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| A. DiMaria |
New Posts:
1. Andrew Asaro (Bonanno)
2. Salvatore Ciccone (Lucchese)
3. Arthur DiMaria (Los Angeles)
Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Arthur DiMaria (Los Angeles)
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| 1968 |
Arthur 'Army' DiMaria was a Los Angeles Family member based in Las Vegas.
Born Erminio Ballestriere on December 23, 1909 in Enna, Sicily to Salvatore Ballestriere and Fortunata Danza.
By 1935 resided with wife Eloise at 1429 Pleasant Ave in Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles.
By the mid-to-late 1940s residing in Las Vegas.
Believed to already be an inducted member of the Los Angeles Family, headed since the early 1930s by Jack Dragna.
Born Erminio Ballestriere on December 23, 1909 in Enna, Sicily to Salvatore Ballestriere and Fortunata Danza.
By 1935 resided with wife Eloise at 1429 Pleasant Ave in Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles.
By the mid-to-late 1940s residing in Las Vegas.
Believed to already be an inducted member of the Los Angeles Family, headed since the early 1930s by Jack Dragna.
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| Top: M. Cohen Bottom: Hit Team Members D. Brooklier and S. Scozzari |
On Dragna's orders, DiMaria participated in the July 1949 attempted murder of Meyer 'Micky' Cohen (35y) on the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood. Cohen and associate Edward 'Neddie' Herbert (38y) were wounded, the latter fatally, when two gunmen opened fire on their group outside Sherry's Restaurant at 2039 Sunset Boulevard.
The shooters were DiMaria and Los Angeles Soldier Dominick 'Jim Regace' Brooklier. Los Angeles Member Simone 'Sam' Scozzari acted as driver.
Co-conspirators included Los Angeles Soldier Aladena 'Jimmy' Fratianno.
On March 23, 1950 DiMaria and four others were arrested on gambling charges after police raided a floating dice game run from a Sherman Oaks motel.
He gave an address at 601 Lorena Ave in Arcadia, CA.
On December 28, 1950 picked up by the Los Angeles Vice Squad for operating a crap game on 5th St. Vito Gallo (37y) and three others were also held.
The shooters were DiMaria and Los Angeles Soldier Dominick 'Jim Regace' Brooklier. Los Angeles Member Simone 'Sam' Scozzari acted as driver.
Co-conspirators included Los Angeles Soldier Aladena 'Jimmy' Fratianno.
On March 23, 1950 DiMaria and four others were arrested on gambling charges after police raided a floating dice game run from a Sherman Oaks motel.
He gave an address at 601 Lorena Ave in Arcadia, CA.
On December 28, 1950 picked up by the Los Angeles Vice Squad for operating a crap game on 5th St. Vito Gallo (37y) and three others were also held.
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| F. DeSimone |
Frank DeSimone became Boss after Jack Dragna's death in early 1956.
In January 1965 FBI CI reported: "[There] are several members of La Cosa Nostra from the Los Angeles Family residing in Las Vegas, Nevada. [CI] described these individuals as Armin (Last name unknown), a Sicilian who was formerly a dealer at the Sands Hotel and now in a downtown casino. Lawrence (Last name unknown), from Kansas City and now a pit boss or boxman at the Thunderbird Hotel." (Lawrence LNU was Lawrence John Musso [1914-2003], son-in-law of former Kansas City leader James 'Big Jim' Balestrere.)
In January 1965 FBI CI reported: "[There] are several members of La Cosa Nostra from the Los Angeles Family residing in Las Vegas, Nevada. [CI] described these individuals as Armin (Last name unknown), a Sicilian who was formerly a dealer at the Sands Hotel and now in a downtown casino. Lawrence (Last name unknown), from Kansas City and now a pit boss or boxman at the Thunderbird Hotel." (Lawrence LNU was Lawrence John Musso [1914-2003], son-in-law of former Kansas City leader James 'Big Jim' Balestrere.)
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| J. Dippolito FBN Mafia Book |
By 1966 reported to Captain Joseph Dippolito.
As of 1967 DiMaria resided at 704 Brush St in Las Vegas and worked as a 21 dealer at the Sands Hotel.
In July of that year he was interviewed by Agent(s) with the FBI's Las Vegas Field Office:
"
As of 1967 DiMaria resided at 704 Brush St in Las Vegas and worked as a 21 dealer at the Sands Hotel.
