Joseph Abate (Lucchese)

c. 1970s

Joseph Abate was a Captain in the Lucchese Family.

Born July 8, 1902 in Marsala comune of Trapani, Sicily to Giuseppe and Catherine Misso. Father from Vita, Trapani.

Relative Onofrio Abate was a suspected Sicilian Member who may have transferred to the Lucchese Family.

Another relative, Trapani Boss Salvatore 'Toto' Minore, spent some time in the United States before returning to Sicily, where he was murdered in 1982.

By mid-to-late 1930s Joseph was involved in a ladies clothing manufacturing business at 86-11 101st St in Ozone Park, Queens.

 

He is believed to have already been a member of the Lucchese Family. (He may have instead been with the Newark Family until its disbandment around the late 1930s.)

In mid-April 1938 among several arrested by the Alcohol Tax Unit following indictment by the US Attorney's Office in Trenton on Federal bootlegging (unregistered still) charges. Others indicted included Future Genovese Member John Lardiere.

Abate, using the aliases Joseph Pernatto / Pignati, gave an address on Arctic Ave in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

On July 1, 1938 Abate, Lardiere and co-defendant Anthony LaManna were sentenced by USDC NJ Judge J. Boyd Avis to one year one year Federal imprisonment.

In June 1939 the US Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed Abate's conviction. Press of Atlantic City reported: "[Abate] and a group of other men were convicted of manufacturing alcohol on farms on outskirts of Atlantic City, and distributing it to the 'retail trade' from two garage."

At Lewisburg (5/40)

By early May 1940 he was incarcerated at USP Lewisburg, Pennsylvania.

By February 1942 took up residence in the Penn-Atlantic Hotel in Atlantic City. Self-employed from the same address.

By the following year operated the Abate Clothing Company at 9 North Carolina Ave.

In 1946 the company moved to 227 North New Hampshire Ave.

By 1948 he and wife Carolyn Fiore were living at 303 Pitney Rd in Absecon, a town located about six miles north of AC.

By July of that same year the couple moved to 8905 Atlantic Ave in Margate.

As a member of the Lucchese Family, Abate may have initially reported to Captain Joseph 'Joe Palisades' Rosato. (CW Valachi later named one 'Don Abate' as reporting to Rosato at some point prior to the late 1950s. Rosato was Family Boss Thomas Lucchese's brother-in-law.)

c. 1960

By 1960 Abate served as Captain of the Lucchese Family's New Jersey crew.

Made members of Abate's crew included Anthony 'Ham' Dolasco, Biagio 'Benny' Pizzolato, Leonard Pizzolato and Vito Pizzolato.

Probable crew members included Onofrio Abate and Settimo 'Big Sam' Accardi.

Known crew members were all from Vita with the exception of Dolasco (Gagliano Castelferrato, Enna).
 

At the time Abate and his wife were President and Secretary - Treasurer respectively of the Atlantic Coat Company at 440 Willow Ave in Long Branch, New Jersey, with an additional location at 21 North Florida Ave in AC.

A. Dolasco (1950s)

Around this time an FBI bug active in New Jersey received the following: “[Bug] advised La Cosa Nostra member Anthony ‘Ham’ Dolasco was then attempting to intervene in a teamsters union problem. He indicated that he had to work through his ‘Capo’ and immediately placed a telephone call to Joseph Abate at the Atlantic City Coat Company. Abate was not in. [Bug] could not establish whether Abate was Dolasco’s ‘Capo’ or merely someone through whom Dolasco could contact his ‘Capo’. Subsequently [bug] advised that he had determined from (Genovese Captain) Gene Catena Dolasco’s ‘Capo’ was ‘Benuch’. Dolasco was clearly established to be a member of the Lucchese Family of the LCN.” ('Benuch' and its alternate spellings were originally believed by Agents to be references to Biagio Pizzolato, who died in 1964. Information picked up on an FBI bug ten years later led the Bureau to conclude that the nickname was in fact referring to Abate.)

'Ham' Dolasco, who died in 1963, led a group of Associates that included Anthony 'Tumac' Accetturo.

As detailed in Five Families: The Rise, Decline, and Resurgence of America's Most Powerful Mafia Families (Selwyn Raab, 2005), Accetturo's role as an Associate entailed collecting extortion payments and loanshark debts as well as helping to oversee the crew's numbers business.

L. Pizzolato

The book describes an incident where Accetturo, tasked with delivering the crew's monthly kick up, met Joseph Abate for the first time and made the mistake of telling the Captain 'how honored he was to be in his presence'. Abate ordered him out of the car and drove off, after which crew member Leonardo Pizzolato 'blisteringly reprimanded' Accetturo, stating that he had no right to talk to Abate. Pizzolato warned Accetturo never to mention Abate's name and to speak only when addressed if he wanted to 'stay alive'.
 

On May 11, 1965 DeCavalcante Underboss Frank Majuri visited with Family Boss Samuel DeCavalcante at the latter's place of business in Kenilworth, New Jersey. The FBI's Newark Field Office summarized: “...Sam told Frank of some trouble he’s been having with Vito (LNU) who has been working in Elizabeth. He has sent for Vito but Vito is ignoring the summons, so now Sam has sent for Benutz (ph). Although vague, it appears this matter involves the continuing effort by Sam to make sure all the ‘amigo nostra’ are employed on construction jobs which he can influence through Joe Sferra. Some of those employed belong to Carlo Gambino, and Sam has felt a special responsibility toward them. He is, however, becoming annoyed at their complaints and lack of gratitude. From Frank’s remarks, it could be deduced Benutz (ph) occupies a higher rank than Vito, who wanted authorization before negotiating anything with Sam. It will be recalled the late Anthony (Ham) Dolasco was responsible to an individual whose named sounded like Benutz (ph), and who was never identified.” (Vito likely refers to Abate crew member Vito Pizzolato.)

On May 10, 1969 the Abate Importing Company was incorporated at 26 North Kennedy Ave in Atlantic City. Abate served as President with 70% holdings.

On January 29, 1970 interviewed by FBI in Atlantic City:
“

Abate advised he came to the US from Marsala, Sicily, in 1924. He operated a clothing factory on Long Island from 1942 to about 1944, at which time he returned to Atlantic City, NJ, and opened a factory on North New Hampshire Ave. He subsequently moved the operation to North Kentucky Ave. He also operates a factory at Long Branch, NJ, and is engaged in both civilian clothing production and blouses for the US Air Force.

He was arrested by the Federal Government about 1932, and charged with bootlegging. He received one year and one day in the Federal Prison at Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. He served four months of this time.

"

B. Pizzolato
1939 Naturalization Doc

Agents questioned Abate about various Jersey-based LCN figures:
"

He said he has known Anthony ‘Ham’ Dolasco for many years and his relatives. He was questioned concerning the identity of anyone or himself known as Benuch or Penooks or any likeness in Italian thereof. He said he has no nicknames, but there is a name called Benuzzo, and pronounced similar to ‘Benucho’, which is Italian for Benny. He said the only Benny that readily comes to mind is one Benny Pizzolato, who used to work for him during the mid to late 1950’s. He knew Benny’s relatives prior to this, and believed Benny himself was from the old country, meaning Sicily. Benny worked as a foreman for him in his factory at Atlantic City, having come to Abate when he was broke and needed a job. Benny was a gambler and played the horses heavily, but was not known to take action himself. Benny has a brother, Leonard, who currently resides in Newark, as do other relatives, and as of three or four years ago, Leonard was in the clothing business in the Newark area.

He did not believe Benny worked for him too long when he left and returned to Newark, occupation there unknown. Subsequently, Benny left the Newark area and moved to Florida where he opened an Italian restaurant on the outskirts of Miami, in the vicinity of 89th and United States 1. Several years ago he, Abate, was in Miami, and stopped in to eat at Benny’s place, but had no other contact with him. He believed Benny died some five to seven years ago in Florida, and was buried in Newark.

He could not say for sure whether Benny introduced Anthony ‘Ham’ Dolasco to him, but it is his recollection that is probably how he met Dolasco. He said Dolasco is also dead. He did not know if Benny was a member of LCN or not, but said it was certainly possible. He pointed out anyone who is a member certainly will not say if they are a member no matter how good of a friend you are of this person. He had not heard any of Benny’s relatives in Sicily were members of LCN, but said Benny had come from the same general area he had come from.

He was asked if he knew Jerry Catena, and replied he did not personally know Catena, but knew whom the Agent was talking about, having read about him in the newspapers. He denied profusely he had any connection with this organization, stating he had spent all of his life engaged in hard work, with the exception of the time he was arrested for bootlegging, which happened while he was a young man ‘fooling around’ with the wrong crowd.

He could not recall having ever received any telephone calls from Anthony Dolasco in North Jersey, but did not preclude this possibility. He said it would be quite possible Benny might have received calls from Dolasco, and he, Abate, would not have known anything about the calls even if they had been received at the factory. Invariably, Benny always came to Abate when he was down and out, and he would do whatever he could to help him since they both came from the old country, and Abate’s relatives knew Benny’s relatives in Sicily. He again reiterated he had no connection with LCN. Abate stated he resides in Margate, NJ, and was born 7/8/1902, in Marsala, Sicily. He is married and has two children. He has no other arrests.

”

By the early 1970s the Abate crew included several Associates who would go on to become influential figures, including Anthony Accetturo, the Pernas, Thomas Ricciardi and the Taccettas. The group was involved in a variety of crimes ranging from gambling to drug ripoffs and also carried out multiple murders.

In July 1971 Abate's relative Antonino 'Toto' Minore was arrested in Toms River, NJ on CPW charge. Address and phone book seized. Entries included Joseph Abate, Gaspare Catalanotti (Detroit), Thomas Borgese, Onofrio Milazzo and Antonio Mule. FBI later reported: "Investigation [reflects] virtually all [entries] are OC connected or are identified members of LCN...Many of the remaining [entries] have been identified as pizzeria operations or persons who operate them, all of whom are Sicilian aliens."

In 1973 FBI CI reported: "Joe Abate owner of the Atlantic Coat Company is the cousin of Leonard Pizzolato, [redacted] Pizzolato. Joe [redacted] Abate come from the same town in Sicily. Joe Abate is reportedly a Lucchese Capo."

Beginning in the mid-1970s Abate was the subject of multiple FBI surveillances.

J. Abate in Midtown (1970s)

On June 4, 1974 Agents observed him meeting with two Unspecified Males in the Port Authority Bus Terminal at 8th Ave and W 40th St in Midtown, Manhattan.

On January 3, 1975 FBI NK reported: "Recent investigation has determined Abate has incorporated a new company, Abate Importing Company, 28 North Kentucky Ave, Atlantic City, NJ which address is also the location of his principal business, Atlantic City Coat Co Inc. Business operations for Abate Importing Co however center around Building 201, Held Warehouse, Port Newark, NJ. During the course of previous investigation, it was learned Abate was planning to start a business importing wine from Sicily. it is believed Abate Importing Co is engaged in that business."

On January 28, 1975 FBI CI reported: "[CI] provided the following list of people he believes to have a 'button' and they Family they belong to...Joseph Abate - Unknown."

On February 20, 1975 US Customs Philadelphia advised FBI: "[USC] advised Joseph Abate, according to records submitted for license to import liquor, plans to import red and white wines from Italy. Point from which importation will occur is the Contain Sociale, a cooperative in Marsala, Sicily."

On March 3, 1975 FBI NK reported: "[Newark Office] has been unable to identify [Joseph Abate] as a member of La Cosa Nostra to date, however, investigation indicates he is undoubtedly an LCN member who exercises considerable control over operations of the New Jersey faction of the Lucchese LCN Family. The subject is also believed to be the boss of [Redacted; Anthony Accetturo], a top hoodlum of the New York and Miami Divisions whose organized crime operations and connections are regarded as major in both divisions."

