Monday, September 7, 2026

Update

G. DeCicco
New Posts
1. George DeCicco (Gambino) : Captain operating primarily in Bath Beach and Bensonhurst. Uncle of the better-known Frank DeCicco, the Gambino Underboss murdered in 1986.
2. Frank LoCicero (Colombo) : Made member and Acting Captain for a time in the late 1970s. Son of Former Acting Consigliere Calogero 'Charlie Sidge' LoCicero and may have participated in his father's 1968 murder.

Updated Posts:
G. Filippone (1970s)
1. George Filippone (Genovese) : Replaced the 1960 NYPD mugshot and 1970s FBI surveillance photo (see above) with higher-quality versions.
2. Francesco Oliveri Murder (1988) : Added photos of murdered Gambino Soldier Giuseppe Gambino and his coffee shop, the Caffe Commercio in Queens. As pointed out by motorfab on the forum, this ID photo was misidentified as Francesco Oliveri in the original post. Also uploaded higher-quality, color versions of the various scene photos as well as the mugshots of John Gambino, Joe Gambino and Lorenzo Mannino.
3. Gambino Sicilian Crew Info (1980s) : Replaced the original photo of Captain John Gambino with the same high-quality, color version added to the Oliveri post.

Full list of posts here.

George DeCicco (Gambino)

c. 1990
George DeCicco was a member of the Gambino Family who operated primarily in the neighborhoods of Bath Beach and Bensonhurst, Brooklyn.

Inducted by Gambino Boss Paul Castellano around 1985, DeCicco was promoted to Captain in January 1986 by Castellano's successor, John Gotti, and held the position until approximately mid-2006.

Nephew Frank DeCicco (1935-1986), appointed Gotti's Underboss at the same time, was killed a few months later in retaliation for Paul Castellano's murder the previous December.

Several other relatives were affiliated:
  • George's older brother Vincent 'Boozy' DeCicco (1913-1979), Frank's father, was also a Gambino Member.
  • Brothers Albert aka 'Albie' (1920-2001) and Joseph aka 'Joe Butter' DeCicco (1922-2004) were Associates.
  • Sister Catherine married Gambino Soldier John 'Johnny Pesce' Chiarello (1913-1981).
  • Nephew Frank Fappiano was a Gambino Soldier who became a cooperating witness in 2004.
  • Another nephew, Joseph 'Joey Boy' Orlando, was identified in the mid-2000s as a Soldier in his uncle's crew.
  • Gambino Captain turned CW Michael DiLeonardo was at one time married to DeCicco's niece.
George was born March 20, 1929 in Brooklyn to Francesco (45y) and Elisabetta Santo Pietro (36y). Parents from Carbone and Balvano comunes of Potenza, Basilicata.

At the time of his birth the family resided at 209 Bay 23rd St in Bath Beach. Francesco worked as furniture upholsterer.

The DeCiccos had only recently moved to Brooklyn from an address on Thompson St in Manhattan's Greenwich Village.

By April 1940 father worked as poultry market foreman.

By April 1942 the family had moved further north to 68 Bay 13th, still in Bath Beach.

Married first wife in 1948.

V. DeCicco
By 1957 older brother Vincent was an inducted member of the Gambino Family.

George's first encounter with the law came in early September 1959, when arrested by the NYPD in Brooklyn on a dice charge. Convicted.

A second arrest for dice that December resulted in acquittal.

On September 22, 1961 arrested in Brooklyn on bookmaking charge. Convicted following month.

P. Ferrara
By 1962 brother Vincent was reporting to Captain Peter 'Petey Pumps' Ferrara.

Made members of Ferrara's crew at the time included Salvatore 'Toddo' Aurello, Andrew 'Mingie' Avellino, Vincent DeCicco, James 'Jimmy Brown' Failla, John Riccobono, Salvatore Riccobono, Anthony Rizzo, John Rizzo, Nicholas Russo, John Santoro, Albert 'Little Al' Seru, Andrew Torregrossa, Andrew Torregrossa Jr. and John Torregrossa.

Possible crew members included Gambino Soldier Lawrence Pistone.

The other DeCicco brothers, along with their nephew Frank, were likely Associates in this crew.

On February 24, 1962 George was hit with a Federal charge re wagering tax stamp and possibly with aiding and abetting. May have been picked up same date in a separate local bookmaking arrest. Case nolle prossed.

On March 23, 1963 arrested for consorting.

J. Chiarello
On September 11, 1965 among 6 arrested by NYPD 122nd Pct in Staten Island on gambling charges. Those arrested were Gambino Soldier John Chiarello, Gambino Associates George DeCicco and Joseph 'Joe the Cat' LaForte as well as Xavier Cavano (55y), James Cordo (26y) and Louis Piccirillo (35y). 611,800 numbers plays found in defendants' possession. On April 5, 1967 Chiarello, DeCicco and Cordo pleaded guilty in Richmond County Supreme Court to misdemeanor gambling charges. Trio each given six-month suspended sentences and fined $250. (As noted above Chiarello was the DeCiccos' brother-in-law, having married one of George's older sisters.)

1970s

F. DeCicco
In early February 1976 the New York Families opened the books for membership. George's nephew Frank DeCicco was part of the Gambino Family's first wave of inductions and went on to be an influential member with close ties to the leadership before entering the administration himself.

In October 1976 divorced first wife.

On February 4, 1977 arrested by NYPD 17th Pct Manhattan on assault charge. On April 19 pleaded guilty and given conditional discharge.

In 1978 daughter married Colombo Associate Reynold 'Ren' Maragni.

(Maragni, at the time on-record with Colombo Captain [and Future Acting Boss] Gennaro 'Jerry Lang' Langella, was inducted into that Family in March 2008. He later became a cooperating witness.)

Same year George married his second wife.

On March 18, 1979 brother Vincent died. George was probably among the dozens of LCN members and associates who attended the three-day wake held at the Gambino-affiliated Scarpaci Funeral Home in Bensonhurst.

1980s

M. DiLeonardo
Press
Around 1981 Gambino Associate Michael DiLeonardo opened social club at 75th St and New Utrecht Ave in Bensonhurst. Club patronized by numerous LCN Members and Associates including the DeCiccos. DiLeonardo later testified: "Well, I opened that up, it was a much bigger place [than my first club], and I had more exposure at that time, and I started getting friendly with Sammy Gravano, Georgie DeCicco, Frank DeCicco, Lou Vallario, the rest of [Sammy Gravano]'s crew, Joe Stymie, Huck, Mike DeBatt, Eddie Garafola, the whole crew, just about everybody." Loansharking and sportsbetting operations conducted at club. Also testified: "I put some of [DeCiccos] to work [at club]...Joe DeCicco, Frankie, Georgie, Scott Fappiano, Frankie Fappiano." (DiLeonardo, who later married one of George's nieces, was inducted into the Gambino Family in December 1988 and promoted to Captain a few years later. He became a cooperating witness in 2002, the second made member in that Family to defect since Salvatore Gravano eleven years prior.)

Induction - Captain

In July 1984 Gambino Captain John Riccobono died.

F. DeCicco
George's nephew Frank DeCicco was promoted to Captain of Riccobono's former crew.

George was inducted into the Family sometime after Frank's promotion and before December 1985, when Gambino Boss Paul Castellano was shot to death in Midtown, Manhattan.

Castellano's murder was orchestrated by a group that included Frank DeCicco and Acting Captain John Gotti.

J. Gotti (1989)
On January 16, 1986 Gotti was elected the Family's new Boss at a basement meeting held in or near the DeCicco family's old neighborhood of Greenwich Village.

Gotti then appointed Frank DeCicco as his Underboss. Joseph N. Gallo retained as Consigliere.

At the same meeting Gotti and DeCicco's former crews were given to Angelo Ruggiero and George DeCicco respectively.

1980s
DeCicco supervised his crew from a social club at 1628 Bath Ave in Bath Beach.

Made members of DeCicco's crew included:
  1. Ignatius 'Iggy' DeBella (1922-2011) : Little-known member active in South Brooklyn. Born in Messina, Sicily.
  2. Paul 'Slasher' DiBella (1920-2005) : Iggy's older brother. Described in the 1960s as 'boss on the fruit piers in Manhattan'. Formerly both the President of ILA Local 946 and the hiring boss for Standard Fruit Company on Pier 13.
  3. Joseph 'Sonny' Juliano (1937-) : Believed inducted in the late 1970s, primarily involved in gambling and bookmaking. Later served as DeCicco's Acting Captain.
  4. Joseph C. Russo (1929-1991) : Son of Former Captain Gaetano 'Tom' Russo (1891-1970) of Palermo. The Russos were one-half of the Family-linked Cusimano and Russo Funeral Home business; the Cusimanos, several of whom were also members, made up the other half.
Associates included:
  1. Richard 'Sonny' Juliano (1940-2019) : Joseph's younger brother, inducted in 1999.
  2. John Riccobono Jr. (1939-) : Son of the former crew leader. Made around 1995. Several relatives were members going back to the early 1900s.
  3. Orazio 'Ozzie' Stantini (1945-2017) : From Gravesend, Brooklyn. Very close associate of George's nephew Frank; may have been direct with Frank until the latter's murder. Inducted in 1988 after participating in the Francesco Oliveri hit, carried out on Family orders without DeCicco's knowledge. After induction put with another Captain in a deliberate attempt by the leadership to avoid strengthening DeCicco's crew.
On February 5, 1986 FBI CI and Colombo Soldier Gregory Scarpa reported: “...Source also identified George DeCicco as the new Capo of Frank DeCicco’s crew.

On April 13, 1986 Frank DeCicco was killed by a bomb outside the Family's Veterans and Friends Social Club located on 86th St in Bensonhurst. Lucchese Soldier Frank Bellino wounded.