In July of that year he was interviewed by Agent(s) with the FBI's Las Vegas Field Office:
"
DiMaria stated that his name now is legally Arthur DiMaria in view of the fact he had it changed in District Court, Clark County, Las Vegas during 12/1966. He stated according to his birth certificate, which he exhibited, his birth name is Erminio Ballestriere and he was born 12/23/1909 at Enna, Sicily. DiMaria said his father [died] around 1917 or 1918 in Denver, Colorado. His mother [married] Andrea DiMaria subsequent to the death of [his father].
DiMaria also produced a baptismal certificate and a school certificate which showed his name to be Ballestriere, however, the spelling of this name [varied].
DiMaria stated that he was not aware of his foreign birth and his true name until approximately one year ago.He stated two individuals by the name of [Illegible], who were alleged to be cousins came from Italy [illegible] visit and stopped to see him. During this visit, they related to him he had a [illegible] uncle by the name of Giuseppe Ballestriere living in Enna, Sicily. Giuseppe was described as a [illegible section].
DiMaria said he had no knowledge as to when he was actually brought to this country by his mother, however, learned from [Immigration and Naturalization Service] that he came to the United States sometime during 1913 with his mother.
...DiMaria denied that he was acquainted with Frank DeSimone, Frank Bompensiero, Jimmy Fratianno and Joseph Dippolito. He stated the name Joseph Dippolito seemed a bit familiar to him but did not know anyone by that name. DiMaria was asked if he had ever associated with individuals connected with LCN or [illegible].
DiMaria also produced a baptismal certificate and a school certificate which showed his name to be Ballestriere, however, the spelling of this name [varied].
DiMaria stated that he was not aware of his foreign birth and his true name until approximately one year ago.He stated two individuals by the name of [Illegible], who were alleged to be cousins came from Italy [illegible] visit and stopped to see him. During this visit, they related to him he had a [illegible] uncle by the name of Giuseppe Ballestriere living in Enna, Sicily. Giuseppe was described as a [illegible section].
DiMaria said he had no knowledge as to when he was actually brought to this country by his mother, however, learned from [Immigration and Naturalization Service] that he came to the United States sometime during 1913 with his mother.
...DiMaria denied that he was acquainted with Frank DeSimone, Frank Bompensiero, Jimmy Fratianno and Joseph Dippolito. He stated the name Joseph Dippolito seemed a bit familiar to him but did not know anyone by that name. DiMaria was asked if he had ever associated with individuals connected with LCN or [illegible].
"
Los Angeles Boss Frank DeSimone died the following month.
On September 4, 1967 the FBI's New York Office reported: "Arthur DiMaria resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. Information received from [CI] reflects that DiMaria has resided in the Las Vegas area since the mid 1940s although he remains a member of the Los Angeles LCN Family."
On September 8, 1967 FBI Las Vegas reported: "Arthur DiMaria remains as the only identified member of the La Cosa Nostra residing in the Las Vegas area. DiMaria is a member of the Los Angeles Family...It is noted that information had been furnished DiMaria [is] currently in Las Vegas looking after Los Angeles interests in the area. DiMaria [appears] to have very little social contact and does not appear to be engaged in activities of the organized criminal element."
Los Angeles Boss Frank DeSimone died the following month.
On September 4, 1967 the FBI's New York Office reported: "Arthur DiMaria resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. Information received from [CI] reflects that DiMaria has resided in the Las Vegas area since the mid 1940s although he remains a member of the Los Angeles LCN Family."
On September 8, 1967 FBI Las Vegas reported: "Arthur DiMaria remains as the only identified member of the La Cosa Nostra residing in the Las Vegas area. DiMaria is a member of the Los Angeles Family...It is noted that information had been furnished DiMaria [is] currently in Las Vegas looking after Los Angeles interests in the area. DiMaria [appears] to have very little social contact and does not appear to be engaged in activities of the organized criminal element."
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| N. Licata |
Around October 1967 Nicolo Licata was elected the new Boss and appointed Joseph Dippolito as his Underboss. Dominick Brooklier took over Dippolito's crew.
On December 7, 1967 FBI CI Frank Bompensiero reported: "...He identified both Arthur DiMaria of Las Vegas and a Julie [Julian Antista (1910-1991)] as two LCN members of the Los Angeles Family who originally were out of the Denver area." (In 1977 Bompensiero, a longtime Los Angeles member based in San Diego, was murdered on Family suspicions of being an informant.)
On July 16, 1968 DiMaria was held by the Clark County, Nevada Sheriff's Office on an unspecified charge.
He died July 16, 1972.