On March 18, 1975 attended funeral for Antonia Ciotola Pastore, widow of Joseph Pastore, held at Gormley Funeral Home on Atlantic Ave.

Abate (1) in Midtown (1970s)

On April 18, 1975 FBI NK reported: "During surveillance of Abate, on occasions when he has travelled to NYC, he has parked his car at the Kinney Parking Lot, W 40th St, opposite the Port Authority Bus Terminal and has thereafter walked to the Miller Building, where he has been observed to enter the Garment Carriers Easterly Store, Second Floor. Abate remains at Garment Carriers for only five or ten minutes and thereafter walks to the Port Authority Bus Terminal where he remains in the vicinity of the Coach and Post Restaurant until the person or persons meeting him that day appear. He, thereafter, either has lunch with these individuals or spends his time with them walking around the Bus Terminal concourse or walking on the city streets, while conversing. Abate thereafter returns to his car and drives to Atlantic City."

Through 1975 Abate was observed over a dozen times meeting with various individuals in Midtown.

L. Pizzolato (L) and J. Abate (R)

On April 29, 1975 Agents photographed Abate meeting with Lucchese Soldier Leonard Pizzolato.

On May 20, 1975 Abate and Lucchese Associate Anthony Accetturo were observed.

On June 17, 1975 Abate and Alexander Tambe were observed.

S. Accardi (1975)

On June 24, 1975 an FBI photo surveillance set up on the Atlantic City Coat Company caught Abate meeting with Suspected Lucchese Member Settimo Accardi, Leonard Pizzolato and others.

O. Abate
FBN Mafia Book

On June 27, 1975 FBI reported: "It should be noted Onofrio Abate from New Jersey [is] suspected of being an importer of illegal Sicilian aliens [and] has been in telephone contact with Philip Navarra from St. Nicholas St, Brooklyn, a Bonanno Family associate. [File review] reveals Onofrio Abate of West Orange, NJ is a relative of Giuseppe (Joseph) Abate, 8905 Atlantic Ave, Margate...Giuseppe Abate has previously been in contact with Charles Matranga who is the brother-in-law of Joseph LoPiccolo who is reportedly a front for Mafia Boss Joseph Bonanno. It has also been determined Joseph Abate has been in telephone contact with [Redacted], reportedly a button man in the Bonanno Family of LCN. It should also be noted that Onofrio Abate of West Orange, NJ is married to [redacted] Settimo Accardi, and [Redacted] has previously been convicted of violating the Federal Narcotics Laws. It should also be noted Joseph Abate previously was employed from 1943 to 1948 at Abate Sports Wear, Ozone Park, and in 1954, he worked for [Redacted]."

On July 29, 1975 Abate, Suspected Lucchese Member Settimo Accardi, Leonard Pizzolato and Lucchese Associate John 'Johnny Trim' Trimigliozzi were observed.

Abate (L) and J. Trimigliozzi (R)

On August 5, 1975 Abate met with Lucchese Associates Anthony Accetturo and John Trimigliozzi.

On September 16, 1975 Abate and Lucchese Soldier Leonard Pizzolato were observed.

On October 1, 1975 FBI NK reported: "During investigation into the activities of several high ranking members of LCN in the Newark Division over the past 10 or 12 years, the name [Benuchs] or variations of it, have come up in monitored conversations and have consistently identified this individual as a Caporegima in the Lucchese Family. Informants of the Newark, New York, [redacted]. As a result of investigation to identify [Benuchs], it was generally believed it was a nickname for Benny Pizzolato, a member of the Lucchese Family in Newark. Current investigation of Abate, however, identifies him as [Benuchs]. The above related conversation on 4/10/75 represents the first time the name [Benuchs] has come up for about 10 years. This conversation eliminates Benny Pizzolato [as Benuchs] because Pizzolato died 9/4/64. The 4/10/75 conversation firmly establishes [Benuchs] is currently living in Atlantic City."

On October 7, 1975 Abate's surveillance team reported: "From 12:30 PM to 1:02 PM, Abate spent his time walking on 9th Ave, window shopping at the various meat and fish and produce stores on that avenue. It appeared he may have been awaiting a rendezvous, since on several instances he stood at the curb studying the oncoming traffic."

On November 17, 1975 Abate was photographed in Midtown with Lucchese Soldier Leonard Pizzolato, Lucchese Associate John Trimigliozzi and an Unsub (possibly Lucchese Associate Anthony Accetturo).

On November 19, 1975 Abate, Alexander Tambe and Unsub surveilled inside Cliff Restaurant located in Union City, New Jersey. The Unsub utilized a vehicle registered to one LoRusso.

In June 1976 Abate crew member Anthony Accetturo was inducted into the Lucchese Family in a ceremony presided over by Acting Boss Antonio 'Tony Ducks' Corallo. Abate was present as Accetturo's sponsor.

Accetturo later reported that the ceremony was carried out in an abbreviated fashion. He was instructed to burn the image of a saint, absent a drop of his blood, while reciting the verbal oath.

On July 6, 1976 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised [Redacted] was recently made into the Lucchese Family of LCN. Source stated [Redacted] reports to LCN member Joseph Abate, who controls OC activities in Atlantic City, NJ." (This is believed referring to Accetturo.)

On December 29, 1976 FBI CI reported on new Gambino Boss Paul Castellano. The informant noted: "...[CI] believes the Gambino people will work in concert with Lucchese and other Families to solidify business ventures in Atlantic City. In that regard, one inference which might be drawn from the statement in captioned teletype (12/27/76), that no Capo is to handle the AC area, without prior clearance, that there is already a man of considerable 'strength' in the area. That man would be Joseph Abate of the Lucchese Family."

Abate suffered his first arrest in nearly forty years on July 20, 1977, when a Monmouth County Grand Jury indicted him on various charges stemming from the November 1976 arson of his clothing business in Long Branch.

On August 18, 1977 arraigned in Monmouth County Court, where he pleaded not guilty and was released on $10,000 bail.

Around Fall 1977 Abate crew members Michael Perna, Martin Taccetta and Michael Taccetta were inducted into the Lucchese Family.

On February 5, 1978 an FBI Member Source in Newark identified Abate as a Lucchese Member.

On March 3, 1978 the FBI's New York Office advised FBI NK: "...Carmine Tramunti took over as Boss [of the Lucchese Family] after Lucchese's death [in 1967]. Tramunti is presently serving a sentence in Federal prison. The Boss of the Family is Antonio 'Tony Ducks' Corallo, who operates out of NYC. A review of the available info reveals [Family's NJ faction] is involved in gambling, loansharking, fencing securities, extortion and infiltration of legitimate businesses. The Lucchese Family today reside in the NYC area in such diverse locations as the North Shore of Long Island, Lower Manhattan, The Bronx, Staten Island and Westchester. A few members of this Family now reside in [NJ], and over the past few years some have been moving to Florida, and now a half dozen reside in the Sunshine State, apparently in the status of semi-retired. The following individuals in NJ have been identified as members of the Lucchese Family: [List includes Joseph Abate, Anthony Accetturo, Leonard Pizzolato and Giacomo Reina]."

In July 1978 included in FBI's list of approximately 70 identified Lucchese Family members. An additional twelve individuals listed as suspected members.

On October 20, 1978 FBI conducted file review re Lucchese Boss Antonio Corallo: "...Corallo was reported as of 2/24/78, to be appearing at a secret location in East Harlem where the various Capos report to him on a twice weekly basis at 1:00 PM on Tuesdays and Thursdays."

By 1979 made members of the New Jersey crew included:

1. Anthony 'Tumac' Accetturo (40y)
2. Michael Perna (36y)
3. Martin Taccetta (27y)
4. Michael Taccetta (31y)
5. Leonard Pizzolato (74y)
6. Vito Pizzolato (68y) (IP?)

Associates of Interest / Possible Members included:

1. Carmine Accardi (38y) (Son to Settimo)
2. Michael Angelo Contino (36y)
   
3. John 'Sonny' Giglio (39y)
4. Joseph LaMorte (49y)
5. Andrew Licari (49y) (Nephew to L. Pizzolato)
6. Thomas Ricciardi (26y)
7. Frank Suppa (38y)
8. Angelo Taccetta (57y) (Father to Martin / Michael)

By 1980 Abate is believed to have stepped down as Captain of the Jersey crew.

He was succeeded by Anthony Accetturo.

In June 1983 identified as Lucchese Soldier in Senate Chart of Lucchese Family membership.

Named as a Captain in 1985 and 1988 Federal charts.

During the April 1988 hearing noted above, the New Jersey Commission of Investigations entered a detailed statement concerning local LCN activity. The Lucchese section notes: "Criminal operations in New Jersey are under the supervision of Anthony Accetturo and Joseph Abate, both caporegimes, and soldier Michael Taccetta."

That same year tensions between Lucchese Boss Vittorio 'Vic' Amuso and the Jersey crew resulted in hits being ordered on Anthony Accetturo and several of his men.

Accetturo crew member Joseph LaMorte was shot and wounded in November 1989.

Several other murder plots were ultimately unsuccessful after the subjects could not be located.

The situation was mostly resolved after a meeting between three Lucchese Captains and Accetturo crew member Michael Perna. (Anthony Accetturo and Acting Captain Thomas Ricciardi subsequently cooperated.)

One of the mediators, Lucchese Captain Alfonso D'Arco, had been given temporary control over the Jersey crew during the conflict. Years later he testified: "[Accetturo crew members included] Mike Perna, Sonny Giglio, there was Marty Taccetta, Michael Taccetta, another guy named Lenny Pizzalatti (sic) and his nephew, I forgot his nephew's name. Those were some of the men. The original guy was (Former Lucchese Soldier) Joe Schiavo's compadre, original of that before Tumac, by the name Nunzi." [Pizzolato's nephew was Andrew Licari.]

It's not clear what role, if any, Joseph Abate played during the conflict.

He died November 28, 1996 and was buried in Atlantic City's Holy Cross Cemetery and Chapel Mausoleum.

Francesco Rizzo (Gambino)

1963

Francesco 'Cheech Alio' Rizzo was a Captain in the Gambino Family.

Born August 8, 1897 in Canicatti comune of Agrigento, Sicily to Antonino Alio (30y) and Vincenza Munda.

Reportedly shot and wounded in the leg during his service with the Italian Army in WWI.

In early January 1920 married Rosa Cino (15y) in Canicatti.

Around April 14, 1920 arrived at the Port of New York aboard S.S. Patria.

By July 1927 resided at 338 East 50th St in Turtle Bay, Manhattan.

That month filed Declaration of Intention.

In 1930 arrested, under alias Alfredo Licari, by the State Police in Hartford, Connecticut for carrying a concealed weapon. Convicted on September 24 and sentenced about a month later to ten days imprisonment and a $200 fine.

c. 1930

Rizzo, then living at 3343 3rd Ave in The Bronx's Morrisania neighborhood and working as a merchant, may have already been a Gambino member.

On February 10, 1930 filed Petition for Naturalization in Bronx Supreme Court. Naturalized that June.

Witnesses in Rizzo's naturalization were Manhattan residents Federico Notarstefano (1887-1977), also of Canicatti, and Louis Parise.

(Notarstefano's July 1922 US Passport Application was witnessed by Vincenzo Giardina [1889-1984], who later served as President of the Fraternal Society of Canicatti and was related to Pietro Stincone [1897-1977], fellow Society member and a future Gambino Captain.)