Years later it was revealed that the bombing was carried out by the Genovese and Lucchese Families in retaliation for Paul Castellano's unauthorized murder. The hit team detonated the explosive when they mistook Bellino for Gotti.

George DeCicco and his brother Joseph were among those present at the club when the bomb went off.

Frank DeCicco's wake was held April 15-16 at Scarpaci Funeral Home in Bensonhurst. Nearly all of the active Gambino membership attended, as did several members from the other New York Families. George DeCicco, his brother Joseph and his son Robert were among those present.

Joseph 'Joe Piney' Armone (1917-1992) was appointed the new Underboss.

On June 13, 1986 FBI surveillance conducted on DeCicco social club. At 2:28 PM George DeCicco and Gambino Soldier Louis 'Red' Giardina observed in discussion at nearby street corner. At 2:35 PM Captain James Failla and Unsubs in conversation outside club.

By 1987 moved to 21 Bay 13th St.

On July 25, 1987 Unspecified DeCicco relative married, with the reception held at La Mer Caterers in Midwood, Brooklyn.

Attendees included:

John Gotti (Gambino Boss)

Joseph Armone (Underboss)

Joseph Arcuri (Captain)
Joseph 'Joe Butch' Corrao (Captain)
Frank 'Frankie Dap' D'Apolito (Captain)
George DeCicco (Captain)
James Failla (Captain)
Ralph 'Ralphie Bones' Mosca (Captain)
Natale 'Big Chris' Richichi (Captain?)

Salvatore Aurello (Soldier)
Peter Gotti (Soldier)
Charles 'Buster' LiConti (Soldier)
Edward Lino (Soldier)
Anthony 'Butch' Maltese (Colombo Soldier)
Rosario 'Black Sam' Nastasa (Colombo Soldier)
Frank 'Frankie Reynolds' Ruggiero (Soldier)
Salvatore 'Fat Sally' Scala (Soldier)
Joseph 'Joe Sis' Siciliano (Soldier)
Thomas 'Tommy Sparrow' Spinelli (Soldier)
Anthony 'Tony Pep' Trentacosta (Soldier)
Paul 'Paulie Zack' Zaccaria (Soldier)
Anthony Zappi (Soldier)

Lawrence 'Larry' Martire (DeCavalcante Member?)

John A. Gotti (Associate) [Son of the Boss]

Autos registered to Peter Dauria (66y), Salvatore Prenestri (69y) and John Tortorelli (75y) also observed.

By 1988 operated Deja Vu nightclub located at 1717 86th St in Bensonhurst.

Identified in an April 1988 Senate Report as Gambino Captain. The report, prepared by NYPD's Intelligence Division, noted: "It is believed that George DeCicco has taken over the crew that was headed by his uncle [sic] Frank DeCicco, B# 427105, when he was promoted to Underboss."

T. Pitera
Gang Land News
On August 31, 1988 DeCicco, Bonanno Captain Frank Lino and Bonanno Soldier Thomas 'Tommy Karate' Pitera surveilled by FBI in discussion outside Bensonhurst social club. During the conversation Pitera was photographed making the sign of a gun with his hand. These photos were later introduced as evidence in at least one Federal trial in the belief that the conversation was alluding to the murder two days prior of Wilfred 'Willie Boy' Johnson, a former Gambino Associate who had been outed as a longtime confidential informant. (In 1992 Pitera was acquitted of involvement in Johnson's murder but convicted of several others in a racketeering case that resulted in a life sentence.)

O. Stantini
Gang Land News
On May 3, 1988 crew member Orazio Stantini participated in the murder of civilian Francesco Oliveri. Stantini was brought into the plot and helped carry out the murder without DeCicco's knowledge.

J. Corrao
For his part in the murder, Stantini was inducted into the Family later that year and immediately transferred to Captain Joseph Corrao's crew. CW Salvatore Gravano, who supervised Oliveri's murder on Boss John Gotti's behalf, later testified: "When [Stantini] was proposed John Gotti didn't want to beef up Georgie DeCicco's crew, he had a dislike for Georgie DeCicco. We talked about it, I says, this should not hold back Orazio. We came to a plan. I had told John Gotti, I said, use the excuse that you want to beef up Joe Butch's crew, take him out of Georgie's crew. That was a good plan as far as John was concerned. That is what we did." (Stantini began showing up at Gotti's Ravenite Social Club with Corrao instead of DeCicco around August 1988.)

On December 24, 1988 five new members formally inducted into Gambino Family in ceremony presided over by Acting Underboss Frank LoCascio and Consigliere Salvatore Gravano. Ceremony held inside Little Italy, Manhattan apartment building owned by Captain Joseph Corrao. Others present included Corrao, George DeCicco, at least seven other Family Captains and a few Soldiers.

Those inducted were Michael DiLeonardo (33y), John A. Gotti (24y), Nicholas LaSorsa (52y), Dominick 'Skinny Dom' Pizzonia (47y) and an Unsub.

Boss John Gotti chose not to preside over his son's induction; after the ceremony the group went to the Ravenite, where the new inductees were formally introduced to their Boss.

On March 15, 1989 DeCicco and many others were surveilled visiting the Ravenite.

In early December 1989 the FBI's New York Office noted that DeCicco and his crew was 'headquartered on Bath Avenue in Brooklyn'.

On December 12, 1989 Boss John Gotti, Acting Underboss Frank LoCascio and Consigliere Salvatore Gravano met inside an apartment located above the Ravenite. An FBI bug, placed the previous November, recorded the trio discussing various Family matters. Those mentioned during conversation included George DeCicco.

1990s

On April 22, 1990 John A. Gotti married, with the reception held at the Helmsley in Manhattan. Attendees included Gambino Underboss Salvatore Gravano, Captain George DeCicco and many members from the Gambino Family as well as the other New York Families.

On June 4, 1990 among several surveilled visiting the Ravenite.

1990s
On November 29, 1990 observed in discussion with two Unsubs outside the Bath Ave social club.

On January 29, 1991 served two Notices of Inventory regarding the FBI's bugging of the Ravenite.

D. Harrigan
On October 1, 1991 Bonanno Associate Dennis Michael Harrigan (30y) shot to death by an on-foot assailant while standing at a payphone in Ozone Park, Queens.

Later determined victim murdered by Gambino Associate and DeCicco crew member Frank 'Frankie the Blond' Mariconda in response to Harrigan's suspected involvement in 1989 disappearance of Gregory Reiter. Reiter's father, Gambino Associate Michael Reiter, paid Mariconda $10,000 for the hit.

It's unclear whether DeCicco had any knowledge of the plot.

The following year Mariconda was himself the victim of an unsanctioned murder, shot to death for unrelated reasons by Lucchese Members Frank Gioia Jr. and Frank 'Frankie Bones' Papagni.

On December 5, 1991 Gambino Associate Michael Giangregorio (22y) wounded in shooting attempt while entering Cropsey Lounge in Bath Beach. Victim hit in right knee and left arm. Those present inside Lounge at time of shooting included Captain George DeCicco and Associate Robert Scarpaci (41y). New York Daily News reported: "[DeCicco and Scarpaci] came out and interfered with uniformed cops trying to secure the crime scene...Police said they did not know why Scarpaci and DeCicco - reputedly a Gambino capo - tried to keep cops away. They were issued summonses on charges of obstructing government administration and disorderly conduct." (An article in Newsday instead described Giangregorio as a bystander and claimed that DeCicco and Scarpaci were the intended targets.)

In early March 1992 Former Underboss Salvatore Gravano, who defected the previous November, testified in Boss John Gotti's Federal racketeering trial. During testimony identified George DeCicco as a Gambino Captain.

Gotti subsequently convicted in large part due to Gravano's cooperation.

On April 18, 1992 FBI surveillance conducted on Gotti crew's Bergen Hunt and Fish Club located on 101st Ave in Ozone Park. Those observed included Gambino Captains Joseph Arcuri, Nicholas Corozzo, Frank D'Apolito and George DeCicco, Acting Captain Michael DiLeonardo, Soldiers Thomas 'Tommy Sneakers' Cacciopoli, John 'Jackie' Cavallo, Richard Gotti, Dominick Pizzonia and Louis 'Brother' Scida as well as Associates Joseph D'Angelo, George DeBello, Joseph DeCicco, Richard Gotti Jr. and Robert Pellegrino.

On June 23, 1992 Boss John Gotti sentenced by EDNY Judge I. Leo Glasser to life imprisonment. The Associated Press reported: "The five-minute sentencing took place in a Brooklyn courtroom so crowded that reputed Gambino family member George DeCicco sat next to New York FBI [head]."

Top: Robbers T. Uva (L) and R. Uva
Bottom: Scene of Uva Murders (Dec. 1992)
Around Fall 1992 multiple LCN-connected social clubs in Brooklyn, Queens and The Bronx robbed at gunpoint by civilians Thomas and Rosemarie Uva. Locations hit included clubs affiliated with Bonanno Consigliere Anthony Spero, Gambino Captain George DeCicco, Bonanno Captain (?) Patrick DeFilippo, Gambino Soldier Ignazio 'Iggy' Alogna, Bonanno Soldier Peter 'Petey Box-Cars' Cosoleto, Colombo Soldier Alphonse 'Funzi' D'Ambrosio, Gambino Soldier Joseph 'Joe Brewster' Delmonico and Gambino Soldier Dominick Pizzonia. Culprits subsequently tracked down and shot to death on Christmas Eve of that year.

F. DeSisto
On January 28, 1993 vehicle utilized by Associate Frank DeSisto observed parked outside DeCicco's residence as well as outside his social club in Bath Beach. (Frank DeSisto [1930-2008] had previously been arrested with Colombo Soldier Frank 'Gandy' LoCicero, and was later indicted for extortion conspiracy with Gambino Soldier Frank 'Butch' Guglielmini and others.)