On December 7, 1967 FBI CI Frank Bompensiero reported: "...He identified both Arthur DiMaria of Las Vegas and a Julie [Julian Antista (1910-1991)] as two LCN members of the Los Angeles Family who originally were out of the Denver area." (In 1977 Bompensiero, a longtime Los Angeles member based in San Diego, was murdered on Family suspicions of being an informant.)
On July 16, 1968 DiMaria was held by the Clark County, Nevada Sheriff's Office on an unspecified charge.
He died July 16, 1972.
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
Andrew Asaro (Bonanno)
No photo available.
Andrew Asaro was a Soldier in the Bonanno Family active in Manhattan and Queens.
Several relatives were also members:
- Great-uncle Girolamo Asaro (c.1857-1912) was an early member who died during a fire in Boston
- Uncle Vincenzo Asaro (1892-1970) was a Bonanno Captain
- Cousins Jerome (1913-1977) and Joseph Asaro (1919-1973), Vincenzo's sons, were Bonanno Soldiers
- Nephew Vincent Asaro (1935-2023), Jerome's son, was a Bonanno Captain
- Great-nephew Jerome 'Jerry' Asaro, son to Vincent, has previously been convicted as a Bonanno Captain
- Vito Bonventre (1891-1988) married Captain Vincenzo Asaro's sister Brigid
- Captain Michael Zaffarano (1923-1980) married Vincenzo's daughter Rosalie
Andrew was born April 12, 1927 in Brooklyn to Giuseppe 'Joe' (39y) and Anna Anselmo (31y). Father from Castellammare del Golfo comune of Trapani, Sicily.
By Summer 1948 resided at 76 Speidel Ave in East Paterson (modern day Elmwood Park), New Jersey.
By Summer 1948 resided at 76 Speidel Ave in East Paterson (modern day Elmwood Park), New Jersey.
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| F. Garofalo FBN Mafia Book |
On April 3, 1957 Andrew's father Joe Asaro purchased five cases of olive oil from the Hi-Grade Packing Company in Manhattan. Business operated by Bonanno Underboss Francesco 'Mr. Carroll' Garofalo. The FBI later noted: "[New York State Police check] concerning this company was negative. [NYSP] believe this company was merely a subterfuge."
By 1967 resided in Wayne, New Jersey. Worked as plant manager for Clifton Laminating Company.
By the mid-1970s retired from Clifton Laminating and left New Jersey for West Babylon, Long Island.
When and how Andrew became involved with the Bonanno Family isn't available.
By 1967 resided in Wayne, New Jersey. Worked as plant manager for Clifton Laminating Company.
By the mid-1970s retired from Clifton Laminating and left New Jersey for West Babylon, Long Island.
When and how Andrew became involved with the Bonanno Family isn't available.
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| A. Prisinzano (1970s) |
By 1978 he was employed as a bartender at Bonanno Captain Angelo 'Moe' Prisinzano's Paris Bar in Lower Manhattan.
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| N. DiStefano (1960s) |
He was inducted into the Family around May of that year and assigned to Captain Nicholas 'Nick the Battler' DiStefano.
Made members of DiStefano's crew included Andrew Asaro, Paul Sciacca (Former Boss) and Sereno Tartamella (Former Captain).
Possible crew members included Vincent 'Jimmy' Morsellino.
On May 10, 1978 FBI CI reported: "[A] guy that works at Moe's Bar, Paris Bar & Grill, Fulton Fish Market, New York City, was just made a member of the Bonanno Family of the LCN. This individual was made a member under Nick the Battler."
On November 19, 1978 FBI CI reported: "[Andrew] Asaro, a bartender at the Paris Bar (fish market) is 'made' in the Bonanno Family. Source advised Asaro is in Nicholas DiStefano's crew (is related to DiStefano). Source advised 'that Asaro is not a street wise person but was made because of political connections'."
By 1979 believed resided with wife Concetta Campisi in Huntington, Long Island.
That April the FBI's New York Office reported: "Source information has been developed that Andrew Asaro has recently been 'made' in the New York Bonanno La Cosa Nostra Family. A search of the New York indices indicated Andrew Asaro was one time bartender at the Paris Bar in the Fish Market...Indices also reflect that Asaro is a close associate of newly made Bonanno Soldier [Redacted] (LNU). It is to be noted that Asaro is [related to Vincent Asaro] a Bonanno Soldier currently operating in [Queens]."
In June 1979 included in the FBI's list of 123 identified Bonanno Family members.
