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| May 1967 |
New Posts:
1. Philip Bacino (Chicago) [Focused on what little available info there is re DeCav connections]
2. Joseph Amato (DeCavalcante)
3. Jake Amari (DeCavalcante)
Full list of posts here.
Friday, July 3, 2026
Philip Bacino (Chicago)
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| 1940 |
Philip 'Tony Bello' Bacino was a Chicago Member based in Calumet City, Illinois.
An Italian document shared years ago on the forum included information from cooperating witness Anthony Rotondo, formerly a DeCavalcante Captain, stating that Bacino was also an early DeCav Boss before transferring to Chicago.
Born Filippo Bacino on January 4, 1902 in Ribera comune of Agrigento, Sicily to Giovanni (37y) and Parma Triolo (30y). Father from town of Burgio located about eight miles to the north.
On July 10, 1923 arrived at Port of New York aboard S.S. Taormina. Destined for 'uncle' Carmelo Giacobbe residing at 343 E 48th St in Turtle Bay, Manhattan.
Carmelo Giacobbe (1875-1948) was likely an early member of the DeCavalcante Family's Manhattan crew.
Several of his relatives were DeCav members and suspected members, including younger brother Lorenzo (1890-1958) who was reportedly a Captain. (Lorenzo's rank is another piece of information from Rotondo that was included in the same report noted above.)
According to Rotondo's statements in the Italian document, Bacino was an early leader of the Family alongside Filippo 'Big Phil' Amari (1899-1963).
An Italian document shared years ago on the forum included information from cooperating witness Anthony Rotondo, formerly a DeCavalcante Captain, stating that Bacino was also an early DeCav Boss before transferring to Chicago.
Born Filippo Bacino on January 4, 1902 in Ribera comune of Agrigento, Sicily to Giovanni (37y) and Parma Triolo (30y). Father from town of Burgio located about eight miles to the north.
On July 10, 1923 arrived at Port of New York aboard S.S. Taormina. Destined for 'uncle' Carmelo Giacobbe residing at 343 E 48th St in Turtle Bay, Manhattan.
Carmelo Giacobbe (1875-1948) was likely an early member of the DeCavalcante Family's Manhattan crew.
Several of his relatives were DeCav members and suspected members, including younger brother Lorenzo (1890-1958) who was reportedly a Captain. (Lorenzo's rank is another piece of information from Rotondo that was included in the same report noted above.)
According to Rotondo's statements in the Italian document, Bacino was an early leader of the Family alongside Filippo 'Big Phil' Amari (1899-1963).
The document also has Rotondo naming Philip's brother Luciano Bacino as a made member of the local Family in Ribera.
Since he resided in Chicago within a couple of years, Bacino likely would have either been inducted into the DeCavalcante Family or possibly transferred his membership from a Sicilian Family shortly after his arrival.
(It's worth noting that during cross-examination in one of the DeCavalcante trials of the early 2000s, Rotondo contested certain statements attributed to him in the report, and both the defense and prosecution subsequently agreed not to reference the document for the remainder of the trial. It's not specified which parts Rotondo had issue with, but it might have been the more current [at the time] information on Ribera Family Members and Associates then active in New Jersey.)
On December 5, 1928 Bacino, using alias Tony Bello, was among twenty-three arrested by the Cleveland, Ohio Police Department following a raid at the Statler Hotel.
Among those held were heavyweights from Families across the Midwest as well as New York, New Jersey and Florida. (No confirmed DeCavs were in the group, although it's likely that some of the meeting's planned attendees avoided arrest. One of those held was Chicago Member Pasquale Lolordo of Ribera; his younger brother Joseph [1898-1978] went on to be a DeCav Captain in the Family's New York faction.)
Bacino, who gave an address on Chicago's Near Northwest Side, had probably transferred to the local Family by that point.
He and most of the others were ultimately released and ordered to leave town.
On December 21, 1928 Bacino became a naturalized US citizen in US District Court Illinois. His petition witnesses were noted as Filippo Cusumano (35y), from Burgio, and Peter Lavorata, possibly identical to an individual with that name born 1892 in Cosenza, Calabria.
Within a year or two moved to Calumet City, Illinois, located just south of Chicago.
In early November 1931 press noted one Philip Bacino served as Best Man in the wedding of Joseph Pallay to Catherine Osterello in Hammond, Illinois.
By late November 1932 listed employment with Roma Cafe.
On March 16, 1933 married Jennie Maggio (21y) in Cook County, Illinois. Bride's family believed from Sambuca di Sicilia comune of Agrigento.
By early August 1933 listed employment with Lincoln Restaurant.
By Fall 1935 resided at 14 163rd St in Calumet City.
On morning of October 6, 1935 shot and killed nightclub owner John Nickels outside the residence. Incident reportedly occurred as result of assault Bacino committed over $18 debt. Following day Bacino released after coroner's jury voted self defense; he claimed he fired through his window after seeing Nickels outside waving a pistol. The victim's wife believed that story was fabricated and that the gun was planted next to the body after the shooting.
By the following summer owned a laundry business.
On September 22, 1936 FBI's Indianapolis Field Office reported: "[Office] received an anonymous memorandum informing that one Phil Bacino, a major gangster, lives at 14 163rd Street, Calumet City, Illinois."
Since he resided in Chicago within a couple of years, Bacino likely would have either been inducted into the DeCavalcante Family or possibly transferred his membership from a Sicilian Family shortly after his arrival.
(It's worth noting that during cross-examination in one of the DeCavalcante trials of the early 2000s, Rotondo contested certain statements attributed to him in the report, and both the defense and prosecution subsequently agreed not to reference the document for the remainder of the trial. It's not specified which parts Rotondo had issue with, but it might have been the more current [at the time] information on Ribera Family Members and Associates then active in New Jersey.)
On December 5, 1928 Bacino, using alias Tony Bello, was among twenty-three arrested by the Cleveland, Ohio Police Department following a raid at the Statler Hotel.
Among those held were heavyweights from Families across the Midwest as well as New York, New Jersey and Florida. (No confirmed DeCavs were in the group, although it's likely that some of the meeting's planned attendees avoided arrest. One of those held was Chicago Member Pasquale Lolordo of Ribera; his younger brother Joseph [1898-1978] went on to be a DeCav Captain in the Family's New York faction.)
Bacino, who gave an address on Chicago's Near Northwest Side, had probably transferred to the local Family by that point.
He and most of the others were ultimately released and ordered to leave town.
On December 21, 1928 Bacino became a naturalized US citizen in US District Court Illinois. His petition witnesses were noted as Filippo Cusumano (35y), from Burgio, and Peter Lavorata, possibly identical to an individual with that name born 1892 in Cosenza, Calabria.
Within a year or two moved to Calumet City, Illinois, located just south of Chicago.
In early November 1931 press noted one Philip Bacino served as Best Man in the wedding of Joseph Pallay to Catherine Osterello in Hammond, Illinois.
By late November 1932 listed employment with Roma Cafe.
On March 16, 1933 married Jennie Maggio (21y) in Cook County, Illinois. Bride's family believed from Sambuca di Sicilia comune of Agrigento.
By early August 1933 listed employment with Lincoln Restaurant.
By Fall 1935 resided at 14 163rd St in Calumet City.
On morning of October 6, 1935 shot and killed nightclub owner John Nickels outside the residence. Incident reportedly occurred as result of assault Bacino committed over $18 debt. Following day Bacino released after coroner's jury voted self defense; he claimed he fired through his window after seeing Nickels outside waving a pistol. The victim's wife believed that story was fabricated and that the gun was planted next to the body after the shooting.
By the following summer owned a laundry business.
On September 22, 1936 FBI's Indianapolis Field Office reported: "[Office] received an anonymous memorandum informing that one Phil Bacino, a major gangster, lives at 14 163rd Street, Calumet City, Illinois."
By late May 1939 involved as bookie with Thorndale Club in Chicago.
By April 1940 listed occupation as merchant (liquor store).
On July 2, 1940 arrested in Hammond, IL for traffic violations. Around July 6 case dismissed.
On September 12, 1940 among several indicted by the US Attorney's Office in Grand Rapids, Michigan on Federal tax evasion - conspiracy charges re bootlegging ring. The Grand Rapids Press reported: "The conspiracy charge alleges these men and those still being sought connived to violate the internal revenue laws by possessing, manufacturing and distributing untaxed alcohol in western Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Oregon. It is alleged by federal agents that the men maintained headquarters at Calumet City." Bacino and eight others arrested September 20 and held on $5,000 bond.
On November 13, 1940 among four who pleaded guilty mid-trial in USDC Western District Michigan. The Grand Rapids Press noted Bacino described as 'king pin' of the group.
On November 15, 1940 among eighteen sentenced by Judge Fred M. Raymond. Bacino, described in press as one of the 'alleged leaders', given six years. The Times reported: "Agents of the federal treasury department reported that the ring is the largest of its kind ever uncovered in the three states. They said leaders of the ring were former lieutenants of the Al Capone gang in Chicago."
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| Nov. 1940 |
Within a week received at US Penitentiary Terre Haute, Indiana to serve sentence.
Released May 15, 1943.
Following release established John's Pizzeria located at 122 W State St in Calumet City. His obituary later noted: "The firm was [later] expanded to include outlets in Hammond, Lansing and Highland."
On September 2, 1945 The Times reported: "Taverns and restaurants on both sides of the Indiana - Illinois state line will be open Labor day. In fact, Calumet City's restaurant - taverns which closed on Monday during the war will begin seven-day weeks on Labor day by opening for business. Phil Bacino, spokesman for the group, said the tavern - restaurants will be able to resume operations around the week of Labor day because they now can get enough food to serve patrons."
Released May 15, 1943.
Following release established John's Pizzeria located at 122 W State St in Calumet City. His obituary later noted: "The firm was [later] expanded to include outlets in Hammond, Lansing and Highland."
On September 2, 1945 The Times reported: "Taverns and restaurants on both sides of the Indiana - Illinois state line will be open Labor day. In fact, Calumet City's restaurant - taverns which closed on Monday during the war will begin seven-day weeks on Labor day by opening for business. Phil Bacino, spokesman for the group, said the tavern - restaurants will be able to resume operations around the week of Labor day because they now can get enough food to serve patrons."
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| F. Amari FBN Mafia Book |
On August 4, 1948 DeCav Boss Filippo 'Big Phil' Amari, Philip Bacino, his son John Bacino (12y) and Nicola Diana (57y) flew from New York to Rome, Italy. All used Amari's address at 648 1st Ave in Elizabeth, New Jersey. (Research on the forum indicates Nicola Diana, born 1891 in Ribera, was with the Chicago Family as well.)
Amari and Bacino were both involved with the St. Joseph's Orphanage in Ribera. (Bacino's obit states he was a co-founder.)
On October 18, 1948 Bacino, Diana and Bacino's wife and son returned to the US.
In 1952 FBI reported an 'unknown source' had identified Phil Bacino as 'a syndicate captain'.
In June 1953 fingerprinted in Los Angeles.
Amari and Bacino were both involved with the St. Joseph's Orphanage in Ribera. (Bacino's obit states he was a co-founder.)
On October 18, 1948 Bacino, Diana and Bacino's wife and son returned to the US.
In 1952 FBI reported an 'unknown source' had identified Phil Bacino as 'a syndicate captain'.
In June 1953 fingerprinted in Los Angeles.
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| Center: P. Bacino (Mar. 1954) The Times |
Present in an ad for John's Pizzeria published in The Times on March 14, 1954.
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| Apr. 1955 The Times |
On April 24, 1955 the newspaper published a profile on Bacino titled 'Chief Cook - Except at Home'. He was noted as having visited Ribera three times since immigrating in 1923, most recently during the previous September.
On September 18, 1957 The Times reported: "Phil Bacino, Calumet City businessman, and his family are touring Europe in an American auto."
On June 10, 1959 Calumet City Chief of Police advised FBI: "[Several] years ago Bacino held dice and card games in the basement of his pizzeria and that he was considered the big boss of gambling and vice in Calumet City and that everyone took orders from him. He now appears to be subservient to Frank LaPorte." (Captain Frank LaPorte [1901-1972], from Sambiase in Catanzaro, Calabria, headed a crew based primarily in Calumet City and nearby Chicago Heights, Illinois, a city that formerly had its own LCN Family before it was disbanded and its members absorbed into Chicago.)
On September 18, 1957 The Times reported: "Phil Bacino, Calumet City businessman, and his family are touring Europe in an American auto."
On June 10, 1959 Calumet City Chief of Police advised FBI: "[Several] years ago Bacino held dice and card games in the basement of his pizzeria and that he was considered the big boss of gambling and vice in Calumet City and that everyone took orders from him. He now appears to be subservient to Frank LaPorte." (Captain Frank LaPorte [1901-1972], from Sambiase in Catanzaro, Calabria, headed a crew based primarily in Calumet City and nearby Chicago Heights, Illinois, a city that formerly had its own LCN Family before it was disbanded and its members absorbed into Chicago.)
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| FBN Mafia Book |
Around 1960 among approximately 800 reputed mobsters listed in Federal Bureau of Narcotics Mafia Book.
On July 19, 1963 FBI CI reported:
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On July 19, 1963 FBI CI reported:
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[During] the years of 1956 and 1957 Phil Bacino operated a 'big stake' poker game in the basement of his restaurant in Calumet City. The game was free from many raids by police because of Bacino's friendship with various political figures in Calumet City and the surrounding area. Informant advised that he knew of no payoffs to police or politicians although Frank LaPorte supposedly received a cut from the game. Source advised that he has played in the game and has heard that Bacino claimed over $100,000 profit from the house cut. Bacino never played in the game to the knowledge of the informant.
In later years various gambling establishments were raided by the Illinois State Police and Cook County Sheriff's Police. As a result of these raids Bacino curtailed all gambling. Recently he has allowed some of his hoodlum friends to use the basement of his restaurant for their own games but he will not permit anyone to enter who is not personally known to him and who over the years has proven himself to be a trustworthy hoodlum. Informant stated that the game is actually played in a room that was formerly a bank vault and consists of about 16" concrete.