June 1934

On June 9, 1934 among five held on suspicion by the local PD in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The group, who caught the attention of officers after meeting in a restaurant on Liberty Avenue, were:

• Francesco Rizzo
• Sebastiano 'Benny' Bellanca (1904-c.1973?), from Cattolica Eraclea in Agrigento. Later identified as a Gambino Soldier active in narcotics.
• Vincent 'Little Jimmy' Damianni (sp), a known figure with links to New York, Louisiana and Pennsylvania. Previously accused of involvement in the 1928 shotgun murders of two dissident miners in Pittston, PA. In May 1932 he was wounded in a shooting attempt on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Six days later Damianni's associate, Bonanno (?) Member James Alascia, was killed.
• Samuel Taibi (1911-1990), Brooklyn resident.
• Charles Tolumello (1903 - 1943), a butcher from East Harlem.

Five days later Bellanca, Rizzo and possibly the others were received at the Allegheny County Workhouse in Blawnox, PA to serve ninety days.

On October 22, 1935 arrested by Stratford, Connecticut PD for investigation / no license.

By 1937 worked at Model Restaurant on E 27th St in Kips Bay, Manhattan.

By 1940 employed as liquor salesman with La Lupa Inc. at 300 E 107th St in East Harlem.

By February 1942 resided at 222 E 102nd St in the same neighborhood. His World War II Draft Card lists Diego Sciabbarrasi (1893-1971), also from Canicatti, as a reference.

His employment with La Lupa Inc. ended around the same year.

On January 17, 1947 issued US Passport for proposed six month trip to visit relatives in Italy.

By 1959 resided at 1485 Burke Ave in Laconia, The Bronx. Employed with Sicilian Asphalt and Paving Company.

On January 16, 1959 issued US Passport for proposed six month trip to Italy with planned departure in March.

On November 8, 1959 returned to New York from Italy.

By the 1960s Rizzo is believed to have been reporting to Gambino Captain Pietro 'Pete' Stincone.

Stincone and Rizzo, born in the same town about two months apart, likely came up together in the Gambino Family's primarily Manhattan-based Agrigento faction.

In January 1963 FBI CI Alfred Santantonio, a Gambino Soldier, identified Stincone as a Captain with 'about ten old men' under him. He later named Stincone, owner of an insurance business in Queens, as one of three Captains who acted as a 'screening board' for Boss Carlo Gambino.

Any chance of Santantonio further identifying the 'ten old men' reporting to Stincone ended with his July 1963 murder.

Made members who were possibly under Stincone included Rizzo, Joseph 'Pedro' Benintende, Arthur 'Artie' Frangello and Ralph 'Ralphie Bones' Mosca.

Eduardo Aronica and Salvatore Curto, both of Canicatti, may have also reported to Stincone.

On April 13, 1963 Rizzo's vehicle was observed by Agents conducting surveillance on the Arcuri Liquor Store at 302 E 78th St in the Upper East Side. The location was owned by Gambino Captain Domenico Arcuri and his son, Soldier Joseph Arcuri, and served as a meeting spot and drop-off point. (Also observed was an auto registered to Giuseppi 'Peppino' Gambino, Carlo's brother and a Family Captain.)

On April 16, 1963 issued US Passport for a proposed one year trip to visit relatives.

On April 20, 1963 Rizzo's car was again observed at the Arcuri Liquor Store.

In June 1963 he departed for Sicily.

In October 1964 returned to US.

By 1965 resided at 101-26 Nicolls Ave in Corona, Queens.

By July 1966 Rizzo was identified as a Gambino Captain.

It's possible that he temporarily took over for Stincone, who may have stepped back in the wake of his wife's death in the Summer of 1964. Alternatively, Rizzo might have succeeded another Captain or been given control of a newly formed crew. (Stincone continued to be identified as a Captain in 1968 and during the 1970s.)

Made members of Rizzo's crew included Joseph Benintende and Ralph Mosca.

1952

Joseph 'Pedro' Benintende was born 1908 in East Harlem to parents from Enna Province (Leonforte / Nicosia). Younger brother Anthony aka 'Hoyt' was a Gambino Soldier under Arthur Leo and later Anthony 'Tony Baker' Napolitano. Joseph married the sister of Gambino Soldier Anthony 'Skunge' Granza.

Benintende had a lengthy criminal record, serving both state and Federal sentences for bribery and bank robbery.

An informant later named him as a participant in the December 1959 disappearance murder of Lucchese Soldier Nicholas 'Bulldog' Martello.

By the 1960s he was involved in bookmaking and worked at an East Harlem crap game owned by Lucchese Captain Carmine 'Gribbs' Tramunti.

1959

'Ralphie Bones' Mosca was born 1910 in East Harlem to parents from Campania (Santa Lucia di Serino, Avellino / Polla, Salerno).

His brother-in-law Martin 'Jinks' DeSaverio was a Lucchese Soldier and narcotics trafficker who was shot to death in 1982.

 

Son Peter Mosca was later inducted into the Gambino Family in the same ceremony as Future Boss John Gotti.

By the 1960s Mosca was involved in bookmaking, loansharking and running numbers in East Harlem.

As yet the remainder of Rizzo's crew is unknown. He may have also had Arthur Frangello and other guys later connected to the Mosca crew.

On July 31, 1966 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised concerning Ralph Mosca, who resides in the Bronx, but who presently hangs out around E 101st - 105th Streets, New York City, Mosca is a Soldier in the Gambino Family, under a Capo known only to him as 'Cheech' (LNU), whom he described as an old 'mustache' in LCN."

On August 14, 1966 FBI CI reported: "[CI] stated he is aware of a number of Moscas and was able to furnish the following concerning them: Ralph Mosca, aka Bones, is a 'made guy' in the Gambino Family under an old-time Caporegima named Cheech (Sicilian for Frank)."

By the following year Rizzo was under investigation.

On January 17, 1967 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised approximately [redacted] Ralph Mosca [redacted] he was interviewed by the FBI in Spanish Harlem and although the interview lasted approximately one half hour, he had told the FBI nothing. [CI] said also present during the discussion were a number of individuals who were also Soldiers in LCN and they advised Mosca that he would probably be bawled out by his Captain for allowing himself to be interviewed by the FBI. These individuals stated he should have refused to be interviewed and told the FBI to consult with his attorney. CI said Ralph Mosca is a member of the Gambino Family under 'Cheech' aka Frank Ali. He said recently Mosca told him when he reported this interview to 'Cheech', 'Cheech' was not displeased and told Mosca that he did the right thing by being gentlemanly, but not saying anything."

On February 27, 1967 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised he had learned the following individuals attended [2/26/67 Vincent Casablanca] reception...Joseph Benintende, aka Pedro - Previously mentioned by [CI] as being LCN member in Gambino Family, under Capo Cheech (LNU)." (Casablanca was a Gambino Soldier under Anthony Napolitano.)

 

On July 31, 1968 FBI CI reported: "[CI] was queried for all information in his possession regarding Francesco Rizzo. [CI] reiterated Rizzo is a Captain in the Carlo Gambino Family of LCN and advised Ralph 'Bones' Mosca, [Redacted] (not identified at this time) were all in Rizzo's regime. CI said Rizzo is employed by the Sicilian Asphalt Paving Company and for a man who is approximately 70 years of age works very hard at his job, although he does not have to...CI said Rizzo on weekends usually hangs out at Mosca's social club located at 2034 2nd Ave, NYC."

In October 1968 the son of Gambino Soldier Charles Barcellona married. Reception attendees included Rizzo, Gambino Captain Anthony 'Tony Baker' Napolitano and Gambino Soldiers Ralph Mosca and Michael 'Big Mike' Pinetti. (Barcellona and Pinetti reported to Napolitano.)

By November 1968 resided at 1163 Havemeyer Ave in Unionport, The Bronx.

On November 14, 1968 an informant identified his photo as being identical with the Gambino Captain.

On November 24, 1968 Boss Carlo Gambino's son married. Attendees included:

Joseph Colombo (Colombo Boss)
Stefano 'Steve' LaSala (Lucchese Acting Boss)

Aniello 'O'Neil' Dellacroce (Gambino Underboss)
Frank 'Frankie T.' Mari (Bonanno Underboss)

David 'Papa Dave' Amodeo (Gambino Captain)
Vincent 'Jimmy the Blond' Corrao (Gambino Acting Captain)
Nicholas 'Jiggs' Forlano (Colombo Captain)
Anthony 'Tony Baker' Napolitano (Gambino Captain)
Joseph Paterno (Gambino Captain)
Francesco 'Cheech' Rizzo (Gambino Captain)
Anthony 'Tony the Geep' Sedotto (Gambino Captain)

John 'Johnny Ange' Angelone (Gambino Soldier)
Samuel 'Big Sam' Cavalieri (Lucchese Soldier)
Guido DeCurtis (Gambino Soldier)

Two days later FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that he had, in fact, attended Carlo Gambino's son's wedding on the previous Saturday and there observed the following individuals in attendance...Frank Alio Rizzo, Gambino Caporegima, who was in company with Ralph Mosca."

On July 20, 1969 Rizzo attended the wedding reception for Gambino Captain Domenico Arcuri's granddaughter, held at Leonard's Catering on Northern Blvd in Little Neck, Queens.

On July 27, 1969 FBI NY reported: “It is to be noted in 1/1969, [CI] first advised of an old time Gambino member who was very highly respected [known as Osta Micciddi (ph)]. Since then investigation has been conducted in an effort to identify this individual. On 6/26/1969, CI advised that Micciddi had a granddaughter who was getting married on 7/20/1969 at Leonard’s Catering...At that time, [CI] also advised Micciddi was a close friend of Frank Alio Rizzo as well as Joe Gallo (member of the Gambino Family)...[CI subsequently] identified a photograph of Domenico Arcuri as being identical with an individual previously referred to by him as Micciddi.”

On August 13, 1969 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised Frank Alio Rizzo is a Captain in the Carlo Gambino Family of LCN. [CI] had previously advised Frank Alio, aka 'Cheech' was a member of the Gambino Family. [CI] stated these are the names by which he knew Rizzo. [CI] advised the following are associates of Rizzo: [Redacted], Anthony Napolitano, [Redacted], Domenic Arcuri, Aniello Dellacroce, [Redacted], Carlo Gambino."

On September 7, 1969 the body of Rizzo crew member Joseph Benintende was found floating in Long Island Sound near Glen Cove, LI. Examination determined that Benintende, who was wrapped in canvass and had his hands tied behind his back, had been beaten, shot five times and strangled. It was speculated that the body had been in the water for at least six months.

The prevailing theory was that Benintende, last seen in July 1968, was murdered for tipping off a group of kidnappers who were targeting LCN members in Harlem and the Bronx.

In October 1969 FBI CI reported: "[Frank] Rizzo is a Captain in the Gambino Family of LCN."

In November 1969 included in the FBI's list of 233 identified Gambino Family members.

Both Rizzo and Pietro Stincone are among the approximately 27 Captains and Acting Captains named in an accompanying hierarchy chart. (Stincone was also identified as a Captain by one of the FBI's Member Sources the previous October.)

On June 11, 1970 Rizzo and forty-six others were indicted for criminal contempt by the Brooklyn District Attorney's Office.

F. Rizzo at arraignment (6/70)

Among those charged were multiple high-ranking LCN members, as well as several Associates who would later become influential members themselves.

