  > read more

Mobsters: Mafia Cops: Louis Eppolito and Stephen Caracappa

Published on 2011-03-29 02:16:00

> read more

Mobsters: Colombo Rebel Joseph "Crazy Joey" Gallo

Published on 2011-03-29 02:12:00

> read more

In Al Bruno murder trial testimony, informant Felix Tranghese talks about tough life in Mafia

Published on 2011-03-28 21:36:00

Even being a long-established soldier in the Mafia can be a dicey business with no job security. Longtime allies can order a hole to be dug with plans to have you bumped off after a few misunderstandings. Upstarts outside "the family," despite tim > read more

Car rams café known for Mafia ties

Published on 2011-03-28 17:23:00

A 44-year-old man is likely to face charges of weapons possession and armed assault after a spectacular incident Sunday in which a car was rammed into a St. Michel café known for its underworld ties.Amazingly, none of the four people inside Café > read more

Judge order "Baby Shacks" Manocchio kept behind bars

Published on 2011-03-28 17:15:00

A federal judge on Monday ordered that Luigi "Baby Shacks" Manocchio be kept behind bars, overturning another judge's decision to set him free on bail. U.S. District Judge William Smith said Manocchio, 83, is a flight risk and "no conditions or co > read more

Trial of 3 defendants in murder of Adolfo Bruno enters 3rd week in Manhattan

Published on 2011-03-28 15:00:00

A third defendant turned prosecution witness is expected to testify today as the federal trial stemming from the 2003 murder of mob boss Adolfo Bruno in Springfield, Mass., enters its third week in a Manhattan courtroom. Felix Tranghese, of East Lo > read more

FBI tactics toppling Colombo Family

Published on 2011-03-28 06:56:00

The once-mighty Colombo crime family was brought down by FBI agents equipped with traditional guns and handcuffs and other G-men with even more potent weapons -- psychology and salesmanship, a law-enforcement source told The Post. The dual approac > read more

Mafia 'makes' new members remove clothes for initiation

Published on 2011-03-26 18:16:00

Drop your pants, take the cannoli.The Mafia added a new twist to its initiation ceremony for wiseguy wannabes, a turncoat mobster revealed — if you wanna get your “button,” you’ve gotta get naked.Anthony “Bingy” Arillotta, 42, testified > read more

Mobster As Time Capsule: Ponzo Returns To Mass.

Published on 2011-03-26 18:14:00

A longtime fugitive from charges of attempted murder for the Mafia has been returned to Massachusetts. In U.S. District Court here on Friday, Enrico Ponzo plead not guilty to nine counts of an indictment that was handed down in 1997. He was arrest > read more

Mobster 'The Saint' admits guilt in murder-for-hire case

Published on 2011-03-24 16:46:00

An aging Mafia captain admitted his guilt in a high-profile organized crime case Thursday and signed off on a deal that is being used by prosecutors in another mob extortion case. The deal with the Federal Government near-guarantees St. Laurent wi > read more

Ex-FBI agents insist colleague unfairly convicted

Published on 2011-03-24 16:40:00

FBI Badge and GunMore than 100 former FBI agents, including the one whose undercover work inspired the movie "Donnie Brasco," are fighting for the release of a colleague convicted of corruption and of helping Boston's Irish mob murder a South Flor > read more

Al Bruno murder trial witnesses shed light on last moments of chronic convict Gary Westerman's life

Published on 2011-03-24 10:19:00

Chronic convict Gary D. Westerman showed up to a tiny house in Agawam, Mass., in the dark on Nov. 4, 2003, with a stun gun and a ski mask, expecting to rob the homeowners of marijuana and cash with frequent partners in crime. Instead, Westerman' > read more

Gambino figure accused of extortion

Published on 2011-03-23 23:35:00

A longtime Gambino crime figure from Stamford, who in 1981 found himself in the middle of an international murder-for-hire plot, is under arrest on a loansharking and extortion charge. Nicola Melia, 78, of Brushwood Road, was accused by Assistant U > read more

Admitted hit man Frankie Roche takes witness stand in Al Bruno murder trial

Published on 2011-03-23 21:17:00

Frankie Roche, the admitted hit man in the 2003 murder of mob boss Adolfo "Big Al" Bruno in Springfield, Mass., began testifying late Wednesday on an ongoing trial in federal court - telling jurors that fresh out of prison, he slipped into a crew > read more

Actress from 'The Sopranos' bounced from jury pool at trial of Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano

Published on 2011-03-23 17:46:00

Surveillance photo of Vincent Basciano, also known as 'Vinny Gorgeous' An actress who appeared in "The Sopranos" was whacked from the jury pool for the racketeering trial of Bonanno crime boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano.The w > read more

Mafia meets 'Real Housewives' in VH1 series

Published on 2011-03-23 15:42:00

Look what a punch in the face did for Snooki and MTV's "Jersey Shore" -- imagine what a barroom strangulation is going to do to kick up interest in a new reality series called "Mob Wives." The first preview of "Mob Wives" hit the Web yesterday, inclu > read more

Mob-busting ex-FBI agent Lindley DeVecchio rips Brooklyn DA Charles Hynes' office in new book

Published on 2011-03-23 08:38:00

Former FBI agent Lindley DeVecchio (left) suggests Brooklyn DA Charles Hynes (right) was 'always more interested in publicity than doing his job' in new book. Mob-busting former FBI agent Lindley DeVecchio beat a murder r > read more

Born into the Mob

Published on 2011-03-23 00:41:00

> read more

Defense lawyer needles Mafia turncoat Anthony Arillotta about broken oaths at Al Bruno murder trial

Published on 2011-03-23 00:33:00

A defense lawyer for one of three men accused of being Mafia killers needled the prosecution's star witness, Anthony J. Arillotta, about a growing list of broken oaths during cross-examination on an ongoing mob murder trial in lower Manhattan. On tr > read more

Under cross-examination at Al Bruno murder trial, Anthony Arillotta maintains bland delivery in describing grisly killing

Published on 2011-03-23 00:31:00

Defense lawyers on Monday began trying to chip away at the credibility of former Springfield mob captain Anthony J. Arillotta, the prosecution’s star witness in an ongoing Mafia murder trial in federal court. Arillotta, 42, of Springfield, testif > read more

Mob-linked site manager ruled no-show, non-contracted jobs at 77 Hudson, feds say

Published on 2011-03-22 22:47:00

Jersey City's twin-tower project at 77 Hudson Street provided no-show and non-contracted jobs that cost a concrete company nearly $2.25 million in salary and benefits, the government said today, announcing charges against six people accused of pa > read more

Mafia turncoat Anthony Arillotta to face second day of cross-examination

Published on 2011-03-22 11:53:00

Mafia turncoat Anthony J. Arillotta, of Springfield, will continue with a second day of cross-examination by defense lawyers in an ongoing mob murder trial in Manhattan where he has featured as the foundation of the prosecution's case against two > read more

Mobster Vinny Gorgeous was victim of child abuse, lawyers reveal in gangster's death penalty trial

Published on 2011-03-21 16:18:00

Lawyers for Vincent Basciano, also known as 'Vinny Gorgeous,' claim he was abused as a child. The upcoming death penalty trial of crime boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano may bring to light the gangster's darkest secret - he was t > read more

Vic and Gas: The Iron Fists of Amuso and Casso

Published on 2011-03-21 14:40:00

In the 1980s, two members of New York's Lucchese crime family led a murderous campaign for power. Vittorio 'Little Vic' Amuso and Anthony 'Gaspipe' Casso - also known as Vic and Gas - broke the Mafia's code of honor with their brazen acts. They t > read more

FBI Probed Famous Harlem Politician for alleged bribes from Genovese Captain

Published on 2011-03-21 12:59:00

Famed Harlem politician and businessman Percy Sutton was investigated by the FBI in the 1980s for allegedly taking a bribe from Genovese capo William "Billy the Butcher" Masselli in exchange for city construction contracts, newly released federal fil > read more

Daughter of Sammy Gravano penning book on life in 'Mafia enclave of Staten Island'

Published on 2011-03-21 12:56:00

Sammy GravanoKaren Gravano, the daughter of infamous mob turncoat and former Graniteville resident Sammy (The Bull) Gravano, has landed a book deal to pen a tell-all about "what it was like to grow up in the Mafia enclave of Staten Island," accord > read more

My father was the mafia hitman who killed Jimmy Hoffa

Published on 2011-03-20 14:01:00

Robert De Niro is about to bring the extraordinary story of Frank Sheeran - The Irishman - to the big screen. But his daughter reveals how the man who killed his mentor Jimmy Hoffa was a loving father who kept his gruesome past from his family...When > read more

Poll Results: Do you think we will see the debut of Joseph Massino as a witness in the trial of Vincent Basciano?

Published on 2011-03-19 11:37:00

Joseph Massino Yes: 102 votes - 70%No: 42 votes - 29%Total 144 votes70% of ours readers who voted in our most recent poll think that we will finally see the debut of turncoat Bonanno Family Boss Joseph Massino when he is called as a witness agai > read more

Bonanno Crime Family Boss "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano to argue that murder victim had it coming at upcoming death penalty trial

Published on 2011-03-19 11:25:00

Call it an occupational hazard. Attorneys for Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano want to tell jurors in the mobster's upcoming death-penalty case that the victim of a hit the former Bonanno crime-family boss allegedly ordered put himself in danger > read more

"Pushback" - History of Extortion in Sicily

Published on 2011-03-19 01:38:00

You’re late for an appointment in downtown Palermo. The traffic was insane, the one-way streets ran you in circles, but, at last, you’ve found a space in a dark alley just big enough for your car. As you open the door and step out, a young man > read more

My dad was a secret murderer

Published on 2011-03-18 17:24:00

I was home in Staten Island in the summer of 2000, thumbing through a copy of the New York Post, when I saw an article on Page 24 that caught my eye.“Inmate lookup!” the headline screamed. It said that records of everyone who had ever been imp > read more

Mob Talk: Joey Merlino Is Out, Now What?