In later years various gambling establishments were raided by the Illinois State Police and Cook County Sheriff's Police. As a result of these raids Bacino curtailed all gambling. Recently he has allowed some of his hoodlum friends to use the basement of his restaurant for their own games but he will not permit anyone to enter who is not personally known to him and who over the years has proven himself to be a trustworthy hoodlum. Informant stated that the game is actually played in a room that was formerly a bank vault and consists of about 16" concrete.
"
On December 3, 1963 Bacino was interviewed by FBI Agents: "[Bacino] admitted that he had used the name Tony Bello in the past and that he was involved in the bootlegging rackets many years ago. He admitted that he served three years in jail for this offense. He claimed that when he was released from incarceration he was rehabilitated and he has gone 'straight' ever since. He opened the pizza parlor a number of years ago and personally built it up to its present statistics to date. He hopes to turn this restaurant over to his son when he passes away. He claimed that he is constantly on the premises every day from 4:00 PM to 4:00 AM and that he works as his own cook in preparing food for the establishment. He flatly denied being connected with any of the rackets, however, he admitted knowing Frank LaPorte and stated that he was a customer of the restaurant. He indicated that he knew many people in the area inasmuch as most are his customers and that many of them might possibly be connected with illegal activities. Under no circumstances does he have any business connections with any of the individuals who might be called hoodlums. He denied that he has ever allowed gambling on the premises of the pizzeria." (A later CI report during the first half of 1967 supported Bacino's contention that no gambling occurred at the business.)
A couple of months prior to the interview Bacino's associate Phil Amari died in Los Angeles. Amari had since been replaced as DeCav Boss by Nicholas Delmore.
Following Delmore's own death in early February 1964 the Family went to Simone 'Sam the Plumber' DeCavalcante.
On December 3, 1963 Bacino was interviewed by FBI Agents: "[Bacino] admitted that he had used the name Tony Bello in the past and that he was involved in the bootlegging rackets many years ago. He admitted that he served three years in jail for this offense. He claimed that when he was released from incarceration he was rehabilitated and he has gone 'straight' ever since. He opened the pizza parlor a number of years ago and personally built it up to its present statistics to date. He hopes to turn this restaurant over to his son when he passes away. He claimed that he is constantly on the premises every day from 4:00 PM to 4:00 AM and that he works as his own cook in preparing food for the establishment. He flatly denied being connected with any of the rackets, however, he admitted knowing Frank LaPorte and stated that he was a customer of the restaurant. He indicated that he knew many people in the area inasmuch as most are his customers and that many of them might possibly be connected with illegal activities. Under no circumstances does he have any business connections with any of the individuals who might be called hoodlums. He denied that he has ever allowed gambling on the premises of the pizzeria." (A later CI report during the first half of 1967 supported Bacino's contention that no gambling occurred at the business.)
A couple of months prior to the interview Bacino's associate Phil Amari died in Los Angeles. Amari had since been replaced as DeCav Boss by Nicholas Delmore.
Following Delmore's own death in early February 1964 the Family went to Simone 'Sam the Plumber' DeCavalcante.
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| S. DeCavalcante (1960s) |
It was through the FBI's investigation of DeCavalcante that Bacino became the subject of additional LE scrutiny.
In August 1964 Agents placed a bug in DeCavalcante's office at Kenworth Corporation in Kenilworth, New Jersey. For the next year he was overheard meeting with both his own membership as well as members and associates of the New York Families.
In August 1964 Agents placed a bug in DeCavalcante's office at Kenworth Corporation in Kenilworth, New Jersey. For the next year he was overheard meeting with both his own membership as well as members and associates of the New York Families.
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| L. LaRasso FBN Mafia Book |
On June 1, 1965 DeCavalcante was visited at the office by DeCav Soldier Louis 'Fat Lou' LaRasso. The pair was recorded discussing the engagement of Bacino's son John to a niece of DeCav Soldier Salvatore 'Skinny Sal' Caterinicchi:
"
"
LaRasso told DeCavalcante that [bride's family] had asked him to accompany them to Chicago during the coming weekend. [Family] was going to meet the Begenie [Bacino] family to talk over their children's engagement and make marriage and reception plans. DeCavalcante emphatically told LaRasso to make no promises for the DeCavalcante Family in regard to this wedding and to keep himself out of this matter as much as possible. LaRasso said he would do as DeCavalcante had directed him.
[Bug] said DeCavalcante explained to LaRasso that he had stuck his neck out with the Commission (of LCN) during the arrangements for [Redacted] wedding reception. DeCavalcante had asked each member of the Commission for representation from each of their families for the wedding reception and had been honored by representatives from each family in attendance. DeCavalcante explained if anything went wrong with [redacted] affair and DeCavalcante was in the affair in any way then DeCavalcante might be very embarrassed and the Commission, therefore, might regard him as a fool.
[Bug] said DeCavalcante explained to LaRasso that he had stuck his neck out with the Commission (of LCN) during the arrangements for [Redacted] wedding reception. DeCavalcante had asked each member of the Commission for representation from each of their families for the wedding reception and had been honored by representatives from each family in attendance. DeCavalcante explained if anything went wrong with [redacted] affair and DeCavalcante was in the affair in any way then DeCavalcante might be very embarrassed and the Commission, therefore, might regard him as a fool.
"
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| S. Caterinicchi (1960s) |
On June 17, 1965 the FBI's Newark Field Office reported:
"
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[Bug] advised Sal Caterinicchi has met with DeCavalcante and has been attempting to persuade DeCavalcante that DeCavalcante Family (of LCN) should pick up the bill for [Casale - Bacino] wedding reception as the DeCavalcante Family did for Frank Majuri's daughter's wedding reception. DeCavalcante has told Caterinicchi that Frank Majuri is not only a member of the DeCavalcante Family but DeCavalcante's underboss as well whereas [redacted; bride's father?] is not a member. DeCavalcante told Caterinicchi that the only instance in which the DeCavalcante Family will help [redacted] affair is if and when Sam (Mooney) Giancana directly requests DeCavalcante's help as a personal favor.
[Bug] said DeCavalcante has pointed out to Lou LaRasso that he won't do anything for this couple until the [Bacino] family meets with [Redacted; bride's] family and Phil Begenie gives his approval of [redacted]. DeCavalcante told LaRasso to remember: 'Look, Lou, [redacted] isn't [redacted] of an amico'nos (Phil Begenie).' LaRasso agreed that the DeCavalcante Family should stay out of this affair unless directly requested to give assistance by Sam Giancana. LaRasso said Phil Begenie had asked LaRasso to have DeCavalcante meet [Redacted] and talk with his son and then give Phil Begenie the benefit of his observations about the girl and the firmness of his son's attentions in regard to the girl. DeCavalcante flatly refused to do any of the foregoing as he believes Phil Begenie should approve of [Redacted] marrying [redacted] without being prejudiced for or against [Redacted] and the marriage by DeCavalcante's opinion.
[Bug] said DeCavalcante has pointed out to Lou LaRasso that he won't do anything for this couple until the [Bacino] family meets with [Redacted; bride's] family and Phil Begenie gives his approval of [redacted]. DeCavalcante told LaRasso to remember: 'Look, Lou, [redacted] isn't [redacted] of an amico'nos (Phil Begenie).' LaRasso agreed that the DeCavalcante Family should stay out of this affair unless directly requested to give assistance by Sam Giancana. LaRasso said Phil Begenie had asked LaRasso to have DeCavalcante meet [Redacted] and talk with his son and then give Phil Begenie the benefit of his observations about the girl and the firmness of his son's attentions in regard to the girl. DeCavalcante flatly refused to do any of the foregoing as he believes Phil Begenie should approve of [Redacted] marrying [redacted] without being prejudiced for or against [Redacted] and the marriage by DeCavalcante's opinion.
"
(Salvatore Caterinicchi [1904-1989] was a longtime Family member from Ribera.)
Same date DeCavalcante was recorded discussing further developments in the engagement:
"
(Salvatore Caterinicchi [1904-1989] was a longtime Family member from Ribera.)
Same date DeCavalcante was recorded discussing further developments in the engagement:
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[Reception] will be held at the Essex House Hotel, Broad Street, Newark, N.J.
[Bug] learned there will be from 350 - 450 guests at this affair and [Redacted] are allowing DeCavalcante to make all the arrangements but asked him not to spend more than $4,000.
[Bug] said the [Redacted] has hired (FNU or LNU) [Redacted], a photographer for the 'Elizabeth Daily Journal', to take pictures at the wedding and wedding reception. The reception will begin at 6:30 p.m.
[Bug] learned Phil Begenie [Bacino], the father of [John] is a sickly man, has two sons including [John] and his wife's name is Jenny (ph). Begenie [Bacino] will have 65 - 75 guests at the wedding and they will mainly be relatives, but some friends are expected. Begenie asked for 300 wedding invitations so he could send them out to notify people of [Redacted] forthcoming wedding. Begenie wants three rooms for 9/9/65. DeCavalcante plans to get these rooms in the Essex House, Newark, N.J., because of Begenie's sickly physical status. Begenie and his wife will occupy one room. A nephew and the nephew's wife will occupy the second room and Begenie's two sons and a nephew will occupy the third room.
[Bug] learned there will be from 350 - 450 guests at this affair and [Redacted] are allowing DeCavalcante to make all the arrangements but asked him not to spend more than $4,000.
[Bug] said the [Redacted] has hired (FNU or LNU) [Redacted], a photographer for the 'Elizabeth Daily Journal', to take pictures at the wedding and wedding reception. The reception will begin at 6:30 p.m.
[Bug] learned Phil Begenie [Bacino], the father of [John] is a sickly man, has two sons including [John] and his wife's name is Jenny (ph). Begenie [Bacino] will have 65 - 75 guests at the wedding and they will mainly be relatives, but some friends are expected. Begenie asked for 300 wedding invitations so he could send them out to notify people of [Redacted] forthcoming wedding. Begenie wants three rooms for 9/9/65. DeCavalcante plans to get these rooms in the Essex House, Newark, N.J., because of Begenie's sickly physical status. Begenie and his wife will occupy one room. A nephew and the nephew's wife will occupy the second room and Begenie's two sons and a nephew will occupy the third room.
"
(In the available portions of the above transcripts, neither DeCavalcante nor LaRasso appears to make any reference to Bacino having previously headed their Family.)
As a result of the DeCav bug Bacino was designated the subject of an FBI anti-racketeering investigation.
The wedding occurred September 12, 1965 in Elizabeth, New Jersey, with the reception held at Newark's Hotel Essex House. Attendees included Boss Sam DeCavalcante and 'many of his associates' including Possible DeCav Member Joseph Miranda. FBI Newark reported: "The table reservation list for 310 people at the reception was secured from [Redacted], Hotel Essex House. The list contained no known members of LCN other than subject's 'family'. A total of 365 people attended. Spot checks in the vicinity of Hotel Essex House determined the presence of an unknown individual believed to be on surveillance."
On March 9, 1966 Calumet City Chief of Police advised FBI: "[The] only employment or business that the subject is engaged in is [John's Pizzeria]. The Chief stated that Bacino continues to have considerable respect among the criminal element in Calumet City and that he will often attempt to intercede with police officials or city officials for some hoodlum that is involved in some type of trouble. The subject's general reputation in the city is one of a legitimate business man and his past illegal activities appear to have been forgotten or forgiven by the great majority of the leading citizens and businessmen in Calumet City."
On October 28, 1966 FBI CG reported: "[CI] stated it is his general impression that the subject made and saved over $100,000 during the time Calumet City was operating as a wide open city, and that the subject, because of his age, has decided to become a respectable appearing citizen."
Around Fall 1966 opened John's Pizza Number 2 located at 173rd St and Burnham Ave in Lansing, Illinois.
(In the available portions of the above transcripts, neither DeCavalcante nor LaRasso appears to make any reference to Bacino having previously headed their Family.)
As a result of the DeCav bug Bacino was designated the subject of an FBI anti-racketeering investigation.
The wedding occurred September 12, 1965 in Elizabeth, New Jersey, with the reception held at Newark's Hotel Essex House. Attendees included Boss Sam DeCavalcante and 'many of his associates' including Possible DeCav Member Joseph Miranda. FBI Newark reported: "The table reservation list for 310 people at the reception was secured from [Redacted], Hotel Essex House. The list contained no known members of LCN other than subject's 'family'. A total of 365 people attended. Spot checks in the vicinity of Hotel Essex House determined the presence of an unknown individual believed to be on surveillance."
On March 9, 1966 Calumet City Chief of Police advised FBI: "[The] only employment or business that the subject is engaged in is [John's Pizzeria]. The Chief stated that Bacino continues to have considerable respect among the criminal element in Calumet City and that he will often attempt to intercede with police officials or city officials for some hoodlum that is involved in some type of trouble. The subject's general reputation in the city is one of a legitimate business man and his past illegal activities appear to have been forgotten or forgiven by the great majority of the leading citizens and businessmen in Calumet City."
On October 28, 1966 FBI CG reported: "[CI] stated it is his general impression that the subject made and saved over $100,000 during the time Calumet City was operating as a wide open city, and that the subject, because of his age, has decided to become a respectable appearing citizen."
Around Fall 1966 opened John's Pizza Number 2 located at 173rd St and Burnham Ave in Lansing, Illinois.
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| May 1967 |
In May 1967 photographed for US Passport.
On August 31, 1967 included in FBI's list of Chicago Members.
On August 31, 1967 included in FBI's list of Chicago Members.
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| S. DiGiovanni |
On February 4, 1970 Chicago Member Sam DiGiovanni (78y) interviewed by FBI:
"
"
...Pete Zaranti, Frank LaPorte, Al Pilotto, Phil Bacino, [Redacted] and John Costello have been close friends and associates of DiGiovanni for many years. All of these men were customers of DiGiovanni's business. They attend the same social functions and church affairs such as weddings, wakes and funerals. Although they seldom visit in each others' homes, they see each other frequently on the streets in Chicago Heights.