Defendants included:

Natale 'Joe Diamond' Evola (Bonanno Boss)

Aniello 'O'Neil' Dellacroce (Gambino Underboss)
Philip 'Rusty' Rastelli (Bonanno Underboss) [Later succeeded Evola as Boss]

Nicholas Bianco (Colombo Captain)
James 'Jimmy Brown' Failla (Gambino Captain)
Salvatore 'Sally Fruits' Ferrugia (Bonanno Acting (?) Captain)
Francesco 'Cheech' Rizzo (Gambino Captain)

Jerome 'Jerry' Asaro (Bonanno Soldier)
Dominick Castore (Gambino Soldier)
Francesco Crociata (Suspected Bonanno Member)
Pietro 'Skinny Pete' Crociata (Bonanno Soldier) [Former Admin]
Alphonse 'Funzi' D'Ambrosio (Colombo Soldier)
Vincent 'Boozy' DeCicco (Gambino Soldier)
Anthony 'Tony Lee' Guerrieri (Gambino Soldier)
Anthony 'Tony Lap' LaPonzina (Colombo Soldier)
Anthony Leone (Bonanno Soldier)
Philip Modica (Gambino Soldier)
Rosario 'Sally Burns' Morale (Bonanno Soldier)
Anthony 'Fat Andy' Ruggiano (Gambino Soldier)
Michael Sabella (Bonanno Soldier) [Former Captain]
Paul Sciacca (Bonanno Soldier) [Former Boss]
Dominick 'Mimi' Scialo (Colombo Soldier)
George Tropiano (Colombo Soldier)

Benedetto 'Benny' Aloi (Colombo Associate) [Future Underboss]
Anthony 'Bim' Bonacci (Bonanno Associate) [Future Member]
Gerald 'Jerry' Chilli (Bonanno Associate) [Future Captain]
Joseph Chilli (Bonanno Associate) [Future Captain]
Joseph Corozzo (Gambino Associate) [Future Consigliere]
James 'Jimmy Legs' Episcopia (Bonanno Associate) [Future Captain]
Vito Grimaldi (Bonanno Associate) [Future Captain]
Peter Monteleone (Bonanno Associate) [Future Member]

An update on the case was provided to FBI NY the following day: "[Brooklyn DA] stated these arrests came off 'clock work fashion' and there was only a minor incident where slight scuffle took place involving Philip Rastelli, James Failla, and Dominick Scialo at the time they were being escorted to the prisoner van to the Brooklyn Supreme Court building. [DA] stated also Rastelli, while being escorted out of the Kings County Municipal Building, where the DA's office is located, attempted to assault a news photographer which resulted in a slight injury to the photographer's hand. Further, at the conclusion of the arraignments, [DA] stated Dominick Scialo became vociferous and boisterous and claimed harassment to the Italians on the part of the [redacted] and himself, [DA] and as a result had to be restrained...[DA] stated in conclusion of the 46 individuals originally indicted, 37 have now been either arrested, have surrendered to this office, and, of the remaining nine individuals, he anticipates that they will all be accounted for within the next two or three days, with the exception of Frank Mari and James Episcopia, both of whom are missing and presumed dead."

On July 16, 1970 Rizzo was observed by the FBI at his residence in Unionport: "This residence is a two story brick structure attached to other residences. It is comparatively new and in good repair. Rizzo resides in the second or top level portion of this residence."

On September 10, 1970 he was interviewed by Agents for the first time:
"

[Rizzo] stated his father was Antonio Rizzo and his mother was Vincenza Munda, both of whom were born in Sicily...Rizzo stated that he had been married in Italy prior to his coming to this country, and his wife's name was Rose Cino, who died within the past five years...Rizzo stated his current wife is Louise Nieto Rizzo and they were married at City Hall, NY, on Christmas Eve 1966, and they have resided at their current residence, 1163 Havemeyer Ave, Bronx, since this marriage.

Rizzo stated he is currently employed as a laborer by the Sicilian Asphalt Paving Company, NYC, and he has been so employed for about 20 years. He said he is a member of Local 1018 LIUNA...Rizzo stated he lived at the following former residences: 101-26 Nicolls Ave, Queens For about 3 years prior to his moving to his current residence; 222 East 102nd St NYC, where he resided for over 30 years prior to moving to the Queens address listed above.

Rizzo indicated he has traveled to Italy in 1947, 1952 and 1959, and he stayed in Sicily from 6/63 to 10/64. He stated that the reason for these visits were to visit his wife and children and the reason his stay was so extended in 1963 and 1964 was the fact his parents were in ill health and eventually died. Rizzo denied ever having been a member of any organized crime group, stating he had always been a hard working, honest laboring man who lawfully earned every dollar he has ever made. When asked if he were acquainted with Carlo Gambino, he advised he was, having met Gambino in 1922, and he has seen him on several occasions since this time at weddings, banquets and funerals. Rizzo refused to answer any further questions regarding Gambino or whether he was associated with any other individuals.

Rizzo stated that he is currently under indictment by the Kings County Grand Jury and his next scheduled appearance before this body is on 10/5/1970. He stated that [redacted]. Rizzo was asked if he had ever used any name other than Rizzo and he stated he had not. When advised his identification record indicated he had in the past used the name Alfredo Licari, he stated yes, he then recalled having used this name when arrested years ago and the reason he used this name was so his pending naturalization petition would not be jeopardized.

"

In January 1971 included in the NYPD Organized Crime Control Bureau's list of Gambino Captains.

On March 16, 1971 pleaded guilty to the Brooklyn contempt charge. On September 16 fined $500.

In September 1971 the FBI began an unsuccessful attempt to secure Rizzo's cooperation.

Around 1971 Dominick Lofaro was put on-record with the crew under Pietro Stincone, whom he referred to as 'Uncle Pete'. Lofaro, who cooperated in the 1980s, later testified: "I told my cousin I couldn't go on anymore [working as a laborer] and he said he knew some people." Lofaro given piece of gambling operation in Newburgh, New York. (Newburgh is where Arthur Frangello lived and operated. Lofaro was also with Mosca later on, showing further links between the various members associated with Stincone and Rizzo.)

On September 20, 1972 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised an individual by the name of [Redacted] is the driver for Frank Rizzo."

In October 1972 included in the FBI's list of 201 identified Gambino Family members and named as a Captain in the accompanying hierarchy chart.

In October 1973 included in the FBI's list of 196 identified Gambino Family members and named as a Captain in the accompanying hierarchy chart.

By 1975 moved to 908 Clarence Ave in Throggs Neck, The Bronx. An FBI spot check noted: "This address is a three story brick house with an attached garage. Three doorbells noted at front door."

On January 3, 1975 Nassau County PD surveillance conducted on the residence of Boss Carlo Gambino in Massapequa, Long Island. Those observed included Gambino, Francesco Rizzo, Gambino Captain Pietro Stincone and Gambino Associate Charles 'Buster Russo' LiConti. At approximately 12:30 PM Gambino was driven from the residence by Stincone.

In December 1975 included in the FBI's list of 192 identified Gambino Family members and named as a Captain in the accompanying hierarchy chart.

By July 1976 Rizzo had moved from the Clarence Ave address and could not be located.

As of January 1977 he was still being listed as a Gambino Captain but no further information on him is available.

He may have stepped down around this time if not earlier.

Pietro Stincone died the following month.

R. Mosca

By July 1980 former Rizzo crew member Ralph Mosca was described by an informant as Acting Captain for Anthony Napolitano.

A report four months later switched their roles, naming Mosca as the official and Napolitano as Acting and not specifying whether or not they were in the same crew.

An FBI report a few years later described Mosca as a' long time Capo' who was believed to have 'succeeded Anthony Napolitano aka Tony Baker when Napolitano went into retirement'. (CW Michael DiLeonardo, a former Gambino Captain, later testified that Napolitano didn't retire until around 1988, at which point his crew went to Louis Ricco.)
 

In December 1984 CI Dominick Lofaro recorded a conversation between himself and fellow Mosca crew members en route to a meeting with Gambino Acting Captain John Gotti in Queens. At one point Lofaro, speaking with Gambino Soldiers Carmine Fiore and Ralph's son Peter Mosca, stated: "[Gotti]'s got a big crew, huh? Young guys too, Petey. He's a nice guy. That's why he's well liked, you know...You know, us three guys and Dominick (Acquista) are the youngest guys in our crew. I don't believe it. We got all old guys."
 

Frank Rizzo may have been one of the 'old guys' under Mosca.

He died the following August and was buried in Phoenix, Arizona.

Posthumously included in 1988 Senate Chart of Gambino Family membership.

Update

Updated Posts

1. Felix Bocchino : Narrowed date of induction to January 12 or 24, 1982 (both dates are mentioned in the report) and noted that Bocchino was reporting to Joseph Ciancaglini in the early 1980s.

2. Dominic Rugnetta : Added a photo and some information on Nicholas Piccolo, Rugnetta's crew leader in the mid-to-late 1960s.

Update

New Post:

1.) Joseph DeFede (Lucchese)

The section on induction ceremonies overseen by DeFede notes that the New York Families' books were closed for a time in the early-mid 1990s.

In January 1995 the FBI's Newark Field Office reported: "...New York advised that Genovese LCN Family Boss Vincent 'Chin' [Gigante] had 'closed the books' on inducting new LCN members during the summer of 1994 and had no recent information indicating that this had changed."

Updated Post:

1.) Alfonse DeMarinis (Bonanno) : Details re geographic origins and Pollastrino crew members, as well as summary of a background report compiled on the subject in 1987.

Joseph DeFede (Lucchese)

 

Joseph 'Little Joe' DeFede was the Acting Boss of the Lucchese Family during the mid-to-late 1990s. He became a cooperating witness in 2001.

Pre-LCN Affiliation

Born February 1, 1934 in Brooklyn to Louis (Construction Laborer; 32y) and Palma Sassano (31y).

At the time of Joseph's birth the family resided at 91 Sackman St in the Cypress Hills neighborhood.

Joseph left school around the 11th grade and found work in a pocketbook factory.

Other legitimate employment included with a private cab service and a veterinary hospital.

By 1953 he had moved one block over at 2367 Atlantic Ave.

In September 1953 completed US Army Basic Training at Medical Replacement Training Center located at Camp Pickett, Virginia.

J. DeFede (1953)
Press

He served for approximately four months and was given an honorable discharge on hardship to care for his family. Returned to the veterinary hospital.

Around the late 1950s began working for Western Electric as a phone repairman.

In the 1960s hospitalized for a couple of months to undergo treatment for alcoholism and depression. He later testified the treatment was unsuccessful.

Colombo Association

By 1962 employed as bartender at Bel-Crest Tavern located at 1039 Belmont Ave in East New York, Brooklyn. Business owned Frank 'Cheech' DeLucia, a Colombo Associate and brother of Colombo Soldier Fred 'Freddy Red / No Nose' DeLucia.

F. DeLucia (1962)

By the mid-1960s DeFede was an on-record associate of DeLucia and became involved in loansharking, numbers and horse betting.

DeLucia, who spent much of the decade in either state or Federal prison, reported to Captain John 'Sonny' Franzese.

On-record associates of DeLucia included brothers Dominic and Joseph Cataldo, Joseph DeFede, Frank DeLucia, John 'Jackie' Donnelly, Alfred 'The Whip' DiMichele and Salvatore 'Sonny Black' Montello.

Through his period of association with Colombo Family, DeFede operated approximately six gambling locations in Brooklyn and Queens.

Around this time he also earned approximately $7,000 in the robbery of a truck containing coats and jackets. The truck driver, complicit in the holdup, received $2,000.

On November 21, 1969 Fred DeLucia disappeared along with Colombo Soldier Salvatore 'Sally D.' D'Ambrosio, a highly influential and feared member of the Family. (Various theories were put forth by informants. One claimed that DeLucia was collateral damage who was taken out only because he was with D'Ambrosio at the time. Another described the disappearances as retaliation for the pairs' suspected involvement in the September 1969 murders of Bonanno leaders Frank Mari and Mike Adamo. Others claimed the pair was hit for plotting against Boss Joseph Colombo. Suspected participants included Capodecina Carmine 'Junior' Persico, Soldier Dominick 'Mimi' Scialo and Associates Gennaro 'Jerry Lang' Langella and Hugh 'Apples' McIntosh.)