Published on 2011-03-18 17:10:00

What does freedom from prison really mean for mob boss Joey Merlino?The 49 year-old, one time leader of the Philadelphia mob was released from Federal prison in Indiana earlier this week. He is now in a halfway house in Florida.Fox 29's > read more

'Ruthless' suspects in Staten Island prescription drug bust preyed on South Shore addicts, authorities allege

Published on 2011-03-18 13:08:00

A band of mob-linked drug dealers turned a Lickety Split ice cream truck into a rolling pharmacy catering to the borough’s painkiller addicts, according to city and state narcotics investigators. After the children got their soft serve, the real > read more

Slow going for Vinny Gorgeous

Published on 2011-03-18 13:01:00

Jury selection in the capital trial of Vincent Basciano is going slowly. Judge Nicholas Garaufis had to pull in an additional 100 potential jurors for screening. So many from the previous batches of ca > read more

Accused mob associate denied bail, ruled danger to the community

Published on 2011-03-18 12:50:00

Accused mob associate held, no bail: wpri.comA reputed mob associate with a lengthy criminal record has been held without bail in a case accusing him of shaking down strip clubs with reputed former mob boss Luigi "Baby Shacks" Manocchio. Richard Bo > read more

Mob Trial Hard to Forget

Published on 2011-03-18 12:48:00

There are trials you don’t forget, especially if they have sex, violence, organized gangsters and great lawyers. The trial of a North Jersey wiseguy reputed to be Joe Pesci’s model for his role in “Goodfellas,’’ was one of them.I di > read more

Testifying at Al Bruno murder trial in New York, Mafia turncoat Anthony Arillotta details cold-blooded murders

Published on 2011-03-18 12:34:00

Mafia turncoat Anthony J. Arillotta took the witness stand for a second day in an ongoing mob murder trial in federal court in lower Manhattan on Thursday, detailing for jurors two cold-blooded murders and a third attempt on a union official’s l > read more

Mitchell Weissman testifies about falling out between Adolfo Bruno and his New York superiors

Published on 2011-03-17 09:44:00

Reformed South Florida mobster Mitchell Weissman told a jury in federal court on Wednesday about the souring of the relationship between Springfield Genovese crime boss Adolfo M. Bruno and his superior in New York, which prosecutors contend fueled > read more

Ex-crime boss Anthony J. Arillotta details rise in Genovese family during trial for 3 defendents in Adolfo Bruno's murder

Published on 2011-03-17 09:40:00

Imprisoned former Springfield organized crime boss Anthony J. Arillotta began absorbing the underworld at a young age. According to testimony in an ongoing mob murder trial in federal court in Manhattan, Arillotta was surrounded by mobsters at his f > read more

Jailed mob boss allegedly hid millions in cash

Published on 2011-03-17 07:39:00

Four years after the Family Secrets mob murder trial in Chicago, federal authorities are still seeking millions of dollars in fines and restitution owed by convicted Outfit bosses. In Wednesday's Intelligence Report: claims that one jailed mob bos > read more

Feds trying to confiscate homes of Bethel and Brookfield alleged drug dealers

Published on 2011-03-17 07:38:00

This is the home on Old Hawleyville Road that Mark Mansa was building in Bethel.Mark Mansa, the alleged leader of a drug ring that is charged with selling steroids and marijuana, was building himself a new home in Bethel that would seem modest by s > read more

Jailed mobsters want iPods to review evidence against them

Published on 2011-03-16 17:17:00

Worst. Playlist. Ever. A dozen reputed mobsters want prison officials to let them have iPods so they can listen to secret government recordings behind bars. Defense lawyers complained today that their clients — busted in January’s massive Mafi > read more

Who Is Running Brooklyn? Find out here...

Published on 2011-03-16 12:35:00

Late this January some 800 federal agents arrested 127 suspected members of the Italian Mafia in one of the largest-ever operations targeting the organization. Attorney General Eric Holder made a trip to Brooklyn to announce the arrests, and the F > read more

Police hunt four men after weapons seizure, with suspected Mafia ties

Published on 2011-03-16 12:15:00

Police hope to identify four men they believe are linked to a large cache of weapons, including automatic firearms and grenades, recently discovered in east-end Montreal.In yet another troubling sign that associates of the Montreal Mafia are heavi > read more

South Florida wiseguy Mitchell Weissman continues testimony in Adolfo Bruno murder trial

Published on 2011-03-16 12:12:00

Vincent GiganteSouth Florida wiseguy Mitchell Weissman, the prosecution's first witness in the Adolfo Bruno murder trial, told jurors on Monday he was a late bloomer in the world of organized crime. The one-time "close-out" merchandise dealer and ma > read more

Al Bruno murder trial prosecutor: Fotios Geas and Ty Geas 'brothers ... killers'

Published on 2011-03-16 12:10:00

Two parallel ascensions to power created a perfect storm of violence in two states, according to a federal prosecutor in a mob murder case that opened in a Manhattan courtroom on Tuesday afternoon. Standing trial for a string of successful and uns > read more

Joey Merlino wants to open restaurant in Florida

Published on 2011-03-15 21:41:00

Former Philadelphia mob boss Joseph "Skinny Joey" Merlino arrived in Florida Tuesday morning to begin a six-month stint in a halfway house.The federal facility, near West Palm Beach, will be home for the charismatic mobster, who is completing a 14- > read more

Joey Merlino leaves prison; heads to Florida

Published on 2011-03-15 09:27:00

The man some call Philadelphia's first celebrity mob boss was released from prison early today. The federal Bureau of Prisons website now states that Joseph "Skinny Joey" Merlino is in transit from an Indiana prison to his new facility, a halfway ho > read more

Jury selection starts in mob trial

Published on 2011-03-15 09:23:00

As jury selection got under way Monday in a federal mob murder and racketeering trial expected to showcase notorious witnesses and misdeeds from the Pioneer Valley, a pool of prospective panelists was whittled down by hardship, biases and religious b > read more

Borders cancels mob book signings after threat

Published on 2011-03-14 20:07:00

Two Chicago area book signings scheduled at Borders Books involving former Chicago mobster Frank Calabrese Jr. were canceled after an anonymous threat, a Borders official said today.“We can confirm that our Oak Brook store received a voice mail > read more

No new trial for alleged mob gunman in Curtis Sliwa shooting: judge

Published on 2011-03-14 17:11:00

Junior GottiThe mob gunman who allegedly tried to silence radio talker Curtis Sliwa was firing blanks when he tried to shoot down his racketeering conviction.A judge today rejected claims from reputed Gambino crime-family associate Michael Yannott > read more

How A Son's Betrayal Brought Down Chicago's Mob

Published on 2011-03-14 11:56:00

Frank CalabreseWhen Frank Calabrese Jr. was a teenager, his father came home one night and took him into the bathroom for a chat."He used to like to talk in the bathroom with the fan going and the water running in case there was any kind of bugs in > read more

The DeMeo Crew coming to the big screen!

Published on 2011-03-14 11:52:00

Roy DeMeoBobby Brown is talking about working on a movie with mob-related rapper Tony Testa. Sources say the film is based on Testa’s Brooklyn family connection to notorious Gambino crime-family members the DeMeo Crew. The DeMeo Crew, > read more

Gangsters line up to testify as Genovese Murder Trial Starts in NYC

Published on 2011-03-14 11:36:00

Federal prosecutors in New York intend to bring in an array of gangsters, hailing from here to South Florida, to outline for jurors in an upcoming mob murder trial the demise of local boss Adolfo “Big Al” Bruno when he fell out of favor with Ge > read more

Mob Talk: Freedom For Joey Merlino

Published on 2011-03-12 15:04:00

A big 49th birthday gift for jailed mob boss Joey Merlino: Freedom!Merlino has been in prison for 12 years out in Terre Haute, Indiana. This weekend, he will be relased.Fox 29's Dave Schratweiser and the Unquirer's George Anastasia have more in > read more

Union Removes Manager because of Mob Ties

Published on 2011-03-12 14:56:00

Ralph Scopo (seen here in a 2005 file photo) was removed from his position as business manager of concrete workers Local 6A because of suspected Colombo family mob ties. Ratted out by mob informants, the boss of a major city > read more

Nothing Personal: Murder of Colombo Associate Larry "Champagne" Carrozza

Published on 2011-03-11 15:02:00

With a penchant for expensive bubbly, Larry 'Champagne' Carrozza is a flashy young gangster who, after years of service to the Colombo crime family, thinks it's high time he became more than just an associate. Eager to prove his loyalty, Larry joi > read more

Stolen cars crushed for cash at scrapyard on Gotti family land

Published on 2011-03-11 07:58:00

An army of crooked tow-truck drivers stole nearly two dozen old vehicles parked on city streets and sold the clunkers as scrap metal to a Queens junkyard that pays rent to reality star Victoria Gotti, authorities said yesterday. The drivers chose > read more

Indicted State Senator Lived Lavish Lifestyle In Home of Former Lucchese Boss

Published on 2011-03-10 22:47:00

In Albany, State Senator Carl Kruger was a canny and influential lawmaker for 16 years, respected for his command of the political currency that matters most: raising and spreading around campaign contributions. The Turano family home in > read more

Idaho Rancher Revealed as Gangster From Boston

Published on 2011-03-10 20:22:00

Enrico M. Ponzo in a 1994 mug shot, and at left in the photograph at right, when he was known as Jeffrey John “Jay” Shaw to his neighbors in Marsing, Idaho. Enrico Ponzo was never a proper mobster, a “made man” in the vernacular of the und > read more

Former Crackhead Prostitute Sentenced to 20 Years for Fingering Wrong Guy In Mob Hit

Published on 2011-03-10 09:40:00

A former crackhead prostitute convicted of fingering the wrong man for a stone-cold mob killer in a Bronx tavern in 1999 was sentenced yesterday to 20 years to life in prison. "No human being should ever die the way my husband did, with his eyes w > read more

Police tight-lipped about 27-year-old mob hit

Published on 2011-03-09 20:13:00

J.P. Maurice measures every answer before he speaks. The Peel homicide detective sergeant is the keeper of murder file 83-055131, the region’s oldest cold case: Toronto mobster Paul Volpe.Although 27 years have passed since Volpe, 55, was found N > read more

Accused of Mob Ties Man Fights To Clear His Name, Company

Published on 2011-03-09 14:58:00

The parcel intercepted at the bustling FedEx Super Hub in Memphis didn’t have the proper paperwork, U.S. Customs officials said. Jerry Marchelletta Jr., president of The Circle Group, was convicted -- along with his father -- of tax fraud > read more

Cash-carrying shoplifter sparks police interest

Published on 2011-03-09 14:56:00

A mysterious man linked to an alleged Mafia boss based in Toronto and who has been jailed because of a shoplifting case in Montreal has organized crime investigators in both cities intrigued.Nicola Cortese, 46, was sentenced yesterday at the Montr > read more

New FBI document details rise of ‘Mutt and Jeff’ inside Chicago mob

Published on 2011-03-08 23:02:00

Michael Sarno (left) and Salvatore Cataudella in an FBI surveillance photo that was introduced at Sarno’s trial last year.On the street, the two friends were known as “Mutt and Jeff,” after the cartoon duo always seen together.Or “The Corsica > read more

$500K Bail Set for Ex. Reputed Mob Boss Luigi Baby Shacks Manocchio

Published on 2011-03-08 22:58:00

$500K bail set for ex. reputed mob boss: wpri.comIn a stunning decision, a federal magistrate judge Tuesday afternoon set bail for former reputed mob boss Luigi "Baby Shacks" Manocchio. U.S. Magistrate Judge David Martin set bail at $500,000 with su > read more

Alleged NJ mob honcho headed home on bail

Published on 2011-03-08 20:19:00

Reputed mobster Stephen Depiro, who authorities allege controlled the North Jersey waterfront for the Genovese crime family, was ordered free on $1.2 million bail Tuesday, six weeks after he was arrested in one of the biggest organized-crime round > read more

Brooklyn DA and feds smoke out mob influences in LIUNA union

Published on 2011-03-07 06:30:00

Brooklyn District Attorney Preet Bharara and feds are trying to shake down LIUNA, a union with longstanding mob ties. Fresh from a record mob takedown, the feds have targeted one of the city's most important construction u > read more

Accused mob hit man Anthony Colandra is a helluva guy, the Rev. Kazimierz Kowalski says

Published on 2011-03-07 06:27:00

Reputed mob hit man Anthony Colandra is charged with lying to the feds when he denied gunning down Colombo soldier John Minerva and Michael Imbergamo. The pastor of an upper East Side church defended his janitor - reputed mob hit m > read more

FBI cuts Mafia Investigators

Published on 2011-03-07 06:24:00

The FBI says it is "Mission Accomplished." But the feds may be going down the same dangerous path that led to the post-9/11 renaissance of New York's Mafia. The New York FBI division, riding a wave of goodwill and big headlines after the largest > read more

Untouchable Bronx hitman faces life in jail after 40 murders

Published on 2011-03-07 06:22:00

A Bronx hit man was once so untouchable that even a rival's hand grenade couldn't harm him. But killer Joseph Meldish has finally been nailed by those he hates most -- people who dare to stand up to him. The 55-year-old thug -- recently convicted of > read more