On February 4, 1993 FBI surveillance outside DeCicco's social club observed autos registered to Gambino Soldier Paul Zaccaria as well as to individuals with the surnames Mulazzi and Scarpaci.

On April 1, 1993 FBI surveillance outside the club observed autos registered to Carmine Sedita, Business Agent for Carpenters Local 20, an individual with the surname Mulazzi as well as to one FNU DiCaro, identified in a subsequent report as 'one of the main drug suspects' in a heroin operation centered around the Cafe Bruno on 18th Ave.

On September 29, 1993 Gambino Associate Joseph DeCicco and two Unsubs observed, as well as an auto registered to Pequa Maintenance Company in Farmingdale, Long Island.

On October 12/21, 1993 Joseph DeCicco and / or his auto observed at the club.

On November 15 Joseph DeCicco arrested by FBI as result of extortion indictment brought by US Attorney's Office in Brooklyn.

By mid-1990s George moved out of Brooklyn to an address on Pamela Lane in Grasmere, Staten Island. Maintained Bath Ave social club.

J. Riccobono Jr.
Around 1995 ceremony held where two new members formally inducted into Gambino Family. Ceremony, held inside unspecified Queens residence, presided over by Captains (and ruling panel members) Nicholas Corozzo, Jack D'Amico and John A. Gotti. Others present included Captains George DeCicco, Michael DiLeonardo and 'Big Lou' Vallario as well as Soldier Carmine Agnello.

Those inducted were Joseph D'Angelo (26y) and John Riccobono Jr. (56y). Riccobono sponsored by DeCicco.

On September 5, 1995 wake for Former Gambino Consigliere Joseph N. Gallo held in Queens. Attendees included Gambino Captain (Consigliere?) Joseph Arcuri, Captain George DeCicco, Captain Michael DiLeonardo, Soldiers Frank 'Frankie Martin' Barranca, Craig DePalma, Joseph Franco, Michael 'Mike Brooklyn' Guerrieri, Dominick Pizzonia, John Riccobono Jr. as well as Gambino Associate Anthony Ruggiano Jr. (Ruggiano Jr., son of imprisoned longtime member Anthony 'Fat Andy' Ruggiano [1926-1999], later became a cooperating witness.)

L to R: Unsub, P. Zaccaria, J. Riccobono (back), G. DeCicco
On January 11-12, 1996 wake for Rocco Corozzo, father of Gambino Captains Joseph and Nicholas Corozzo, held at Romanelli Funeral Home in Queens. Attendees included Gambino Captain (Acting Boss?) Peter Gotti, George DeCicco and at least six other Gambino Captains as well as at least fourteen Gambino Soldiers including DeCicco crew members Joseph Juliano and John Riccobono Jr. Additional attendees included Genovese (Acting?) Captain Alan 'Baldy' Longo, DeCav Capo Anthony Rotondo and Gambino Associates Richard Gotti Jr., James 'Treetop' Outerie, Joseph Panzarella Jr., Salvatore Pugliese, Anthony 'Bosch' Vaglica, Bartolomeo 'Bobby Glasses' Vernace, Michael 'Mikey Y' Yannotti and Ronald Barlin. (Rotondo later testified that Peter Gotti was introduced to him as the Acting Boss during this wake. Attendees Richard Gotti Jr., Outerie, Pugliese, Vernace and Yannotti were all later inducted into the Gambino Family.)

DeCicco on Govt Chart depicting Gambino Family c. 1997

On April 25, 1998, at approximately 11:00 PM, burning body of Frank Saracino (23y) discovered behind shopping center in Bloomfield, Staten Island. He had been shot once in the back of the neck. Victim brother of 'Little Dino' and Sebastian aka 'Sebby' Saracino, both Colombo Associates in the crew of Captain Thomas 'Tommy Shots' Gioeli.

M. Burnside
The brothers suspected Michael 'Squirts' Burnside, a Gambino Associate in DeCicco's crew, as responsible and began to plot his murder. Co-conspirators included Gioeli and Colombo Associates 'Big Dino' Calabro and Joseph 'Joe Caves' Competiello. Burnside unable to be located and murder called off.

A. Trucchio
Gang Land News

On February 14, 1999 Gambino Associate (Member?) Alphonse Trucchio, son of Soldier Ronald 'Ronnie One-Arm' Trucchio, married. Reception held at Russo's on the Bay in Ozone Park, Queens. Attendees included Acting Boss (?) Peter Gotti, Captain George DeCicco, (Acting?) Captain Salvatore Scala, Acting Captain Augustus 'Gus Boy' Sclafani, Soldiers Carmine Agnello and Charles Carneglia as well as Associates Alfred 'Freddy Hot' DeCongilio, Kevin McMahon and Joseph Panzarella Jr.

L. Vallario during Feb. 23 Surveillance
On February 23, 1999 Gambino Captain Louis Vallario followed by FBI to DeCicco's Bath Ave social club, where he spent approximately a half hour before leaving.

Apr. 1999 Inductees (L to R): P. Cassarino, R. Juliano and J. Sclafani
On April 26, 1999 ceremony held where three new members formally inducted into Gambino Family.

Ceremony, presided over by Consigliere Joseph Arcuri, held in basement of Bensonhurst residence owned by (former?) DeCicco crew associate Richard Juliano. Those present in addition to Arcuri included Captain Anthony 'Sonny' Ciccone, (Acting?) Captain Joseph Juliano, (Acting?) Captain Augustus Sclafani and one Unsub.

Inducted were:
  • Primo Cassarino (43y) [Sponsored by A. Ciccone]
  • Richard Juliano (59y) [Sponsored by brother J. Juliano]
  • Joseph Sclafani (33y) [Sponsored by father A. Sclafani]
Cassarino later testified: "[There] was a basement with a bunch of guys sitting around a table. They told me to sit down. I sat down. Joe Arcuri asked me, do you know why you're here? I told him no, which was a lie...We heard some good things about you, he said, do you want to join our secret society? I told him yes. Then he says okay, put a picture of a saint in my hand [and] pricked my finger with a pin, a knife on the table. He put the saint on fire, said if you disobey the code of omerta, I should burn like the picture of the saint. Then they told me [the rules]."

(Cassarino, who flipped in 2005, later stated that Arcuri was serving as either Acting Boss or Consigliere at the time of the ceremony. He also identified both Joseph Juliano and August Sclafani as Captains, official or acting not specified. The Julianos previously reported to DeCicco, and a May 2000 Govt Chart continued to depict them as DeCicco crew members. It's likely Joseph Juliano was Acting for DeCicco, though multiple sources simply refer to him as a Captain during this period.)

J. Ferrisi
Around Summer 1999 Gambino Family meeting held at DeCicco's residence in Staten Island. Attendees included DeCicco, Captain Michael DiLeonardo, Captain Louis Vallario and Soldiers Thomas 'Huck' Carbonaro and Edward Garafola. Purpose to discuss potential cooperation of Vallario crew associate John Ferrisi, indicted the previous April on Federal racketeering charges. DiLeonardo later testified: "I believe [Attorney] brought [information of Ferrisi's potential cooperation] originally to George DeCicco and Lou Vallario...Eddie [Garafola] told me there was going to be an appointment [by] Georgie DeCicco's house, and I attended...This kid originally went in to meet the judge and may have made statements, and that [attorney] thought he could rehabilitate him not to cooperate [and ultimately he] never cooperated."

On August 12-13, 1999 wake for Gambino Captain James Failla held at Azzara Funeral Home in Arrochar, Staten Island. Attendees included Acting Boss Peter Gotti, Consigliere Joseph Arcuri, George DeCicco and at least seven other Official or Acting Captains, at least ten Soldiers including DeCicco crew member Richard Juliano as well as several Possible Members and Associates. (One of those present, Vincenzo Barone, was photographed with the Julianos and could be an otherwise unknown Gambino Member.)

On January 12-13, 2000 wakes for Lucchese Associate Oscar Ansourian and for a relative of Gambino Captain Louis Vallario held at Scarpaci Funeral Home in Bensonhurst. Attendees included Acting Boss Peter Gotti, George DeCicco and at least seven other Official or Acting Captains as well as at least eleven Soldiers including DeCicco crew member Richard Juliano. Additional attendees included Genovese (Acting?) Captain Alan Longo, Possible Genovese Member Theodore 'Teddy' Maggio and several Gambino and Genovese Associates.

On April 12, 2000 wake for Former Gambino Captain Jerome 'Jerry Mummy' D'Aquila also held at Scarpaci. Attendees included Acting Boss Peter Gotti, Consigliere Joseph Arcuri, George DeCicco and at least three other Official or Acting Captains as well as at least two Soldiers including DeCicco crew member Richard Juliano. Additional attendees included Gambino Associate Joseph Chirico. (Around the following year Chirico was inducted into the Family under Captain Anthony Ciccone's sponsorship.)

A Govt chart of the Gambino Family compiled in May 2000 shows George DeCicco and eighteen others as Captains.

Listed DeCicco crew members were Joseph Juliano (Acting Captain), Ignatius DeBella, Paul DiBella, Richard Juliano and John Riccobono Jr.

By 2001 Gambino Soldier Primo Cassarino opened social club at 82nd St and 17th Ave. Location served as new meeting place for Captain Anthony Ciccone, barred by consent decree from his regular Court St hangout. Visitors aside from Ciccone crew members included Gambino Acting Boss Peter Gotti and Gambino Captains/Acting Captains Louis Vallario, Salvatore Scala and Carmelo Sciandra. Club situated near similar hangouts for crews headed by Vallario and George DeCicco.

On January 17, 2001 wake for Antoinette Fappiano, DeCicco's sister, held at Scarpaci. Attendees included Acting Boss Peter Gotti, Acting Captain James 'Jimmy Boy' Dellaratta, Captain Michael DiLeonardo, (Acting?) Captain Salvatore Scala, Soldiers Thomas Carbonaro, Michael Guerrieri and Dominick Pizzonia as well as Associate Alfred DeCongilio. (Pizzonia was promoted to Captain by the fall. Alfred DeCongilio was believed inducted into the Family around the same time.)