J. Brancato (1970s)
Press

Following DeLucia's murder, his territory and former associates went to Colombo Acting Captain Joseph 'Little Joey' Brancato.

D. Cataldo

By 1978 DeFede was on-record with Colombo Soldier Dominic 'Little Dom' Cataldo, a former DeLucia Associate who was inducted the previous year.

Then a member of Aniello 'Allie Lamont' Giannattasio's crew, Cataldo's associates included his younger brother Joseph, Stephen Cilluffo, DeFede, Robert 'Bobby' Joyce, Billy Ray LNU, 'Mickey Brown' LNU, Ralphie LNU  and Cataldo's brother-in-law Vito Scaglione.

Around 1979 Cataldo met with Gambino Associate Peter Gotti at Kennedy Inn in Queens. Others present included Colombo Associates Joseph DeFede and Joseph Scopo. DeFede later testified: "It was around '79 or the early part of 80's, Peter Gotti came down [with] one Joseph Scopo. Joe Scopo was [later] a cappo in the Colombo crime Family. He came down there to meet a friend of mine Dom, who was also a member of the Colombo crime family. They walked over to the side and took about five minutes or so. Dom came back to the bar and [Scopo and Gotti left]." (Scopo was inducted in 1981 and murdered in 1993. Peter Gotti was inducted in 1986 and went on to head the Gambino Family after his brother John. He died in 2021).

Dominick 'Donnie Shacks' Montemarano took over Allie Giannattasio's crew following the latter's death in August 1979.

In 1980 DeFede was arrested by the NYPD on a gambling charge. Pleaded guilty to final charge disorderly conduct and fined.

In October 1981 Dominic Cataldo began serving a Federal prison sentence re attempted bribery and firearm / silencer possession charges. Paroled in December 1983, he was returned to prison following indictment in the October 1984 SDNY Colombo indictment that also charged Boss Carmine Persico and others. (During Cataldo's incarceration his brother-in-law Vito Scaglione was shot to death in Queens. He died August 1990 at the Federal Medical Center in Rochester, Minnesota.)

By 1985 DeFede's gambling establishments included The Liberty Lounge at 102nd St and Liberty Ave in Ozone Park, Queens. Earned up to $3,000 per week from gambling activities.

Lucchese Association

V. Amuso (L) and V. Orena (R)
Source: Gang Land News (GLN)

In or around Summer 1988 transferred to Lucchese Family through Lucchese Boss Vittorio 'Vic' Amuso. Transfer authorized by Colombo Acting Boss Vic Orena: "[Amuso] asked me first - he said first that I should be a made man, and he wanted me to go into [the] Colombos. At that time the Colombos [admin members] were new and I was never what we call going downtown. In other words, I didn't know any captains or any bosses there at the time. And he asked me if I was more comfortable with him, and I said yes." Also testified: "[Orena] gave the permission for me to move over to Vic Amuso...As a matter of fact, I was called down on a Sunday night by skipper named Patty Amato. He come over and he gave me his best wishes, and that's when I became a Luchese."

As a Lucchese associate he continued involvement in loansharking, horse betting and numbers.

T. Gilmore

In December 1988 Amuso visited DeFede at The Liberty Lounge. Topics of discussion included Lucchese Associate Thomas 'Red' Gilmore: "[Amuso] was very upset, saying that Gilmore was trying to set him up. He's asking certain questions that he shouldn't be asking to him, and he -- looked like he was setting him up for law enforcement...[Amuso] mentioned one time [Gilmore] was sitting out in the car with two guys all dressed, they looked like [law enforcement]. And that was it." (In early February 1989 Gilmore was shot to death by a team supervised by Alfonso 'Little Al' D'Arco, Captain over the Family's other local crew and who, like DeFede, later cooperated after a brief time as Acting Boss.)

In early February 1989 Gilmore was shot to death by members of the Lucchese Family's other local crew then headed by Captain Alfonso 'Little Al' D'Arco. Like DeFede, D'Arco later cooperated after a brief time as Acting Boss.)

Lucchese Soldier

By 1989 DeFede reported directly to Amuso, and the two were also close social acquaintances.

J. DeFede (1980s)
GLN

In October 1989 DeFede was visited at The Liberty Lounge by Vic's older brother, Lucchese Captain Robert 'Bobby' Amuso: "[Vic] put me on what we call on his list, I was proposed, and I didn't know exactly when [until Bobby] called me to come down...[Bobby] told me to get dressed. This was on Saturday, to get dressed, on Monday somebody will pick you up, which they did, they dropped me off at a Canarsie restaurant, met a few other people there, in turn we went into Brooklyn."

DeFede was driven by Lucchese Associate James 'Jimmy' McCann to The Pier restaurant in Canarsie. From there he and others were taken to a residence on Farragut Rd where the ceremony occurred. (The house was owned by Lucchese Soldier Peter 'Rugsy' Vario's son-in-law, named by CW Alfonso D'Arco as [FNU] Albanese. This may be Lucchese Associate Anthony 'Tony Shape' Albanese.)

The ceremony was presided over by Boss Vic Amuso and (Acting?) Underboss Anthony 'Gaspipe' Casso.

Others present included Captains Robert Amuso, Salvatore Avellino, Anthony 'Bowat' Baratta, Peter 'Fat Pete' Chiodo, Alfonso D'Arco and Soldier John Conti.

DeFede: "...When I walked into the house, a couple of other people there, there was a living room, we sat around for a while, somebody got called downstairs to go into the basement...[I waited] and they sent for me next one to go downstairs...When I got downstairs there was a table, administration sitting behind that table, there was a gun and knife on the table. [Administration] at that time it was Boss and Underboss and a Capo [Sal Avellino].

...They asked me two questions, do you know what you are doing here tonight, I told them no. The right answer was no. Then they asked me, if we ask you to kill somebody, the right answer was yes, which I did...They started the thing where they pinch my finger, got some blood, a little tissue, roll it on my finger, the blood got on the tissue, they come up with words, if you tell on your friends or anybody in this place what happened tonight, may you burn like this paper...[After my induction the others] all come down one at a time, we get introduced to them as amica nostra.

...[After] inductions, we sat around the table and then they start introducing the administration and then we start to get rules. Somebody would say in Italian, the Lucchese business is now open, and they start giving out the rules...No drugs, no paper, no counterfeit, no securities, anything to get back to the Lucchese Family, no things with guys' wives, daughters and sisters. [You] are not allowed to touch any other member, you can't hit any other member in the Luccheses or other crews. [Afterwards everyone] held their hands and in Italian they said, the Lucchese business is finished."

Others inducted in addition to DeFede (55y) were Michael DeSantis (34y), Frank 'Frankie Pearl' Federico (61y), Richard Pagliarulo (40y) and Frank 'Frankie Bones' Papagni (32y).

In D'Arco's debriefing on the ceremony, it states that DeFede was assigned to Robert Amuso's crew after induction.

During his court appearances DeFede made no mention of being in Amuso's crew and instead testified that he was placed with Captain Frank Lastorino.

F. Lastorino
GLN

By 1990 made members of the Lastorino crew included Joseph DeFede, Angelo Defendis, Nicola 'Nicky Edkins' DiCostanzo, 'Butch' LNU and Butch's father Degar (ph), described by DeFede as '80-some odd years old'.

Around that time Lucchese Soldier Anthony 'Blue Eyes' Santorelli was transferred to the Lastorino crew. DeFede: "They had problems. [Santorelli] had problems in the Bronx. So Vic Amuso felt it was better that he will move them over to Brooklyn. This is done a long time [prior to 1995]."

DeFede also testified: "It was up to maybe nine [or] ten-men crew. I can't think of the rest...I stayed in that crew until '93."

Around 1990 Amuso provided $50,000 to DeFede to start a loanshark business. Partners were Associates Oscar Ansourian and James McCann.

Around 1990 made partner in card game operated at 80th St and Roosevelt Ave in Jackson Heights, Queens. Later testified: "[One] night I lost $30,000. I got a phone call that I had to bring down $30,000...[After that], we had a dealer that knew how to manipulate the cards and we started to cheat in order to get the money back."

In or around 1991 began extorting $150 per week from Glenn Patrick's Pub. Payments continued until approximately 1998.

J. Corozzo
GLN

Around 1991 meeting held between DeFede and Gambino Soldier Joseph Corozzo re Glenn Patrick's Pub. DeFede: "[I] was clearing out the place because there was a lot of trouble there and I started to have people stay out of the place. Then I got a call to come down and to meet somebody and I did, from the Gambinos. It was Joe [Corozzo]...He wanted to know why I was keeping these people out. And I explained this was [Lucchese] business, and he went to check it out, he came back and he agreed with it and that was the end of that."

R. Pagliarulo
GLN

Around October 1991 transferred to Captain Richard Pagliarulo. DeFede: "I went up to one of [Pagliarulo's] restaurants to have lunch and he was there, few people there, he got me off to the side, he introduced me to another inductee, Whitey Cappello. He said, Joe, amica nostra [means] Our friends. He introduced me [then Cappello] says Richie Pagliarulo is my captain. Richie told me, I am your captain too, which I didn't know." (Cappello was inducted October 2, 1991. DeFede later stated that Pagliarulo was 'still the same crew' as Lastorino and that Pagliarulo 'just took over' as Captain.)

On June 15, 1992 Vic Amuso was convicted in USDC Brooklyn on Federal racketeering charges.

Key prosecution witnesses were Alfonso D'Arco and Peter Chiodo, former Lucchese Acting Boss and Captain respectively. Both had attended the ceremony where DeFede was inducted.

DeFede provided an unspecified amount for legal fees to help with the appeal.

On October 9, 1992 Amuso was given to life term and sent to FCI Terre Haute, Indiana.

DeFede went on to visit Amuso thirty-seven times at the facility.

N. DiCostanzo

Following October 1992 indictment of Richard Pagliarulo on Federal racketeering charges, Nicola 'Nicky Edkins' DiCostanzo took over as Acting Captain.

On or around February 17, 1993 DeFede purchased horse betting parlor located in Astoria, Queens from Chris and George Remini (ph).

On March 17, 1993 parlor raided by NYPD. Following raid DeFede and two others met with previous owners and attempted to get money back, as it was felt the parlor was under police surveillance at the time of sale. During the confrontation Louie (Charlie?) 'The Albanian' LNU pulled pistol on DeFede. The argument immediately ended and DeFede went to Nicky DiCostanzo for permission to murder the Albanian. DeFede and two Unsubs were assigned by DiCostanzo to search Astoria but the victim was unable to be located.

Soon after, the Albanian was summoned to meet with DeFede at a Brooklyn social club owned by Lucchese Soldier Angelo Defendis. Others present included Captain George 'Goggles' Conte and Soldier Frank Gioia Jr. Gioia later testified: "[DeFede said] I'm going to call the guy in. The guy wants to apologize. If I take his apology sincerely, we'll call it off. If not, he said, we'll kill him. So we set it up that day in Angelique's club [and we were] behind the bar drinking coffee, waiting with guns and silencers. Joe DeFede was facing us while Charlie was apologizing to him...Joe accepted the apology and basically gave us the nod that, you know, he didn't want to go through with it."