Judge Nicholas Garaufis Mob Ties

Published on 2011-03-06 23:38:00

Taking time off from crippling New York’s Fire Department, federal Judge Nicholas Garaufis lately has been playing haberdasher to a mobster. Vincent “Vinny Gorgeous” Basciano, a former Bonanno crime-family boss, found himself without a tie a > read more

Judge Allows Alleged Colombo Mobster Out Of House Arrest To Coach Little League

Published on 2011-03-06 11:02:00

Reputed Colombo associate Anthony Colandra is the coach of his son's baseball team. A judge modified his bail terms to allow him to attend games and practices. A judge has gone to bat for a reputed mobster suspected of bei > read more

Alleged Gambino Soldier Buys Queens Restaurant

Published on 2011-03-06 10:59:00

A reputed wiseguy is moving into the White House. Joe Franco, an alleged mobster who was kicked off a city catering contract for financial funny business, is now looking to get back in the game in the White House restaurant in Queens. Franco bough > read more

DreamWorks to make movie of former Newark Cop who infiltrated Genovese Crime Family in late 80s

Published on 2011-03-05 11:42:00

Steven Spielberg's DreamWorks is planning to make a comedy based on the story of former Newark cop Mike Russell,who infiltrated the Jersey mob and secretly filmed them for an HBO show before bringing them down in the late '80s. Russell's investigatio > read more

John Gotti's "Adopted Son" Files Legal Malpractice Suit

Published on 2011-03-05 10:20:00

ewis Kasman, who for years was the right-hand man and "adopted son" to crime boss John Gotti, says the Mafia has nothing on Florida when it comes to stealing money.Now Kasman, who turned government witness and helped indict dozens of organized cri > read more

Informants Testify Against Alleged Bonanno Family Killer In 1992 Slaying

Published on 2011-03-04 08:22:00

Testimony from two flipped mobsters has led to charges in a 20-year-old murder case, newly filed court papers reveal. Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn accuse Bonanno crime-family associate Neil Messina of killing a man in a failed August 1992 home-in > read more

Mob Rat Fears Retaliation From Gambino Family, Asks Judge To Stay In Solitary

Published on 2011-03-04 08:20:00

He'd rather face more time "in the hole" than mob justice. A crook who ratted out one of the late John Gotti's most notoriously ruthless henchman was sentenced yesterday to time served for engineering a botched FedEx truck hijacking. But turncoat > read more

FBI's New York bureau downsizes organized-crime squads two months after historic mob takedown

Published on 2011-03-04 08:11:00

Chart displays breakdown of FBI's massive mob takedown in January. The FBI'S New York bureau has downsized its organized-crime squads just two months after its massive gangster takedown.There had been a separate squad of agents assign > read more

Skinny Joey Merlino Eyes Philly Through Florida?

Published on 2011-03-02 13:07:00

Philly Boss Joe LigambiWHAT'S JOEY gonna do?From the streets of South Philly to the U.S. Attorney's Office overlooking Independence Hall, everyone seems to be chewing over the same question, as former Philadelphia mob boss Joseph "Skinny Joey" Mer > read more

Mobster 'Vinny Gorgeous' calls judge's tie 'lucky'

Published on 2011-03-02 13:01:00

Former Bonanno crime-family boss Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano says his new lucky piece is a necktie that was loaned to him by a federal judge.Appearing this morning in Brooklyn federal court for jury selection in his upcoming capital-murder t > read more

Anonymous Jury In Genovese Family Trial

Published on 2011-03-02 12:31:00

Over objections from defense lawyers in an upcoming organized crime murder trial, a federal judge in New York will allow prosecutors to impanel an anonymous jury starting Tuesday. Attorneys for alleged mob enforcers Fotios “Freddy” Geas, of W > read more

‘Baby Shacks’ faces additional indictment

Published on 2011-03-01 23:07:00

Luigi “Baby Shacks” Manocchio’s brother told the court Tuesday he had no idea what his older sibling did for work, although they are extremely close.“He’s retired, I think,” Dr. Anthony Manocchio, a Johnston obstetrician, said.From what > read more

Dapper Don! Mob boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano needs to borrow tie from judge in court

Published on 2011-03-01 13:16:00

Mob boss Vincent Basciano is infamous ... for his fashion sense. Mob crime boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano had a wardrobe malfunction Tuesday in Brooklyn Federal Court - but the judge bailed him out.Federal Judge Nicholas > read more

Murdered Colombo Family Underboss with his Family

Published on 2011-02-27 17:40:00

Former mob boss William 'Wild Bill' Cutolo enjoyed a more tender life at home with his family. Here, 'Wild Bill' poses with the love of his life, Peggy, at a charity dinner for Battered Women and Children in 1994.Their son, William Jr., carried o > read more

The Mafia Was Wrong: You Can’t Quickly Dissolve a Body in Acid

Published on 2011-02-26 00:27:00

It’s a sad day for aspiring kingpins and Mafia godfathers–it turns out that you can’t dissolve a corpse within minutes by dunking it in sulfuric acid. If that’s not bad enough, scientists have also shown that even if you wait days, acid a > read more

Feds ID New England Mafia Leaders

Published on 2011-02-25 09:48:00

For the first time ever, the federal government is naming who officials believe is running the New England Mafia, and as Fox Undercover earlier reported that leadership team is in Massachusetts. The revelation came out in court documents as the fo > read more

Prosecutors say made members of LCN will testify against Baby Shacks

Published on 2011-02-25 09:45:00

The reputed former boss of New England's Patriarca crime family, Luigi "Baby Shacks" Manocchio, pleaded not guilty Thursday to federal extortion and conspiracy charges. Manocchio, 83, entered his plea before U.S. Magistrate Judge David Martin in f > read more

Kim Kardashian -- Up for Role in New Gotti Flick

Published on 2011-02-25 00:21:00

Kim Kardashian is on the verge of scoring the role of a lifetime ... opposite John Travolta -- as John Gotti's daughter-in-law in the new biopic about the mafioso's life.Sources connected with the movie tell TMZ, Kim recently met with executive pro > read more

Gambino Associate Cops to Extortion Charges; Details Beating For Mob Actor

Published on 2011-02-24 19:08:00

One of the Gambino mob goons used in the savage beating of a man who owed money to a “Sopranos” actor pleaded guilty to extortion charges today. Crime family associate Giovanni “John” Monteleone detailed how he and another Gambino underlin > read more

Reputed Colombo mobster Scott Fappiano released on $1.5 million bail

Published on 2011-02-24 10:05:00

Scott Fappiano is charged with racketeering, robbery, conspiracy and loansharking. A reputed Colombo crime associate was released on $1.5 million bail secured by the Staten Island home he purchased with a seven-figure settlement from > read more

Qaddafi's Son Bankrolls `Mafia Killer' Movie While Father Clings to Power

Published on 2011-02-23 18:16:00

Al-Saadi Qaddafi, the son of Libyan leader Muammar Qaddafi, may manage to keep his Hollywood investment business going even as his father fights off a rebellion at home. Al-Saadi, a 37-year-old former professional soccer player, has invested in a $10 > read more

N.J. judge refuses to dismiss indictment against alleged Bloods member charged in 2007 mob bust

Published on 2011-02-23 18:13:00

Vic Amuso and Anthony CassoA Superior Court judge today refused to dismiss an indictment against an alleged Bloods gang leader who is accused of working with the Lucchese crime family to smuggle drugs and cell phones for fellow inmates at East Jer > read more

Fifteen accused N.J. mob members and associates all plead not guilty in one of largest FBI Mafia takedowns

Published on 2011-02-23 01:46:00

Fifteen New Jersey defendants pleaded not guilty today to racketeering conspiracy and other charges in federal court in Newark.The defendants were arrested in January as part of a massive federal roundup of more than 120 suspects in what authorities > read more

Lawyers wrangle at final pretrial hearing for Fotios Gaes, Ty Gaes and Arthur Nigro, accused in Al Bruno murder

Published on 2011-02-23 01:44:00

When they weren’t serving prison time, local defendants in an upcoming mob murder trial essentially crafted a long-term business around robbing drug dealers, extorting business owners, roughing up rivals and taking out suspected informants, acco > read more

Judge rules Gambino boss to stay in jail until trial

Published on 2011-02-22 19:12:00

A federal judge ruled today that a top Gambino Mafia boss charged in a 30-year-old mob double-murder should remain behind bars until trial, overturning a decision to release him by a lower-ranking jurist. Judge Sandra Townes held that Bartolomeo V > read more

Police lose track of alleged soldier in the mob, until Canadian Tire tussle

Published on 2011-02-22 14:33:00

André Roy, an in-house investigator for Canadian Tire, was scanning images from the store’s live security cameras last November when a customer in the automotive aisle caught his eye. He says the man, dressed head to toe in black, looked left a > read more

New York’s Little Italy, Littler by the Year

Published on 2011-02-22 14:23:00

In 1950, nearly half of the more than 10,000 New Yorkers living in the heart of Little Italy identified as Italian-American. The narrow streets teemed with children and resonated with melodic exchanges in Italian among the one in five residents bo > read more

15 NJ residents in massive mob bust due in court

Published on 2011-02-22 10:01:00

All 15 New Jersey defendants in a recent massive takedown of reputed mob members and associates entered not guilty pleas Tuesday. They were among more than 120 people arrested in January in the roundup across the Northeast. Defense attorneys for eac > read more

Feds to provide 'Gorgeous' his choice of suits

Published on 2011-02-22 09:47:00

He'll be a model prisoner. Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano already has the perfectly coiffed hair, but at his upcoming capital-murder trial, the former Bonanno crime-family boss will also have a personal valet -- courtesy of the US Bureau of Pri > read more

Accused hitman sells cattle for big $

Published on 2011-02-21 16:57:00

When accused Mafia hit man Enrico Ponzo’s 12 cows were sold at an auction last week, they fetched top dollar, the alleged mobster’s former Idaho neighbors told the Herald.“They were in really good shape, and they sold pretty fast,” said K > read more

Mafia actor a remade man after real-life crime

Published on 2011-02-21 16:56:00

Regrets, he's had a few. Anthony Borgese is singing a new tune -- the 72-year-old wiseguy actor who admitted arranging for mobsters to beat up a deadbeat, told The Post in an exclusive interview that he has cast himself in a brand new role, guidin > read more

List of Mafia Rats/Snitches/Informants/Turncoats

Published on 2011-02-20 12:15:00

Bonanno Crime Family - 13 Members who have FlippedGenoroso “Jimmy the General” Barbieri - Soldier/Former Acting CapoPaul Cantarella - SoldierRichard "Shellackhead" Cantarella - Capo/Acting UnderbossDominick Cicale - Soldier/Acting CapoFrank Coppa > read more

Mafia Attire Banned at Feast of San Gennaro

Published on 2011-02-20 10:56:00

It's a clash of cannoli vs. couture. Supporters of Little Italy's famed Feast of San Gennaro -- set to celebrate its 85th year in September -- are fighting a newly passed Community Board 2 resolution urging the city to consider shrinking the boist > read more

Wife of businessman tied to Rizzuto is ambushed

Published on 2011-02-18 15:40:00

Businessman Tony Magi tries to wave away a photographer as he leaves the Montreal courthouse after he was arraigned on weapons charges last September.The wife of Antonio Magi, a business partner of the late Nicolo (Nick) Rizzuto Jr., was reported > read more

Poll Results: Which Mafioso is most likely to get the "death penalty" at their upcoming trial?

Published on 2011-02-17 23:00:00

Vincent Basciano - Bonannos: 120 (34%) Thomas Gioeli - Colombos: 20 (5%) Joel Cacace - Colombos: 36 (10%)None - The Feds are bluffing: 174 (49%)Vincent Basciano350 total loyal readers voted and 174 of them believe that the Federal Government wi > read more

Poll Results: Which Mafioso is most likely to get the "death penalty" at their upcoming trial?