...Phil Bacino is another close friend of DiGiovanni who calls him frequently on the telephone. He is much less active now than he was a few years ago. His restaurant in Calumet City does a good business and Bacino does spend some time there. He serves as a kind of manager but his sons are actually running the restaurant.
...Phil Bacino is another close friend of DiGiovanni who calls him frequently on the telephone. He is much less active now than he was a few years ago. His restaurant in Calumet City does a good business and Bacino does spend some time there. He serves as a kind of manager but his sons are actually running the restaurant.
"
(Sam DiGiovanni, born 1891 in Palazzo Adriano, Palermo, was likely a member of the aforementioned Chicago Heights Family before its disbandment. As of the early 1960s he was believed to have been another Chicago Captain with interests in that city.)
(Sam DiGiovanni, born 1891 in Palazzo Adriano, Palermo, was likely a member of the aforementioned Chicago Heights Family before its disbandment. As of the early 1960s he was believed to have been another Chicago Captain with interests in that city.)
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| Apr. 1972 |
In April 1972 photographed for US Passport.
Bacino died October 6, 1974 at St. Catherine Hospital in East Chicago, Indiana.
Two days later FBI's Chicago Field Office reported: "Chicago anticipates [Bacino] wake to be attended by large number of LCN members and hoodlums and wake will be covered by Chicago PD Intelligence Unit."
Wake held same date at Nowak Funeral Home located at 400 Pulaski Rd in Calumet City. Attendees included Chicago Member Al Pilotto. (The majority of the names in the FBI's report on the wake are redacted.)
Buried in Calumet City's Holy Cross Cemetery.
Bacino died October 6, 1974 at St. Catherine Hospital in East Chicago, Indiana.
Two days later FBI's Chicago Field Office reported: "Chicago anticipates [Bacino] wake to be attended by large number of LCN members and hoodlums and wake will be covered by Chicago PD Intelligence Unit."
Wake held same date at Nowak Funeral Home located at 400 Pulaski Rd in Calumet City. Attendees included Chicago Member Al Pilotto. (The majority of the names in the FBI's report on the wake are redacted.)
Buried in Calumet City's Holy Cross Cemetery.
More DeCavalcante Family posts can be found in the Index.
Friday, June 26, 2026
Joseph Amato (DeCavalcante)
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| 1973 |
Joseph 'Joe' Amato was a suspected DeCavalcante member active in local affairs within the Family stronghold of Elizabeth, New Jersey.
Brothers-in-law Simone Palermo (1933-2005) and Girolamo 'Jimmy' Palermo (1938-2014) were both DeCavalcante Members, the latter having served at different times as Family Underboss and as member of a ruling panel formed in the late 1990s.
Born Giuseppe Amato on August 10, 1928 in Cattolica Eraclea comune of Agrigento, Sicily to Giovanni and Filomena Cammalleri.
There are no confirmed DeCav members from Cattolica; the majority of LCN figures in the tri-state area with roots in this town were affiliated with the Bonannos.
Around 1953 married Alfonsa 'Alice' Palermo in Sicily. Bride from Ribera, Agrigento, the hometown of many DeCavalcante members.
The couple immigrated in 1954 and within a few years were residing with Amato's in-laws the Palermos at 875 Anna St in Elizabeth. Amato listed occupation as laborer. (His obituary notes he worked early on a salesman for Garden State Brickface and Siding.)
By 1958 possible formally inducted member of DeCavalcante Family. (If Amato was in fact a made member it's also possible that he transferred from a Sicilian Family after moving to the US.)
The Family was then headed by Nicholas Delmore.
Brothers-in-law Simone Palermo (1933-2005) and Girolamo 'Jimmy' Palermo (1938-2014) were both DeCavalcante Members, the latter having served at different times as Family Underboss and as member of a ruling panel formed in the late 1990s.
Born Giuseppe Amato on August 10, 1928 in Cattolica Eraclea comune of Agrigento, Sicily to Giovanni and Filomena Cammalleri.
There are no confirmed DeCav members from Cattolica; the majority of LCN figures in the tri-state area with roots in this town were affiliated with the Bonannos.
Around 1953 married Alfonsa 'Alice' Palermo in Sicily. Bride from Ribera, Agrigento, the hometown of many DeCavalcante members.
The couple immigrated in 1954 and within a few years were residing with Amato's in-laws the Palermos at 875 Anna St in Elizabeth. Amato listed occupation as laborer. (His obituary notes he worked early on a salesman for Garden State Brickface and Siding.)
By 1958 possible formally inducted member of DeCavalcante Family. (If Amato was in fact a made member it's also possible that he transferred from a Sicilian Family after moving to the US.)
The Family was then headed by Nicholas Delmore.
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| L. LaRasso FBN Mafia Book |
Louis 'Fat Lou' LaRasso, later a business partner of Amato's, served as Delmore's Underboss for a time before being demoted and shelved.
Simone 'Sam the Plumber' DeCavalcante succeeded Delmore as Boss following the latter's death in February 1964. He held the position until voluntarily stepping down around September 1982.
DeCavalcante had two Underbosses, Frank Majuri of NJ and Joseph LaSelva of Connecticut, and the Consigliere position is believed to have remained vacant until the 1970s.
Simone 'Sam the Plumber' DeCavalcante succeeded Delmore as Boss following the latter's death in February 1964. He held the position until voluntarily stepping down around September 1982.
DeCavalcante had two Underbosses, Frank Majuri of NJ and Joseph LaSelva of Connecticut, and the Consigliere position is believed to have remained vacant until the 1970s.
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| Ribera Club (c. Mid-1960s) Standing (L to R): S. Vitabile, J. Riggi, G. Palermo, J. Amato Seated: S. DeCavalcante |
A Family headquarters was the Ribera Club located at 3rd Ave and John St in Elizabeth.
Amato served as the club's President at one time and during the mid-1960s was photographed there with Sam DeCavalcante and many other members and associates.
One photo later obtained by the FBI (see above) depicted the Boss seated in the center of a group that included DeCav Captain John Riggi, Possible DeCav Member Joseph Amato and DeCav Associates Carl Corsentino, Girolamo Palermo (Amato's brother-in-law) and Stefano 'Steve' Vitabile. (Riggi took over as Boss after DeCavalcante stepped down in 1982. Palermo and Vitabile were inducted into the Family in the late 1970s. Corsentino was a member by September 1989 at the latest.)
By the early 1970s Former DeCav Underboss Louis LaRasso, taken off the shelf after Nick Delmore died and since promoted to Captain, partnered with Amato and DeCav Associate Stefano Vitabile in Val Sand Fill company located at 610 3rd Ave in Elizabeth. (Val = Vitabile / Amato / LaRasso.)
On January 24, 1973 arrested by Elizabeth, NJ PD on unspecified charge. (See top)
On May 11, 1974 Ribera Club sponsored formal dinner held at Empress Room of Winfield Scott Hotel located on North Broad St in Elizabeth. Attendees included DeCav Boss Simone DeCavalcante, Underboss Frank Majuri, Captain Louis LaRasso, Captain John Riggi, Soldier Salvatore 'Skinny Sal' Caterinicchi, Soldier Emanuel 'Manny' Riggi (John's father), Possible Member Joseph Amato as well as Associates Frank Ali, Joseph Caruano, Charles Majuri (Frank's son), Girolamo Palermo and several Elizabeth politicians. (Caruano, Majuri and Palermo were inducted into the Family after the books opened in the 1970s.)
On March 24, 1975 FBI's Newark Field Office reported: "Louis LaRasso is a 'Capo' in the DeCavalcante LCN Family [and is] a partner in Val Sand Co, 1975 Magnolia, Elizabeth. This company has a garage space and office at this location. Val Sand also operates several heavy trucks. LaRasso's partners in Val Sand Co are [Redacted; Steve Vitabile] and Joe Amato. Amato is a made LCN member." (This is currently the only available identification of Amato as a made member; he has yet to turn up in other sources and the DeCav CWs don't mention him in available testimony. Given their business relationship it's possible that Amato was reporting to LaRasso, although very little is available on DeCav crew alignments prior to the 1990s.)
On August 12, 1975 Somerset Prosecutor's Office advised FBI Newark: "[He] had recently learned that Louis LaRasso has been visiting [redacted paragraph]. It should be noted Louis LaRasso, Steve Vitabile and Joe Amato are allegedly partners in the above corporation...Amato resides at 407 Redcliffe Street, Elizabeth, New Jersey."
In early 1976 the books were opened and several DeCav Associates were inducted, including Amato's brother-in-law Girolamo Palermo and his business partner Stefano Vitabile.
Described by one informant as John Riggi's 'favorite', Palermo was likely part of the first wave inducted around February of that year. (Riggi was appointed the Family's Acting Boss later the same year and, as noted above, took over the Family around September 1982.)
On December 10, 1978 DeCavalcante Family Christmas party held at Charade Lounge located at 100 Elizabeth Ave in Linden, NJ. FBI Agent(s) surveilling the event observed Acting (?) Consigliere Stefano Vitabile, Captain Louis LaRasso, Soldiers Salvatore Caterinicchi, Joseph 'Fat Joe' Colletti, Rudolph 'Rudy' Farone, John LaMela and Emanuel 'Manny' Riggi (John's son) as well as Possible Member Joseph Amato.
Additional observations included autos registered to Tony Attanasio, Charles Matarese (66y) and to Val Sand Fill Company.
(Charles Matarese [1922-1998], family from Naples, Campania, resided in Putnam Valley, New York. In the 1990s an individual with the same name born 1959 was identified as an Associate in DeCav Captain Rudolph Farone's crew in New York. Tony Attanasio might be referring to Anthony 'Slicker' Attanasio [1924-1994], inducted into Philadelphia's Bruno Family in 1986.)
Amato served as the club's President at one time and during the mid-1960s was photographed there with Sam DeCavalcante and many other members and associates.
One photo later obtained by the FBI (see above) depicted the Boss seated in the center of a group that included DeCav Captain John Riggi, Possible DeCav Member Joseph Amato and DeCav Associates Carl Corsentino, Girolamo Palermo (Amato's brother-in-law) and Stefano 'Steve' Vitabile. (Riggi took over as Boss after DeCavalcante stepped down in 1982. Palermo and Vitabile were inducted into the Family in the late 1970s. Corsentino was a member by September 1989 at the latest.)
By the early 1970s Former DeCav Underboss Louis LaRasso, taken off the shelf after Nick Delmore died and since promoted to Captain, partnered with Amato and DeCav Associate Stefano Vitabile in Val Sand Fill company located at 610 3rd Ave in Elizabeth. (Val = Vitabile / Amato / LaRasso.)
On January 24, 1973 arrested by Elizabeth, NJ PD on unspecified charge. (See top)
On May 11, 1974 Ribera Club sponsored formal dinner held at Empress Room of Winfield Scott Hotel located on North Broad St in Elizabeth. Attendees included DeCav Boss Simone DeCavalcante, Underboss Frank Majuri, Captain Louis LaRasso, Captain John Riggi, Soldier Salvatore 'Skinny Sal' Caterinicchi, Soldier Emanuel 'Manny' Riggi (John's father), Possible Member Joseph Amato as well as Associates Frank Ali, Joseph Caruano, Charles Majuri (Frank's son), Girolamo Palermo and several Elizabeth politicians. (Caruano, Majuri and Palermo were inducted into the Family after the books opened in the 1970s.)
On March 24, 1975 FBI's Newark Field Office reported: "Louis LaRasso is a 'Capo' in the DeCavalcante LCN Family [and is] a partner in Val Sand Co, 1975 Magnolia, Elizabeth. This company has a garage space and office at this location. Val Sand also operates several heavy trucks. LaRasso's partners in Val Sand Co are [Redacted; Steve Vitabile] and Joe Amato. Amato is a made LCN member." (This is currently the only available identification of Amato as a made member; he has yet to turn up in other sources and the DeCav CWs don't mention him in available testimony. Given their business relationship it's possible that Amato was reporting to LaRasso, although very little is available on DeCav crew alignments prior to the 1990s.)
On August 12, 1975 Somerset Prosecutor's Office advised FBI Newark: "[He] had recently learned that Louis LaRasso has been visiting [redacted paragraph]. It should be noted Louis LaRasso, Steve Vitabile and Joe Amato are allegedly partners in the above corporation...Amato resides at 407 Redcliffe Street, Elizabeth, New Jersey."
In early 1976 the books were opened and several DeCav Associates were inducted, including Amato's brother-in-law Girolamo Palermo and his business partner Stefano Vitabile.
Described by one informant as John Riggi's 'favorite', Palermo was likely part of the first wave inducted around February of that year. (Riggi was appointed the Family's Acting Boss later the same year and, as noted above, took over the Family around September 1982.)
On December 10, 1978 DeCavalcante Family Christmas party held at Charade Lounge located at 100 Elizabeth Ave in Linden, NJ. FBI Agent(s) surveilling the event observed Acting (?) Consigliere Stefano Vitabile, Captain Louis LaRasso, Soldiers Salvatore Caterinicchi, Joseph 'Fat Joe' Colletti, Rudolph 'Rudy' Farone, John LaMela and Emanuel 'Manny' Riggi (John's son) as well as Possible Member Joseph Amato.
Additional observations included autos registered to Tony Attanasio, Charles Matarese (66y) and to Val Sand Fill Company.
(Charles Matarese [1922-1998], family from Naples, Campania, resided in Putnam Valley, New York. In the 1990s an individual with the same name born 1959 was identified as an Associate in DeCav Captain Rudolph Farone's crew in New York. Tony Attanasio might be referring to Anthony 'Slicker' Attanasio [1924-1994], inducted into Philadelphia's Bruno Family in 1986.)
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| J. Amato (L) and Unsub |
On October 12/19, 1979 FBI photo surveillance conducted in the vicinity of Cafe Italia, a Family hangout at 612 Third Ave in Elizabeth.