Around mid-1993 the Lucchese Family formulated a plot to break Underboss Anthony Casso out of Federal prison. Co-conspirators included Captain George 'Georgie Neck' Zappola, Acting Captain George Conte, Soldiers Jody Calabrese, Gregory 'Whitey' Cappello, Joseph DeFede, James 'Froggy' Galione, Frank Gioia Jr., Frank Papagni and Associates Frank 'Skippy' DiPietro and Mario Gallo. Gioia later testified: "Basically Gas wanted us to -- while he was being transported from prison to court, we were supposed to go and hit the vehicle he was in. He had a handcuff key around his neck, and we were supposed to take him into the car and [escape]...It was called off [after] other Families got wind of it. Basically told Joe D, you know -- because there was 10 of us -- and said not to do it; it would cause too much heat. And thought it was just absolutely crazy, which it was...We were all called in and basically told [if] we even talk about it or even attempt or even think about it [basically] we would all be killed. So it was just called off."

Around September 1993 Lucchese Family Captains called in for questioning to ensure loyalty to the imprisoned Boss. Those involved in questioning included Captain Robert Amuso, Soldier Joseph DeFede, Soldier Frank Gioia Jr. and Associate Oscar Ansourian. Gioia later testified: "Vic said, Call in all the captains. I want you to ask them all a question: Am I still your Boss? And I call the captains. A lot of captains showed; two didn't show: George Conte and George Zappola. [Zappola] used the excuse he was on the lam. Conte was paranoid. And we figured out who the guys were, and then we were plotting to have them killed." Ansourian suggested calling all identified conspirators against Amuso into social club and firing rocket launcher into establishment. Gioia testified: "I was arrested right after [the initial plotting]. Bones [Frank Papagni] was relaying messages to me, telling me that basically all the captains came in. [Zappola and Conte] was shelved [and] they were worried for their lives. And everything came out (about the plot)."

Lucchese Captain

Around October 1993 DeFede was summoned to meet with Vic Amuso at FCI Terre Haute. The pair discussed tape-recorded comments made by Underboss Anthony Casso and Acting Consigliere Frank Lastorino regarding a plot to murder Captain Robert Amuso and Associate Oscar Ansourian.

During the visit DeFede was promoted to Captain. It doesn't appear that he had any Soldiers under him, but he was given the responsibility of carrying messages from Amuso to the Family. DeFede was also designated the head of a three-member Administrative Panel; other members were Captains Steven Crea and Domenico 'Danny' Cutaia.

Around November 1993 meeting between Genovese Family and Lucchese Family held at unspecified restaurant in Manhattan. Attendees included Genovese Acting Boss Liborio 'Barney' Bellomo, Genovese Acting Boss Michele 'Mickey Dimino' Generoso, Consigliere James 'Jimmy' Ida and Lucchese Captains / Panel Members Steven Crea, Domenico Cutaia and Joseph DeFede. Purpose of meeting to formally introduce Lucchese Panel members to Genovese Family. DeFede: "Just for an introduction, that's all, that I was a member [of] the panel, they were part of the panel. And I was the head of the panel over there. Then they just said, you have to be careful nowadays, this and that because of law enforcement and things like that...After that, maybe an hour or so, we were gone."

Acting Boss

In April 1994 DeFede met with Vic Amuso at FCI Terre Haute. During the meeting DeFede and Steven Crea were appointed Acting Boss and Acting Underboss respectively.

DeFede was ordered to demote Anthony Casso, Anthony Baratta and Frank Lastorino to Soldier and to meet with each Family Captain and pass along news of the demotions.

By May 1994 DeFede was in charge of dropping off Lucchese Family money for Amuso. The drops were made on the fifteenth of each month. Approximately $13,300 was left at the Surf Side Motel on Cross Bay Blvd in Howard Beach, Queens. (The business was linked to Amuso's brother Bobby, who died that September.)

A. Casso (1993)

Around mid-July 1994 the demoted Anthony Casso was target of an aborted murder plot. Co-conspirators included Acting Boss Joseph DeFede and Soldiers Anthony Baratta, Frank Gioia Jr. and Frank Papagni. Plot canceled after Vic Amuso refused to give permission. Gioia later testified: "At the time I bumped into Gas [at MCC and he] was bitter with the Family because they busted him down to a Soldier. There were tapes that came out with him, Big Frank Lastorino, and other members that they were plotting to take over the Family. So they demoted him. He was bitter with the Family about Vic [and Joe DeFede]. He was bitter with [Baratta], Sally Avellino, wanted to kill everybody. He was sending messages about money that he used to get that he don't get anymore." Information related by Gioia to Frank Papagni. Gioia testified: "[Bones] says they were talking about killing Gas in jail. And Bones volunteered to Joe D, he says, look, [Gioia]'s in there. He'll take care of it...[They] went up to Vic and asked him if it was okay to do it because it was me and [Baratta were] there on the floor with him. We were talking about if the Family asks us to do it, we'd have had to do it...Joe D went up to see Vic and Vic said he would never put one of his guys in that position, to kill somebody in jail like that because he knew [it'd be] a suicide mission, probably get caught, get locked down somewhere, and you know, get life." (Casso subsequently made a failed attempt to cooperate. Baratta, demoted at the same time as Casso, may have been involved in an plot to regain favor. He remained on the shelf until sometime after his September 2012 release.)

S. Vitale (L) and G. Conte (R)

Around Summer 1994 DeFede met with Bonanno Underboss Salvatore Vitale regarding dispute over on-record associate of Lucchese Soldier George Conte. DeFede: "[There] was a discussion about an individual that belonged to one George Conti, who is a made man with the Luccheses, and they tried to put a claim on it. When we discuss it, I finally gave them the man. I sent the message out to Conti and Conti gave him up. He was in the drug [business]."

Around Fall 1994 sitdown between Gambino and Lucchese Families held at Gramercy Park Hotel on Lexington Ave in Manhattan. Attendees were DeFede, Lucchese Acting Underboss Steven Crea, Gambino Captain Nicholas Corozzo, Gambino Captain (?) Thomas Gambino, Gambino Soldier (Acting Captain?) Leonard DiMaria, Gambino Soldier Edward Garafola, Lucchese Associate Sidney Lieberman and possibly Gambino Soldier Joseph Gallo Jr. Purpose of meeting to resolve dispute re Manhattan Garment Center. DeFede: "[Vic] Amuso, he made the complaint about there was a one Sidney Lieberman, an associate of us, giving more work to Tommy Gambino and taking away his work, and just his personal problem that I was supposed to handle, nothing to do with the Lucchese Family at all, except for Vic Amuso...[Matter seemed resolved] because the next time I went up to see Victor Amuso he never complained after that."
 

Around November 1994 Lucchese Soldier Frank Gioia Jr., awaiting trial on Federal narcotics charges, was visited at FCI Otisville by Associate Vincent Salanardi. Gioia later testified: "After I got a visit from my cousin, Vin, they called him Egghead, he came up to Otisville, sat down next to me, after 2 months of abusing my family, ripping pay phones out of my mother's restaurants, abusing them in the street like they are nobodies, I told them a few times, why don't they stop it, act like men, leave everything as it is. They kept going doing. They didn't want to stop. Egghead came on a visit, sat down, said, Frank, sit down for this one. I said what it is now, I got an ulcer in my stomach, I am thinking what else could they do. They want to kill your father. Why do they want to kill my old man. Bones [Frank Papagni] going to Joe D [DeFede], everybody else, trying to get permission to kill my parents. I said what do I do Vinny, what do I do. He says pull a Sammy the Bull or pull a Gaspipe [meaning] cooperate with the government...I gave him a kiss, I says, Cuz, I will see you, went to the cell, decided to do it, decided to cooperate, plead guilty after that." (Gioia's father was an inactive Lucchese member.)

General (1995)

N. Corozzo (1996)

Around 1995 DeFede met with Gambino Captain Nicholas Corozzo re joker poker business: "One time I was called down to Brooklyn that there was a Luchese Joker-Poker in one of [the Gambino] places and in turn I turned around, there was Gambino Joker-Pokers in Astoria and they told me about the one, I yes, you are right but there is two of yours and we went along and cleared it up."

J. Massino
GLN

Around 1995 DeFede met with Bonanno Boss Joseph Massino. Purpose of meeting to arrange transfer of Joseph Caridi from Bonanno Family to Lucchese Family. Unspecified Lucchese Associate in turn given to the Bonannos.

J. Benanti
GLN

Around 1995 Bonanno and Lucchese Families met in New York. Attendees included DeFede, Bonanno Underboss Salvatore Vitale, Bonanno Captain Anthony 'T.G.' Graziano and Bonanno Soldier and Graziano crew member Joseph Benanti. Purpose of meeting to discuss debt owed by Benanti to Vic Amuso.

In 1995 DeFede prevented a bagel store opening in the area of Howard Beach, Queens. Store potential competition for shop operated by Lucchese Soldier Louis Daidone. DeFede: "Neil Colello came over to me. I told him to go down to that store and tell them that you can't open. They reached out for someone. It so happened to be a Lucchese member, I found out later on. I told them they can't open it, and they didn't."

P. Gotti

In 1995 DeFede and Gambino Captain Peter Gotti met to discuss money owed by Unsub to Lucchese Soldier Louis Daidone. DeFede and Gotti formally introduced by Lucchese Captain Domenico Cutaia. DeFede: "[Gotti] said the tenant of a building wasn't doing too good in his bar business, and that he couldn't pay up each month that kind of money. If I could cut it down. I says, That's -- I couldn't do that. You have to wait till Daidone comes out of [prison] and speak to him." (Daidone was imprisoned from approximately April 1992 - June 1996 for conspiring to rob an armored car.)

In or around 1995 DeFede loaned $5,000 to Lucchese Associate Aniello 'Neil' Colello. Colello, on-record with imprisoned Lucchese Soldier Louis Daidone, charged two points interest.

Genovese / Lucchese Incident (Summer 1995)

Darin Mazzarella (L) and Anthony Santorelli (R)

On June 20, 1995 Lucchese Associate Darin Mazzarella shot and seriously wounded by Genovese Associate Michael 'Hippy' Zanfardino at Loreto Park in Morris Park, The Bronx. The shooting followed an earlier altercation between Lucchese Associate John Petrucelli Jr. and Genovese Associate Gene Gallo. Mazzarella hit approximately one dozen times in extremities and lower torso. Shortly after the incident Petrucelli Jr. returned to the scene and fatally stabbed Gene Gallo's seventeen-year-old cousin Paul Cicero in retaliation. After the incident DeFede was informed of the situation in a meeting with Lucchese Acting Captain Anthony Santorelli at the Waterview Diner in Howard Beach.

Steve Crea (L) and Vincent Russo (R)

Within a couple of days a meeting to discuss the shooting was held at Santorelli's residence in Yonkers. Attendees included Lucchese Acting Underboss Steven Crea, Anthony Santorelli, John Petrucelli Jr, and Lucchese Associate Vincent Russo. CW Darin Mazzarella later testified: "[The] Genovese Family reached out to Stevie Crea [and Crea] reached out to Anthony Santorelli and had Johnny Boy Petrucelli and Vinny Russo meet him at Anthony's house in Yonkers...At that meeting, what Vinny told me was that Stevie had asked what had happened that night I got shot, and Johnny told him that I had got shot by Hippie [Zanfardino]. And then he asked what happened to the kid that got killed afterwards. Did you do it? Johnny replied yes. He said he had stabbed him...[At subsequent meeting Russo told me] everything was still at a standstill as far as me and Hippie were concerned."