In January 1980 included in the FBI's list of 119 identified Bonanno Family members. Report noted Asaro still reported to DiStefano.
Included in the June 1983 Senate Chart of Bonanno membership. Address listed at 204 West End Ave in Massapequa, Long Island.
By Summer 1984 living with a son in an apartment above Vito's Hair Stylist located at 74-09 101st Ave in Ozone Park, Queens. Worked as a bartender at the Hideaway Lounge on 133rd Ave.
On June 16, 1984 Raymond Raia (37y) was beaten with a baseball bat inside Nathan's Bar and Grill at 12-04 Liberty Ave in Ozone Park and died six days later at the hospital.
Warrants were issued for both Andrew and his son but neither could be located.
On July 9, 1984 FBI NYO reported: "Witnesses at the scene on Saturday night [reported] an altercation occurred between Raia and the Asaros resulting in the use of a baseball bat on Raia."
Four days later Agent(s) attempting to locate the Asaros interviewed an Unsub at Three Kings Collision on Rockaway Blvd in Ozone Park. (Three Kings was operated by Bonanno Associate Joseph Marsala, previously on-record with Andrew's nephew Vincent Asaro.)
On July 18, 1984 FBI NYO reported: "[NYPD] was informed by witnesses to [Raia] murder that Andrew Asaro is connected to the La Cosa Nostra...According to [NYPD], during the night of 6/16/1984, Raymond Raia and the Asaros were at Nathan's when [Andrew's son] grabbed a baseball bat from under his seat and hit Raia several times on the head. Andrew Asaro acted as a look-out during the altercation and later hit Raia as well. Witnesses stated both Asaros fled after the assault, which left Raia semi-comatose. Police sources noted that Raia is a junkie and is unemployed. The reason for the assault on Raia has not been established...[NYPD] questioned Andrew Asaro on the whereabouts of [son] and Andrew indicated that [son] would surrender himself to the 75 PDU in the immediate future. However, such did not occur and both Asaros have remained in seclusion...NYPD witnesses stated Andrew Asaro frequents the Societe de Pasquale Ariola on Liberty Avenue."
On January 28, 1986 FBI NYO reported: "Andrew Asaro is believed to have witnessed the [Raia] assault and possibly to have participated in it. Although there were several witnesses to the assault, only one has cooperated with police. This witness, who had [redacted], was unable to identify [Andrew's son] in a police line up. [Son] has not been indicted and the New York Police Department is continuing its investigation. The non-cooperation of other witnesses is attributed, by [NYPD], to their apparent fear Andrew Asaro is somehow 'connected' to the Bonanno OC Family. New York Division is attempting to determine whether Andrew Asaro is in fact a member of or associated with the Bonanno OC Family...The relationship, if any, between Andrew Asaro and [Redacted; Vincent Asaro?] is unknown."
In February 1986 communication was sent to the FBI's Boston Field Office indicating that Andrew Asaro may have a second residence at 186 Gardner St in Arlington, Massachusetts.
On March 16, 1987 FBI NYO reported: "It is believed that Asaro is associated with the Bonanno Crime Family as a Soldier but this information has not been verified. Asaro does not have a criminal record although he was indicted along with [son] in 7/1984, on charges stemming from the death of Raia. Disposition of the above mentioned charges are unknown. As indicated earlier, Asaro has been a welfare recipient and it is not believed that Asaro is affiliated with any known businesses of which he may possess an interest in. Investigation to date has not disclosed any hidden business interests nor union involvement regarding Asaro."
On February 27, 1988 FBI CI reported: "Andrew Asaro, brother [sic?] of Bonanno LCN member [Redacted; Vincent Asaro?]. Source said that he did not think Andrew Asaro was 'made', and he is now a sick man and does not do anything."
On March 17, 1988 Asaro's attorney contacted FBI NYO: "[Attorney] said Asaro is very ill...He said he wanted [Agent] to know that he was not avoiding an interview, he simply was not able. [Attorney] said he would advise when Asaro may be interviewed."
Andrew died November 23, 1991 and was waked two days later at Aloia Funeral Home in Garfield, New Jersey.
His son was convicted on a manslaughter 2nd degree charge and served a term from December 1989 to September 1992.
In June 1993 Andrew was posthumously included in the FBI's list of 88 identified Bonanno Family members.
Made members of DiStefano's crew included Andrew Asaro, Paul Sciacca (Former Boss) and Sereno Tartamella (Former Captain).