Published on 2011-02-17 23:00:00

Vincent Basciano - Bonannos: 120 (34%) Thomas Gioeli - Colombos: 20 (5%) Joel Cacace - Colombos: 36 (10%)None - The Feds are bluffing: 174 (49%) Vincent Basciano 350 total loyal readers... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website > read more

Magistrate: Dismiss lawsuit in 1964 KKK killings

Published on 2011-02-17 19:56:00

A federal magistrate has recommended the dismissal of a lawsuit in which a reputed Ku Klux Klansman claims the FBI used a mafia hit man to gather information that led to his conviction in the 1964 slayings of three civil rights workers. > read more

Magistrate: Dismiss lawsuit in 1964 KKK killings

Published on 2011-02-17 19:56:00

A federal magistrate has recommended the dismissal of a lawsuit in which a reputed Ku Klux Klansman claims the FBI used a mafia hit man to gather information that led to his conviction in the 1964... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more

Trial Date For Basciano-April 4th

Published on 2011-02-17 18:56:00

The capital trial of Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano is slated to get underway with opening statements on April 4, 2011, Judge Nicholas Garaufis said. Jury selection actually began on February 16th > read more

Trial Date For Basciano-April 4th

Published on 2011-02-17 18:56:00

The capital trial of Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano is slated to get underway with opening statements on April 4, 2011, Judge Nicholas Garaufis said. Jury selection... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my webs > read more

Former Bonanno crime boss Vincent 'Vinny Gorgeous' Basciano can only use paper clips, not staples

Published on 2011-02-17 09:56:00

Former Bonanno crime boss Vincent 'Vinny Gorgeous' Basciano could face the death penalty if convicted of ordering the murder of mob associate Randolph Pizzolo. Vinny Gorgeous got clipped by the feds on Wednesday.Former Bo > read more

Former Bonanno crime boss Vincent 'Vinny Gorgeous' Basciano can only use paper clips, not staples

Published on 2011-02-17 09:56:00

Former Bonanno crime boss Vincent 'Vinny Gorgeous' Basciano could face the death penalty if convicted of ordering the murder of mob associate Randolph Pizzolo. Vinny... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for > read more

Bronx jury convicts gangster of botched hit

Published on 2011-02-16 18:57:00

Amid extra security, a skittish jury today convicted a reputed gangster of a botched mob hit 12 years ago in a Bronx tavern.Jurors said Joseph Meldish, 54, was guilty of gunning down Joey Brown in Frenchy’s Tavern in Throggs Neck in 1999, althoug > read more

Bronx jury convicts gangster of botched hit

Published on 2011-02-16 18:57:00

Amid extra security, a skittish jury today convicted a reputed gangster of a botched mob hit 12 years ago in a Bronx tavern. Jurors said Joseph Meldish, 54, was guilty of gunning down Joey Brown in... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more

Nearly 100 charged, dozens arrested in operation targeting Armenian organized crime

Published on 2011-02-16 12:25:00

Dozens of people were arrested Wednesday morning in a massive operation by federal and local law enforcement authorities targeting Armenian organized crime, particularly members of the powerful street gang Armenian Power. Operation Power Outage in > read more

Nearly 100 charged, dozens arrested in operation targeting Armenian organized crime

Published on 2011-02-16 12:25:00

Dozens of people were arrested Wednesday morning in a massive operation by federal and local law enforcement authorities targeting Armenian organized crime, particularly members of the powerful... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websi > read more

Reputed mob associate from Lodi pleads guity to violating terms of supervised release

Published on 2011-02-16 12:24:00

A reputed mob associate from Lodi pleaded guilty Tuesday to violating the terms of his supervised release and had nearly two years tacked on to a six-year state sentence.Citing a criminal history of more than 20 arrests and 13 convictions, U.S. Di > read more

Reputed mob associate from Lodi pleads guity to violating terms of supervised release

Published on 2011-02-16 12:24:00

A reputed mob associate from Lodi pleaded guilty Tuesday to violating the terms of his supervised release and had nearly two years tacked on to a six-year state sentence. Citing a criminal history... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my we > read more

Mafia Supports Assemblyman Joe Cryan

Published on 2011-02-16 00:00:00

Sam DeCavalcanteIt is uncertain if Mafia members are patriotic, but there is strong evidence to suggest that they like Assemblyman Joe Cryan. Robert Buccino, the chief of detectives at the Union... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websit > read more

Mafia Supports Assemblyman Joe Cryan

Published on 2011-02-16 00:00:00

Sam DecalvacanteIt is uncertain if Mafia members are patriotic, but there is strong evidence to suggest that they like Assemblyman Joe Cryan.Robert Buccino, the chief of detectives at the Union County prosecutor’s office was quoted saying mobsters > read more

Mafia Killed JFK: Says Author

Published on 2011-02-15 23:58:00

Organized crime has long been a staple of the Hollywood film industry. Ketchum resident and author Charles Brandt, 68, knows more than most about the inner workings of the Mafia. One of his... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my web > read more

Mafia Killed JFK: Says Author

Published on 2011-02-15 23:58:00

Organized crime has long been a staple of the Hollywood film industry. Ketchum resident and author Charles Brandt, 68, knows more than most about the inner workings of the Mafia. One of his four books, "I Heard You Paint Houses," will be made > read more

Italy: Assests Worth Over 500 Million Euros Seized From Jailed Mafia Boss

Published on 2011-02-15 23:56:00

Police on Tuesday seized assets worth over 500 million euros from jailed Sicilian mafia boss Lucca Sicula. The assets include real estate, vehicles, current and savings accounts, police... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for fu > read more

Italy: Assests Worth Over 500 Million Euros Seized From Jailed Mafia Boss

Published on 2011-02-15 23:56:00

Police on Tuesday seized assets worth over 500 million euros from jailed Sicilian mafia boss Lucca Sicula. The assets include real estate, vehicles, current and savings accounts, police said.Police impounded the assets on the orders of a court in A > read more

Ray Liotta Joins Cogan's Trade

Published on 2011-02-15 23:54:00

Cover of Cogan's TradeRay Liotta has become the latest to join the high-profile cast of Andrew Dominik's Cogan's Trade. Mark Ruffalo and Javier Bardem were also confirmed as cast members. Ray... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website > read more

Ray Liotta Joins Cogan's Trade

Published on 2011-02-15 23:54:00

Cover of Cogan's TradeRay Liotta has become the latest to join the high-profile cast of Andrew Dominik's Cogan's Trade. Mark Ruffalo and Javier Bardem were also confirmed as cast members.Ray Liotta will play Mark "Markie" Trautmann in Cogan's Trade, > read more

Top Cop Calls Mafia “Patriotic”

Published on 2011-02-15 23:52:00

The chief of detectives at the Union County prosecutor’s office says Mafia members are “patriotic” citizens who “believe in the American way.” Robert Buccino claims that gangsters engaged in loan... [[ This is a content summary only. V > read more

Top Cop Calls Mafia “Patriotic”

Published on 2011-02-15 23:52:00

The chief of detectives at the Union County prosecutor’s office says Mafia members are “patriotic” citizens who “believe in the American way.” Robert Buccino claims that gangsters engaged in loan sharking, extortion, dockworker shakedown > read more

Former murder suspect Armando Rea pleads guilty to using mafia contacts to get union job

Published on 2011-02-15 18:55:00

Armando Rea pictured in November, leaving Federal Court in Brooklyn. A Bonnano crime family soldier took a plea deal today on the eve of his murder conspiracy trial and admitted... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my websi > read more

Former murder suspect Armando Rea pleads guilty to using mafia contacts to get union job

Published on 2011-02-15 18:55:00

Armando Rea pictured in November, leaving Federal Court in Brooklyn. A Bonnano crime family soldier took a plea deal today on the eve of his murder conspiracy trial and admitted shaking down a union local over work at the Javits Con > read more

Mob Scene: Hes Back! Skinny Joey Merlino Out in March

Published on 2011-02-15 01:09:00

[[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] > read more

Mob Scene: Hes Back! Skinny Joey Merlino Out in March

Published on 2011-02-15 01:09:00

> read more

Defense Asks for Mistrial in Bronx Mob Hit Case

Published on 2011-02-14 18:14:00

A lawyer for a man accused of a botched Bronx mob hit demanded a mistrial today when jurors asked that testimony be read back to them in private after being told "the family" would be in the courtroom. Jurors in the case of accused trigger man Jos > read more

Ex-Mafia Boss Vincent Basciano has Meltdown, Disses Judge and Court

Published on 2011-02-14 17:03:00

Former Bonanno crime-family boss Vincent "Vinny Gorgeous" Basciano had a meltdown in court today, shouting at a judge during a court hearing to explain why he's refusing to come to the courthouse to review a questionnaire for potential jurists in > read more

Reputed North Jersey mobster Stephen 'Beach' Depiro a family man of contradictions

Published on 2011-02-14 17:00:00

Stephen "Beach" Depiro has been described by federal authorities as a major player in the New Jersey underworld, a veteran mobster who has risen through the ranks and now oversees the highly lucrative rackets along the North Jersey waterfront.The > read more

10 Classic Crime Movies

Published on 2011-02-13 23:37:00

Vito Corleone The best classic crime movies present masterful criminals and the law enforcement officials who fight to bring them down. These are Oscar-winning movies with some of the best actors of all time directed by some of cinema > read more

Russian Mafia Aided by British Lawyers Spreading Across Police State Britain

Published on 2011-02-13 23:33:00

Whilst the Egyptians celebrate ridding themselves of the mafia dictatorship and its oligarchy that has stolen Egypt's wealth and kept over 90% of the population both poor and enslaved, the people of Britain need to take a close look at what is ta > read more

Court: 'Big John' Bologna had dual role in Adolfo 'Big Al' Bruno murder-for-hire case

Published on 2011-02-13 12:52:00

When a hulking gangster from Bronx, N.Y., began appearing regularly in Springfield during summer 2002, Western Massachusetts mob investigators suspected a few things.“Big John” Bologna was obviously sent by higher-ups in the New York-based Gen > read more

Mob arrests raise issues of crime, port security

Published on 2011-02-13 12:23:00

Law enforcement officials have called the stretch between Port Newark and Newark Liberty International Airport the most dangerous two miles in America. A series of recent court cases shows that despite increased attention on airport security > read more

Guilty pleas unsealed in Al Bruno murder case as trial nears

Published on 2011-02-13 10:51:00

Anthony J. Arillotta pleaded guilty to a litany of crimes including the murder of his predecessor mobster Adolfo “Big Al" Bruno, according to court records recently unsealed in U.S. District Court. It took seven years for law enforcement to charge > read more

All hail the 'Blog-Father': Waiting for trial in 6 murders, 'Tommy Shots' takes to Web

Published on 2011-02-13 10:38:00

Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli, the reputed one-time acting boss of the Columbo Crime Family. Call him the blogging crime boss: Reputed Colombo kingpin Thomas (Tommy Shots) Gioeli has set up a behind-bars blog to portray hims > read more

'Wiseguy' farmed & dangerous

Published on 2011-02-11 06:32:00

To his neighbors, he was Jay Shaw, the guy with the vaguely New York accent. He was known for fixing computers, buying everything with cash, raising cows and knowing how to handle a gun. To the FBI, he was a New England mobster who vanished in 1994 > read more

Imprisoned actor Lillo Brancato beats up inmate who wouldn't cut short phone call

Published on 2011-02-11 06:31:00

He's still a punk. TV tough guy Lillo Brancato whaled on a fellow inmate at an upstate prison because the con wouldn't cut short a phone call to his wife, The Post has learned. The hotheaded "Sopranos" and "A Bronx Tale" actor was waiting the nigh > read more