Those observed included Acting Boss John Riggi, Captain (Underboss?) Louis LaRasso, Soldier Joseph Colletti and Possible Member Joseph Amato.
Those observed included Acting Boss John Riggi, Captain (Underboss?) Louis LaRasso, Soldier Joseph Colletti and Possible Member Joseph Amato.
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| L. LaRasso |
Reports from April 1978 identified LaRasso as 'the new Underboss' to John Riggi, possibly in an Acting Capacity.
Testimony from CW Vincent Palermo confirms he held the position during this period before being demoted for a second time: "[Sam] DeCavalcante at the time was the Boss. And Louie was plotting to take Sam DeCavalcante's spot. And because of that, they dropped him down from underboss to soldier instead of killing him."
Testimony from CW Vincent Palermo confirms he held the position during this period before being demoted for a second time: "[Sam] DeCavalcante at the time was the Boss. And Louie was plotting to take Sam DeCavalcante's spot. And because of that, they dropped him down from underboss to soldier instead of killing him."
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| L. LaRasso |
In 1991 LaRasso was taken off the shelf and promoted to Captain by the now imprisoned Boss John Riggi.
Amato may have joined his brother-in-law Girolamo Palermo, Riggi's Former Underboss, in reporting to LaRasso at this time.
Members of the New York faction suspected LaRasso of again plotting against the leadership and he disappeared in November of the same year.
Little else is available on Amato's activities.
Per his obit he worked as Chief Tax Assessor for the City of Elizabeth, retiring after 20 years.
He died August 22, 2021 in New Jersey and was buried in Rosedale Cemetery located in Linden.
Amato may have joined his brother-in-law Girolamo Palermo, Riggi's Former Underboss, in reporting to LaRasso at this time.
Members of the New York faction suspected LaRasso of again plotting against the leadership and he disappeared in November of the same year.
Little else is available on Amato's activities.
Per his obit he worked as Chief Tax Assessor for the City of Elizabeth, retiring after 20 years.
He died August 22, 2021 in New Jersey and was buried in Rosedale Cemetery located in Linden.
More DeCavalcante Family posts can be found in the Index.
Jake Amari (DeCavalcante)
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| 1990s Court Exhibit / The Real Sopranos Documentary |
Jake Amari was a member of the DeCavalcante Family.
Believed to have been inducted in 1977, he rose to Captain, official Underboss and then Acting Boss for the imprisoned John Riggi during the early-to-mid 1990s.
His first cousin once removed Filippo 'Big Phil' Amari was the Family's Boss during the pre-Apalachin era.
In-laws included long-time Family member Pietro Galletta (1896-1998).
Born Gioacchino Amari on March 14, 1945 in Ribera comune of Agrigento, Sicily to Vincenzo (35y) and Serafina Triolo (30y).
On August 29, 1946 arrived with parents and older brother Filippo at Port of New York aboard S.S. Marine Angel.
By the early 1960s family believed returned to Sicily.
Jake reportedly killed a police officer sometime during the early 1960s, necessitating his fleeing the country and returning to the US.
CW Anthony Rotondo, a Former DeCavalcante Captain, mentioned the subject at least twice during testimony in the 2000s:
Believed to have been inducted in 1977, he rose to Captain, official Underboss and then Acting Boss for the imprisoned John Riggi during the early-to-mid 1990s.
His first cousin once removed Filippo 'Big Phil' Amari was the Family's Boss during the pre-Apalachin era.
In-laws included long-time Family member Pietro Galletta (1896-1998).
Born Gioacchino Amari on March 14, 1945 in Ribera comune of Agrigento, Sicily to Vincenzo (35y) and Serafina Triolo (30y).
On August 29, 1946 arrived with parents and older brother Filippo at Port of New York aboard S.S. Marine Angel.
By the early 1960s family believed returned to Sicily.
Jake reportedly killed a police officer sometime during the early 1960s, necessitating his fleeing the country and returning to the US.
CW Anthony Rotondo, a Former DeCavalcante Captain, mentioned the subject at least twice during testimony in the 2000s:
1. "[It was rumored Amari] killed a police officer in his late teens so he came to America."
2. "[Identified photo of Amari]...And I heard he killed a cop in Italy in his teens and went to America."
2. "[Identified photo of Amari]...And I heard he killed a cop in Italy in his teens and went to America."
On May 18, 1962 Amari arrived in New York aboard flight from Rome. Address listed at 227 John St in the Peterstown section of Elizabeth, New Jersey.
Several DeCavalcante Family members, many with roots in Ribera, resided in the neighborhood.
On September 24, 1963 relative and Former DeCav Boss Filippo Amari died in Arcadia suburb of Los Angeles, California.
By 1968 one of many DeCavalcante Members and Associates employed with Hod Carriers Union Local 394 in Elizabeth.
On August 5, 1977 FBI CI reported: "[The] following individuals are rumored to be proposed members of the DeCavalcante Family...Jake Amari (Sicilian born, sponsor not known)."
Another of those listed in the report, Joseph 'Jo Jo' Ferrara, was confirmed to have been 'recently made' as of mid-October 1977.
At that time the Family was headed by Simone 'Sam the Plumber' DeCavalcante. John Riggi served as the official Underboss and as DeCavalcante's Acting Boss. Stefano 'Steve the Truck Driver' Vitabile served as Acting Consigliere.
Around July 1978 legally changed name from Gioacchino to Gioacchin Amari.
By 1980 resided at 612 3rd Ave in Elizabeth. Employed with construction company next door at 610.
Around July 1978 legally changed name from Gioacchino to Gioacchin Amari.
By 1980 resided at 612 3rd Ave in Elizabeth. Employed with construction company next door at 610.
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| Nov. 1980 |
In November 1980 attended the wedding reception for Sicilian Mafia Member Giuseppe Bono in Manhattan. Many members from New York and New Jersey Families, as well as from Canada and Sicily, were present. During the reception Amari was photographed at a table with DeCav Acting Boss / Underboss John Riggi, DeCav (Acting?) Consigliere Stefano Vitabile, Captains Rudolph 'Rudy' Farone and Vincent 'Jimmy' Rotondo as well as Member Giuseppe 'Pino' Schifilliti. (It's possible that Farone wasn't a Captain until later, although an FBI report from January 1980 already has him at that rank. The group photograph was posted years ago on the forum. Above is an excerpt of the image included in an FBI file on the DeCavalcantes from later in the decade; the back of the photo describes Amari as a 'suspected member', although it's unclear if the designation refers to the time of the Bono wedding or to when the notation itself was made. )
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| A. Capo (1980s) |
Around the early 1980s DeCavalcante Associate Anthony Rotondo, son of Captain Vincent Rotondo, recommended Associate Anthony Capo for a construction job in New Jersey. Capo, who in 1999 became the first made member of the DeCavalcante Family to defect, later testified: "I was working down Wall Street [and] Anthony Rotondo took a liking to me and he said if you want to come to New Jersey and work in the union, make 500 a week doing nothing." Capo and unspecified associates sent to Local 394 where met DeCav Acting Boss / Underboss John Riggi, Associate John 'Johnny Red' Corsentino and Pete LNU. Group given referral slip to work with Kramer Gunite concrete company at Exxon Power Plant in Elizabeth; DeCav Captain Paolo Farina and Associate John Riggi Jr. employed as foreman and superintendent of company respectively. Others employed on site included DeCav Soldier Jake Amari. Capo testified: "[On] the job they had gangs of like maybe 6, 10 workers. So they put me and Jake Amari in a gang. I was a foreman." (Capo became a made member in December 1989.)
Around September 1982 Sam DeCavalcante voluntarily stepped down as Boss and was replaced by John Riggi.
By mid-to-late 1980s Amari was promoted to Captain.
Made members of Amari's crew included Giuseppe Schifilliti.
Around 1987 DeCav Soldiers Vincent 'Vinny Ocean' Palermo and Anthony 'Marshmallow' Mannarino involved in dispute with Pete LNU, Greek associate of the Colombo Family, over a diner the pair operated. Pete LNU reached out to 'Chubby' LNU, a Colombo Soldier, for assistance. (This might have been Philip 'Chubby' Rossillo [1942-1998]; another Colombo with that nickname, Joseph Audino, is not believed to have been inducted at the time.)
Sitdown between the Families held and attended by DeCav Boss John Riggi and Captain Vincent Rotondo among others. During the period of attempted mediation, Spiro LNU, a partner with Mannarino and Palermo in the diner, suspected he was being targeted for murder by the Colombos.
In response the DeCavs sent an armed group to guard the location. Those posted outside included Anthony Mannarino, Associate Paul Fletcher and Vincent Palermo, the latter parked with a sawed-off shotgun.
Those inside the diner included Captains Jake Amari and Rudolph Farone, Soldier Giuseppe Schifilliti, a member of Amari's crew, and Farone Associate Anthony 'Tony Hooks' Del Priore. (Family of Anthony Del Priore [1930-1992] from Sant'Angelo dei Lombardi in Avellino, Campania.)
No violence occurred and situation ultimately resolved through multiple sitdowns between Riggi and the Colombos.
By mid-to-late 1980s Amari was promoted to Captain.
Made members of Amari's crew included Giuseppe Schifilliti.
Around 1987 DeCav Soldiers Vincent 'Vinny Ocean' Palermo and Anthony 'Marshmallow' Mannarino involved in dispute with Pete LNU, Greek associate of the Colombo Family, over a diner the pair operated. Pete LNU reached out to 'Chubby' LNU, a Colombo Soldier, for assistance. (This might have been Philip 'Chubby' Rossillo [1942-1998]; another Colombo with that nickname, Joseph Audino, is not believed to have been inducted at the time.)
Sitdown between the Families held and attended by DeCav Boss John Riggi and Captain Vincent Rotondo among others. During the period of attempted mediation, Spiro LNU, a partner with Mannarino and Palermo in the diner, suspected he was being targeted for murder by the Colombos.
In response the DeCavs sent an armed group to guard the location. Those posted outside included Anthony Mannarino, Associate Paul Fletcher and Vincent Palermo, the latter parked with a sawed-off shotgun.
Those inside the diner included Captains Jake Amari and Rudolph Farone, Soldier Giuseppe Schifilliti, a member of Amari's crew, and Farone Associate Anthony 'Tony Hooks' Del Priore. (Family of Anthony Del Priore [1930-1992] from Sant'Angelo dei Lombardi in Avellino, Campania.)
No violence occurred and situation ultimately resolved through multiple sitdowns between Riggi and the Colombos.
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| A. Rotondo |
Around April 1988 Anthony Rotondo was promoted to Captain by Boss John Riggi. Promotion announced at a Family administration meeting held at the New Jersey residence of Riggi's son, Captain Emanuel 'Manny' Riggi.
Others present included Underboss Girolamo 'Jimmy' Palermo, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile and Captains Jake Amari, Joseph 'Fat Joe' Colletti, John D'Amato, Paolo Farina, Rudolph Farone and Larry 'Shorty' Schiro. (Rotondo inherited the crew formerly ran by his father Vincent, shot to death in an unsanctioned murder that January.)
By May 1988 the DeCavalcante Family hierarchy consisted of Boss John Riggi, Underboss Girolamo Palermo and Consigliere Stefano Vitabile. Captains were Jake Amari, Joseph 'Joe C.' Caruano (Acting), Joseph Colletti, John D'Amato, Paolo Farina, Rudolph Farone, Emanuel Riggi, Anthony Rotondo and Larry Schiro. (Caruano was Acting for Farina.)
Amari may have been among the group of DeCavalcante members who in the summer of 1988 had to be re-inducted into the Family using the more traditional ceremony. CWs Vincent Palermo and Anthony Rotondo both underwent a second ceremony and named most of the New York faction as being present, however, no members aligned with the Jersey crews were named. (It's possible these second ceremonies were split up by geography / crew alignment.)
Others present included Underboss Girolamo 'Jimmy' Palermo, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile and Captains Jake Amari, Joseph 'Fat Joe' Colletti, John D'Amato, Paolo Farina, Rudolph Farone and Larry 'Shorty' Schiro. (Rotondo inherited the crew formerly ran by his father Vincent, shot to death in an unsanctioned murder that January.)
By May 1988 the DeCavalcante Family hierarchy consisted of Boss John Riggi, Underboss Girolamo Palermo and Consigliere Stefano Vitabile. Captains were Jake Amari, Joseph 'Joe C.' Caruano (Acting), Joseph Colletti, John D'Amato, Paolo Farina, Rudolph Farone, Emanuel Riggi, Anthony Rotondo and Larry Schiro. (Caruano was Acting for Farina.)
Amari may have been among the group of DeCavalcante members who in the summer of 1988 had to be re-inducted into the Family using the more traditional ceremony. CWs Vincent Palermo and Anthony Rotondo both underwent a second ceremony and named most of the New York faction as being present, however, no members aligned with the Jersey crews were named. (It's possible these second ceremonies were split up by geography / crew alignment.)
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| F. Weiss Court Exhibit / The Real Sopranos Documentary |
On September 11, 1989 members of a DeCavalcante hit team shot Gambino Associate Frederick Weiss to death outside his residence in Staten Island.
After the murder participant Joseph Garofano, a DeCav Associate, made statements that led others to suspect he was susceptible to police pressure. The decision was made to kill him as well as he disappeared ten days later.
After the murder participant Joseph Garofano, a DeCav Associate, made statements that led others to suspect he was susceptible to police pressure. The decision was made to kill him as well as he disappeared ten days later.
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| D. Annunziata (L) and G. Vastola Press |
The day prior to the Weiss murder, a Family meeting had been held at the residence of Soldier Daniel Annunziata. Attendees were Underboss John D'Amato, Captain Philip Abramo, Annunziata and Soldier Gaetano 'Corky' Vastola. Purpose of meeting for D'Amato and Abramo to discuss the refusal of Annunziata and Vastola to participate in the hit. Before the meeting, Soldier Vincent Palermo and Associate Anthony Capo were told to follow D'Amato and Abramo to the residence; they planned for Annunziata and Vastola to both be killed if they continued to disobey orders.