Possible crew members included Vincent 'Jimmy' Morsellino.
On May 10, 1978 FBI CI reported: "[A] guy that works at Moe's Bar, Paris Bar & Grill, Fulton Fish Market, New York City, was just made a member of the Bonanno Family of the LCN. This individual was made a member under Nick the Battler."
On November 19, 1978 FBI CI reported: "[Andrew] Asaro, a bartender at the Paris Bar (fish market) is 'made' in the Bonanno Family. Source advised Asaro is in Nicholas DiStefano's crew (is related to DiStefano). Source advised 'that Asaro is not a street wise person but was made because of political connections'."
By 1979 believed resided with wife Concetta Campisi in Huntington, Long Island.
That April the FBI's New York Office reported: "Source information has been developed that Andrew Asaro has recently been 'made' in the New York Bonanno La Cosa Nostra Family. A search of the New York indices indicated Andrew Asaro was one time bartender at the Paris Bar in the Fish Market...Indices also reflect that Asaro is a close associate of newly made Bonanno Soldier [Redacted] (LNU). It is to be noted that Asaro is [related to Vincent Asaro] a Bonanno Soldier currently operating in [Queens]."
In June 1979 included in the FBI's list of 123 identified Bonanno Family members.
In January 1980 included in the FBI's list of 119 identified Bonanno Family members. Report noted Asaro still reported to DiStefano.
Included in the June 1983 Senate Chart of Bonanno membership. Address listed at 204 West End Ave in Massapequa, Long Island.
By Summer 1984 living with a son in an apartment above Vito's Hair Stylist located at 74-09 101st Ave in Ozone Park, Queens. Worked as a bartender at the Hideaway Lounge on 133rd Ave.
On June 16, 1984 Raymond Raia (37y) was beaten with a baseball bat inside Nathan's Bar and Grill at 12-04 Liberty Ave in Ozone Park and died six days later at the hospital.
Warrants were issued for both Andrew and his son but neither could be located.
On July 9, 1984 FBI NYO reported: "Witnesses at the scene on Saturday night [reported] an altercation occurred between Raia and the Asaros resulting in the use of a baseball bat on Raia."
Four days later Agent(s) attempting to locate the Asaros interviewed an Unsub at Three Kings Collision on Rockaway Blvd in Ozone Park. (Three Kings was operated by Bonanno Associate Joseph Marsala, previously on-record with Andrew's nephew Vincent Asaro.)
On July 18, 1984 FBI NYO reported: "[NYPD] was informed by witnesses to [Raia] murder that Andrew Asaro is connected to the La Cosa Nostra...According to [NYPD], during the night of 6/16/1984, Raymond Raia and the Asaros were at Nathan's when [Andrew's son] grabbed a baseball bat from under his seat and hit Raia several times on the head. Andrew Asaro acted as a look-out during the altercation and later hit Raia as well. Witnesses stated both Asaros fled after the assault, which left Raia semi-comatose. Police sources noted that Raia is a junkie and is unemployed. The reason for the assault on Raia has not been established...[NYPD] questioned Andrew Asaro on the whereabouts of [son] and Andrew indicated that [son] would surrender himself to the 75 PDU in the immediate future. However, such did not occur and both Asaros have remained in seclusion...NYPD witnesses stated Andrew Asaro frequents the Societe de Pasquale Ariola on Liberty Avenue."
On January 28, 1986 FBI NYO reported: "Andrew Asaro is believed to have witnessed the [Raia] assault and possibly to have participated in it. Although there were several witnesses to the assault, only one has cooperated with police. This witness, who had [redacted], was unable to identify [Andrew's son] in a police line up. [Son] has not been indicted and the New York Police Department is continuing its investigation. The non-cooperation of other witnesses is attributed, by [NYPD], to their apparent fear Andrew Asaro is somehow 'connected' to the Bonanno OC Family. New York Division is attempting to determine whether Andrew Asaro is in fact a member of or associated with the Bonanno OC Family...The relationship, if any, between Andrew Asaro and [Redacted; Vincent Asaro?] is unknown."
In February 1986 communication was sent to the FBI's Boston Field Office indicating that Andrew Asaro may have a second residence at 186 Gardner St in Arlington, Massachusetts.
On March 16, 1987 FBI NYO reported: "It is believed that Asaro is associated with the Bonanno Crime Family as a Soldier but this information has not been verified. Asaro does not have a criminal record although he was indicted along with [son] in 7/1984, on charges stemming from the death of Raia. Disposition of the above mentioned charges are unknown. As indicated earlier, Asaro has been a welfare recipient and it is not believed that Asaro is affiliated with any known businesses of which he may possess an interest in. Investigation to date has not disclosed any hidden business interests nor union involvement regarding Asaro."