Who is 'Baby Shacks'? New details on life and times of reputed ex-boss

Published on 2011-02-10 23:21:00

"Baby Shacks." "Baby Shanks." "Baby Face." "The Professor." "The Old Man." Luigi Manocchio has had a lot of alleged nicknames in his eight decades. But federal and state investigators say one moniker stood out from all the rest."The Boss."Last mont > read more

Mafia Exposed -The Boy King

Published on 2011-02-10 22:58:00

With the latest roundup of some 63 mafiosi this week, police forces in Palermo claim victory over the extortion operation in the city’s northern half. The roundup is a sequel of sorts to an earlier raid that caught the most-wanted leader o > read more

Prosecutors to seek death penalty against ex-Colombo mob boss Joel Cacace for murder of NYPD cop

Published on 2011-02-10 22:17:00

Joel Cacace (r.) will face the death penalty in the 1997 murder of Ralph Dols, an NYPD police officer gunned down outside his home. The U.S. attorney general has ordered prosecutors to seek the death penalty against mobster Joel (Jo > read more

Gotti and Travolta, best of friends: The sordid love affair between Hollywood and the mob

Published on 2011-02-10 11:25:00

Cover via AmazonIt's official: The mob owns Hollywood. It's nothing new for films and TV shows to glamorize gangsterism: From "The Godfather" to "The Sopranos," we've long had a love affair with the mob. But with the recent news that John Travolta ha > read more

"Goodfellas" actor admits to role in real life mob beatdown

Published on 2011-02-10 08:01:00

An actor who played mobsters in "GoodFellas" and "The Sopranos" has pleaded guilty to getting too into character. Anthony Borgese -- a Gambino crime-family associate who goes by the stage name "Tony Darrow" -- admitted in Brooklyn federal court yest > read more

Judge again denies Gambino mobster Joseph Lombardi's request to visit his New Jersey 'shelter'

Published on 2011-02-10 07:56:00

Gambino wiseguy Joseph Lombardi (center) leaves Federal Court in Brooklyn on Wednesday, after judge again denied request to visit 'animal shelter' in Old Bridge, N.J. A Gambino gangster who claims he runs an animal rescue shelter ha > read more

Former MRAA chairman accused of mob ties

Published on 2011-02-09 20:10:00

Lucky LucianoThe news that former Marine Retailers Association of America chairman Glenn Mazzella was charged along with 126 others last month as part of a sting against some of the East Coast's most notorious organized crime families seemed to co > read more

The Disappearance of William “Wild Bill” Cutolo

Published on 2011-02-09 16:08:00

This case involves one of those rather rare instances in which murder charges were brought and convictions attained when the victim’s remains had not been found. It is also somewhat unique in that the victim was a powerful organized crime figur > read more

Guilty plea for 'Sopranos' actor Darrow

Published on 2011-02-09 01:18:00

He played a mobster on "The Sopranos," and now a longtime character actor will come face-to-face with real-life justice.Anthony Borgese, who uses the stage name "Tony Darrow," is scheduled to plead guilty today to extortion charges in the savage be > read more

ILA union official, Newark cop and third man indicted in alleged scheme to extort longshoremen

Published on 2011-02-08 18:36:00

Nunzio LaGrasso of Florham Park, Rocco Ferrandino of Lakewood and Alan Marfia of Kenilworth are namedA top official of the International Longshoremen's Association, a Newark police officer and a third man were indicted Tuesday in connection with an > read more

Lucchese thug gets 5 1/2 behind bars for macing and mugging

Published on 2011-02-08 18:28:00

A low-level Lucchese lunkhead was sentenced to 5 1/2 years prison today for the elaborately-staged Macing and mugging of a jilted bachelor who was selling an engagement ring on Craigslist.Ring Worm Gerard DeGerolamo had repeatedly emailed and met > read more

Mobsters such as 'Dirty Danny' and 'Little Robert' take their punishment like (made) men

Published on 2011-02-08 10:41:00

Bonanno soldier Daniel (Dirty Danny) Mongelli is one of the few wiseguys to pay for his life of crime instead of squealing to feds. Mob families are so infested with rats these days it's a wonder there isn't ear-piercing feed > read more

Trial canceled by prosecutors; Thompson faces charges in Boston

Published on 2011-02-07 23:42:00

The third Little Rock trial of an alleged Cabot mobster has been called off after federal prosecutors dismissed the charges.Bookmaker George Wylie Thompson, who prosecutors contend has extensive ties to the Colombo crime family, was set to stand tr > read more

Former N.J. union leader from Clifton gets 33 months in mob scheme

Published on 2011-02-07 18:30:00

A former labor union business manager from Clifton who conspired with reputed organized crime figures to provide jobs to friends and criminal associates was sentenced on Monday to 33 months in prison, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman said.Michael Urg > read more

Mob informer Joseph Barone indicted by feds - and in crosshairs of double-crossed Mafia pals

Published on 2011-02-07 11:54:00

Joseph Barone, an FBI informer for 18 years, moans that now 'even regular people don't want to be around me.' Joseph Barone didn't leave his FBI job after 18 years with a going-away party and a gold watch.The veteran Mafia > read more

DeFilippo Hit Charges In, Judge Andres Charges Out For Baciano

Published on 2011-02-06 13:28:00

In a change of heart, a Brooklyn federal judge has decided to keep prosecutors from introducing evidence of an alleged solicitation to kill assistant U.S. attorney Greg Andres in the upcomi > read more

Gallery takes whack at mobster fashion

Published on 2011-02-06 12:49:00

This is some Cosa Nostra couture. In tandem with Fashion Week, an exhibit opening today at the Mob Scene gallery in Little Italy is putting rare mob wear on display for the average Joe to ogle over. Haute men: Joe "Bananas" Bonanno in a tuxe > read more

Gambino crime family quietly made millions building high-rise condos across NYC

Published on 2011-02-06 12:30:00

The Venetian Condos at 431 Avenue P in Midwood, Brooklyn. > read more

Anthony (Big Anthony) Russo becomes third Colombo capo to roll over to work with feds

Published on 2011-02-05 09:32:00

Dino (Big Dino) Calabro is one of three Colombo wiseguys who have agreed to flip on the mob.A powerful Colombo captain who vowed to find a mob rat and "chop his head off" is cooperating with the feds less than two weeks after his arrest, the > read more

Modern Mobsters Still Follow Dad Into the Mafia

Published on 2011-02-05 09:30:00

The historic mobster roundup that collared more than 120 people in the New York region last month provided a snapshot of the Mafia of today: murder, gambling and extortion; big bosses and small fries; "made guys" and associates. But what it didn't > read more

Rat! Colombo Captain Latest To Turn Federal Informant

Published on 2011-02-04 22:03:00

Anthony "Big Anthony" Russo, a Colombo crime family acting captain, is the latest member of the embattled Mafia organization to switch sides and become a federal informant, a source told the Post.Russo, who has been held behind bars since his arre > read more

As death trial nears, judge deals with mobster Vinny Gorgeous Basciano's list of jailhouse gripes

Published on 2011-02-04 12:20:00

Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano seems to be getting more nervous by the day as his federal death penalty trial nears. Not surprisingly, former Bonanno boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano is getting more high maintenance by the da > read more

New England mob alive and well

Published on 2011-02-04 12:01:00

Mafia investigations still a priority for FBIThe New England mob is alive and well despite the recent arrest of its former boss, state and federal mob investigators say. “When you have the opportunity to take a person off the street who has been > read more

The Russian Mafia Code

Published on 2011-02-04 11:59:00

Like it's American counterpart, the Russian Mafia has a code that all members must follow. They have 18 rules to love by and if you break the rules, the punishment is death.1. The crime family is your new family. Distance yourself from your real fa > read more

Mobsters 'amazed' that reputed Gambino soldier avoided arrest

Published on 2011-02-03 15:14:00

He's probably lucky he got busted.The feds say secret recordings reveal mobsters expressing "amazement" that reputed Gambino crime-family soldier Michael "Roc" Roccaforte avoided prosecution despite years of drug dealing and other crimes."In one > read more

Former Boisbriand mayor arrested in construction probe

Published on 2011-02-03 15:13:00

Seven people, including a former mayor of Boisbriand and a businessman who heads a company that received many contracts from the municipality, were arrested Thursday morning and face 28 criminal charges filed as part of Operation Hammer, an invest > read more

Feds: Mobster dangled mother-in-law from roof

Published on 2011-02-03 09:47:00

Disputes within organized- crime families that are settled through violence are legendary. After all, the most notorious mobster of recent vintage, John Gotti, ascended to the top spot in the Gambino crime family by rubbing out former boss Pa > read more

Bonanno crime family associate sentenced to five years

Published on 2011-02-02 17:00:00

A Bonanno family associate was sentenced to five years in prison for threatening to kill a man who owed a $500,000 loan-sharking debt.James Malpeso, 41, of Staten Island, must also pay $100,000 for restitution and a $50,000 fine.Judge Nicholas Garau > read more

FBI roundup exposes modern-day Mafia

Published on 2011-02-02 15:47:00

Image via WikipediaCrimes include murder, extortion, gambling, drug dealing, and the corruption of labor unions The names have changed, but the games are the same.That's the assessment in law enforcement and underworld circles nearly two weeks a > read more

Tampa's Mob Spots

Published on 2011-02-01 16:19:00

The hidden history of Tampa’s underworld is often intertwined with some of the city’s most cherished landmarks and popular restaurants. Tampa really didn’t have the storefront social clubs popular in cities like Boston and New York City. Bu > read more

Two Lucchese mobsters plead guilty

Published on 2011-02-01 16:11:00

Image via WikipediaTwo Lucchese crime family mobsters pleaded guilty today to federal racketeering charges.Carlo Profeta, a Lucchese acting captain, and Eric Maione, a Lucchese associate, both pleaded guilty in Brooklyn federal court to one count > read more

Montreal homicide victim had close ties to Mafia: cops

Published on 2011-02-01 16:02:00

The city’s latest homicide victim is believed to have had close ties to the highest levels of the Mafia, according to police sources. At first glance, the shooting death of Antonio Di Salvo, 44, appears to be related to ongoing violence wi > read more

Tino Fiumara Escapes the Law, One Final Time

Published on 2011-02-01 10:15:00

By all accounts, the F.B.I.’s concern was clear: Just make sure he’s really dead. Surveillance photo taken in Hoboken, N.J., of (A) Joey Adonis (also known as Joey A) and (B) Tino Fiumara. This unusual directive was inspired > read more

Waterfront Commission left out of January's historic Mafia takedown

Published on 2011-02-01 10:13:00

Kevin McGowan is the Waterfront Commission's former chief of police. The Waterfront Commission, created to root out mob corruption on the docks, was frozen out of last month's historic Mafia takedown, the Daily News has l > read more

HIDDEN HISTORY: Mobsters arrested in Batavia, 1970

Published on 2011-02-01 00:56:00

Batavia is known as a quiet, relatively crime-free community, but for several days in June 1970, the city was the ''Mafia capital'' of upstate New York.It began around lunchtime on Tuesday, June 2 when state police — acting on a telephone tip — r > read more

Gangster to plead guilty for failed 2007 hit on rival

Published on 2011-02-01 00:44:00

Anthony St. Laurent. New England Mafia capo Anthony “The Saint” St. Laurent is scheduled to plead guilty in a Rhode Island court Wednesday to a failed murder-for-hire plot to rub out his reputed underworld rival and fellow made mobster > read more

True Crime: Donnie Brasco

Published on 2011-02-01 00:42:00

> read more

Mobster Made Campaign Contributions

Published on 2011-01-30 15:36:00

A reputed organized crime associate made political campaign contributions to Assemblyman Joe Cryan, whose legislative partner, state Sen. Ray Lesniak, wants to disband the commission created to drive the mob out of the waterfront in the Port of Ne > read more