The meeting lasted approximately forty-five minutes, after which the D'Amato group left and no action was taken against Annunziata and Vastola. Anthony Capo later testified: "[Abramo and D'Amato] were pissed off. They talked to Corky [Vastola] and Danny. Corky told them I don't give a fuck what John Gotti wants or the Gambino Family. We ain't doing it. And if you want, we'll go to war. I got my own guys you don't even know about...[No action taken because] John D'Amato and Phil had felt they heard some noises upstairs, there might be some guys inside with machine guns and we might be walking into an ambush. But it was decided [that] the most important thing to do was to kill Frederick Weiss, that's the job at hand and to beat the Gambino squad to it. And that we could kill Corky and Danny at any time."
With Weiss dead and loose ends tied up, members of the Family convened to discuss the plot against Annunziata and Vastola. The conspirators included the entire DeCavalcante hierarchy and all of its Captains including Amari.
One plot was overseen by Amari crew member Giuseppe Schifilliti and Schiro crew member Soldier Joseph 'Tin Ear' Sclafani.
Annunziata and Vastola went into hiding and ultimately sought out retired Former Boss Sam DeCavalcante and Captain Louis 'Fat Lou' LaRasso in Florida. Following negotiations the plot was called off and the pair were placed direct with the Family Administration.
The meeting lasted approximately forty-five minutes, after which the D'Amato group left and no action was taken against Annunziata and Vastola. Anthony Capo later testified: "[Abramo and D'Amato] were pissed off. They talked to Corky [Vastola] and Danny. Corky told them I don't give a fuck what John Gotti wants or the Gambino Family. We ain't doing it. And if you want, we'll go to war. I got my own guys you don't even know about...[No action taken because] John D'Amato and Phil had felt they heard some noises upstairs, there might be some guys inside with machine guns and we might be walking into an ambush. But it was decided [that] the most important thing to do was to kill Frederick Weiss, that's the job at hand and to beat the Gambino squad to it. And that we could kill Corky and Danny at any time."
With Weiss dead and loose ends tied up, members of the Family convened to discuss the plot against Annunziata and Vastola. The conspirators included the entire DeCavalcante hierarchy and all of its Captains including Amari.
One plot was overseen by Amari crew member Giuseppe Schifilliti and Schiro crew member Soldier Joseph 'Tin Ear' Sclafani.
Annunziata and Vastola went into hiding and ultimately sought out retired Former Boss Sam DeCavalcante and Captain Louis 'Fat Lou' LaRasso in Florida. Following negotiations the plot was called off and the pair were placed direct with the Family Administration.
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| F. Guarraci |
In December 1989 two new members inducted into DeCavalcante Family in ceremony held at unspecified residence in Elizabeth. Ceremony presided over by Boss John Gotti. Others present included Underboss John D'Amato, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile as well as Captains Philip Abramo, Jake Amari, Vincent Palermo, Anthony Rotondo, Larry Schiro and possibly Joseph Colletti. Those inducted were Anthony Capo (28y) and Francesco 'Cheech' Guarraci (35y); Amari sponsored Guarraci for membership. (Like Amari, Francesco Guarraci (1954-2016) was born in Ribera and joined Local 394 after immigrating. He later served as Acting Boss and possibly the official Consigliere during the mid-2000s.)
Around this time period Amari reportedly solicited the murder of DeCav Associate Filippo Milano for being involved with Frank Guarraci's wife. Boss John Riggi gave his approval and Amari, Guarraci and DeCav Soldier Francesco 'Joe' Gatto visited Milano's residence in an attempt to carry out the hit. Subsequently determined victim fled the country; at some point he was reportedly tracked down and killed in Ribera. (This information is from a document discovered many years ago by a forum user.)
In October 1990 Boss John Riggi was sentenced to over twenty years Federal imprisonment following conviction on racketeering charges.
Following Riggi's incarceration ruling panel instated consisting of Underboss John D'Amato, Captain (?) Paolo Farina and Captain Emanuel Riggi.
Around Spring 1991 DeCavalcante administration meeting held in basement of residence owned by DeCav Soldier Joseph 'Joe Red' Merlo Jr. Those present included Underboss / Ruling Panel Member John D'Amato, Ruling Panel Member Paolo Farina, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile, Captains Philip Abramo, Jake Amari, Joseph Caruano, Joseph Colletti, Rudolph Farone, Anthony Rotondo, Vincent Palermo and Larry Schiro.
CW Rotondo later testified: "Johnny D'Amato opened up by saying that he uncovered a plot on his life [by Manny Riggi]." Soldier James 'Jimmy Pitt' Gallo, present upstairs, called down into basement and questioned by those present. Rotondo: "Johnny asked Jimmy to explain what had been told to him [and Gallo] told him that Manny [had been] acting strange the last couple of months. That he had asked him for a gun with a silencer on it. And he made a couple of remarks that this Johnny wants to take over the outfit, wants to take [John Riggi] down...A couple of guys made the remark where is Manny, he's not here to defend himself." Vitabile, Caruano and Farone dispatched to bring Riggi to meeting: "[Riggi] sat down [and] made an apology [for not showing up to meeting initially and] D'Amato told him that he had uncovered a plot that Manny was looking to kill him [and] he wasn't going to kill Manny right now. Even though he should, out of respect to the father [John Riggi], he wouldn't, and he was putting him on the shelf." Riggi was removed from ruling panel, demoted to Soldier and shelved.
Immediately following the decision Paolo Farina resigned from his position on the ruling panel and possibly stepped down as Captain. (CW Vincent Palermo instead claims Farina continued as Captain at least up to the time of the big indictments in 1999 - 2000.)
D'Amato then allegedly proclaimed himself the Acting Boss, although later accounts from CWs suggest this wasn't necessarily viewed as legitimate.
Jake Amari was appointed the Acting Underboss and Giuseppe Schifilliti was appointed Captain of the former Amari crew.
During one court appearance in the mid-2000s, CW Anthony Rotondo testified that sometime shortly afterward the imprisoned Boss John Riggi ordered John D'Amato's removal as Underboss: "Rudy Farone came to us and told us that the old man, meaning John [Riggi], took John down, meaning John D'Amato...[Afterwards] Couple of captains got together, we went to the Consigliere, Steve [Vitabile]. At that point he was really in charge of the Family, and Jack Amari." (This situation was brought up in court only once; it's otherwise absent from Rotondo's available testimony, and the other two made DeCav CWs make no mention of the order, despite D'Amato's importance in Family affairs during the time period.)
Around July 1991 D'Amato became a fugitive, announcing the decision at a Family admin meeting and requesting $5,000 from each Captain to help him while on the lam.
Around this time period Amari reportedly solicited the murder of DeCav Associate Filippo Milano for being involved with Frank Guarraci's wife. Boss John Riggi gave his approval and Amari, Guarraci and DeCav Soldier Francesco 'Joe' Gatto visited Milano's residence in an attempt to carry out the hit. Subsequently determined victim fled the country; at some point he was reportedly tracked down and killed in Ribera. (This information is from a document discovered many years ago by a forum user.)
In October 1990 Boss John Riggi was sentenced to over twenty years Federal imprisonment following conviction on racketeering charges.
Following Riggi's incarceration ruling panel instated consisting of Underboss John D'Amato, Captain (?) Paolo Farina and Captain Emanuel Riggi.
Around Spring 1991 DeCavalcante administration meeting held in basement of residence owned by DeCav Soldier Joseph 'Joe Red' Merlo Jr. Those present included Underboss / Ruling Panel Member John D'Amato, Ruling Panel Member Paolo Farina, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile, Captains Philip Abramo, Jake Amari, Joseph Caruano, Joseph Colletti, Rudolph Farone, Anthony Rotondo, Vincent Palermo and Larry Schiro.
CW Rotondo later testified: "Johnny D'Amato opened up by saying that he uncovered a plot on his life [by Manny Riggi]." Soldier James 'Jimmy Pitt' Gallo, present upstairs, called down into basement and questioned by those present. Rotondo: "Johnny asked Jimmy to explain what had been told to him [and Gallo] told him that Manny [had been] acting strange the last couple of months. That he had asked him for a gun with a silencer on it. And he made a couple of remarks that this Johnny wants to take over the outfit, wants to take [John Riggi] down...A couple of guys made the remark where is Manny, he's not here to defend himself." Vitabile, Caruano and Farone dispatched to bring Riggi to meeting: "[Riggi] sat down [and] made an apology [for not showing up to meeting initially and] D'Amato told him that he had uncovered a plot that Manny was looking to kill him [and] he wasn't going to kill Manny right now. Even though he should, out of respect to the father [John Riggi], he wouldn't, and he was putting him on the shelf." Riggi was removed from ruling panel, demoted to Soldier and shelved.
Immediately following the decision Paolo Farina resigned from his position on the ruling panel and possibly stepped down as Captain. (CW Vincent Palermo instead claims Farina continued as Captain at least up to the time of the big indictments in 1999 - 2000.)
D'Amato then allegedly proclaimed himself the Acting Boss, although later accounts from CWs suggest this wasn't necessarily viewed as legitimate.
Jake Amari was appointed the Acting Underboss and Giuseppe Schifilliti was appointed Captain of the former Amari crew.
During one court appearance in the mid-2000s, CW Anthony Rotondo testified that sometime shortly afterward the imprisoned Boss John Riggi ordered John D'Amato's removal as Underboss: "Rudy Farone came to us and told us that the old man, meaning John [Riggi], took John down, meaning John D'Amato...[Afterwards] Couple of captains got together, we went to the Consigliere, Steve [Vitabile]. At that point he was really in charge of the Family, and Jack Amari." (This situation was brought up in court only once; it's otherwise absent from Rotondo's available testimony, and the other two made DeCav CWs make no mention of the order, despite D'Amato's importance in Family affairs during the time period.)
Around July 1991 D'Amato became a fugitive, announcing the decision at a Family admin meeting and requesting $5,000 from each Captain to help him while on the lam.
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| J. Gallo |
Following Amari's appointed to Acting Underboss, he began sharing in the profits from shakedowns of contractors affiliated with Asbestos Workers' Union Local 1030. DeCav Soldier James Gallo, the local's Field Representative, along with Associate James Castaldo had previously kicked up to Boss John Riggi and Gallo's captain Emanuel Riggi. Following John's October 1990 incarceration and Emanuel's subsequent demotion and shelving, the pair instead began making payments to Underboss John D'Amato, Acting Underboss Jake Amari, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile and Gallo's new Captain Giuseppe Schifilliti, the local's Business Agent.
By Fall 1991 the DeCavalcante hierarchy consisted of Boss John Riggi (IP), Underboss John D'Amato, Acting Underboss Jake Amari and Consigliere Stefano Vitabile. Captains were Philip Abramo, Virgil Alessi (Acting), Joseph Caruano, Rudolph Farone, Joseph 'Jo Jo' Ferrara, Louis LaRasso, Charles Majuri, Vincent Palermo, Anthony Rotondo, Giuseppe Schifilliti and Larry Schiro.
By Fall 1991 the DeCavalcante hierarchy consisted of Boss John Riggi (IP), Underboss John D'Amato, Acting Underboss Jake Amari and Consigliere Stefano Vitabile. Captains were Philip Abramo, Virgil Alessi (Acting), Joseph Caruano, Rudolph Farone, Joseph 'Jo Jo' Ferrara, Louis LaRasso, Charles Majuri, Vincent Palermo, Anthony Rotondo, Giuseppe Schifilliti and Larry Schiro.
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| G. Schifilliti Court Exhibit / The Real Sopranos Documentary |
Around this time Schifilliti supervised the attempted assault of an Unsub solicited by crew member Frank Guarraci. Victim attacked by a group of baseball bat wielding assailants that included Guarraci, DeCav Soldier Francesco Gatto, Associate Robert Collina and Dominick LNU. Schifilliti present as driver. CW Anthony Capo later testified: "[Victim] took the bats off them, beat them up, and instead of Pino Schifilliti getting down and out, defending his guys with his gun, he pulled away and left them...He should have been [broken] to a Soldier, even killed for what he did. That was the opinion of Rudy Farone, Vincent Palermo [but] Jake Amari and Pino Schifilliti went back a lot of years. Jake covered up for him, so that in turn, he let him take care of the Lou LaRasso matter to make up for that embarrassment."
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| L. LaRasso |
Captain Louis LaRasso, who years earlier had served as Underboss before being demoted and shelved for plotting against the Family leadership, was suspected of instigating another coup attempt.
The Admin and other Family Captains convened and voted to have him killed and on November 11, 1991 he was shot to death in New Jersey and buried at an undisclosed location.
The initial plan had been for LaRasso to be killed by New York faction members including Virgil Alessi, Anthony Capo, Louis Consalvo and Gregory Rago.
This changed and the job was believed handled by a group that included two of the Jersey Captains along with members of the Abramo crew.
Within a few days of LaRasso's disappearance, Captain Anthony Rotondo was driven by DeCav Soldier Michael 'Mickey' DePietro to a meeting with Acting Underboss Jake Amari at Cafe Italia in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Rotondo later testified: "[Amari instructed me to] tell Rudy [Farone] and Vinnie [Palermo], get a message to Larry [Schiro], that Louie was gone and tell everybody to watch their backs...[Amari] told me that Philly Abramo's crew carried it out honorably."
The Admin and other Family Captains convened and voted to have him killed and on November 11, 1991 he was shot to death in New Jersey and buried at an undisclosed location.
The initial plan had been for LaRasso to be killed by New York faction members including Virgil Alessi, Anthony Capo, Louis Consalvo and Gregory Rago.
This changed and the job was believed handled by a group that included two of the Jersey Captains along with members of the Abramo crew.
Within a few days of LaRasso's disappearance, Captain Anthony Rotondo was driven by DeCav Soldier Michael 'Mickey' DePietro to a meeting with Acting Underboss Jake Amari at Cafe Italia in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Rotondo later testified: "[Amari instructed me to] tell Rudy [Farone] and Vinnie [Palermo], get a message to Larry [Schiro], that Louie was gone and tell everybody to watch their backs...[Amari] told me that Philly Abramo's crew carried it out honorably."