J. DeCicco
On August 14, 2002 brother Joseph DeCicco (80y) and Gabriel Ariola (51y) indicted by Queens District Attorney's Office on extortion charges. The Associated Press reported: "[Defendants] approached the victim, a car dealer in Queens, in September 1999 and demanded $5,000 a month in protection money, Queens District Attorney Richard A. Brown said in a statement. The defendants also forced the victim to pay the lease on cars they used and to pay health insurance for the dentist and his family, [DA] said."

When the pair pleaded guilty, Joseph was initially declared mentally unfit for sentencing and ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation. In February 2004 he was given a two-to-four year sentence and died that June.

J. Juliano
On January 28, 2003 crew member Joseph Juliano (65y), son Robert DeCicco (52y) and twelve others indicted by New York State on gambling charges.

By March 2003 former in-law and recently shelved Gambino Captain Michael DiLeonardo defected.

In late August 2004 nephew Frank Fappiano, a Gambino Soldier since 1990, followed suit.

By 2005 made members in DeCicco's crew also included his nephew Joseph Orlando.

Around mid-2006 DeCicco stepped down / demoted as Captain.

That year an associate of the crew, in debt to DeCicco and his son Robert and facing threats from Joseph Orlando, had reached out to authorities and begun wearing a wire.

On December 15, 2006 DeCicco and the informant discussed the latter's debt, during which DeCicco recorded stating: "I'll burn your eyes, did you ever screw me. Do you want me to burn your eyes out?"

At one point Joseph Orlando was recorded telling the informant: "I've got eight under my belt, and I don't give a [expletive] who becomes the ninth."

2000s
On January 30, 2007 DeCicco, Orlando and eleven others indicted by USAO Eastern District New York on Federal racketeering charges.

Others indicted included Gambino Soldier and former DeCicco crew member Richard Juliano, DeCicco's son Robert as well as two Sicilian Mafia affiliates.

FBI Chief stated at time of arrest: "[DeCicco] has operated continuously for so long that his arrest today is like the end of Cal Ripken's consecutive-game streak'."

New York Post reported:
"
The feds said the mobsters’ downfall evolved from a simple scheme gone awry. It involved [Joseph] Orlando asking DeCicco’s crew for help landing an immigration green card for his girlfriend.

One thug in the group said he could help – then panicked when he realized he couldn’t pull off the request. Fearing for his life, he went to the feds offering his services. The authorities set up an undercover agent as an immigration official and, with the help of their now-cooperating witness, offered the services of the undercover to the mob. But by then, the Mafiosi had a more pressing problem.

DeCicco had been asked by top Sicilian mobsters to keep their countryman, Francesco Nania, who was in U.S. custody, from being deported to face mob-related charges back home.

The Gambinos eventually offered $70,000 to the undercover to broker the immigration deal, officials said.

"

On February 22, 2007 released on house arrest.

R. DeCicco
Gang Land News
On June 5, 2007, at approximately 10:30 AM, son Robert DeCicco wounded in shooting attempt outside 1678 Bath Ave in Bath Beach. DeCicco, hit in arm and leg and grazed in head, taken to Lutheran Medical Center where treated and released.

As reported by New York Daily News, after the shooting George was visited at his Staten Island residence by members of the press: "[George] shouted, 'He's all right!" from the stoop of his home....'Everybody loves him!' George DeCicco said of his wounded son...Robert DeCicco [may be] catching the blame for the entire crew getting indicted [in January] since he introduced an informant to the family, sources said. 'Aww no. Of course not. Never,' the elder DeCicco said, dismissing the notion the attempted hit was related to the federal charges. 'You got all these crazy people, these terrorists doing crazy things,' the father said. 'I'm shocked just like anybody else'."

On June 7, 2007 New York Daily News reported: "[Detectives] were examining [Robert's] father George DeCicco's fall from grace in the Gambino Family and the fact that several relatives have turned state's witness...DeCicco may be catching blame for introducing an informant to the family, bringing indictments for two mob associates with ties to the Sicilian Mafia, sources said."

R. Izzi
Same date Genovese Soldier Rudolph 'Rudy Cueball' Izzi found shot to death inside his residence on Shore Parkway in Gravesend.

The location of Izzi's murder was about a mile from the scene of the DeCicco shooting, and press reports indicated that the two incidents were related.

On December 19, 2007 George pleaded guilty in USDC Brooklyn to one count racketeering conspiracy. Newsday reported: "As part of a plea bargain, DeCicco admitted taking part from 1999 to early 2007 in a loan sharking conspiracy that prosecutors said was part of the Gambino crime family operations. He also admitted giving a usurious loan to one victim, identified by defense attorneys as Phil Cardello, with the understanding that violence would be used if payment was late." Returned to house arrest on $3 million bond pending sentencing.

On July 14, 2008 Government submitted letter regarding DeCicco's upcoming sentencing: "...Defendant George DeCicco was a captain in the Gambino family for decades. As the leader of the Gambino family's Bensonhurst crew for years, he held one of the most powerful positions in the Gambino family."

On July 24 sentenced by EDNY Judge Raymond J. Dearie to sixteen months imprisonment, three years supervised release and $100 assessment. Ordered to surrender that October.

at FMC Devens
On October 27 received at FMC Devens, Massachusetts to serve sentence. Assigned to Compound Orderly weekend position.

On February 21, 2009 cited for interfering with Taking of Count: "Inmate admitted to leaving his cube during count." Docked seven days of commissary starting following week.

On December 1, 2009 released from FMC Devens.

Died early October 2014.

On October 8 New York Daily News published article on DeCicco's passing: "[Defense lawyer] remembered his client as a gentleman. 'All the detectives and FBI agents used to tell me he greeted them cordially when they came into contact with him,' [lawyer] told the Daily News."

Buried in Green-Wood Cemetery located in Greenwood Heights, Brooklyn.

Saturday, August 29, 2026

Frank LoCicero (Colombo)

Jul. 1966
Frank 'Gandy' LoCicero was a Brooklyn-based Colombo member who served as Acting Captain of the Family's Giannattasio crew for a time in the late 1970s.

Father Calogero 'Charlie Sidge' LoCicero was an influential Family Captain as well as the Acting Consigliere for Boss Joseph Profaci in the early 1960s.

When Calogero was shot to death in 1968, Frank was identified by an FBI member source as having carried out the murder. (See below)

Younger brother Benjamin 'Benny Sidge' (1933-2003) was also a Colombo member and would himself serve as Acting Captain on at least two separate occasions in the early 1970s and the mid-1990s.

Born January 1, 1927 in Brooklyn to Calogero (22y) and Catherine Mule (23y). Father immigrated a couple of years earlier from Villabate comune of Palermo, Sicily. Mother also from Palermo.

C. LoCicero (1930s)
By the mid-1930s the LoCiceros were residing at 6516 66th St in Brooklyn's Dyker Heights neighborhood. Calogero, by then believed to be a made member, listed occupation as plasterman.

Frank's first encounter with the law came in late October 1948, when arrested by State Police in Conowingo, Maryland on larceny charge. Convicted and given thirty day suspended sentence.

By April 1950 resided with mother and siblings in household of maternal grandfather Charles Mule (72y) at 1041 67th St in Dyker Heights. Frank listed occupation as plasterer's helper.

On September 5, 1957 picked up in Brooklyn on criminal possession weapon (guns) charge.

L to R: C. LoCicero, B. LoCicero and F. LoCicero
By that time both Frank and Benny had been inducted into the Colombo Family and were reporting to their father Calogero, who is believed to have been a Captain since at least the early-to-mid 1950s.

Made members under LoCicero included Rosario 'Black Sam' Nastasa and three sets of brothers: Benny and Frank LoCicero, Gregory and Salvatore Scarpa, and Anthony 'Tony Skee' and Vincent 'Jimmy Skee' Scianna.

Within a few years Gregory Scarpa, reportedly brought into the Family by Frank's father, became an FBI informant and served as the Bureau's primary source in the Colombos for much of the following three decades.

The Colombo Family was then headed by Joseph Profaci. Joseph Magliocco, Profaci's brother-in-law, served as Underboss and Joseph 'Peppino' Buffa as Consigliere. (Like LoCicero, Profaci was from Villabate.)

On November 22, 1958 arrested by NYPD Brooklyn on burglary (safe) charge.

About six days later pleaded guilty to final charges grand larceny 2nd degree and burglary 3rd degree and given concurrent sentences of five to ten and two-to-one-half to five years NYS prison. Believed allowed to remain free pending appeal.

By September 1959 listed address at 8645 14th Ave in Bath Beach, Brooklyn.

F. DeSisto
Early that month arrested, along with (Colombo?) Associate Frank DeSisto (28y), by FBI on Theft from Interstate Shipment charge. Pair specifically accused of hijacking truck loaded with approximately $50,000 worth Japanese silk. The New York Times reported: "Norman Fine, the truck driver, was stopped at Carroll and Hicks Street in Brooklyn Tuesday. He told police that he had been pushed into an automobile, handcuffed and driven to Canarsie, where his captors bound him to a tree." Both defendants believed acquitted. (Frank DeSisto [1930-2008], family from Mirabella Eclano comune of Avellino, Campania, grew up in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. In early 1973 he was indicted on extortion conspiracy charges with, among others, Gambino Family Member Frank 'Butch' Guglielmini and Genovese Family Members Michael 'Mike Rosie' Maione and Joseph Pagano. In 1976 an FBI CI noted he was a regular at Belmont Park and could be seen 'occasionally' with Bonanno Captain Salvatore 'Sally Fruits' Ferrugia. In January 1993 an auto linked to DeSisto was surveilled parked outside the residence of Gambino Captain George DeCicco as well as DeCicco's social club, both in Bath Beach.)