Investigation Discovery Examines a Colombo Hitman

Published on 2011-01-30 13:04:00

The motive in murder-for-hire plots may vary from case to case, but for the hired hit man it's always business as usual. Plunge into the sinister undertaking of contract killings in NOTHING PERSONAL, Investigation Discovery's new series about maf > read more

The brutal rise and bloody fall of the Colombos

Published on 2011-01-30 12:27:00

Joe Colombo The future of the Colombo crime family -- an 83-year-old operation that once ruled New York's waterfront and has been the most bloodthirsty of the city's five Mafia families -- rests with two little-known brothers-in-law who secretly r > read more

City's five families lacking qualified candidates if charges against goodfellas is any indication

Published on 2011-01-30 12:18:00

In the words of Colombo boss Andrew (Mush) Russo, a goodfella must have brains, be willing to do jail time and be capable of violence.If the charges against dozens of gangsters arrested by the feds in last week's mob sweep are any indication, > read more

Why does it cost $2m to put up a $1m building in New York? The Mafia

Published on 2011-01-29 14:21:00

Until last week, not many people in America had ever heard of Vincenzo Frogiero. But thanks to an FBI indictment, Mr Frogiero has now been immortalised across America by his mobster moniker, 'Vinny Carwash'. An alleged member of the New York City > read more

New witness in '81 mob slays at Qns. bar

Published on 2011-01-29 12:56:00

The feds have a new witness to a 30-year-old mob double-murder that will help them make the case against a top Gambino crime-family boss, prosecutors said yesterday. Bartolomeo Vernace, a Gambino capo who is one of three made men sitting on the cr > read more

Murder, extortion? No, Waterfront Commission probing theft of $2 dollar bottle of iced tea, sausage

Published on 2011-01-28 14:16:00

A suspect swiped a $2 bottle of iced tea and used it to wash down a stolen piece of sausage. On the mobbed-up docks of Bayonne, the six-month probe was known as Operation Missing Link.Its target: A suspect who swiped > read more

Al Bruno murder trial: Ty Geas gets an iPod; judge says both brothers need more library time to research defense

Published on 2011-01-28 00:18:00

A federal judge presiding over an organized crime murder and racketeering case involving two Western Massachusetts defendants threatened on Tuesday to release the men pending trial unless the U.S. Bureau of Prisons boosts their allotment of resear > read more

'Baby Shacks' moved to Miami prison

Published on 2011-01-28 00:16:00

The reputed former boss of the Patriarca crime family has been transferred to a federal prison in Miami Florida, according to the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The Broward County Sheriff's office handed Luigi "Baby Shacks" Manocchio, 83, over to U. > read more

Feds appeal judge's ruling to free high-ranking mobster charged with killing men over spilled drink

Published on 2011-01-27 23:07:00

Bartolemeo Vernace, pictured in 1998, is charged with gunning down two men in 1981. Federal prosecutors are appealing a magistrate judge's decision Thursday to free on bail a high-ranking Gambino gangster charged with killing two me > read more

Ex-mob boss 'Vinny Gorgeous' complains of frightful conditions in his jail cell

Published on 2011-01-27 23:05:00

Vincent Basciano, also known as 'Vinny Gorgeous,' is complaining about his prison conditions. Former Bonanno crime boss Vincent (Vinny Gorgeous) Basciano says conditions are frightful in the terrorist wing of the Metropolitan Correcti > read more

Gotti, Travolta meet over dinner about upcoming mob biopic

Published on 2011-01-27 14:34:00

John “Junior” Gotti had a California-style sit down with actor John Travolta – and he made him an offer he can’t refuse – as the two broke bread at an Italian restaurant. Gotti met with Travolta Wednesday night in an effort to get the “G > read more

Feds: Age didn’t deter mobster suspect Daniel Cilenti, 83

Published on 2011-01-27 09:42:00

When most of his octogenarian compatriots might have long retired, 83-year-old Daniel Cilenti was still hard at work. Too hard, federal prosecutors say.Cilenti, prosecutors say, has been a Genovese family soldier since the Truman administratio > read more

Feds Mob Takedown Includes Union Crooks

Published on 2011-01-26 23:47:00

There are few things quite like a mass arrest to serve as a reminder of the Mafia’s continuing presence in American life. The mob roundup last Thursday morning, the largest in U.S. history, at once underscores the large dent that the Justice Dep > read more

John Travolta reportedly will play John Gotti in film on mob boss - and James Franco may play Jr.

Published on 2011-01-26 20:48:00

John Travolta will play the role of John Gotti in an upcoming film on the legendary mob boss, TMZ.com reported Tuesday.Marty Ingels, the producer of the film based on Gotti's life, told the gossip site that Travolta will play the lead role.Travo > read more

Brother of slain man says he was target of botched hit

Published on 2011-01-26 20:46:00

Joe BonannoThe brother of a man gunned down in an alleged botched mob hit at a Bronx tavern took the stand yesterday to bolster prosecutors’ claims that he was the intended target of the bloody 1999 murder.Thomas Brown, 46, testified that he was > read more

Gambino soldier shook down midtown real estate firm: Feds

Published on 2011-01-26 20:43:00

Deceased Gambino Underboss Neil DellacroceA Gambino crime family soldier charged with shaking down a Manhattan real estate investment firm was released Wednesday on $2 million bail.Anthony Scibelli was indicted last week on racketeering and extorti > read more

Reputed mob hit man Joseph Meldisch walked up, swore & fired away, widow testifies

Published on 2011-01-26 15:16:00

The widow of a Bronx man killed by an accused "ice-hearted" mob hit man gave chilling testimony Tuesday of the gunman's evil act."He walked up to us, pointed the gun and said, 'This is for you, motherf----r,'" Eileen Brown tearfully told jurors > read more

'Godfather' star James Caan, Furio from 'The Sopranos' go to bat for Colombo crime boss

Published on 2011-01-26 06:26:00

A letter of support from "Godfather" actor James Caan - and a cameo appearance by Furio from "The Sopranos" - couldn't persuade a judge Tuesday to release a Colombo crime boss on bail.Lawyers for Andrew (Mush) Russo proposed a bail package valued at > read more

Why the Mafia Still Matters

Published on 2011-01-26 01:37:00

On the same day that federal officials launched their mega-Mafia rollout last week, a handsome silver-haired businessman named Joseph Watts stood before a judge in Manhattan to plead guilty to his own mob crimes. Despite the "biggest-mob-case-ever > read more

Gambino-family mobster Daniel Marino gets five years

Published on 2011-01-25 20:42:00

A dying John Gotti in jail.Murderous reputed mobster Daniel Marino today landed five years behind bars and a $1.25 million forfeiture after pleading guilty to ordering a hit on his own nephew. The alleged Gambino crime-family boss had admitted to > read more

Court Filings Indicate Genovese Family Violence

Published on 2011-01-25 17:20:00

Gary Westerman was lucky until he was fatally shot and buried in an 8-foot grave by traitorous friends in 2003, federal prosecutors say.The ex-convict and brother-in-law to the region’s reputed lead mobster had escaped assassination twice before, > read more

Snitch testifies at mob 'smorgasbord' sentencing

Published on 2011-01-25 17:10:00

Some details on a 2008 mob bust in New Jersey that a prosecutor once called a "smorgasbord of crime" are trickling out in federal court.All 23 people arrested have pleaded guilty to crimes ranging from illegal gambling and extortion to using a fra > read more

Key Colombo Snitches Include Capo, Two Soldiers:Feds

Published on 2011-01-25 17:09:00

Joel Cacacehe feds’ big takedown of the Colombo family leadership last week was aided by key wiseguys turning rat — among them a captain, Dino "Big Dino" Calabro, and two soldiers, Sebastiano "Sebby" Saracino and Joseph "Joey Caves" Competiell > read more

Trial Update: Anonymous Jury Granted in Vincent Basciano Trial

Published on 2011-01-25 01:55:00

Joseph MassinoA Brooklyn federal judge is allowing an anonymous jury in the death penalty trial of Vincent Basciano. Judge Nicholas Garaufis has ruled for the government on that issue. Jury selecti > read more

Leaked NATO Documents Accuse Kosovo PM of Mafia Links

Published on 2011-01-25 01:46:00

Western powers backing Kosovo's government allegedly considered its prime minister, Hashim Thaci, as one of the country's "biggest fish" in organized crime, according to a report in Britain's "The Guardian" newspaper.The newspaper cites leaked NAT > read more

The Mafia and Me: Reflections on Being Italian

Published on 2011-01-25 01:45:00

By Michael Parenti Michael Parenti’s recent books include: "The Face of Imperialism" (Paradigm, April 2011); "God and His Demons"; (Prometheus, 2010); "Democracy for the Few" 9th ed. (Wadsworth, 2010); "Contrary Notions: The Michae > read more

Herhold: The story of a mob-related murder in San Jose

Published on 2011-01-25 01:43:00

A month before I arrived at the Mercury News in 1977, our fair city was convulsed with a killing that shined klieg lights on what had been an open secret: the existence of the Mafia in San Jose. It went down in history as the "cheese case."For th > read more

Accused mobster Anthony Colandra sprung from jail on $500,000 bail

Published on 2011-01-24 21:41:00

A reputed Colombo hit man with friends in divine places was sprung Monday on $500,000 bail yesterday.Anthony Colandra is charged with lying to federal prosecutors when he denied participating in the 1992 murders of mob associates John Minerva and Mic > read more

A former Mafioso’s ‘mob story’

Published on 2011-01-24 16:06:00

“I was bringing 8 to 9 million dollars a week into my operation. I had my own Learjet. I had a helicopter. I had a house in Florida, California and New York. I had 300 crazy guys under me that were willing to do anything I told them to do. “I > read more

Not yet sleeping with the fishes: Where the Mafia goes from here

Published on 2011-01-23 15:08:00

Late Gambino boss John Gotti (left) leaves Queens Criminal Court.Last week's round-up of about 120 suspected members of the Mafia in New York, New Jersey and Rhode Island on allegations ranging from murder to racketeering came as a shock to the pub > read more

Feds: Vernace tied to mob weddings, wakes

Published on 2011-01-23 12:46:00

Reputed Suffern mobster Bartolomeo Vernace was a regular at the Ravenite social club, "Dapper Don" John Gotti's notorious Gambino family headquarters in Queens.And federal prosecutors say Vernace was so entrenched in the Mafia that he was seen at > read more

Tales from the 2011 Mob Busts

Published on 2011-01-23 12:28:00

Mob Tale #1 He’s an octogenarian Genovese soldier who never got a promotion in 64 years, but Daniel “Uncle Danny” Cilenti (left) still strikes fear in the heart of the feds.Prosecutors filed a motion to keep the 83-year-old mobster behind ba > read more

Mafia is like a chronic disease, never cured

Published on 2011-01-23 12:25:00

Is the bust the end of the mafia? Or is it just another p.r. splash for the feds in a meaningless ritual dance between cops and mobsters? Viewed from a historical perspective, it is clear that neither conclusion is true. Rather, last week’s anno > read more

Colombo Crime Family on brink of Mob War

Published on 2011-01-23 12:24:00

Heads will roll. The Colombo crime family rats whose taped conversations led to last week’s massive federal bust of 127 gangsters will likely touch off a bloodbath in the family to avenge the betrayal.“I think they’re going to kill people, b > read more

Dapperless Dons

Published on 2011-01-23 12:18:00

Forget the slammer — march them to the tailor.The sweep of 127 reputed mobsters on Thursday was a fashion bloodbath, with the washed-up wiseguys dragged off by the feds in sorry sweatshirts, loose jeans and tawdry tracksuits.“This is the worst > read more