On February 27, 1988 FBI CI reported: "Andrew Asaro, brother [sic?] of Bonanno LCN member [Redacted; Vincent Asaro?]. Source said that he did not think Andrew Asaro was 'made', and he is now a sick man and does not do anything."
On March 17, 1988 Asaro's attorney contacted FBI NYO: "[Attorney] said Asaro is very ill...He said he wanted [Agent] to know that he was not avoiding an interview, he simply was not able. [Attorney] said he would advise when Asaro may be interviewed."
Andrew died November 23, 1991 and was waked two days later at Aloia Funeral Home in Garfield, New Jersey.
His son was convicted on a manslaughter 2nd degree charge and served a term from December 1989 to September 1992.
In June 1993 Andrew was posthumously included in the FBI's list of 88 identified Bonanno Family members.
Salvatore Ciccone (Lucchese)
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| 1980s |
Salvatore 'Sally Moon / Sal the Sailor' Ciccone was a member of the Lucchese Family active in Florida.
Younger brother Anthony 'Tony Moon' Ciccone (1918-1987) was a Lucchese Captain in Harlem - The Bronx.
Salvatore was born July 28, 1916 in East Harlem, Manhattan to Sebastiano (26y) and Gelsomina Piccolo (27y). Family from Brusciano comune of Naples, Campania.
At the time of his birth the family resided at 2056 First Ave in East Harlem. Sebastiano sold fruit at the same address.
Over the next twenty years they moved to different addresses along this avenue (2056 -> 2060 -> 2066).
On July 11, 1934 Salvatore married Josephine Terranova (17y) in Mount Vernon, New York.
Younger brother Anthony 'Tony Moon' Ciccone (1918-1987) was a Lucchese Captain in Harlem - The Bronx.
Salvatore was born July 28, 1916 in East Harlem, Manhattan to Sebastiano (26y) and Gelsomina Piccolo (27y). Family from Brusciano comune of Naples, Campania.
At the time of his birth the family resided at 2056 First Ave in East Harlem. Sebastiano sold fruit at the same address.
Over the next twenty years they moved to different addresses along this avenue (2056 -> 2060 -> 2066).
On July 11, 1934 Salvatore married Josephine Terranova (17y) in Mount Vernon, New York.
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| C. Terranova |
Genovese Captain Ciro Terranova gave his consent as legal guardian.
He adopted Josephine after her father Vincenzo, Ciro's older brother, was shot to death in an early 1920s conflict between Families. (Another Terranova brother, Nicolo, was killed in the Mafia - Camorra war of the mid-1910s. The Terranovas' half-brother was Former Boss of Bosses Giuseppe Morello, himself murdered during the Castellammare War.)
He adopted Josephine after her father Vincenzo, Ciro's older brother, was shot to death in an early 1920s conflict between Families. (Another Terranova brother, Nicolo, was killed in the Mafia - Camorra war of the mid-1910s. The Terranovas' half-brother was Former Boss of Bosses Giuseppe Morello, himself murdered during the Castellammare War.)
The wedding party, which included Salvatore's father Sebastiano and brother Anthony, rode in two armored cars provided by Ciro.
A New York Daily News article covering the marriage described Ciccone as 'son of one of [Ciro]'s partners'. (Given the apparent business relationship with Ciro Terranova and the membership of two of his sons, Sebastiano Ciccone may have been affiliated as well if not a member himself. Another of his children, daughter Margaret, married a Vincent Terranova.)
In Fall 1940 Salvatore and his wife were living at 1455 Sheridan Ave in Claremont, The Bronx. He operated Sal Ciccone + Company at 2064 1st Ave in East Harlem.
By 1944 they had moved to 141-62 Coolidge Ave in Briarwood, Queens.
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| A. Castaldi FBN Mafia Book |
Around 1949 Salvatore's younger brother Anthony was inducted into the Lucchese Family under Anthony 'Tony Higgins' Castaldi's sponsorship.
Salvatore may have been made around the same time.
Salvatore may have been made around the same time.
By the mid-to-late 1950s he operated the First Avenue Fruit Exchange on E 101st St in East Harlem.
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| J. Ormento FBN Mafia Book |
He was possibly reporting to Captain 'Big John' Ormento.