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| J. D'Amato Gang Land News |
By this time John D'Amato was himself targeted for murder.
A fugitive since the summer, D'Amato had committed several transgressions during his time as Underboss, including attempting to put close associates into positions of power without authorization, mishandling Family funds, and borrowing from his own Family members as well as from the New York Families without repaying. CW Anthony Rotondo later testified: "[Captain Rudy] Farone and I learned from Anthony [Spero], who was then Consigliere of the Bonanno Family, he had given Johnny D'Amato $50,000, and he wanted to know if we were aware that he told them that it was for [the] DeCavalcante administration..All through the spring and summer, we heard -- well, $50,000 to [Spero], $50,000 to [Gambino Associate] Joe Watts, $50,000 to Vic [Orena] who was Acting Boss of the Colombos at the time. I believe $50,000 to Big Louie [Vallario] who was a Gambino captain, Louie [Attanasio] who was a captain in the Bonanno Family had a $30,000 loan, and the figure just kept adding up and up [to about] between a half million and 750,000...A lot of that money was loans. And partially we learned later on he had bankrupted the [DeCav] Family treasury." At a sitdown between D'Amato and Attanasio earlier that year, D'Amato had actually claimed Rotondo and Anthony Capo spent the money he borrowed and made Capo responsible for repaying the loan.
Two weeks after LaRasso's murder D'Amato was shot to death by Capo, who he had been relying on as his contact with the Family during his time as fugitive. Like LaRasso, the body was buried in an undisclosed location. (Probably the Upstate New York property owned by DeCav Soldier Felice 'Phil the Undertaker' LaMela.)
Murder orchestrated by New York faction leaders without the authorization of the rest of the Family.
On November 26, the day after D'Amato was killed, the New York faction received permission after the fact in a DeCavalcante Family administration meeting held at Caldor's Shopping Center in Staten Island. Attendees were Acting Underboss Jake Amari, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile, Captains Joseph Caruano, Rudolph Farone, Joseph Ferrara, Charles Majuri, Vincent Palermo, Anthony Rotondo, Larry Schiro and Giuseppe Schifilliti. D'Amato loyalists Philip Abramo and Virgil Alessi had been excluded. At the meeting D'Amato's behavior was discussed and his murder was voted on.
The following day another administration meeting was held, this one at Consigliere Steve Vitabile's residence in Millstone, New Jersey. With former D'Amato loyalists Abramo and Alessi now in attendance, D'Amato's disappearance was discussed and the plotters disavowed any knowledge or involvement.
Imprisoned Boss John Riggi appointed Amari the official Underboss and approved of him serving as the Family's Acting Boss.
A fugitive since the summer, D'Amato had committed several transgressions during his time as Underboss, including attempting to put close associates into positions of power without authorization, mishandling Family funds, and borrowing from his own Family members as well as from the New York Families without repaying. CW Anthony Rotondo later testified: "[Captain Rudy] Farone and I learned from Anthony [Spero], who was then Consigliere of the Bonanno Family, he had given Johnny D'Amato $50,000, and he wanted to know if we were aware that he told them that it was for [the] DeCavalcante administration..All through the spring and summer, we heard -- well, $50,000 to [Spero], $50,000 to [Gambino Associate] Joe Watts, $50,000 to Vic [Orena] who was Acting Boss of the Colombos at the time. I believe $50,000 to Big Louie [Vallario] who was a Gambino captain, Louie [Attanasio] who was a captain in the Bonanno Family had a $30,000 loan, and the figure just kept adding up and up [to about] between a half million and 750,000...A lot of that money was loans. And partially we learned later on he had bankrupted the [DeCav] Family treasury." At a sitdown between D'Amato and Attanasio earlier that year, D'Amato had actually claimed Rotondo and Anthony Capo spent the money he borrowed and made Capo responsible for repaying the loan.
Two weeks after LaRasso's murder D'Amato was shot to death by Capo, who he had been relying on as his contact with the Family during his time as fugitive. Like LaRasso, the body was buried in an undisclosed location. (Probably the Upstate New York property owned by DeCav Soldier Felice 'Phil the Undertaker' LaMela.)
Murder orchestrated by New York faction leaders without the authorization of the rest of the Family.
On November 26, the day after D'Amato was killed, the New York faction received permission after the fact in a DeCavalcante Family administration meeting held at Caldor's Shopping Center in Staten Island. Attendees were Acting Underboss Jake Amari, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile, Captains Joseph Caruano, Rudolph Farone, Joseph Ferrara, Charles Majuri, Vincent Palermo, Anthony Rotondo, Larry Schiro and Giuseppe Schifilliti. D'Amato loyalists Philip Abramo and Virgil Alessi had been excluded. At the meeting D'Amato's behavior was discussed and his murder was voted on.
The following day another administration meeting was held, this one at Consigliere Steve Vitabile's residence in Millstone, New Jersey. With former D'Amato loyalists Abramo and Alessi now in attendance, D'Amato's disappearance was discussed and the plotters disavowed any knowledge or involvement.
Imprisoned Boss John Riggi appointed Amari the official Underboss and approved of him serving as the Family's Acting Boss.
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| V. Alessi |
After taking the position Amari promoted Virgil Alessi to official Captain. CW Anthony Rotondo later testified: "Well, what happened was after John [D'Amato] went on the lam, Jake Amari found out that Johnny had made Virgil an acting captain. And at first he was pretty upset. Then after a couple of months, he accepted it, and Virgil was made an official captain."
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| V. Palermo Gang Land News |
Around December 1991 DeCav Consigliere Stefano Vitabile met with Captain Vincent Palermo re D'Amato's death. Palermo later testified: "[Vitabile] was in control of the Family as the Consigliere at the time, and he had a conversation with me to go see Joey [Massino] and get the approval from Joey for me to be official number three for the Family so I could take over the Family and put people in place and be responsible for the positions."
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| A. Spero (c. 1991) |
Palermo subsequently met with Bonanno Consigliere Anthony Spero: "[Spero] says that Joey [Massino] would go along with you...I remember Spero telling me that they wouldn't want Jake [Amari] there because he's from the other side [Sicily]. And they'd rather not have anybody from the other side have any positions as number one, two or three...Spero said see Joey, and I'm sure Joey would give you the approval, but I never went to see Joey and talk to Joey about it. [I told Vitabile the Bonannos] said it wouldn't be a problem, but I said but I'd rather not do it. I don't want to take that responsibility right now." (Palermo had previously testified that he had instead lied to Vitabile and claimed the Bonannos advised against taking the position.)
By 1992 on-record associates included Francesco 'Frank the Painter' Paparatto. CW Vincent Palermo later testified: "Frank the Painter was very close with Johnny Riggi when Johnny Riggi was out of jail. He used Frank to pick up extortion money for him, talk to contractors. Then he got close to Jake [Amari] and Steve [Vitabile]. He was always close with Steve, but they used him over the years to collect money because he knows a lot of construction companies...[Paparatto was] associated with the DeCavalcante Family. He used to say he was a wise guy in Italy before he came here. He wanted to be, and Johnny Riggi spoke about it a few times, they were going to propose him." (Paparatto was believed inducted after the 1999 indictment.)
On June 17, 1992 The Star-Ledger published article "N.Y. Mobs May Grab for DeCavalcante Family after Riggi Goes to Prison." Article noted: "[Commander] of the Union County prosecutor's organized crime unit, said reputed DeCavalcante 'soldier' Jake Amari has been promoted to capo and may be taking over for Riggi, particularly in the Peterstown section of Elizabeth."
Around this time a Family administration meeting was held and those present unanimously voted to have John Riggi taken down as Boss. Amari refused to follow through with the vote and Riggi kept the title. (Riggi remained Boss until his death in 2015.)
By 1992 on-record associates included Francesco 'Frank the Painter' Paparatto. CW Vincent Palermo later testified: "Frank the Painter was very close with Johnny Riggi when Johnny Riggi was out of jail. He used Frank to pick up extortion money for him, talk to contractors. Then he got close to Jake [Amari] and Steve [Vitabile]. He was always close with Steve, but they used him over the years to collect money because he knows a lot of construction companies...[Paparatto was] associated with the DeCavalcante Family. He used to say he was a wise guy in Italy before he came here. He wanted to be, and Johnny Riggi spoke about it a few times, they were going to propose him." (Paparatto was believed inducted after the 1999 indictment.)
On June 17, 1992 The Star-Ledger published article "N.Y. Mobs May Grab for DeCavalcante Family after Riggi Goes to Prison." Article noted: "[Commander] of the Union County prosecutor's organized crime unit, said reputed DeCavalcante 'soldier' Jake Amari has been promoted to capo and may be taking over for Riggi, particularly in the Peterstown section of Elizabeth."
Around this time a Family administration meeting was held and those present unanimously voted to have John Riggi taken down as Boss. Amari refused to follow through with the vote and Riggi kept the title. (Riggi remained Boss until his death in 2015.)
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| G. Schifilliti (1990s) Court Exhibit / The Real Sopranos Documentary |
In August 1992 FBI's Newark Field Office reported:
"
"
...Gioacchin Amari is the current Underboss of the DeCavalcante LCN Family and has been running the day to day operations of the Family since D'Amato's disappearance.
...On [redacted] Newark was engaged in an unrelated surveillance of Underboss Gioacchin Amari. Amari met with Capo Giuseppe Schifilliti in Elizabeth, New Jersey. They were observed, in conversation, walking up and down a residential street. Subsequently, they entered Schifilliti's car and drove, at a very slow pace, in a circuitous manner through various Elizabeth, NJ streets and then returned to the DeCavalcante LCN Family social club.
On [redacted] Newark Special Operations Group followed Amari to a parking lot located across the street from Local 1030 in Elizabeth, NJ, where he picked up an unidentified WM who fit the general description of Schifilliti. They drove to a residential area, got out of the car, and walked up and down the street carrying on a conversation. After approximately 10 minutes they returned to Amari's vehicle and the unidentified WM was dropped off near Local 1030.
...On [redacted] Newark was engaged in an unrelated surveillance of Underboss Gioacchin Amari. Amari met with Capo Giuseppe Schifilliti in Elizabeth, New Jersey. They were observed, in conversation, walking up and down a residential street. Subsequently, they entered Schifilliti's car and drove, at a very slow pace, in a circuitous manner through various Elizabeth, NJ streets and then returned to the DeCavalcante LCN Family social club.
On [redacted] Newark Special Operations Group followed Amari to a parking lot located across the street from Local 1030 in Elizabeth, NJ, where he picked up an unidentified WM who fit the general description of Schifilliti. They drove to a residential area, got out of the car, and walked up and down the street carrying on a conversation. After approximately 10 minutes they returned to Amari's vehicle and the unidentified WM was dropped off near Local 1030.
"
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| J. Gallo (Sep. 1992) |
On September 4, 1992 DeCav Soldier James Gallo and Associate James Castaldo arrested by FBI following indictment on Hobbs Act - Extortion charges re Local 1030 shakedowns. Marked bills used in the payoffs were found in Gallo and Castaldo's vehicles and chemical tracing markers found on the persons of both as well. Handwritten note and photograph of Unsub target of murder plot also located under Gallo's driver seat.
Amari and Captain Giuseppe Schifilliti, seen in contact that day with the arrested pair, were approached by Agents at the Ribera Club and temporarily placed under arrest as well. Both were released at the scene after no evidence was found on either indicating contact with the marked bills. Gallo and Castaldo held under house arrest on bonds of $300,000 and $100,000 respectively.
Within a day or two of the arrests FBI Newark reported:
"
Amari and Captain Giuseppe Schifilliti, seen in contact that day with the arrested pair, were approached by Agents at the Ribera Club and temporarily placed under arrest as well. Both were released at the scene after no evidence was found on either indicating contact with the marked bills. Gallo and Castaldo held under house arrest on bonds of $300,000 and $100,000 respectively.
Within a day or two of the arrests FBI Newark reported:
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Newark had obtained authorization [to] arrest Gallo, Castaldo, Schifilliti and Amari for violation [if] surveillance of Gallo, after he received the pay off proceeds, led to a Gallo / Schifilliti meeting and subsequently a Schifilliti / Amari meeting. Only the arrests of Schifilliti and Amari were contingent upon the anticipated Gallo / Schifilliti / Amari meetings where pay off proceeds would, presumably, be passed.
Inasmuch as the anticipated meetings as described above, did occur, Schifilliti was arrested by FBI Agents shortly after he exited the Ribera Club. Agents then entered the Ribera Club and arrested Amari. Gallo and Castaldo were arrested at Local 1030 simultaneous to the Amari arrest.
Searches of Schifilliti and Amari, incident to arrest, did not reveal pay off proceeds. In addition, the lack of chemical tracing, as viewed through an ultraviolet light, found on the person of Amari and Schifilliti, seemed to indicate they did not have contact with the chemically treated pay off proceeds. As a result, a decision was made to release Amari and Schifilliti.
Inasmuch as the anticipated meetings as described above, did occur, Schifilliti was arrested by FBI Agents shortly after he exited the Ribera Club. Agents then entered the Ribera Club and arrested Amari. Gallo and Castaldo were arrested at Local 1030 simultaneous to the Amari arrest.
Searches of Schifilliti and Amari, incident to arrest, did not reveal pay off proceeds. In addition, the lack of chemical tracing, as viewed through an ultraviolet light, found on the person of Amari and Schifilliti, seemed to indicate they did not have contact with the chemically treated pay off proceeds. As a result, a decision was made to release Amari and Schifilliti.