On November 6, 1959 arrested by NYPD Brooklyn on charges assault and kidnapping, robbery and grand larceny.

Consigliere Joseph Buffa died the same month, after which Frank's father Calogero is believed to have been installed as the Family's Acting Consigliere.

1960s

On March 15, 1960 NYPD advised FBI's New York Office: "[Detective] advised that Charles LoCicero has been living in the general area of the 62nd Precinct for the majority of his life and is well known to the NYPD. [Det] stated both Charles LoCicero and his sons Benny and Frank have both been previously arrested by detectives of the 62nd Squad. He stated at present there is a state prosecution pending against Frank LoCicero for armed hijacking...[Det] stated it is the general impression of law enforcement officers who know Charles LoCicero that he is responsible for possibly 14 or 15 unsolved murders in Brooklyn."

On September 11, 1960 arrested by NYPD on another safe burglary charge.

On February 17, 1961 received at Sing Sing Prison to serve five to ten year sentence received in November 1958 burglary case.

About ten days later Colombo Underboss Joseph Magliocco and several other Colombo members were kidnapped by the Family's rebel Gallo faction. The group was released unharmed but the incident ultimately led to a shooting war that left several members and associates dead.

L. Gallo
During the conflict Frank's father Calogero acted as a mediator and met frequently with Colombo Soldier and Gallo faction leader Lawrence Gallo. (CI Gregory Scarpa reported his personal suspicion that LoCicero was 'playing with' the rebels in an attempt to set them up.)

By May 1961 believed serving sentence at Green Haven Prison in Stormville, New York.

Boss Joseph Profaci died June 6, 1962. His brother-in-law Joseph Magliocco assumed the Acting Boss position, although without Commission authorization.

Later that month FBI CI Gregory Scarpa reported:“[In] early 1961 [Charles] LoCicero then told him [Joseph] Magliocco wanted to see him and LoCicero wished him luck when he departed. Informant stated that he inquired of LoCicero as to why he wished him luck and asked what Magliocco wanted with him. LoCicero then stated that the informant would understand after he went to see Magliocco. Informant stated that he went to Magliocco’s home and Magliocco advised him at that time that he was appointing him a Caporegima and had put the word out among the other members of the Family that as of that time the informant would be considered a Caporegima. Informant stated at that time the following members of the Profaci Family were assigned to him: [Redacted], Benny LoCicero, Frank LoCicero, [Redacted], [Redacted]. Informant also that stated three proposed members, who had been proposed to the organization, were also assigned to him, namely Joseph Saponaro, John Saponaro and Charles LoCicero.” (The Saponaros were both made members by the mid-to-late 1980s. Charles LoCicero, likely identical with Frank and Benny's half-brother born 1941, is included in a Federal membership list from 1993.)

Scarpa told the FBI little about his brief time as a crew leader; by early 1963, he described himself only as a Soldier and identified all three LoCiceros as reporting to Captain Harry Fontana, a longtime member who previously headed a large crew based primarily in South Brooklyn.

H. Fontana (1957)

By early 1963 made members of Fontana's crew included:
  1. Philip Fontana [Brother to Harry]
  2. Salvatore John Fontana [Brother to Harry]
  3. Salvatore 'Sally Westo' Imperiale
  4. Lorenzo Lampasi
  5. Lorenzo 'Larry' Lampasi Jr.
  6. Benjamin LoCicero
  7. Calogero LoCicero
  8. Frank LoCicero (IP; NYS)
  9. Salvatore 'Charlie Lemons' Mineo
  10. John 'Johnny Zipp' Zozzaro (Possible Member)
(Several former crew members had split off due to the Gallo war, and others are believed to have been placed with Thomas DiBella after the latter's promotion to Captain the previous summer.)

Around this time also identified as Colombo Member by CI Alfred Santantonio, a Gambino Soldier murdered that summer after his informant status became known.

On May 15, 1963 CI Scarpa reported: "[Scarpa] advised that Charles LoCicero entered Shore Road Hospital on [5/13], for a hernia operation. He stated on that date he was advised by LoCicero that the previous Thursday or Friday, 5/9-10/63, LoCicero was contacted by two unnamed Gallo men who told LoCicero that Larry Gallo was sending a message to him. LoCicero told the informant that these two told him Larry felt LoCicero was completely trustworthy and they were about to start some action. They requested from LoCicero the identities of those 'button men' whom he felt were reliable and assured him that these persons would not be harmed by any members of the Gallo group. He stated LoCicero told him that he gave them the names of his sons, Gregory Scarpa, Black Sam [Nastasa] and Sam Badalamenti, and was assured these persons would not be harmed by any of the Gallo men." (A different version of this report also included Colombo Soldier Salvatore 'Sammy' Peritore in the list of names LoCicero gave the Gallos.)

On September 3, 1963 Joseph Magliocco formally resigned as Acting Boss.

Reports from CI Scarpa and others showed that Frank's father Calogero attempted and failed to secure a leadership position for himself in the wake of Magliocco's stepping down.

On February 6, 1964 CI Scarpa reported: "[On] Friday, 1/31/64, he spent about five hours with Charles LoCicero. He stated that LoCicero is in apparent bad health and seems to be on the verge of a mental breakdown. Informant stated that LoCicero talks in generalities and continuously defends the position he took in opposition to Joe Magliocco as Boss of the Magliocco Family. Informant related that LoCicero's sons have told him (LoCicero) on numerous occasions he is crazy."

J. Colombo (2)
On April 5, 1964 Joseph Colombo was elected new Boss of the Colombo Family. He appointed Salvatore Mineo as his Underboss. Consigliere position remained vacant.

Under Colombo's leadership the Gallos were brought back into the fold and further hostilities ceased.

About a month later Calogero LoCicero was transferred out of Harry Fontana's crew and made part of Colombo's personal regime; in reporting the news CI Scarpa speculated: "Colombo feels LoCicero is a trouble maker and unmanageable and Colombo felt that if anyone could control LoCicero it would be he."

On December 2, 1964 FBI CI reported: "[CI] named the following individuals who he knows to be members of the Joe Colombo Family...Ben, Frank and Charles LoCicero are all members of the Colombo Family. Charles aspired at one time to the position of Boss, but is not highly regarded and therefore was never considered for the job."

On May 11, 1965 CI Scarpa reported: "[Frank] LoCicero, a member of the Colombo Family of LCN, who has currently served 3 years of a 5 to 10 year sentence for burglary, recently went before the Parole Board and is to be granted parole shortly. Informant advised that since this was LoCicero's first appearance before the Board and he was granted parole in spite of an extensive record with the NYPD, he and apparently others in the Colombo Family are wondering why LoCicero is to be released and if there is anything behind his release from jail."

On June 28, 1965 CI Scarpa reported: "[Frank] LoCicero, a member of the Colombo Family and son of Charles LoCicero, was to be released on parole during the week of [6/14], but had been delayed until the week of [6/28]. Informant pointed out that LoCicero was being granted a parole after his first appearance before the Parole Board, which is extremely unusual in view of his prior criminal record, and some members of the Family are questioning how he came to be released from jail after serving so little of his sentence."

By early July 1965 paroled and assigned to Captain Frank Fusco.

F. Fusco (1965)
Born 1904 to parents likely from Quindici comune of Avellino, Campania, Fusco recently took over the crew of Nick Sorrentino and oversaw a large gambling operation headquartered in Dyker Heights.

Made members of Fusco's crew included FNU Colombo (1), FNU Colombo (2), Anthony 'Tony Lap' LaPonzina, Ernest 'Ernie Lap' LaPonzina, Ralph LaPonzina and Frank 'Gandy' LoCicero.

Associates of interest included Fusco's sons Richard and Salvatore, Joseph Gentile and Albert 'Gooch' Mugnolo.

On August 9, 1965 CI Scarpa reported: "[Frank] LoCicero is employed in the construction business as a laborer on Staten Island. Informant stated that LoCicero obtained this job through the efforts of Charles Panarella, also a member of the Colombo Family, who resides on Staten Island." (Charles 'Charlie Moose' Panarella [1922-2017] was then a member of John 'Johnny Bath Beach' Oddo's crew.)

On November 24, 1965 a meeting between Boss Joseph Colombo and the Fusco crew held at Fusco's residence in Dyker Heights. Colombo accompanied to meeting by Underboss Salvatore Mineo, Consigliere Benedetto D'Alessandro, Captains Vincent Aloi and John 'Sonny' Franzese as well as FBI CI Gregory Scarpa. Scarpa subsequently reported that the meeting was held for Colombo to extend holiday greetings to the crew and to hear any problems the members were having in the Family. Scarpa noted: "[Among] the members of the regime present were Anthony and Ralph [sic; Ernest?] LaPonzina, Frank LoCicero, and four old men unknown to informant who were in their late 60's or early 70's. Informant related that he believed two of them were named Colombo, but were not related to 'Boss' Joseph Colombo. Informant stated that these latter four men were previously unknown to him and that in his position at the meeting he could not make any inquiry concerning the identities of these individuals. Informant stated it was his understanding that these 7 individuals made up the regime of Dick Fusco." (It's possible that Ralph LaPonzina and the crew's former head Nick Sorrentino remained in Florida and that Scarpa confused Ernest for Ralph.)

On February 14, 1966 CI Scarpa reported: "[Frank] LoCicero, who was recently released from prison and is under supervision by New York State Parole authorities, has been unemployed since 1/1/1966 and is currently frequenting a social club operated by Dick Fusco on 66th Street and 11th Avenue in Brooklyn and at night is frequenting the Velvet Lounge, 66th Street and 14th Avenue, Brooklyn. Informant stated LoCicero has a small shylocking operation going as well as a bookmaking operation." (Others known to frequent the Velvet Lounge included Colombo Soldier James 'Jimmy Bat' Cardello.)