Mobsters: Bonanno Boss/Turncoat Joseph "Big Joey" Massino

Published on 2011-01-23 00:13:00

> read more

Bonanno Hitman Turned Rat Sentenced To Extra Time For Pizzeria Fracas

Published on 2011-01-22 17:08:00

An ex-Mafia hitman who once ran the defunct Goomba's Pizzeria in Palm Coast was sentenced Thursday to another three years in prison on top of the 10 years he must already serve, closing the cases against the man dubbed the "calzone mobster."Joseph > read more

Structure Keeps Mafia Atop Crime Heap

Published on 2011-01-22 14:45:00

Over the past three decades, Russian mobsters, Chinese gangsters, Mexican cartels and a host of other groups have all grabbed slices of the criminal activity traditionally dominated by the mafia.But none have come close to exerting the kind of wid > read more

What to Expect of Mob Arrests? ’08 Roundup May Hold Clues

Published on 2011-01-22 14:33:00

Given that hundreds of local, state and federal law-enforcement officers fanned across the region this week, arresting 125 reputed mobsters on a buffet table’s worth of charges that included money laundering, extortion and murder, the events of > read more

Catherine Godkin experiences joy at last following arrest of husband's mobbed-up killer

Published on 2011-01-22 13:49:00

Catherine Godkin was watching the news Thursday morning when she heard something she had thought impossible: U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder announced that the feds had arrested the man who killed her husband 30 years ago.Bartolemeo Vernace, a Gamb > read more

Call him a tan-fella! Mob suspect misses big bust on vacation in sunny Hawaii

Published on 2011-01-22 13:48:00

The Feds have a message for reputed Gambino associate Kevin Croce, who's on vacation in sunny Hawaii: Wish you were here.The temperature in Honolulu was 82 degrees Friday, but it's a lot hotter in New York City, where Croce was indicted on drug- > read more

Colombos, Gambinos Clashed Over Stabbed Associate's Medical Bills

Published on 2011-01-22 01:27:00

You know who needs ObamaCare? Mobsters. Tucked deep within a mountain of papers detailing the biggest Mafia bust in history is a strange but true tale of how one organized crime family shook down another -- over a wiseguy's medical bills. The Colo > read more

Shamrock Bar killings key factor in Mafia arrests

Published on 2011-01-21 15:33:00

The arrests of 127 suspected Mafia leaders throughout the New York and Tri State area has once again focused attention on one of the most notorious killings by the mafia of the last 30 years which is mentioned prominently in the indictments.That w > read more

Gambinos and Colombos Besieged By Rats

Published on 2011-01-21 15:18:00

Even Michael Corleone never took out this many members of the Five Families. Federal agents in New York pulled off the biggest one-day Mafia roundup in US history yesterday, simultaneously bringing the hammer down on more than 120 reputed wiseguys > read more

Northeast Mafia Crackdown Charges 127 In NY, NJ, New England

Published on 2011-01-21 15:13:00

For nearly 30 years, federal authorities say, reputed gangster Bartolomeo Vernace got away with murder.They say the bloodshed -- a double slaying at the Shamrock Bar in Queens -- was all over a spilled drink.Vernace's luck ran out Thursday when he wa > read more

Madam for mob-run hooker ring sentenced to nine months house arrest

Published on 2011-01-21 14:54:00

No Client 9 arguments, please.A Brooklyn woman who arranged appointments for a mob-run prostitution ring was sentenced to nine months under house arrest this morning by a judge who rejected comparisons to ex-Gov. Eliot Spitzer's call-girl scandal. > read more

Freed from jail thanks to DNA evidence, Scott Fappiano back in slammer after massive FBI Mafia bust

Published on 2011-01-21 13:44:00

A Staten Island man who pocketed a $2 million settlement from the state after DNA evidence got his conviction on charges he raped a cop's wife tossed - was swept up in Thursday's arrests.Scott Fappiano, 48, who served 21 years in prison still has > read more

'Sopranos'-style video shoot

Published on 2011-01-21 11:59:00

"Sopranos" star Vincent Pastore and mob-related rapper Tony Testa got into a wild, name-calling dust-up during a video shoot for Testa's new record. A nephew of jailed mob boss Joseph Carmine Testa told us he had a fight with Pastore after the actor > read more

Massive FBI Mafia bust: Organized crime still has firm grip on unions, even at Ground Zero

Published on 2011-01-21 11:47:00

The massive mob takedown shows organized crime's grip on unions is virtually unbroken - even at Ground Zero - despite decades of prosecutions.Exhibit A: Ralph Scopo Jr.Scopo, who pleaded guilty to extortion in 2005, inherited leadership of concre > read more

2011 Mafia Bust Videos

Published on 2011-01-20 21:50:00

> read more

Kennedy and the Mafia, an enduring fascination

Published on 2011-01-20 21:28:00

It is ironic that on the 50th anniversary of John F. Kennedy’s first (and only) inaugural speech, the FBI rounds up more than 100 mobsters in a sweep of arrests on the East Coast. Handout photo > read more

Springfield Man Arrested for Alleged Mob Connections

Published on 2011-01-20 21:27:00

A Springfield man was among the 17 New Jersey residents arrested today as part of a Federal sweep of the members and associates of the Genovese crime family. The U.S. Attorney’s office has accused Richard “Dickie” Dehmer, 75, of running an i > read more

Quiet Kenilworth neighborhood sees arrest of soldier in the Genovese crime family, three others in organized crime sweep

Published on 2011-01-20 21:26:00

In the pre-dawn hours on a quiet residential street, just blocks from a high school and Catholic church, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents arrested a borough man accused of being a soldier in the Genovese organized crime family as part > read more

Seven Union County Residents Charged in 'Largest Mob Takedown in U.S. History'

Published on 2011-01-20 21:25:00

Indictments were unsealed Thursday against 18 New Jersey residents on charges that include racketeering, extortion and illegal gambling, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Newark announced. The case centers on mob control of the International L > read more

They Call It RICO, and It Is Sweeping

Published on 2011-01-20 16:19:00

Thursday's big takedown of alleged mobsters highlights one of the nation's most powerful and sweeping laws: the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act.Now in its 41st year, RICO was passed in 1970 to pursue the Mafia as a whole, tying > read more

Mob Captain Cops Plea as Feds Take Down 7 Crime Families

Published on 2011-01-20 16:15:00

A senior mob member pleaded guilty on Thursday for playing a role in a murder ordered by John Gotti, an acting boss of the Gambino crime family, federal prosecutors in Manhattan announced. Joseph Watts was never forma > read more

Mob’s Waterfront Extortion: A Christmas Tradition

Published on 2011-01-20 16:13:00

The indictment filed against more than 100 alleged mobsters arrested in a three-state sweep Thursday morning describes a scam used on the New York and New Jersey waterfront.Three accused Cosa Nostra members would turn up before Christmas, when worke > read more

Feds Tail Mobsters to Mob Induction Ceremony, Bosses Cancel Event

Published on 2011-01-20 16:06:00

"Court papers revealed the Colombo family was especially riddled with rats, to the point that the feds nearly infiltrated a secretive mob induction ceremony for four wannabe wiseguys last month.The feds were undone when the mobsters made the G-men > read more

2011 Mafia Arrest Takedown Chart

Published on 2011-01-20 16:04:00

Heres the rundown:No made guys from the Lucchese (1 Associate) or Bonanno's (3 Associates) was taken down. 2 Genovese Soldiers, 2 Decalvacante Soldiers, from the Gambinos Bobby Vernace (Ruling Panel), Joseph Corozzo (Consiglieri), Luis Mastrangelo > read more

The 'Saint' To Plead Guilty in 2 Cases

Published on 2011-01-19 16:10:00

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Reputed mobster Anthony "The Saint" St. Laurent has agreed to plead guilty to extortion and murder-for-hire charges, according to documents filed Wednesday in federal court and obtained by Target 12.St. Laurent is facing > read more

Crime Rife In Quebec Construction Industry: Union

Published on 2011-01-19 16:10:00

Organized crime has infiltrated every level of the construction industry in Quebec, according to the head of the construction wing of the Quebec Federation of Labour.Yves Mercure said Tuesday that only a public inquiry can solve the problem, and h > read more

Sentenced at 93, Mob Underboss Was Wiseguy's Wiseguy

Published on 2011-01-19 13:50:00

The story line of Colombo family underboss John "Sonny" Franzese, 93, of New York reads something like this: He knew Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. He got booted from the Army in World War II for displaying homicidal tendencies. His son testifi > read more

Trial Update: Feds Want to Use DeFillippo Murder Conspiracy Evidence

Published on 2011-01-18 15:56:00

Joseph MassinoAs described in King of The Godfathers, p. 302, both Vincent Basciano and Patty DeFillippo were convicted of racketeering in a federal trial in 2006. The book describes DeFil > read more

Gambino Capo Greg DePalma's Son Craig Dies At 44 After Eight Years In Coma

Published on 2011-01-17 13:14:00

Gambino mobster Craig DePalma died last month in a nursing home where he spent eight years in a coma after a failed jailhouse suicide - ending one of the strangest tales in Mafia history.Even though DePalma, 44, had tried to hang himself afte > read more

Poll Results: Which Mafia Family Has Had The Toughest 2010?

Published on 2011-01-16 15:53:00

Family # of Votes Percentage Gambino Crime Family: 122 &n > read more

Gambino Associate Gets 21 Months For Driving Call Girls To "Dates"

Published on 2011-01-15 15:31:00

Driving hookers around for the mob got this guy a free ride to the slammer. Steve Mauirro, 32, was sentenced yesterday to 21 months for sex-trafficking charges tied to a call-girl operation run by the Gambino crime family. The high-school dropout a > read more

FBI Seizes Mafia Photo From Famous Italian Eatery Rao's

Published on 2011-01-15 14:34:00

There is a story behind every photograph that goes up on the walls at Rao’s, that uniquely New York restaurant where celebrities, mobsters, politicians and judges have crossed paths for generations. Rao’s, at 455 East 114th Street in Harlem, > read more

Living Legend: 93 Year Old Colombo Underboss John "Sonny" Franzese Sentenced To 8 Years In Federal Prison For Shaking Down Stip Clubs, Pizzeria

Published on 2011-01-14 17:34:00

Convicted mob boss John "Sonny" Franzese is so old, he knew Frank Sinatra in his heyday. He's so old, his recent extortion trial became nap time — even when his turncoat son took the witness stand against him.But a federal judge decided Friday t > read more

John "Sonny" Franzese's Estranged Wife Begs For Mercy, But Kin Say He Is Happier In Jail

Published on 2011-01-14 17:33:00

The estranged wife of 93-year-old mobster John (Sonny) Franzese is pleading for mercy on his behalf, telling a judge they're "in love."The romantic bliss may be news to Franzese, whose granddaughter said he is happier in jail than at home with his wi > read more

Lucchese Associate convicted after robbing engagement ring from Craigslist man

Published on 2011-01-14 17:29:00

A small-time Lucchese-linked thug was convicted of robbery today for macing and mugging a jilted salesman who'd posted an ad for his fiance's $30,000 engagement ring on Craigslist.Ring worm Gerard DeGeralomo was convicted after less than a day of > read more

Trial Update: Feds Allowed To Use Certain Evidence, Denied Other Against Basciano

Published on 2011-01-13 20:09:00

Sal Vitale, Frank Santoro, Greg Andres. Those are names familiar to anyone who is a fan of "King Of The Godfathers" as they show up in the narrative of the Bonanno crime family story. Now, f > read more

U.S. Assesses Italy's Four Mafia Groups

Published on 2011-01-13 14:45:00

Wikileaks has released a series of U.S. State Department cables from 2007 through 2009 which provide its assessment of Italy's four principal organized crime groups identified as Cosa Nostra or the Sicilian Mafia, the Camorra or Nea > read more

U.S. Says Italian Leaders Must Do More to Combat Mafia, Wikileaks Shows

Published on 2011-01-13 14:44:00

Italy’s politicians and Catholic Church are not doing enough to fight the Sicilian Mafia and the country’s other crime groups, according to a classified U.S. diplomatic cable posted by the website WikiLeaks. “Politicians are not too focused on > read more

Top Ten Union Corruption Stories of 2010

Published on 2011-01-13 14:42:00

Organized labor, masters of aggressive politics, had its share of triumphs in 2010. With Democrats having taken control of the White House and both houses of Congress in 2009, this was to be expected. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka and other uni > read more

Leonardo DiCaprio Will Star As J. Edgar Hoover In Upcoming Clint Eastwood Film

Published on 2011-01-12 14:46:00

Leonardo DiCaprio will star as controversial former FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover in a new film by Clint Eastwood that will open later this year. However, some are unhappy that the film will depict a claimed gay affair between Hoover and Associate > read more

Israel hands organized crime suspects over to U.S.