"
Following the arrests Castaldo sought to have Captain Giuseppe Schifilliti murdered and attempted to enlist James Gallo in the plot. Gallo reported the plan to Captain Vincent Palermo and the problem was discussed between Palermo, Underboss Jake Amari and Consigliere Stefano Vitabile. Castaldo ultimately ordered to step down from his position with Local 1030 and to discontinue his involvement in Family business. Palermo later testified: "[Jimmy Gallo] couldn't understand that and several times he said that Pino just really should have acted on it. Somebody came and I heard the guy say he wants to kill him, he's going to kill him. He said I can't believe they let it go." (Within a few years imprisoned Boss John Riggi ordered Schifilliti shelved and Castaldo [1955-2024] was back in the Family's good graces. He may have been inducted into the Family at some point after the indictments and subsequent defections of the early 2000s.)
(The following year Castaldo and Gallo pleaded guilty, the latter receiving a sentence of thirty-eight months.)
By 1993 DeCavalcante hierarchy consisted of Boss John Riggi (IP), Acting Boss Jake Amari and Consigliere Stefano Vitabile. Underboss position vacant. Captains were Philip Abramo, Virgil Alessi, Joseph Caruano, Rudolph Farone, Joseph Ferrara, Charles Majuri, Vincent Palermo, Anthony Rotondo, Giuseppe Schifilliti and Larry Schiro.
Around 1993 DeCav Soldier Joseph Collina involved in dispute with crew leader Joseph Caruano. CW Vincent Palermo later testified: "[Caruano] brought it up in an administration meeting that Joey Collina was not calling me, he's not coming around, he is not acting right. You know, we needed to do something about it...[Caruano] asked Joey Collina to come to his house [and once there] Joe C mentioned to him that Jake [Amari]'s coming and we're going to the jeweler. Jake wants to get an engagement ring. Joe Collina said to Joe C, can I make a phone call to my son, cancel my appointment. And Joe C said no. So with that, Joe Collina figured he was going to get killed. And Jake showed up and he got back in the truck with Jake and Joe C, and Jake stopped by his apartment, said let me go get the ring I need to get fixed. He ran up to his apartment. Joe Collina figured he ran up to get a gun. So when they were in route to go to this jeweler, Joey Collina says I need to go to the bathroom. And he went inside of a diner, ran out the back door [then] told his brother Bobby about what happened and Bobby got angry and went down to the coffee shop in Elizabeth and started throwing over the tables, breaking the chairs." Joseph Collina shelved and Bobby Collina, proposed for membership, removed from consideration for induction as result. (Joseph Collina [1945-2019], like Castaldo, was later brought back into the fold and by the early-mid 2010s had risen to Captain.)
Around 1993 Amari arranged sitdown between DeCavalcante and Gambino Families held at diner located in Linden, New Jersey. Attendees included DeCav Captain Anthony Rotondo, Gambino Captain Louis 'Big Lou' Vallario and DeCav Soldier Girolamo Palermo. Purpose to discuss unspecified complaint by Gambino Family re Jay Sasso Construction; company or assets related to company previously sold by Palermo to the Gambinos. Rotondo later testified: "Well, Jimmy said he would give his word that he would look into it and that he would make sure that they were happy, meaning the Gambino people." Subsequent meeting held in or around 1998 after Amari's death.
Around early 1994 sitdown between DeCavalcante and Gambino Families held over ownership of South Shore Country Club located in South Beach, Staten Island. Club operated in partnership between Larry and Rocco 'Rocky' Toto, on-record Associates of DeCav Captain Anthony Rotondo, and DeCav Soldiers Anthony Capo and Michael 'Mickey' DePietro, both Rotondo crew members.
Sitdown held at Staten Island social club operated by Gambino Soldier Dominick 'Fat Dom' Borghese and attended by DeCav Acting Boss Jake Amari, DeCav Consigliere Stefano Vitabile, Gambino Captain and Ruling Panel member Jack D'Amico, DeCav Captain Anthony Rotondo, Colombo Soldier (Former Captain) John 'Jackie' DeRoss and Gambino Associate Joseph Watts. DeRoss attended as a witness to the Gambinos' interest in the business going back to the late 1970s. CW Rotondo later testified: "[DeRoss] was there [to explain he] was at a meeting at [Gambino Boss] Paul Castellano's house in 1978 and Paul Castellano asked him a for a favor concerning the restaurant union to help Rockie Toto work nonunion waiters or whatever it was in the restaurant...I was told by Jake Amari to just give [the club] up, forget it and they were with the Gambino Family [from that point]." (Gambino Captain Jack D'Amico was that Family's Acting Boss for a time in the mid-2000s. Colombo Member John DeRoss was promoted to Captain around 1997, then to Acting Underboss following the April 1999 murder of William Cutolo. In the mid-2000s DeRoss was convicted on Federal racketeering charges that included involvement in Cutolo's murder and given a life sentence.)
Following the arrests Castaldo sought to have Captain Giuseppe Schifilliti murdered and attempted to enlist James Gallo in the plot. Gallo reported the plan to Captain Vincent Palermo and the problem was discussed between Palermo, Underboss Jake Amari and Consigliere Stefano Vitabile. Castaldo ultimately ordered to step down from his position with Local 1030 and to discontinue his involvement in Family business. Palermo later testified: "[Jimmy Gallo] couldn't understand that and several times he said that Pino just really should have acted on it. Somebody came and I heard the guy say he wants to kill him, he's going to kill him. He said I can't believe they let it go." (Within a few years imprisoned Boss John Riggi ordered Schifilliti shelved and Castaldo [1955-2024] was back in the Family's good graces. He may have been inducted into the Family at some point after the indictments and subsequent defections of the early 2000s.)
(The following year Castaldo and Gallo pleaded guilty, the latter receiving a sentence of thirty-eight months.)
By 1993 DeCavalcante hierarchy consisted of Boss John Riggi (IP), Acting Boss Jake Amari and Consigliere Stefano Vitabile. Underboss position vacant. Captains were Philip Abramo, Virgil Alessi, Joseph Caruano, Rudolph Farone, Joseph Ferrara, Charles Majuri, Vincent Palermo, Anthony Rotondo, Giuseppe Schifilliti and Larry Schiro.
Around 1993 DeCav Soldier Joseph Collina involved in dispute with crew leader Joseph Caruano. CW Vincent Palermo later testified: "[Caruano] brought it up in an administration meeting that Joey Collina was not calling me, he's not coming around, he is not acting right. You know, we needed to do something about it...[Caruano] asked Joey Collina to come to his house [and once there] Joe C mentioned to him that Jake [Amari]'s coming and we're going to the jeweler. Jake wants to get an engagement ring. Joe Collina said to Joe C, can I make a phone call to my son, cancel my appointment. And Joe C said no. So with that, Joe Collina figured he was going to get killed. And Jake showed up and he got back in the truck with Jake and Joe C, and Jake stopped by his apartment, said let me go get the ring I need to get fixed. He ran up to his apartment. Joe Collina figured he ran up to get a gun. So when they were in route to go to this jeweler, Joey Collina says I need to go to the bathroom. And he went inside of a diner, ran out the back door [then] told his brother Bobby about what happened and Bobby got angry and went down to the coffee shop in Elizabeth and started throwing over the tables, breaking the chairs." Joseph Collina shelved and Bobby Collina, proposed for membership, removed from consideration for induction as result. (Joseph Collina [1945-2019], like Castaldo, was later brought back into the fold and by the early-mid 2010s had risen to Captain.)
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| L. Vallario Gang Land News |
Around early 1994 sitdown between DeCavalcante and Gambino Families held over ownership of South Shore Country Club located in South Beach, Staten Island. Club operated in partnership between Larry and Rocco 'Rocky' Toto, on-record Associates of DeCav Captain Anthony Rotondo, and DeCav Soldiers Anthony Capo and Michael 'Mickey' DePietro, both Rotondo crew members.
Sitdown held at Staten Island social club operated by Gambino Soldier Dominick 'Fat Dom' Borghese and attended by DeCav Acting Boss Jake Amari, DeCav Consigliere Stefano Vitabile, Gambino Captain and Ruling Panel member Jack D'Amico, DeCav Captain Anthony Rotondo, Colombo Soldier (Former Captain) John 'Jackie' DeRoss and Gambino Associate Joseph Watts. DeRoss attended as a witness to the Gambinos' interest in the business going back to the late 1970s. CW Rotondo later testified: "[DeRoss] was there [to explain he] was at a meeting at [Gambino Boss] Paul Castellano's house in 1978 and Paul Castellano asked him a for a favor concerning the restaurant union to help Rockie Toto work nonunion waiters or whatever it was in the restaurant...I was told by Jake Amari to just give [the club] up, forget it and they were with the Gambino Family [from that point]." (Gambino Captain Jack D'Amico was that Family's Acting Boss for a time in the mid-2000s. Colombo Member John DeRoss was promoted to Captain around 1997, then to Acting Underboss following the April 1999 murder of William Cutolo. In the mid-2000s DeRoss was convicted on Federal racketeering charges that included involvement in Cutolo's murder and given a life sentence.)
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| E. Garafola |
Around 1994 facilitated meeting between DeCav Captain Anthony Rotondo, DeCav Soldier Anthony 'Soft Shoes' DeMaio and Gambino Soldier Edward Garafola to iron out union problems regarding construction job planned by DeMaio's company W.D. Snyder.
Around the same time facilitated another meeting between DeCav Captain Anthony Rotondo, DeCav Soldier Gaetano 'Guy' Alessi and Gambino Soldier Edward Garafola regarding Staten Island mall construction job planned by Alessi's Durable Construction company. Alessi met with Garafola specifically to straighten out issues between Alessi and the Operating Engineers union.
Also within this time the two Families met and the DeCavs allowed the Gambinos to use non-union labor for various construction jobs in New Jersey. Those involved in solidifying the arrangement included Acting Boss Jake Amari, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile and Captains Rudolph Farone, Vincent Palermo and Giuseppe Schifilliti for the DeCavs and Big Joe LNU and Tommy LNU for the Gambinos. Schifilliti received $10,000 to $12,000 weekly from the Gambino representatives.
Around the same time facilitated another meeting between DeCav Captain Anthony Rotondo, DeCav Soldier Gaetano 'Guy' Alessi and Gambino Soldier Edward Garafola regarding Staten Island mall construction job planned by Alessi's Durable Construction company. Alessi met with Garafola specifically to straighten out issues between Alessi and the Operating Engineers union.
Also within this time the two Families met and the DeCavs allowed the Gambinos to use non-union labor for various construction jobs in New Jersey. Those involved in solidifying the arrangement included Acting Boss Jake Amari, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile and Captains Rudolph Farone, Vincent Palermo and Giuseppe Schifilliti for the DeCavs and Big Joe LNU and Tommy LNU for the Gambinos. Schifilliti received $10,000 to $12,000 weekly from the Gambino representatives.
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| A. Capo Gang Land News |
Around 1994 authorized transfer of DeCav Soldier Anthony Capo from Captain Anthony Rotondo to Captain Vincent Palermo. Rotondo later testified: "We had a falling out [meaning] Anthony Capo, myself, Vincent Palermo [and] Rudy Farone...I found out that things were being said about me, that I hadn't performed honorably at murders that were mentioned, and that [Capo] felt that he just didn't want to be with me."
At some point, possibly the mid-1990s, Amari and Captain Giuseppe Schifilliti visited Ribera, Agrigento, where they were allowed to attend an administration meeting of the local Family. CW Vincent Palermo later testified: "I spoke to Jake about it. He was telling me one day with Pino [Schifilliti] about the family, organized crime family there, and they invited them on an administration meeting, and he was telling me that they were all in suits [and] they need to raise their hand before they say anything. He said that's the way we should do it over here, they way they do it." (It's possible this meeting occurred before the mid-1990s and that's just when Amari discussed it with Palermo.)
Palermo also noted there was 'close contact' between the DeCavalcante and Ribera Families: "[DeCav Member] Jimmy Palermo's uncle is the boss of the family in Ribera." (No relation between Jimmy Palermo [1938-2014], the Former DeCav Underboss, and Captain Vincent Palermo, whose family is believed to have been from Naples, Campania.)
At some point, possibly the mid-1990s, Amari and Captain Giuseppe Schifilliti visited Ribera, Agrigento, where they were allowed to attend an administration meeting of the local Family. CW Vincent Palermo later testified: "I spoke to Jake about it. He was telling me one day with Pino [Schifilliti] about the family, organized crime family there, and they invited them on an administration meeting, and he was telling me that they were all in suits [and] they need to raise their hand before they say anything. He said that's the way we should do it over here, they way they do it." (It's possible this meeting occurred before the mid-1990s and that's just when Amari discussed it with Palermo.)
Palermo also noted there was 'close contact' between the DeCavalcante and Ribera Families: "[DeCav Member] Jimmy Palermo's uncle is the boss of the family in Ribera." (No relation between Jimmy Palermo [1938-2014], the Former DeCav Underboss, and Captain Vincent Palermo, whose family is believed to have been from Naples, Campania.)
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| F. Polizzi Gang Land News |
Palermo testified that Amari agreed with the Families in Sicily as to the proper way of dealing with cooperators: "I had that conversation with Hotel Frankie [Polizzi] at one time, and he says that we should do what they do in Italy, is to kill the whole family, we should change that rule here, and I had the conversation with Jake one time, and he felt the same way Frankie felt." (Francesco 'Hotel Frankie' Polizzi [1935-2001], born in San Giuseppe Jato in Palermo, was a DeCavalcante Captain in the mid-to-late 1980s when convicted on narcotics charges in the Pizza Connection case. Released in April 1995 after serving about eight years and reinstated to Captain under Amari's regime.)
Amari and Consigliere Stefano Vitabile also arranged for the assault of an Unsub on the Ribera Family's behalf. Palermo: "[Ribera] needed a favor one time, Steve the Truck Driver [Vitabile] was telling me that someone went there on vacation and disrespected a soldier there...In return, they wanted the guy to get a bad beating. So Steve the Truck Driver and Jake set it all up and they gave the guy a beating for them."