On March 25, 1966 FBI CI reported: "...[He] is aware that the following individuals are ‘buttons’ under Capo Charles LoCicero: Frank and Benny LoCicero - both are the sons of Charles LoCicero. Informant stated both are currently active in shylocking in Brooklyn, operating together in the morning, before noon, in these pursuits. Informant stated that two other sons from this marriage are ‘straight’ and will probably never become members. Informant advised that in addition, Charles LoCicero had two additional sons from a second marriage, both of whom are active in illegal activities, and would probably become members under LoCicero in the future." (LoCicero lost his Captain rank a few years prior.)

On March 31, 1966 FBI CI reported: "[Both] Frank and Benny [LoCicero] are active in shylocking activities in Brooklyn."

V. Scianna
On April 18, 1966 FBI CI reported: “[Frank] LoCicero, an LCN member [is] presently on five or more years probation, is unemployed, usually hangs out at the Velvet Lounge, Brooklyn, with his close friend, [Redacted], each day until approximately 12:30 PM. Informant stated Frank thereafter, conducts his business as a shylock and at approximately 3 or 3:30 PM, usually goes to Aqueduct Race Track where he can usually be found at the $100 window. Informant advised he learned that Frank LoCicero has boasted he may, in the near future, ‘pay his way off probation'...Informant related that in addition to previously reported information concerning [Vincent] Scianna, he had heard during the past week that the LoCiceros are extremely concerned over Scianna, since they fear he might easily ‘crack’ and ‘spill the beans’ concerning his LCN associates. Informant reiterated that Scianna cannot serve time and is presently in Danbury Hospital. Informant related the LoCiceros are aware Scianna had been privy to the Family’s ‘inner most secrets’.” (Vincent Scianna [1916-1984], formerly a member of Calogero LoCicero's crew, was then reporting to Carmine 'Junior' Persico. The following month he was paroled after serving nearly three years for possessing a weapon.)

On April 27, 1966 FBI CI reported:
"
As previously reported, informant stated there appears to be some confusion and disruption among the former ‘buttons’ under Charles LoCicero. Informant stated that in addition to the previously reported information concerning the fact that Benjamin LoCicero is presently reporting to Caporegima Joseph Yacovelli, whom Benny LoCicero promised to introduce the informant to, informant had recently learned that Benny LoCicero’s brother Frank LoCicero was recently reporting to an individual described by the informant as Diamond Dick Fusco, whom he described as a Caporegima within the Colombo Family.

The informant stated that Charles LoCicero had been released from prison on
[4/20], and immediately after his release he had ‘taken a ride with him’ during which time LoCicero advised that he desired to wait a few weeks until ‘the marbles in my head clear up’ before making any ‘moves’. At that time, LoCicero advised the informant, [redacted], which informant felt may have been a reference to the fact that Benny LoCicero had apparently advised his brother he intended to take the informant to Joseph Yacovelli...Informant stated for the above reasons he has concluded that Charles LoCicero may be encountering difficulty reorganizing his regime since Colombo had apparently broken up his former ‘buttons’ and ‘spread them around’.
"

On May 18, 1966 CI Scarpa reported: "[Scarpa] telephonically advised that Frank LoCicero is always at the Velvet Lounge with [Redacted]. Informant said Frank is handling a numbers operation or a bookmaking operation at that location, and he is usually there in the late afternoon and evening."

In early June 1966 an FBI informant reported that Frank acted as middle man in the proposed hijacking of 1,000 cases of scotch.

Through Frank the informant was introduced to Pete LNU, whom the informant described to the FBI as a Bonanno Captain succeeding the recently deceased Joseph Notaro, as well as Pete's underlings Hank LNU and Vic LNU; the informant stated that Hank at least was also a made member.

These individuals were subsequently identified through photograph as Peter Notaro [1915-1997], the deceased Joseph Notaro's cousin, as well as Samuel 'Hank' Perrone [1930-1968] and Angelo 'Vic' Lapi [1932-2011], the son of Genovese Member and Future Captain Joseph 'Joe Beck' Lapi.

(Peter Notaro was a suspected member at that time and the latter two were Associates, although they may have been inducted without Commission authorization by Former Bonanno Boss Joseph Bonanno, who was then heading a rebel faction in a dispute over that Family's leadership. Hank Perrone was subsequently killed in the conflict and Angelo Lapi was an inducted member of the Genovese Family by the late 1970s.)

Information provided by CI Scarpa led to Frank's arrest for parole violation on July 27, 1966. He was apprehended in the company of his brother Benny at the LoCicero family residence in Brooklyn and immediately remanded to NYS prison.

On August 2, 1966 FBI CI reported: "...[Redacted] recently had obtained from two thieves in Staten Island, the fruits of a burglary or robbery by them which consisted of jewelry...Frank LoCicero thereafter took this jewelry to John Rizzo and sold it for approximately $4,500. LoCicero then went to the thieves and gave them $3,000 for the jewelry, keeping $700 for himself and giving $700 to [Redacted]." (John Rizzo [1919-1988] was a Brooklyn-based Gambino Soldier who inherited from his father a jewelry business located on Canal St in Lower Manhattan.)

On September 14, 1966 CI Scarpa reported: "[Joseph] Colombo is extremely skeptical of Frank LoCicero and believes he is possibly an informant for some law enforcement agency. Informant stated that Colombo bases his suspicion on the fact that LoCicero was able to gain his release from jail at the earliest possible date."

In early morning hours of April 5, 1967 relative Richard LoCicero (22y) found stabbed to death in Bay Ridge section of Brooklyn. Richard, robbed of over $370,000 in securities the previous August, had recently testified before a Grand Jury investigating the incident.

On July 7, 1967 FBI CI reported: "[There] were several hundred thousand dollars worth of bonds stolen from a brokerage firm in New York City sometime during the last year. He advised that the employee who stole the bonds was Richard LoCicero. LoCicero [redacted] then turned the bonds over to Joe Colombo. Informant said that the LoCicero boy who stole the bonds was murdered. The body bore numerous wounds and the actual killing was done by an individual known as [Redacted]. He said this individual is aka [Redacted]. He said [Redacted] is a very sadistic and vicious individual who has been involved in other murders."

On August 11, 1967 CI Scarpa reported: "...Informant said that Richard LoCicero and in fact the whole LoCicero family are very poorly regarded and were never 'close'. He stated that they were constantly fighting among themselves and it is the informant's personal unsupported belief that Richard LoCicero was killed [redacted] because they suspected that LoCicero was giving information to the Brooklyn DA's Office concerning his involvement in the [securities theft]."

On September 8, 1967 CI Scarpa reported: "[He] had recently heard that Frank LoCicero's sentence had recently been reduced from 5 to 10 years to 3 to 7 years and whereas LoCicero was to serve a minimum until 1971, he will now be released from jail the latter part of this year or early next year. Informant stated he had heard that a judge had been 'reached' for this favor by Dick Fusco [redacted], who the informant stated is an attorney with 'good connections'."

Released from NYS prison on April 2, 1968.

On April 19, at approximately 9:15 AM, his father Calogero LoCicero was shot to death inside a soda fountain - stationary shop located at 6524 11th Ave in Borough Park, Brooklyn. LoCicero seated at counter drinking strawberry malt when a hooded or masked assailant stood in doorway and fired a carbine, hitting LoCicero multiple times in the side and head and killing him instantly. Gunman fled on foot.

About an hour after the murder CI Scarpa reported: "[Scarpa] telephonically advised that he had been indirectly told by Joseph Colombo of LoCicero's murder and instructed to 'stay away' since police were 'bringing in' LoCicero's associates for questioning.

One week later Scarpa followed up with Agents:
"
[Scarpa] was next contacted by Colombo on [4/22] when they both attended LoCicero's wake. At that time Colombo confided LoCicero's murder was 'no problem' and Colombo had merely lost a 'compare'. Informant said that Colombo was not talkative and he did not press him concerning this.

During the early AM [4/26], informant advised that he had earlier left Colombo at which time Colombo again commented that LoCicero's murder caused the loss of a 'compare' to him. Colombo then asked what the informant felt he lost, to which Colombo was assured that the informant lost even less making it apparent that although LoCicero had at one time been his Captain, he never had any 'love' for him. Colombo thereupon advised the LoCicero murder was a 'family affair' not having anything to do with 'their Family' (obviously referring to the Joseph Colombo LCN Family). Colombo then advised that it was inevitable LoCicero would be killed by his own family since he was responsible for the murder of his grandson, Richard, and Colombo was surprised Frank had 'worked so fast'...Concerning Colombo's above reference to Frank, this is unquestionably Frank LoCicero, son of Charles LoCicero, who was arrested 7/27/1966 based on info furnished by [Scarpa] and charged with violation of parole. On 4/2/1968, Frank LoCicero was released from prison on this charge.
"

Frank acted as co-conspirator in a May 6, 1968 attempted murder inside a Dyker Heights social club. The victim, shot in the arms by Frank's half-brother Carlo, had reportedly been plotting against Colombo Captain Carmine Persico.

In September 1968 included in the FBI's list of 83 identified Colombo Family members.

On December 12, 1968 FBI CI (Member Source) identified LoCicero by photo as a Colombo Soldier.