Made members of Ormento's crew included Salvatore's brother Anthony Ciccone and Nicholas Tolentino.
Around December 1962 FBI CI Alfred Santantonio, a Gambino Soldier, identified both of the Ciccones as Lucchese members.
In February 1963 the brothers were designated subjects of FBI anti-racketeering investigations.
By that time Salvatore was residing in Bal Harbour, South Florida.
In June 1963 FBI CI reported: "Salvatore Ciccone, known to informant as 'Sal the Sailor', is a highly respected member of the Lucchese Family LCN and is extremely active in Miami, particularly in the fields of narcotics and shylocking."
Made members of Ormento's crew included Salvatore's brother Anthony Ciccone and Nicholas Tolentino.
Around December 1962 FBI CI Alfred Santantonio, a Gambino Soldier, identified both of the Ciccones as Lucchese members.
In February 1963 the brothers were designated subjects of FBI anti-racketeering investigations.
By that time Salvatore was residing in Bal Harbour, South Florida.
In June 1963 FBI CI reported: "Salvatore Ciccone, known to informant as 'Sal the Sailor', is a highly respected member of the Lucchese Family LCN and is extremely active in Miami, particularly in the fields of narcotics and shylocking."
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| P. Erra FBN Mafia Book |
On September 27, 1963 he was interviewed by Agent(s) with the FBI's Miami Field Office: "Ciccone advised that he has known Pasquale Michael Erra since he was a youngster in New York City. He stated that he knew the Erra family and knew Patty Erra's father was a junk dealer. He stated he frequently saw Erra in New York City and saw him in the company of Mike Coppola in New York City. Ciccone stated he does not know of any business Erra is engaged in, and although they discussed business deals they were never in business together. Ciccone stated sometime during 1954-1957 he contacted Patsy Erra in Florida and had him make hotel reservations for him. Upon his arrival in Florida he met and had a drink with Patsy Erra at the Albion Bar. He stated Erra owned a 'piece' of the Albion Bar." (Michael 'Trigger Mike' Coppola [1900-1966] replaced Ciccone's uncle Ciro Terranova as the Genovese Family's Captain in Harlem in the late 1930s. Pasquale 'Patsy' Erra [1915-1973] was a Soldier under Coppola.)
A November 1967 Fort Lauderdale PD dossier on various LCN figures noted: "Salvatore Ciccone - Bal Harbour, Shylock, gambler, Vice Pres. Dean Martins Rest. Plays stock market every day (Bache & Co.)."
In September 1968 included in the FBI's list of 50 identified Lucchese Family members.
On December 10, 1968 FBI CI contacted re loansharking: "..According to informant, 'territories' are allocated to La Cosa Nostra representatives, wherein they may 'let out' money. Rarely is this boundary encroached upon. To do so repeatedly can result in final punishment or a 'hit'. Among those persons in the Miami area known to informant as having major shylock action are: [List includes Lucchese members Salvatore Ciccone and Ettore 'Eddie' Coco]."
On February 5 and 6, 1970 Ciccone was surveilled in the company of Genovese Soldier Pasquale Erra. Report noted: "[Ciccone is] vice president of Dino's Lodge, Incorporated, doing business as Dean Martin's Restaurant."
On March 12, 1976 interviewed by FBI Miami.
Then residing at 516 Surfside Blvd and employed as the Executive Director of Purchasing at the Fountainbleau Hotel in Miami Beach.
A February 1978 FBI background report noted: "[Ciccone's] wife's father and uncle killed in 1930's. No photo in file, talkative."
In February 1983 the Ciccone brothers' ninety-three-year-old father Sebastiano died in New York. His wake was held February 9 at Harden Funeral Home located at 208-17 Northern Blvd in Bayside, Queens.
In June 1983 identified as Lucchese Soldier in Senate Chart of Lucchese Family membership. Residence listed on Collins Ave in Bal Harbour.
Around 1985 subject of unspecified inquiry during FBI investigation of DeCavalcante Family activity in South Florida.
In August 1987 brother Anthony Ciccone died in Long Island.
'Tony Moon' was later identified by CW Alfonso D'Arco as the Lucchese Family's Captain in Harlem around this time period. Salvatore may have been a Florida-based member of this crew.
In 1988 included in Senate list of 102 identified Lucchese Family members.
Salvatore died April 3, 1999 at Mount Sinai Hospital in Miami Beach. On April 6 waked at Walsh & Wood Funeral Home Chapel.