Around 1996 met with DeCav Captain Anthony Rotondo regarding Fletcher Kramer construction company and Local 1080. Associate 'Fat Frankie' Esposito, on-record with Rotondo, was Fletcher Kramer's General Supervisor. (The deal remained in abeyance as of the December 1999 indictments, two years after Amari's death. Rotondo, one of those indicted, released Esposito and his brother Simone to the Bonannos; Fat Frankie wound up direct with Bonanno Boss Joseph Massino and Simone was inducted into that Family by the spring of 2001 and later served as Consigliere.)
Around 1996 built new home in Millstone, New Jersey. Construction partially funded with proceeds from sale of property in Italy. Money brought to the US by older brother Filippo. CW Anthony Rotondo later testified: "[Amari] was building a big house in Millstone, Steve Vitabile's development. When I was there Jake was showing me the house. He was sick at the time, and took me around, and it was a tremendous, beautiful house. And he said Anthony, do you think I got this money from working this job? I got the money from that thing [meaning] money from the union payrolls."
Amari and Consigliere Stefano Vitabile also arranged for the assault of an Unsub on the Ribera Family's behalf. Palermo: "[Ribera] needed a favor one time, Steve the Truck Driver [Vitabile] was telling me that someone went there on vacation and disrespected a soldier there...In return, they wanted the guy to get a bad beating. So Steve the Truck Driver and Jake set it all up and they gave the guy a beating for them."
Around 1996 met with DeCav Captain Anthony Rotondo regarding Fletcher Kramer construction company and Local 1080. Associate 'Fat Frankie' Esposito, on-record with Rotondo, was Fletcher Kramer's General Supervisor. (The deal remained in abeyance as of the December 1999 indictments, two years after Amari's death. Rotondo, one of those indicted, released Esposito and his brother Simone to the Bonannos; Fat Frankie wound up direct with Bonanno Boss Joseph Massino and Simone was inducted into that Family by the spring of 2001 and later served as Consigliere.)
Around 1996 built new home in Millstone, New Jersey. Construction partially funded with proceeds from sale of property in Italy. Money brought to the US by older brother Filippo. CW Anthony Rotondo later testified: "[Amari] was building a big house in Millstone, Steve Vitabile's development. When I was there Jake was showing me the house. He was sick at the time, and took me around, and it was a tremendous, beautiful house. And he said Anthony, do you think I got this money from working this job? I got the money from that thing [meaning] money from the union payrolls."
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| J. Bilotti (L) and A. Capo |
Around Summer 1996 DeCav Soldier Anthony Capo interceded on Unsub's behalf in dispute with Colombo Associate Richie LNU (Marco?). As result Capo involved in altercation with Richie, his son Richard Jr. and Gambino Soldier Joseph Bilotti, who punched Capo in the side of the head when the latter's back was turned. (Joseph Bilotti [1933-2016] was the older brother of Former Gambino Captain Thomas Bilotti, murdered with Boss Paul Castellano in 1985.)
Capo brought the issue to his Captain Vincent Palermo as well as Captain Rudolph Farone. The trio decided to kill both Bilotti and the Richies and drove around looking for the targets. Others involved included DeCav Associates Victor 'Whitey' DiChiara, Anthony Lima and Joseph 'Joey O.' Masella. (Joseph Masella was murdered in 1998. DiChiara, proposed for membership at the time of the 1999 indictments, followed Capo and Palermo into the Witness Protection Program.)
Victims unable to be located and DeCav Captain Larry Schiro subsequently arranged sitdown between the Families to be held inside restaurant at 1st Ave and E 74th St in Manhattan's Upper East Side. Set to attend were DeCav Acting Boss Jake Amari, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile, Gambino Consigliere (Captain?) Joseph Arcuri, DeCav Captain Vincent Palermo, Gambino Captain Joseph 'Oxie' Marino, Gambino Captain Louis Vallario as well as Joseph Bilotti and Anthony Capo. (Joseph Arcuri [1913-2007] and his crew had a longstanding relationship with the DeCavs, particularly Larry Schiro and others active in upper Manhattan.)
Upon arriving at the location Palermo and Capo discovered the rest of the group had already met without them and ruled that no further violence would occur between the groups. A plot to kill both Richies without authorization was ultimately not carried out.
By early 1997 Amari, Captain Joseph Caruano, Captain Joseph Ferrara and others were subjects of large scale investigation(s) conducted out of the FBI's Newark Field Office.
On April 23, 1997 FBI NK reported: "Numerous sources have reported that the current Boss of the DeCavalcante Family, Jake Amari, has terminal cancer and is not expected to live long. Combined with the recent death of the Family patriarch, Sam 'The Plumber' DeCavalcante, the Family is about to go through a change in leadership, which quite often brings with it a chain of violence. The writer believes this investigation will complement other investigations being conducted by C-4 to include investigations of [Redacted], said to be in the running to be the next Boss), [Redacted] (DeCavalcante Soldier) and [Redacted] (DeCavalcante Soldier)."
Amari died June 14, 1997 at his residence.
The Union County District Attorney's Office conducted video surveillance during the wake held two days later at Family-owned Corsentino Funeral Home in Elizabeth.
Those observed included:
Capo brought the issue to his Captain Vincent Palermo as well as Captain Rudolph Farone. The trio decided to kill both Bilotti and the Richies and drove around looking for the targets. Others involved included DeCav Associates Victor 'Whitey' DiChiara, Anthony Lima and Joseph 'Joey O.' Masella. (Joseph Masella was murdered in 1998. DiChiara, proposed for membership at the time of the 1999 indictments, followed Capo and Palermo into the Witness Protection Program.)
Victims unable to be located and DeCav Captain Larry Schiro subsequently arranged sitdown between the Families to be held inside restaurant at 1st Ave and E 74th St in Manhattan's Upper East Side. Set to attend were DeCav Acting Boss Jake Amari, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile, Gambino Consigliere (Captain?) Joseph Arcuri, DeCav Captain Vincent Palermo, Gambino Captain Joseph 'Oxie' Marino, Gambino Captain Louis Vallario as well as Joseph Bilotti and Anthony Capo. (Joseph Arcuri [1913-2007] and his crew had a longstanding relationship with the DeCavs, particularly Larry Schiro and others active in upper Manhattan.)
Upon arriving at the location Palermo and Capo discovered the rest of the group had already met without them and ruled that no further violence would occur between the groups. A plot to kill both Richies without authorization was ultimately not carried out.
By early 1997 Amari, Captain Joseph Caruano, Captain Joseph Ferrara and others were subjects of large scale investigation(s) conducted out of the FBI's Newark Field Office.
On April 23, 1997 FBI NK reported: "Numerous sources have reported that the current Boss of the DeCavalcante Family, Jake Amari, has terminal cancer and is not expected to live long. Combined with the recent death of the Family patriarch, Sam 'The Plumber' DeCavalcante, the Family is about to go through a change in leadership, which quite often brings with it a chain of violence. The writer believes this investigation will complement other investigations being conducted by C-4 to include investigations of [Redacted], said to be in the running to be the next Boss), [Redacted] (DeCavalcante Soldier) and [Redacted] (DeCavalcante Soldier)."
Amari died June 14, 1997 at his residence.
The Union County District Attorney's Office conducted video surveillance during the wake held two days later at Family-owned Corsentino Funeral Home in Elizabeth.
Those observed included:
Stefano Vitabile (Consigliere)
Joseph Arcuri (Gambino Captain / Ruling Panel Member)
Joseph Caruano (Captain)
Joseph Colletti (Captain)
Joseph Ferrara (Captain)
Charles Majuri (Captain)
Joseph Marino (Gambino Captain)
Francesco Polizzi (Captain)
Anthony Rotondo (Captain)
Giuseppe Schifilliti (Captain)
Daniel Annunziata (Soldier)
Anthony Capo (Soldier)
Carl Corsentino (Soldier) [Owner of funeral home]
Anthony DeMaio (Soldier)
Francesco Gatto (Soldier)
Joseph Giacobbe (Soldier)
Lorenzo 'Larry' Giacobbe (Soldier)
Frank Guarraci (Soldier)
Felice LaMela (Soldier)
Frank Majuri (Soldier) [Former Underboss]
Anthony Mannarino (Soldier)
Joseph Merlo Jr. (Soldier)
Michael Merlo (Soldier)
Joseph Miranda (Soldier)
Frank Nigro (Soldier)
Simone Palermo (Soldier)
Emanuel Riggi (Soldier) [Former Captain]
Vincent Riggi (Soldier)
Joseph Sclafani (Soldier)
Louis Telese (Soldier)
Salvatore 'Little Sal' Timpani (Soldier)
Dominic Colletti (Associate) [Member?]
John Corsentino (Associate)
Victor DiChiara (Associate)
Simone Esposito (Associate)
Michael Lombardo (Associate)
Joseph Masella (Associate)
Charles 'Beeps' Stango (Associate)
Robert DeCavalcante [Son of Former Boss Simone aka Sam]
Peter Vitabile [Father of Consigliere Stefano]
Joseph Arcuri (Gambino Captain / Ruling Panel Member)
Joseph Caruano (Captain)
Joseph Colletti (Captain)
Joseph Ferrara (Captain)
Charles Majuri (Captain)
Joseph Marino (Gambino Captain)
Francesco Polizzi (Captain)
Anthony Rotondo (Captain)
Giuseppe Schifilliti (Captain)
Daniel Annunziata (Soldier)
Anthony Capo (Soldier)
Carl Corsentino (Soldier) [Owner of funeral home]
Anthony DeMaio (Soldier)
Francesco Gatto (Soldier)
Joseph Giacobbe (Soldier)
Lorenzo 'Larry' Giacobbe (Soldier)
Frank Guarraci (Soldier)
Felice LaMela (Soldier)
Frank Majuri (Soldier) [Former Underboss]
Anthony Mannarino (Soldier)
Joseph Merlo Jr. (Soldier)
Michael Merlo (Soldier)
Joseph Miranda (Soldier)
Frank Nigro (Soldier)
Simone Palermo (Soldier)
Emanuel Riggi (Soldier) [Former Captain]
Vincent Riggi (Soldier)
Joseph Sclafani (Soldier)
Louis Telese (Soldier)
Salvatore 'Little Sal' Timpani (Soldier)
Dominic Colletti (Associate) [Member?]
John Corsentino (Associate)
Victor DiChiara (Associate)
Simone Esposito (Associate)
Michael Lombardo (Associate)
Joseph Masella (Associate)
Charles 'Beeps' Stango (Associate)
Robert DeCavalcante [Son of Former Boss Simone aka Sam]
Peter Vitabile [Father of Consigliere Stefano]
Buried in local cemetery in Ribera, Sicily.
Soon after Amari's death Consigliere Stefano Vitabile met with Captain Anthony Rotondo at Gold's Gym in Staten Island. Rotondo: "[Vitabile] told me that as the Consigliere he had the right to take the Family into his hands and that he had the right also to break up the administration, but he wasn't going to do that because everything was running smooth. And he told me he was in the process of selecting a committee and Vincent Palermo, Jimmy Palermo and Charlie Majuri were going to be the committee...I told him that I agreed with [the panel], but I would only report to one person, Jimmy Palermo [because] I was having my problems with Vinny Palermo at the time and Charlie Majuri, I just didn't trust him."
Within a couple of months the three-man ruling panel was instated and would remain in place until the December 1999 indictments.
Panel members Charles Majuri and Vincent Palermo each plotted against the other's life while on the surface collaborating to steer the Family.
Panel member Vincent Palermo was approached sometime afterward by Associate Francesco Paparatto. Palermo later testified: "[Paparatto] said Johnny Riggi always promised him that he was going to make him a soldier in the DeCavalcante Family and that he was a wise guy in Italy and he never took care of it and that Jake said that he would take care of it and he didn't, and he was complaining about Steve at the time, Steve keeps promising that he is going to make him a wise guy, and he asked me if I could help him with that...[Paparatto] says I've been working with Johnny Riggi and Steve the Truck Driver and Jake for years, Anthony Rotondo, collected plenty of money for them and they used me and I deserve to be in the Family at this point." (As noted above Paparatto is believed to have been inducted after the 1999 indictment.)
Palermo later enlisted Paparatto to help collect a legitimate debt owed by unnamed construction company to DeCav Soldier Anthony DeMaio. Palermo: "[DeMaio] came to me and said that he had money coming to him [and Jake Amari] promised him he was going to collect it for him and he never did. He says Steve [Vitabile] said he's going to take care of it for me and he's not taking care of it. He says either they pay or I'm going to give the guy a beating."
Paparatto's attempt was unsuccessful and Palermo later testified: "We were at a funeral and [DeMaio] approached me and said can I get permission to hurt these guys, I don't even care about the money any longer. I said let me talk to Steve about it." It was subsequently discovered that the money owed to DeMaio had been used by Amari to help finance the construction of his Millstone, NJ residence.
In March 1999 FBI CI and DeCav Associate Ralph Guarino met with Captain Anthony Rotondo, Soldier Joseph Sclafani and Associate William 'Billy' Perrotta. The group was recorded by Guarino discussing similarities between members of their Family and characters in HBO's The Sopranos, which premiered that January. It was noted that the character Giacomo 'Jackie' Aprile, Acting Boss of the show's fictional Jersey-based Family, shared a similar trajectory to that of Jake Amari; both ran the Family for their imprisoned Bosses by the mid-1990s, and the deaths of each from cancer resulted in disputes over leadership.
More DeCavalcante Family posts can be found in the Index.
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Update
May 1967 New Posts: 1. Philip Bacino (Chicago) [Focused on what little available info there is re DeCav connections] 2. Joseph Amato (DeCa...
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Bonanno - Nicholas Accardi - Antonio Adamo - Sandro Aiosa - Barney Anello - John Aquaro - John Arcaro - Andrew Asaro - Gasper Cammarata ...
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1970 Carmine 'Turi' Franzese was a Soldier in the Colombo Family. A loanshark and close associate of Bonanno leader Joseph Massino, ... -
1964 Aniello 'Allie LaMont' Giannattasio, also known as 'Big Allie' or 'Cockeyed Allie', was a Colombo Captain activ...