On December 16, 1968 FBI CI reported: "[During 12/4-6/68], he saw more activity among members of the Joe Colombo Family on 86th Street than he has ever seen before. He said for the period of these three days, more meetings and more faces showed up in the vicinity of Cantalupo Realty and Caplan Buick Showroom than he has ever seen before. He stated he saw an awful lot of faces he has never seen before, mostly young men who all seemed to meet with Nick Bianco in front of Caplan’s Showroom or in Caplan’s Showroom. He stated he believes that these were people from the Gallo group on President Street in Brooklyn. He stated in this period of three days, a belief he has had for awhile was strengthened and that is that Nick Bianco is very important in the Colombo setup. He stated it seemed everybody who came to the neighborhood had to see Bianco. He stated during this period he saw the following individuals there: [List included both Frank and Benny LoCicero]." (Nicholas Bianco [1932-1994], inducted into the Patriarca Family in September 1963 and transferred to the Colombos two years later, was made a Captain in February 1970. Demoted as part of the regime change in the wake of Colombo's shooting in 1971, he soon returned to Providence, Rhode Island, and rejoined the Patriarcas, where he rose first to Captain and then into the Family's administration.)

On December 16, 1968 FBI CI reported: "[CI] identified photo of [Frank LoCicero] stating that he is a hijacker who works with Joe Saponaro and a [Redacted]. LoCicero frequents 13th Avenue and 65th Street in Brooklyn and at one time had a social club on 13th Avenue." ('Johnny Sap' Saponaro [1934-1991], a Proposed Associate since the early 1960s, was inducted into the Colombo Family in early 1983.)

J. Yacovelli
By 1969 believed under Captain Joseph 'Joe Yak' Yacovelli, who took over the Family's Jersey crew around April 1966 but also had a few New York-based members reporting to him.

Made members of Yacovelli's crew included Emanuel 'Nellie' Cammarata, Salvatore P. Cammarata, Salvatore Cannella, John D'Amico, Benjamin LoCicero, Frank LoCicero, Andrew Lombardino, Paul Lombardino, Rosario Lombardino, Salvatore 'Turi' Lombardino Jr., Salvatore S. Profaci, and Angelo Speciale.

Probable crew members included Onofrio Sciortino and the Jersey crew's Former Captain 'Big John' Misuraca.

On May 27, 1969 Frank and Benny LoCicero surveilled by FBI at Band G Discount Store located at 6812 11th Ave in Borough Park. Business owned by uncles Augie and John Mule.

On June 11, 1969 the brothers were observed at Monmouth Park Race Track in New Jersey.

In November 1969 included in the FBI's list of 79 identified Colombo Family members.

Around early December 1969 Joseph Yacovelli elected Consigliere and succeeded as Captain by Salvatore Lombardino Jr.

1970s

On February 10, 1970 CI Scarpa reported: "[Based] on recent contacts with Frank LoCicero he believes he is not doing anything big lately. LoCicero will make any score he can by 'swindle and con games' such as selling fake oriental rugs to doctors and other marks. Informant stated LoCicero is considered to be a 'real dog in the street'. LoCicero was under Joe Yacovelli and usually visits a restaurant located between 75th and 76th Streets, Brooklyn, every morning."

By 1971 resided at 1300 Richmond Ave in Graniteville, Staten Island.

On April 4 of that year among 4 named in Staten Island Advance article covering LCN figures who recently moved to the borough from Brooklyn. Those profiled were Frank and Benny LoCicero as well as Gambino Soldier Louis Guiga and Associate Gandolfo 'Buddy' Sciandra. Article gave addresses of each and summarized their criminal histories.

The following month an informant reported that LoCicero 'set up a new club' on 11th Ave between 67th and 68th Sts in Dyker Heights: "No gambling action is taken here but a card game is held there every Wednesday."

On June 28 Boss Joseph Colombo was shot and seriously wounded during the IACRL's Unity Day Rally in Manhattan. (He remained disabled until his death in 1978.)

Feb. 1972
On February 8, 1972 arrested by NYPD Brooklyn on grand larceny 2nd degree charge. On August 8, 1973 convicted on final charge unauthorized use motor vehicle; fined $250 and given conditional discharge.

J. Gallo
FBN Mafia Book
In April 2023 Frank DiMatteo and Michael Bensen's Mafia Hit Man: Carmine DiBiase, The Wiseguy Who Really Killed Joey Gallo was published. DiMatteo discusses the defection of Former Colombo Associate Joseph 'Joe Fish' Luparelli, noting that Luparelli named brothers 'Benny and Cisco' LNU as participants in the April 1972 murder of Colombo Soldier Joseph Gallo. According to DiMatteo, Luparelli was shown pictures in an attempt to identify the brothers and picked out Benny and Frank LoCicero, as well as a third unknown individual, as those with the closest resemblance. According to DiMatteo, Luparelli's identification of the third individual introduced enough reasonable doubt that no charges were brought against the LoCiceros. (DiMatteo erroneously refers to the LoCiceros as Franzese crew members. In discussing Luparelli's IDs he cites 'FBI report NY92-4123', which was the case number for a years-long investigation of Gallo's activities rather than one single document. The LoCiceros' involvement in the Gallo murders isn't mentioned by CI Scarpa or other sources in available reports on the brothers' activities.)

On August 12, 1972 son of CI Gregory Scarpa married, with reception held at La Parville in Bensonhurst. Attendees included Colombo Acting Captain Joseph 'Little Joey' Brancato, Soldiers James 'Jimmy Brown' Clemenza, Frank LoCicero and Dominick 'Mimi' Scialo as well as Associates Anthony Colombo, Joseph Colombo Jr., Albert DeCicco, Joseph DeCicco (Gambino), Philip 'Fat Philly' DioGuardi, Joseph 'Joe Notch' Iannaci, Joseph 'Minx' Livoti, Nicholas Mainello, Natale Marcone and Philip 'Chubby' Rossillo.

In October 1972 included in the FBI's list of 72 identified Colombo Family members.

On February 3, 1973 arrested by New Jersey State Police in New Brunswick on smuggling charge. Around February 27 convicted and sentenced to six months imprisonment county jail and $500 fine.

Same date received at Burlington County Jail in Mount Holly, NJ to and appears to have served only a portion of the sentence.

On April 12, 1973 FBI CI reported: "[CI] identified Gandy and Benny LoCicero as members of the Colombo Family of LCN and sons of the late Charlie the Sidge who was murdered approximately three years ago in a luncheonette on 11th Avenue and 67th Street, Brooklyn. Gandy and Benny are known gamblers who frequent Aqueduct racetrack."

G. Tropiano (L) and W. Cutolo
On April 27, 1973 FBI CI reported: "[Frank] LoCicero, Benny LoCicero, George Tropiano, William Cutolo, [Redacted] (LNU) and other individuals not known to the informant are operating a large dice game [at Meadowlark Social Club]." (Colombo Soldier George Tropiano [1915-1991] formerly [?] reported to Captain Nicholas 'Jiggs' Forlano. Tropiano's Associate William Cutolo [1949-1999] was inducted into the Family during the early 1980s and later rose to Underboss. Cutolo disappeared on Family orders in 1999.)

A couple of weeks later the FBI opened a gambling investigation into the club, located on 8th Ave in Dyker Heights.

On May 15-16, 1973 FBI surveillance at the location observed Frank LoCicero, Colombo Soldier George Tropiano and Associate William Cutolo.

On May 23, 1973 FBI CI reported: "[CI] has known 'Gandy' and his brother Benny LoCicero for many years [redacted] Frank and Benny LoCicero got their stature from their father Charles LoCicero (deceased)."

On May 23-24, 1973 Frank and Benny LoCicero surveilled at the Meadowlark.

The Colombo Family was by this time headed by Thomas DiBella, with Anthony 'Abbey' Abbatemarco and Alphonse 'Allie Boy' Persico serving as Underboss and Consigliere respectively.

C. Panarella
The LoCicero brothers were both reporting to Captain Charles 'Charlie Moose' Panarella.

By the summer made members in Panarella's crew included:
  1. Fred Clemenza
  2. James Clemenza
  3. Frank Fusco [Former Captain]
  4. Anthony LaPonzina
  5. Ralph LaPonzina
  6. Ernest LaPonzina
  7. Benjamin LoCicero
  8. Frank LoCicero
  9. Rocco Miraglia [Former Captain]
  10. Gregory Scarpa [FBI CI]
  11. Salvatore Scarpa
  12. Nick Sorrentino [Former Captain]
  13. George Tropiano
  14. Ralph 'Whitey' Tropiano
Associates included:
  1. Paul 'Paulie Guns' Bevacqua
  2. Peter Candarini
  3. Charles Clemenza
  4. William Cutolo
  5. Joseph 'Joe Brewster' DeDomenico
  6. Richard Fusco
  7. Salvatore Fusco
  8. Joseph 'Joe Lane' Gentile
  9. Michael 'Mikey Head' Gulemmo [Later a Bonanno Associate]
  10. Joseph 'Joe Notch' Iannaci
  11. Nicholas Mainello
  12. Peter Sabatino
  13. John 'Johnny Sap' Saponaro
  14. Joseph 'Joe Sap' Saponaro
  15. Gregory Scarpa Jr.
  16. Robert 'Rabbit' Stasio
(Of the Associates listed above the following were later inducted into the Colombo Family: Bevacqua, Cutolo, DeDomenico, the Fusco brothers, Gentile, Iannaci, the Saponaro brothers and Scarpa Jr.)

On June 7-8, 1973 Frank LoCicero and William Cutolo observed at the Meadowlark.

On July 9, 1973 CI Scarpa reported: "[The] card game being run by George Tropiano, Gregory Scarpa and Frank LoCicero on 65th Street, went broke the week of [6/28]. Informant advised that the group had no plans to relocate the game or reactivate it since it was not making money. Informant characterized the game as small with a $60 limit and stated the main factor of the game's demise was that George Tropiano one of the bankrollers and operators of the game became very ill and had to have a gall bladder operation. Tropiano was in the hospital for a week or two due to complications arising from his heart condition."

On July 12, 1973 CI Scarpa reported: "[Scarpa] characterized the following crew captains or members as the most active in the Colombo Family: Charlie Panarella, Dominick 'Mimi' Scialo, Joseph Brancato, Allie Boy Persico, Frank LoCicero."