Around late June 1995 a meeting was held between the Genovese and Lucchese Families on Lexington Ave in Manhattan. Attendees included Genovese Acting Boss Liborio 'Barney' Bellomo, DeFede, Steven Crea, Genovese Consigliere James Ida, Genovese Captain Ralph Coppola and Lucchese Acting Captain Anthony Santorelli. Meeting held outdoors on Lexington Ave in Manhattan. Following a walk and talk between Bellomo and DeFede it was decided that the situation was settled and no further hostility was to occur between the groups. One or two days later DeFede met with Lucchese Associate Alfred 'Freddy Boy' Santorelli at the Waterview Diner to explain the decision.

Around late July 1995 DeFede met with Lucchese Associate Oscar Ansourian at Ram's Horn diner in Rockaway Beach, Queens. During meeting pair discussed the Mazzarella / Cicero incident. DeFede: "I used [incident] as a centerpiece, just a matter of a conversation. I said, gee, I happened to see the Genovese Family. And I explained that there was a shooting, and I explained to them...[I told Ansourian] about the shooting and about what would happen to Darin, and the stabbing of the kid, of the child...[Ansourian] was very upset. He was like a father image to Fat Face (Petrucelli Jr.) at the time. And he started to say, he told him that one day he was going to get into trouble. And he started to get into about his father, when his father died. He started to get worse. And I tried to correct him on things. And then he told me who his father was. His father was a made man in the Lucchese Family, and his name was John Petrucelli." (The elder Petrucelli was shot to death on Vic Amuso's orders in September 1989.)

Around February 1996 Darin Mazzarella met with Anthony Santorelli at the residence of Santorelli's mother in Westchester County. Mazzarella later testified: "[Vinny] Russo said to me that Anthony [Santorelli] wanted to see me, so I met him [and he] expressed to me that the Genovese Family had reached out again. That I had been seen in the Bronx, and [they] wanted to know what my intentions were as far as retaliating against Hippie. They wanted to make sure it was squashed. I asked Anthony his advice on what he thinks I should do. He said that me and my brother (Nicholas) couldn't win alone, and he suggested that I should squash it."

 

Around the same month DeFede met with Darin Mazzarella and Associate Alfred Santorelli. Meeting set up by Lucchese Soldier Joseph 'Joey Flowers' Tangorra and held inside Brooklyn restaurant. Others present included Acting Captain Anthony Santorelli and Soldier Eugene Castelle. DeFede: "When I found out that Darin came out of the hospital, I decided myself that I should speak to Darin, not Freddie Boy or Anthony Santorelli...We sat at the table down there and we were talking. I took Santorelli and Darin to the side and I explained to Darin that this is what happened. There was a boy that died. There's nothing that we can do about that. We were in the wrong. We were right at one time, but we were in the wrong. He was upset that he couldn't do anything about him being shot, but I told him we didn't send then for the Genovese, the Genovese sent for us. That seemed to ease his pain a little bit. It seemed to end the conversation...I told him. Listen, we don't last a lifetime. This is a life when you are a boss, and then all of a sudden you're in jail -- and not in them words -- but in years to come, I said, you won't find us there, and the rest is up to you.

Genovese / Lucchese Meeting in The Bronx (2001)
L to R: Joseph Lubrano, John Petrucelli Jr., Michael Zanfardino, Unsub, Salvatore Larca

 

No retaliation was ever carried out. Darin Mazzarella flipped a year later. His brother Nicholas followed him in March 1998. John Petrucelli Jr. and Michael Zanfardino were later inducted into the Lucchese and Genovese Families respectively.

 

DeFede Inductions (c. July 1995 - c. Fall 1996)

In early 1995 represented the Luccheses at a meeting of the New York Families in Manhattan. Purpose of meeting to discuss opening the books for new membership. DeFede: "I was allowed eight members, I put the eight members in by July...(Prior to this meeting the books) were closed a long time from what I understand." (The books are believed to have been closed for all local Families at the time of Gambino Underboss Salvatore Gravano's defection in November 1991. Inductions appear to have resumed around the summer of 1995 for all but the Colombos and DeCavalcantes, whose books remained closed through the rest of the decade.)

When questioned in 2004 about any ceremonies he had presided over, he replied: "Well, I did 13; but I did eight at one time, three and two...[Three] separate: Eight, three and two."

As Acting Boss DeFede inducted the following:

1. John Baudanza : Sponsored by his father-in-law, Lucchese Captain Domenico Cutaia.
2. Joseph Caridi : Sponsored by imprisoned Soldier Louis Daidone and assigned to Domenico Cutaia. Described by DeFede as an earner. (Caridi and two of the others listed were part of the ceremony where three were made.)
3. Eugene Castelle
4. Joseph Datello : Sponsored by Captain Dominic Truscello. DeFede: "Joe Datello [was] neither a murderer or earner. Joe Datello knew a lot about construction, and we could have used him. Matter of fact, we had him on what we called the construction panel."
5. Philip DeSimone : One of the first eight made circa July 1995. DeFede claimed not to know DeSimone 'that good' and stated that he 'came in through' Westchester.
6. Andrew DiSimone : Made Fall 1996 through sponsorship of father Salvatore.
7. Joseph 'Little Joe' DiBenedetto : Sponsored by Vic Amuso. DeFede: "Joe was a son-in-law to the boss [and] Amuso asked that he wanted him to be put in."
8. Marco Minuto : Described as 'basically like a bookmaker'.
9. Anthony 'Razor Head' Pezzullo : One of the first eight made circa July 1995. Described as an earner.
10. Daniel Rizzo : One of the first eight made circa July 1995.
11. Alfred 'Freddy Boy' Santorelli : Possibly made with Andrew DiSimone in the last of the three ceremonies held circa Fall 1996. Son of Acting Captain Anthony Santorelli. DeFede: "Basically, I liked Freddy Boy at that time. I asked his father if he wanted him inducted [and he] said yes." (DeFede's testimony names one 'Mike Salenti' as the other guy made with DiSimone. This might be a typo referring to Santorelli, who CW Mazzarella identified as having been made around that time. Mazzarella and Santorelli were close associates.)
12. John Sorrentino Jr : Member of Prince Street crew and son to Soldier John Sorrentino. DeFede: "[Sorrentino Jr.] was the son of a made man, and he asked for his son to be inducted and I did."
13. Joseph 'Joey Flowers' Tangorra : Sponsored by DeFede: "...Tangorra was an earner on his own by himself. He was a bookmaker. He was a shylock. He was a gambler and he did things on his own." Despite this, DeFede testified he never received any money from him.

During testimony in 2002 he provided the following comments on inductions: "Some were sons of made men already that they moved their sons up -- no murderers. Some were money earners at the time...[It] is different nowadays...Well when, you join the Mafia, if you are somebody's -- again, if you are somebody's son, he couldn't even peel a potato, he could become a made man." Also stated: "[As Acting Boss] I could make someone without [Vic Amuso's] permission, but I thought it was proper to tell him about it."

Around 1996 met with Genovese Acting Boss Liborio Bellomo: "[We] wanted our books open to make more members beside making more members for the dead."

Family Structure (1996 - 1999)

Some of the changes made in the Lucchese Family during DeFede's time as Acting Boss include:

- Promoted Eugene Castelle to Acting Captain.

- Promoted Louis Daidone to Consigliere with Amuso's authorization.

- Promoted Patrick Dello Russo to (Acting?) Captain while both were imprisoned.

- Promoted Joseph DiNapoli to (Acting?) Captain. Reported promotion to Amuso after the fact.

- Promoted Salvatore 'Sally Bo' DiSimone to Acting Captain. Promotion requested by Acting Underboss Steven Crea and approved after the fact by Amuso.

- Promoted Anthony Santorelli to Acting Captain. (Not clear if over the old Lastorino crew or one of the Bronx / Westchester groups.)

- Promoted Joseph 'Joey Flowers' Tangorra to Captain.

- Reinstated Dominic Truscello to Captain of the Prince Street crew. Ralph Cuomo made the crew's Acting Captain. Done at the imprisoned Amuso's request.

General (1996)

J. DeFede
GLN

In mid-to-late 1990s authorized beating of Unidentified Male. Assault solicited by Genovese Soldier Alfonso 'Funzi' Tarricone and carried out by Lucchese Soldiers Eugene Castelle and Joseph Tangorra. DeFede: "[A] Genovese soldier asked me for a favor, that somebody was around him that owed some food stores and a food truck, and he wasn't giving them any money, and he started to -- you know, to make it look bad for them. So I did. I said, Take him down a little. They slapped him around a little bit, and sure enough, he went back to Genovese soldier."

In mid-to-late 1990s Lucchese Captain Domenico Cutaia sought permission to murder Unsub. DeFede denied the request.

 

R. Trucchio
GLN

Around 1996 involved in minor confrontation with David LNU inside bagel shop owned by Lucchese Soldier Louis Daidone. DeFede: "The issue was: There was an argument [in] Daidone's bagel shop. I walked in for coffee. The guy was yelling at the girl. He walked out the door. I kept -- when he walked out the door, I walked out behind him. I turned him around and said to him, Listen, keep your personal business out of this place [and] he says, Come on, I don't want to talk to you. Don't know me and I don't know him. And I turned around. And I says, if I have to, I like the people on the corner. That was the end of the conversation. He got in his car and he left." Determined David LNU on-record associate of Gambino Soldier Ronald Trucchio. Lucchese Soldier Daniel Rizzo delivered a message from DeFede to Trucchio requesting that he keep the individual away from the bagel shop. David LNU subsequently shot to death. DeFede claimed no involvement in the murder plot.

In 1996 obtained employment with Royal Packing in New Jersey. Company operated by Frank Piccolo. Later testified: "What I did, I harbored one of, if I would have been able to sell, [Piccolo] would have been a millionaire, he invented what he called a carrier. I worked on it for 4 months...[Piccolo] invented the product. I gave him a customer, gave him Jim Murphy, he owned a hockey team, and he was very close with Phil Esposito, Phil Esposito was going to buy this thing up, he went to Florida, see Phil Esposito, that's how business was starting to take off, that's what he was concentrating off. I would up getting incarcerated [following April 1998 indictment] and I was canned."

Around 1996 meeting held in Manhattan hotel suite. Attendees included Genovese Acting Boss Liborio Bellomo, Joseph DeFede, Colombo Acting Boss Andrew 'Andy Mush' Russo, Lucchese Acting Underboss Steven Crea, Bonanno Underboss Salvatore Vitale, Bonanno Consigliere Anthony Spero, Gambino Captain Nicholas Corozzo, Gambino Captain Peter Gotti and Colombo Soldier Vincent Aloi. Primary purpose of meeting to attempt reconciliation between rival factions within Colombo Family. CW Vitale later testified: "[Bellomo] told us we can't go on like this, there's bodies all over the street, legitimate people are getting killed, we want you to go into the other room and resolve your differences, and when you come out you tell us how you resolved it and whatever you have to say we'll abide by. They were gone for about five minutes. They come out yelling and screaming at each other and they were both red in the face and they were both cursing each other out and we got nowhere. So Barney says why don't you two just leave and we will work it out from this end. They were dismissed. They left and ten minutes later we left." (This continuing dispute within the Family is the primary reason the Colombos weren't allowed to initiate new members through the rest of the 1990s.)

Around 1996 DeFede met with representatives of other New York Families re imprisoned Nicodemo 'Nicky' Scarfo. Those contacted included Gambino Captain Peter Gotti. DeFede: "I went around to a few Families [and asked] if they recognize Nicky Scarfo [as] Boss of the Philadelphia Family...[Gotti said] he will get back to me...[Subsequently he] came back and told me it was [Scarfo]."

L. Daidone
GLN

Around Summer 1996 DeFede met with imprisoned Vic Amuso and received authorization to promote Lucchese Soldier Louis Daidone to position of Consigliere. Following promotion DeFede and Daidone met on several occasions to discuss Family business. DeFede: "[Meetings not] often. But we did meet a few times...He used to play paddle ball in the club. I used to go down to see him. And one driver, Bobby Griffin's mother's house."