Published on 2011-01-12 14:25:00

Suspected organized crime figures Meir and Yitzhak Abergil boarded a U.S. federal plane on Wednesday headed for the United States, more than two years after the first request for their extradition. If convicted and sentenced to jail, however, they > read more

Gambino Soldier Pleads Not Guilty To Junior Gotti Witness Tampering Charges

Published on 2011-01-12 03:27:00

Junior GottiReputed Gambino soldier Angelo S. "Junior" Ruggiero, 39, a second-generation mobster, pleaded not guilty at his arraignment hearing in Brooklyn federal court yesterday on witness-tampering charges linked to the murder and racketeering > read more

Book Review: Surviving The Mob by Dennis N. Griffin and Andrew DiDonato

Published on 2011-01-11 19:40:00

by Simon BarrettA Street Soldiers Life Inside The Gambino Crime FamilyI have been salivating over the release of this book for months. I was given a glimpse at an early draft and have been eagerly waiting for it to hit the book stores. That happene > read more

Genovese Soldier And Others Indicted On Charges Of Money Laundering, Extortion At Waterfront

Published on 2011-01-11 12:31:00

In an ongoing crackdown on organized crime on the waterfront, a Wall Township couple and a Newark man have been indicted on state charges, including money laundering and tax evasion.The nine-count indictment, unsealed today in Superior Court in Tr > read more

Colombo crime associate Joseph DiGorga gets jail time in strip club shakedown

Published on 2011-01-11 12:28:00

Colombo crime associate Joseph DiGorga was sentenced Monday to 51 months in prison for shaking down the Hustler and Penthouse strip joints in midtown.The Hustler club was forced to hire DiGorga, 70, as a $2,000-a-month "consultant" under a 10 > read more

Mob lawyer cleared in marijuana case, scores plea deal for Gambino family client

Published on 2011-01-11 00:20:00

A mob lawyer nabbed for bringing marijuana into a federal lockup had a double dose of good news Monday: he was cleared in the pot case - and scored a plea deal for his Gambino family client.Attorney Seth Ginsberg was caught Oct. 12 with reefer in h > read more

First dumped, then Maced; Craigslist user testifies of Village engagement ring heist

Published on 2011-01-10 18:21:00

Jilted and heartsick two years ago, all salesman David Cushman wanted was to sell his ex-fiance's $30,000 engagement ring on Craigslist and move on with his life.Instead, he told a Manhattan jury today, he wound up Maced in the face in a Christoph > read more

Guilty Pleas From Last Two Defendants In Gambino Round-Up

Published on 2011-01-10 17:40:00

Two mob goons pleaded guilty this afternoon to charges that they viciously beat deadbeat gamblers during what prosecutors called a "staggering" spree of crimes.Reputed Gambino crime-family soldier Thomas Orefice and the alleged right-hand man in h > read more

How Much Do You Weigh? Mob Has-Been Carmine Agnello Blows Fuse After Park Ranger's Question

Published on 2011-01-10 15:40:00

He will forever be known as the former son-in-law of the late John Gotti and ex-husband to mob princess Victoria Gotti.Just don't call Carmine Agnello a fatso.A park ranger in Ohio learned the hard way how touchy Agnello is about his portly sta > read more

Haulers, Mob Have Long History

Published on 2011-01-10 03:55:00

In New York City, they torched a rival's truck when it ventured into the wrong territory.In Westchester County, N.Y., they were accused of rigging prices for garbage pick-up and holding backroom meetings to carve out routes, making it impossible f > read more

Rizzuto's Death Cold Revenge?

Published on 2011-01-09 20:35:00

From left: Nick Rizzuto Jr.; his father Vito Rizzuto, the reputed 'godfather' of the Montreal Mafia; and his grandfather Nicolo Rizzuto. Nick Rizzuto Jr. was shot dead in the Montreal borough of N.D.G. on Dec. 28, 2009, in a gangland-style hit.The > read more

FBI Closing In On Irish Mob Boss "Whitey" Bulger

Published on 2011-01-09 20:27:00

THE FBI says it is closing in on an Irish American gangster with ties to Dublin.James "Whitey" Bulger has been on the run for 16 years and is the most wanted man in America.Bulger (81) has been on the FBI's Most Wanted List since 1999 and carries a > read more

Notorious: Mob Rats!

Published on 2011-01-07 15:58:00

> read more

Mobsters: Lucchese Family Boss/Underboss/Informant Anthony "Gaspipe" Casso

Published on 2011-01-07 15:57:00

> read more

3 Charged In Rizzuto-Owned Funeral Home Firebombing

Published on 2011-01-07 14:16:00

Three men have been charged with conspiracy and arson after a funeral home owned by the Rizzuto family was firebombed in east-end Montreal. Sounthone Chareunsouk, 30, Julien Bourassa-Richer, 27, and Alexandre Toualy, 28, all face four charges in co > read more

Gambino's Hooker Booker Cites Spitzer Case Sentences

Published on 2011-01-07 14:14:00

She should have been booking hookers for Client 9. A Brooklyn woman who answered the phone for a mob-run prostitution ring complained yesterday that she could end up doing more time than the women who arranged former Gov. Eliot Spitzer's call-girl > read more

Charles "Lucky" Luciano A Fake Mobster?

Published on 2011-01-06 18:39:00

Author Tim Newark claims reputation of father of organised crime was heavily inflated The American gangster who inspired 1970s cult flick The Godfather was a ''fake'', a British historian claimed yesterday.For decades, experts believed C > read more

Full-out war for supremacy in Montreal’s underworld

Published on 2011-01-06 18:06:00

Nick, Paolo, Agostino, and Nicolò. The list stops at four for now, but there are those who swear more names will be added. The Mafia war in fact, makes no exceptions, whether it involves the bloodied heart of Palermo, or whether it touches the > read more

Trial Set For Aging Mobster After Failed Craigslist Scam

Published on 2011-01-06 17:51:00

A trial has been set for an aging, down on his luck mobster after being arrested for attempting to rob a man trying to sell a diamond engagement ring. Police arrested 65-year-old Gerald Degerolamo after witnesses saw Degerolamo spray a man with ma > read more

Reputed Gambino Soldier Pleads Guilty After Refusing To Cooperate With Feds

Published on 2011-01-06 17:34:00

Who says there aren't any stand-up guys left in the mob?A reputed Gambino crime-family soldier who turned down the chance to become an informant pleaded guilty to racketeering today after the feds said his co-defendants couldn't cut deals otherwis > read more

Former Asemblyman Anthony Seminerio dies in North Carolina prison

Published on 2011-01-06 17:06:00

Crooked ex-Assemblyman Anthony Seminerio died today in a North Carolina prison where he had been serving a six-year prison sentence for raking in more than $1 million by peddling his influence in Albany. The 75-year-old Seminerio, who often boaste > read more

Rizzuto Family Funeral Home Firebombed

Published on 2011-01-06 09:54:00

The funeral home in St. Léonard owned and operated by members of Montreal's Rizzuto family was firebombed about 1 a.m. Thursday. The Loreto Funeral Complex was the site of two recent visitations for slain Rizzuto family members, including one fo > read more

Gerard Pappa Hit Dropped Against Bonanno Soldier Armando "Mondo" Rea

Published on 2011-01-05 11:21:00

Federal prosecutors have dropped a gangland murder charge against reputed Bonanno soldier Armando (Mondo) Rea, the Daily News has learned.The 1980 rubout of Mafia hit man Gerard Pappa vanished from a new indictment against Rea unsealed Tuesda > read more

Trial Update: Basciano trial likely to open March 2, 2011

Published on 2011-01-03 15:38:00

Joseph MassinoDust off your copies of "King of The Godfathers." The death penalty trial of Vincent Basciano for murder conspiracy is set for jury selection on February 15 in Brooklyn federal court, with the > read more

Victims Of Bonanno Extortion Plot Sentenced

Published on 2011-01-03 15:36:00

Readers of "King of The Godfathers," chapter 28, will remember the saga described in the book of the husband and wife team of Vincent and Yvonne Rossetti of Howard Beach. The couple showed u > read more

Attorney of man accused of working with Lucchese crime family seeks indictment dismissal

Published on 2011-01-03 14:38:00

The attorney for an alleged high-ranking member in the Nine Trey Gangsters set of the Bloods gang is seeking to dismiss an indictment accusing the suspect of working with the Lucchese crime family to smuggle drugs and cell phones for fellow inmates > read more

Brad Pitt Confirmed for Mobster Comedy "Cogan's Trade"

Published on 2011-01-03 14:08:00

Brad Pitt could have a positively huge 2011, with both "Tree of Life" and "Moneyball" on the way, and now he's getting a jump on a nice 2012.Pitt has been confirmed for the lead role in "Cogan's Trade," reported Variety. The film will be based on the > read more

Informant: Colombo Family Shakes Down Coffee Boys At Construction Sites

Published on 2011-01-03 14:01:00

Longtime Colombo soldier Dino Calabro (left) said fellow soldier Ralph Scopo Jr. (right) dreamed up the 'coffee boy' union con job.For the Colombo crime family, nothing is too small to steal. Not even a cup of coffee.Since the 1980s, the mob has > read more

Mob blood flowed in Montreal in 2010

Published on 2011-01-02 22:55:00

Montreal streets ran with mob blood in 2010 in a string of deaths that most likely signal the demise of that city’s Rizzuto crime family.The shocking murders or disappearance of the hierarchy of the Rizzuto crime family — the Montreal-based cla > read more

Mobsters: "The Mad Hatter/Lord High Executioner" Gambino Family Boss Albert Anastasia

Published on 2011-01-02 15:34:00

> read more

Mobsters: "The Irishman" Danny Greene

Published on 2011-01-02 15:31:00

> read more

Longtime Genovese Family Hitman/Turncoat Sleeps With Fishes After Decades Terrorizing Docks

Published on 2011-01-02 03:56:00

Mobster George Barone (l.), with attorney William B. Mischo, prior to going before Waterfront Commission in 1959. Genovese Family tough guy George Barone preferred the direct approach to problem-solving.The mob hit man was responsible for about 20 mu > read more

Colombo Mafia Bosses Get IPods From Feds To Listen To FBI Evidence

Published on 2011-01-01 17:30:00

Thomas GioeliTwo of the Colombo crime family's top leaders received coveted iPods in their Christmas stockings this year -- courtesy of Uncle Sam. Thomas "Tommy Shots" Gioeli, acting boss of the Colombo family, and Joel "Joe Waverly" Cacace, the f > read more