A November 1967 Fort Lauderdale PD dossier on various LCN figures noted: "Salvatore Ciccone - Bal Harbour, Shylock, gambler, Vice Pres. Dean Martins Rest. Plays stock market every day (Bache & Co.)."
In September 1968 included in the FBI's list of 50 identified Lucchese Family members.
On December 10, 1968 FBI CI contacted re loansharking: "..According to informant, 'territories' are allocated to La Cosa Nostra representatives, wherein they may 'let out' money. Rarely is this boundary encroached upon. To do so repeatedly can result in final punishment or a 'hit'. Among those persons in the Miami area known to informant as having major shylock action are: [List includes Lucchese members Salvatore Ciccone and Ettore 'Eddie' Coco]."
On February 5 and 6, 1970 Ciccone was surveilled in the company of Genovese Soldier Pasquale Erra. Report noted: "[Ciccone is] vice president of Dino's Lodge, Incorporated, doing business as Dean Martin's Restaurant."
On March 12, 1976 interviewed by FBI Miami.
Then residing at 516 Surfside Blvd and employed as the Executive Director of Purchasing at the Fountainbleau Hotel in Miami Beach.
A February 1978 FBI background report noted: "[Ciccone's] wife's father and uncle killed in 1930's. No photo in file, talkative."
In February 1983 the Ciccone brothers' ninety-three-year-old father Sebastiano died in New York. His wake was held February 9 at Harden Funeral Home located at 208-17 Northern Blvd in Bayside, Queens.
In June 1983 identified as Lucchese Soldier in Senate Chart of Lucchese Family membership. Residence listed on Collins Ave in Bal Harbour.
Around 1985 subject of unspecified inquiry during FBI investigation of DeCavalcante Family activity in South Florida.
In August 1987 brother Anthony Ciccone died in Long Island.
'Tony Moon' was later identified by CW Alfonso D'Arco as the Lucchese Family's Captain in Harlem around this time period. Salvatore may have been a Florida-based member of this crew.
In 1988 included in Senate list of 102 identified Lucchese Family members.
Salvatore died April 3, 1999 at Mount Sinai Hospital in Miami Beach. On April 6 waked at Walsh & Wood Funeral Home Chapel.
Thursday, October 9, 2025
Pittsburgh Surveillance (1980)
June 9, 1980 FBI surveillance taken in the vicinity of Pittsburgh Boss John LaRocca's Allegheny Car Wash:
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| L to R: Thomas Ciancutti, John LaRocca, Louis Volpe |
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| LaRocca (L) and Volpe (R) |
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| LaRocca (L) and Ciancutti (R) |
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| LaRocca (L) and Ciancutti (R) |
John LaRocca (1901-1984) had by that time headed the Family for decades.
Louis Volpe (1901-1987), a longtime member, served as President of Versailles Amusement Company in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. Joseph Sica, later identified as the Family's Consigliere, was the company's Vice President.
An FBI report from January 1977 noted: "[Volpe] dominates racket matters in the Turtle Creek Valley area from his residence in Wilmerding, Pennsylvania."
A Federal chart from 1985 lists Volpe as a Captain.
Thomas 'Sonny' Ciancutti (1929-2021) is also named as a Captain in the 1985 chart and may have run the Family at some point after the early to mid 2000s.
The last confirmed member by the summer of 2021, his death that July left the Pittsburgh Family officially defunct.
Monday, September 29, 2025
Update
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| F. Bocchino |
1. Updated Post: Felix Bocchino (Bruno Member) - Narrowed date of induction (January 24, 1982) and added a full description of the ceremony given in court by CW Thomas DelGiorno.
Saturday, September 27, 2025
Update
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| E. Colao |
1. New Post: Ettore Colao (Gambino)
2. Updated Post: Colombo Family Ceremonies (1980s-1991) - Additional details on the 1991 inductions of Vincent DeMartino and James Spitalere.
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Update
A. DiMaria New Posts: 1. Andrew Asaro (Bonanno) 2. Salvatore Ciccone (Lucchese) 3. Arthur DiMaria (Los Angeles)
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1970 Carmine 'Turi' Franzese was a Soldier in the Colombo Family. A loanshark and close associate of Bonanno leader Joseph Massino, ... -
No photo available. Vito Borelli was a Gambino Associate murdered in or around the Fall of 1980 by the Gambino and Bonanno Families. L to R... -
In early 1976 the New York Families agreed to open the books and replenish their ranks. By that time the Colombo Family was down to approxim...