On July 11, 1996 DeFede and Lucchese Soldier Eugene Castelle picked up unspecified payment re Garment Center extortion.

General (1997)

By 1997 Lucchese Captain Domenico Cutaia heavily involved in loansharking. Turned in weekly payments to DeFede on behalf of Vic Amuso. DeFede: "[Cutaia] had 345,000 of Lucchese money; and another extra $3,000 that he had to give the Luccheses. That was Vic Amuso's order...I believe that Vic Amuso was reading transcripts and he found out that Danny Cutaia was giving somebody 6,000 a week, another capo. So he told him to stop and give us the $6,000, but Danny Cutaia says he didn't have that kind action anymore, that he would give three. So he would give weekly $6,450."

By 1997 Aniello Colello, on-record associate of Lucchese Consigliere Louis Daidone, involved in extortion of JR's Trucking. Colello passed on payment from extortion to DeFede: "[Colello] came over to me and gave me -- two years, he gave me 3500, which I gave back 25 percent."

In 1997 Amuso, DeFede, Acting Underboss Steven Crea, Consigliere Louis Daidone and Associate Thomas Padavona became partners in Advantage Funding factoring business. DeFede later testified: "It's like loaning money to business people where you have collectibles; in other words, you give $100,000, there is $100,000, if they don't come up with the money, we have available to us $100,000 worth of goods, whatever...I put my own money, $320,000 I made as acting boss of the Lucchese Family [and] made five other partners in that business [including Amuso, Crea, Daidone and Padavona]. He had two other people that were involved in the business that I didn't know. I says all right, go ahead, put them in. I took his word."

In or around 1997 worked at steakhouse owned by son and daughter. Employment lasted approximately six months.

J. Caridi
GLN

In or around 1997 Lucchese Soldier Joseph Caridi taken from crew headed by Domenico Cutaia and placed directly with Consigliere Louis Daidone. Transfer authorized by DeFede: "...I told [Daidone] to go talk to Danny Cutaia, straighten it out, and that's how [Daidone] wound up with Joe Caridi."

In or around early 1997 DeFede loaned $100,000 or $130,000 to Lucchese Associate Thomas Padavona on behalf of Consigliere Louis Daidone. Padavona charged five points per week. DeFede: "[I] was a little leery. For five points, that means, you know -- that's a lot of money, you know. I was afraid to lose the 100,000. And it lasted six weeks. We got back 30,000, and the guy paid back the 100,000. So I gave back 20, 10 for the Luccheses, 10 for Padavona and 10 for Daidone."

In or around 1997 rumor circulated indicating Former Lucchese Captain Richard Pagliarulo, serving a life sentence for racketeering, was cooperating. DeFede: "There was a rumor going around [Pagliarulo] was cooperating, [Neil Colello] came over to me, he says to let him know [because] Louis [Daidone] is interested to find out, let him know." Rumor false. (Pagliarulo died two years later.)

J. Tangorra
GLN

In or around 1997 promoted Joseph Tangorra to Captain: "[Tangorra] was my right hand and I made him a skipper where he couldn't talk to anyone except the boss."

In or around September 1997 DeFede loaned $35,000 at three points per week to Associate Thomas Padavona. Padavona vouched for by Consigliere Louis Daidone. DeFede: "I stated at the beginning that the 35,000 had to come back to me first, before any split-up, which it did come back. It came back 1,050 a week, and I got it up to 35,000. I took that back, and then we started cutting money up. 350 a week each [between] the Luccheses, Tom Padavona and Louie Daidone. [It] was $35,000 that was brought back. And yet that 35,000 is out in the street. That 35,000 was still making money. That wound up a three-way cut, say 11,000 and change each. So that was still out on the street and we were still collecting three points on that."

In or around Fall 1997 obtained employment as salesman with unspecified company through Unsub (Lucchese Associate).

Early 1998

By 1998 Lucchese Family numbered approximately 100 to 110 members. Each member required to kick up $1,000 per year around Christmas. DeFede later testified: "[I] used to collect [year end payments and] there was some soldiers that were in jail, some can't that were in jail, and average the year [maybe] 35,000. There were a lot of men missing and there were guys that could not afford to give the thousand."

DeFede also received $5,000 monthly payments and additional $50,000 every three months. Received additional payments during Christmas period. Later testified: "It varied. I had three contractors. Used to get 40,000 off of them a piece. Got about 30,000 from my soldiers. Some businesses, maybe a couple thousand here, there. It was hard to -- it varied."

By 1998 assigned certain unspecified Lucchese members to handle construction extortion. Firms extorted included Scalamandra, Martinelli and Piccone. DeFede: "Construction was our big thing [and] when I was acting boss, the extortions from constructions came to me [and] I put it into the well. What I call the Lucchese well [which] was money from all criminal activity...We put some soldiers on that there. And he would earn 25 percent of what he take in from them."

By 1998 Lucchese Family involved in extortion of multiple businesses including Angels by the Bay, Tony Roma Restaurant and Palm Steakhouse. Owners of Palm Steakhouse kicked up $7,500 twice per year.

By 1998 Soldier Eugene Castelle heavily involved in loansharking on behalf of Lucchese Family with approximately $650,000 on street.

Around the same time DeFede promoted Castelle to Acting Captain.

By 1998 Captain Joseph Tangorra involved in loansharking on behalf of Lucchese Family. DeFede: "[He] has over 70,000 of Luchese money [on the street]. I gave him $51,000 that he invested in stock. And then there was another 200,000 and change that he had out on the street that was making money."

By 1998 Associate James McCann involved in collecting Astoria, Queens area gambling proceeds on behalf of Lucchese Family. Payments delivered to DeFede weekly.

Around 1998 approached by Associate Thomas Padavona re potential $100,000 loan. Offer refused by DeFede.

Around 1998 DeFede met with Genovese panel members Frank Serpico and Michael Coppola: "[After Bellomo] they came up with another panel after a while and I don't recall their names. One, I believe, was Frank [Serpico and] two other gentleman over there. As a matter of fact, there was one more named Michael Coppola, but I didn't see him after that."

Imprisonment / Demotion

On April 28, 1998 DeFede, Lucchese Soldier Daniel Rizzo, Associate Oscar Ansourian and nine others were indicted by the US Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York on Federal extortion charges. Newsday reported: "...Prosecutors charge that Sidney Lieberman, 60, an alleged Luchese associate, collected extortion payments [from Manhattan's Garment Center] for DeFede until he was imprisoned in the fall of 1994. He was later replaced by Irwin Schlacter, 67, a Manhattan lawyer who is an alleged Luchese associate, according to the indictment." DeFede, accused of overseeing the scheme, was denied bail and remanded to the Metropolitan Correctional Center.

From April to December 1998 incarcerated at multiple institutions including the MCC in Manhattan, FCI Otisville in New York and facilities in Westchester County as well as in Hudson County and Passaic, New Jersey.

On December 7, 1998 DeFede pleaded guilty to extortion charges and was shipped out to FCI Otisville the following day.

On March 22, 1999 transferred to MCC Manhattan for sentencing. Given a five-and-one-half term and three years supervised release.

On March 24 returned to FCI Otisville.

While at Otisville promoted fellow inmate Patrick Dello Russo, a Lucchese Soldier, to (Acting?) Captain.

In September 1999 demoted from Acting Boss to Soldier as a result of suspected profit skimming. Visited by Captain Joseph Tangorra at FCI Otisville where informed of his demotion and assignment to Tangorra's crew. DeFede: "Well, the money didn't jibe, is what [Tangorra] told me. In other words, I stole money [but] I didn't steal a quarter off of anyone...I just had a heart operation as I wasn't feeling too well. And I just shoved him off, I says, When I get out, I'll speak to Victor myself and I'll show him where [everything] that was out and what money was coming in. Exactly to the quarter...[Tangorra] was telling me that they were cleaning house, is how he put it. And I didn't ask questions. I was very upset."

In or around 2000 DeFede's son was visited by Captain Joseph Tangorra at his business. DeFede: "[Tangorra] came over to my son's business and told him that -- to tell your mother not to use her private cab service in the neighborhood. He [Louis Daidone] didn't want her to use a private cab service...And [Daidone] has nothing to do with this private cab service, either. So that was adding salt to the wound [re my demotion]."

In or around 2001 DeFede and Lucchese Captain Dominic Truscello were incarcerated in the same unit at FCI Otisville. Pair discussed Lucchese Family business including increased stature of Acting Boss Louis Daidone. DeFede later testified: "[Truscello] violated [Federal parole]. That's why he wound up where I was. He violated his supervised release. And he got 10 months, and he had an operation on the outside, a heart operation, and he happened to come into my unit where I was. And I said, What's going on out there? You know. And he says, Well, I was sent in by Louie Daidone because Danny Cutaia had a beef about something, about taking away a construction worker. I says -- well, that surprised me a little bit because we had [an Underboss], Stevie Crea, and he [oversaw] the construction business. I knew right away it must be something to [Daidone] to do that there -- he just did it on his own -- I felt that [Daidone] had more status than Steve Crea."

Around the same time DeFede attempted to contact Vic Amuso to discuss the demotion: "I sent a lawyer come up and asked him to go see him, and explain to him, and when I do come out I got everything in black and white so he can see. It's just my family was jeopardized [and being threatened] out there, and I just wanted him to -- to show him that there was nothing taken. People were living on lies."

Cooperation

In November 2001 DeFede, then incarcerated at FCI Lexington in Kentucky, voluntarily contacted the US Government and agreed to cooperate. Later testified that he flipped specifically due to threats made on the lives of himself and his family members.

Debriefed multiple times through December 2001 and into early 2002.

On February 1, 2002 signed Cooperation Agreement.

Following day pleaded guilty in USDC Manhattan to a Federal racketeering charge encompassing five acts: conspiracy to commit murder, extortion, gambling, loansharking and money laundering.

On February 4/5 released from Federal prison and placed into the Witness Protection Program. Allowed to keep approximately $200,000.

Debriefings continued through the month.

J. Petrucelli Jr.
GLN

On October 28, 2002 DeFede testified for the first time in the SDNY racketeering trial of Lucchese Soldier John Petrucelli Jr. His testimony covered the fallout surrounding Darin Mazzarella's 1995 shooting and the subsequent fatal stabbing of Paul Cicero. Mazzarella himself also testified. Thirty-year-old Petrucelli, inducted into the Luccheses sometime after DeFede's indictment, was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment.

P. Gotti (2000s)
GLN

On January 21, 2003 DeFede testified in the Federal racketeering trial of Gambino Boss Peter Gotti in Brooklyn. He provided information primarily on the various meetings held between Families during the mid-to-late 1990s. The case resulted in convictions for Gotti and six others. [A Gotti co-defendant, Gambino Soldier Primo Cassarino, subsequently cooperated.]

L. Daidone
GLN

On January 20, 2004 he testified for the third and final time in the SDNY racketeering trial of Lucchese Acting Boss Louis Daidone. DeFede's testimony linked Daidone to loansharking and murder, and he also noted the latter's presence at the Fall 1996 induction ceremony. Other witnesses included Former Lucchese Acting Boss Alfonso D'Arco and Soldier Frank Gioia Jr. Daidone was convicted and sentence to life imprisonment.

On April 30, 2010 The New York Times published an article covering DeFede's life post-cooperation. The piece, "After Mob, Joe DeFede, Ex-Crime Boss, Is Scraping By", noted that he and his wife lived in South Florida and were having financial difficulties after leaving the WPP.

He reportedly died in 2012.