On July 25, 1973 FBI surveillance conducted on Burger Prince Restaurant located at 6521 8th Ave in Dyker Heights. Those observed included Colombo Soldiers Anthony LaPonzina, Frank LoCicero and George Tropiano as well as Associates William Cutolo and Mario Tropiano.

Following day CI Scarpa provided an update on the Colombo Family's structure and the activities of various members. Scarpa identified Charles Panarella as a Captain and named the LaPonzinas as Panarella crew members.

On July 31 FBI CI reported: "'Gandy' turns his numbers action in to Anthony Abbatemarco. Abbatemarco, Lenny Dello, Sally Albanese and other members of the Persico crew frequent a cabaret in vicinity of 3rd Avenue and 90th Street, Brooklyn. The Cabaret is called the 'Golden Dove' and is managed by a Jewish guy."

On August 20 Captain Joseph Brancato's wife was waked in Middle Village, Queens. Attendees included Underboss Anthony Abbatemarco, Consigliere Alphonse Persico, Captain Charles Panarella, Soldiers Frank LoCicero, Rosario Nastasa, Modesto 'Duke' Santoro, Joseph 'Jo Jo' Vitacco and Colombo Associate Carmine 'Turi' Franzese.

M. Zaffarano
On September 11, 1973 Unspecified Male interviewed extensively by FBI re Gage Enterprises, site of an obscene film distributorship headed by Bonanno Captain Michael 'Mickey' Zaffarano in Springfield Gardens, Queens. During interview UM stated re LoCicero: "Was very friendly with Zaffarano and came to Captain Al's frequently and talked to Zaffarano." (Gage Enterprises had been raided five days before this interview. Captain Al's was a restaurant operated by Zaffarano Associate Umberto 'Al' Altruda [1915-1987].)

On September 18, 1973 FBI CI reported: “[CI] advised that Frank LoCicero formerly operated a crap game at Fort Hamilton Parkway, Brooklyn, but for some unknown reason had to close the game down."

In October 1973 included in the FBI's list of 71 identified Colombo Family members.

On December 13, 1973 FBI CI reported: "[Shortly] before Joe Colombo was shot there was a plan to eliminate certain members of the Colombo Family including Frank and Benny LoCicero, George Tropiano, [Redacted] and [Redacted]. Some were to be murdered and others were to be removed from authority. This program was recently reactivated."

On December 17, 1973 CI Scarpa reported: "[Benny] or Frank [LoCicero] are opening a club for card games on 15th Avenue, between 75th and 76th Streets."

By 1974 moved to Jules Drive in Graniteville.

On January 23, 1974 part of a large group picked up in pre-dawn NYPD raid on a crap game held in the basement of 6320 Ave N in Mill Basin, Brooklyn.

Those arrested included Gambino Soldier Daniel 'Danny Wagner' Fatico, Gambino Soldier Liborio 'Bertie' Grillo, Colombo Soldier Frank LoCicero, Gambino Soldier Peter 'Pete Barry' Palmieri, Possible Lucchese Member Michael 'Mike Hammer' Dellacagna and Gambino Associate John Castore. $21,000 cash and dice seized. Staten Island Advance reported: "[DA] said detectives had to use a battering ram to break down a grilled iron door leading to the club...Inside, they had to go through a hidden door and a trap door before capturing the 30 men in the basement, the DA added." LoCicero and others charged with promoting gambling and possessing gambling appliances. (John Castore was the brother of Gambino Soldier Dominick Castore [1911-2003]. Michael Dellacagna [1918-1987] was an early associate of Future Gambino Member Roy DeMeo.)

An article published in the Staten Island Advance on April 28, 1974 included LoCicero in a list of local LCN members.

V. Gugliaro
Around mid-May 1974 Vincent 'Vinny Sicilian' Gugliaro was promoted to Captain. Gugliaro had formerly been a Soldier under Nicholas Forlano, who was sidelined due to both legal issues and a drinking problem.

Made members of Gugliaro's crew included Lorenzo Lampasi, his son Lorenzo Jr., Frank LoCicero, Salvatore Scarpa and George Tropiano.

Associates of interest included future Colombo Members Joseph 'Junior Lollipop' Carna, Joseph 'Joe T.' Tomasello and William Cutolo.

On June 1 the son of Colombo Associate Andrew 'Andy Mush' Russo was married, with the reception held at Holiday Inn in Hempstead, Long Island.

Attendees included Boss Thomas DiBella, Underboss Anthony Abbatemarco, Acting Consigliere Charles Panarella, four Captains and at least thirteen Soldiers including Frank and Benny LoCicero.

June 1974
On June 13, 1974 arrested by FBI following indictment by US Attorney's Office for Eastern District New York on bank and mail fraud charges.

On August 28, 1974 FBI CI reported: "[Gandy] LoCicero was observed in vicinity of Caplan Buick, 86th Street, Brooklyn, on Friday night, 8/23/1974."

On September 24, 1974 FBI CI reported: "[Vinny] Gugliaro is a Captain in the Colombo Family, with the following main guys in his crew: Frank LoCicero, Larry Lampasi, Frank Musacchio, George Tropiano. Informant advised there may be one or two more whom he will attempt to identify. Additionally, informant advised former Gallo associates Joseph Carna and his brother Larry Carna, although not made guys, are now with Vinny the Sicilian's crew." (Joseph Carna was inducted into the Colombo Family after the books opened in 1976.)

S. Albanese (L) and J. Russo
Around November 1974 the LoCicero brothers, along with Colombo Associate Salvatore Albanese and Genovese Associate John 'Johnny Mumbles' Russo, were designated the subjects of another FBI gambling investigation. (Albanese and Russo were made into their respective Families as part of the first wave of inductions in early 1976.)

On November 22, 1974 included in the FBI's list of 74 identified Colombo Family members.

On December 23, 1974 FBI CI reported: "[Frank] LoCicero and Benny LoCicero have a 'piece' of a blackjack game being held nightly at the Meadow Lark Social Club, 63rd Street and 20th Avenue, Brooklyn."

On January 27, 1975 FBI CI reported: "[Frank] and Benny LoCicero continue to have a piece with with Johnny Russo of the blackjack game held nightly at the Meadow Lark Social Club, 63rd Street, Brooklyn. Informant states there are about eight players for each hand, about $1,000 observed on table, house gets a 5% cut of each pot. Informant advised game begins about 12:00 - 1:00 AM runs all night, and sometimes until noon the next day. Informant states game is a popular one and many 'wiseguys' usually attend. Informant states LoCicero's father, Charlie Sidge, was a powerful spokesman for former LCN boss Profaci, however, he was responsible for having a kid, Mickey 'Yo Yo' Tricardo 'whacked out' which was felt to be a bad mistake leading to LoCicero's own demise." (Michael Tricardo [1916-1966] was a former LoCicero associate shot to death in Bensonhurst. At the time Scarpa told his handlers that Tricardo's murder was 'a mystery' to the Colombos.)

On February 6, 1975 FBI CI reported: “[There] is a gambling game going on at the Meadowlark Social Club located on 63rd Street off 20th Avenue in Brooklyn. Informant advised blackjack is the primary game played and John Russo and Frank and Benny LoCicero are often on the scene. Informant stated that the LoCiceros are also known to make shylock type loans to individuals who play at the club.

On February 8, 1975 subject of FBI search inside the Meadowlark. $2,200 cash and telephone directory found on person; individuals listed included Colombo Associates Salvatore Albanese, Albert Mugnolo and Joseph 'Lefty' SanGiorgio. Unspecified records seized relating to possible Gambino Member Joseph Arena (1926-1999). Cash returned by FBI via attorney later that year.

On February 20, 1975 FBI CI reported: "[Frank] LoCicero has curtailed some of his gambling activities in view of his upcoming court appearance [re bank fraud case]. It is for this reason that more individuals were not present during [2/8 raid]."

On March 13, 1975 FBI CI reported that Colombo Associate Salvatore Albanese and an individual whose name is redacted, possibly Frank LoCicero, had 'done hit jobs in the past'.

On March 13-17, 1975 FBI CI reported: "[The] following info concerning the operation of the Meadowlark Social Club: [Redacted section]...Informant further advised gambling usually starts at 12:00 midnight at the Meadowlark, which he described as Johnny Russo's club...Informant further advised that [redacted] at the Meadowlark with Johnny Russo inasmuch as Frank 'Gandy' LoCicero has some sort of legal trouble."

J. Brancato
On June 12, 1975 FBI CI reported: "[Frank] LoCicero continues to collect loanshark payments for [Redacted] but [Joseph] Brancato does not seem to have any consistent patterns of pickups." (Joseph Brancato [1917-1989] was the Family's Acting Boss at the time.)

On July 30, 1975 FBI CI reported: "[Frank] LoCicero continues to make loanshark payment pick ups for [Redacted; re Brancato]."

By this time may have served as Vincent Gugliaro's Acting Captain.

On September 15, 1975 convicted in US District Court Brooklyn on Federal loan fraud charge re 1974 indictment. Mail fraud count dismissed.

C. Franzese
On September 27 the daughter of Colombo Associate Carmine Franzese married, with the reception held at Queens Terrace Caterers in Woodside.

Attendees included Boss Thomas DiBella, Acting Boss Joseph Brancato, Underboss Anthony Abbatemarco, Consigliere Alphonse Persico, five Official / Acting Captains and at least thirteen Soldiers including Frank LoCicero.

L. Dello
On September 28, 1975 wedding reception for the daughter of Colombo Soldier Leonard Dello held at Queens Terrace Caterers in Woodside, Queens. Attendees included Acting Boss Joseph Brancato and at least ten other members including Frank LoCicero.

On October 4 a reception for Soldier Rocco 'Rocky' Miraglia's daughter was held at Shalimar Caterers in New Dorp, Staten Island. LoCicero, his Captain Vincent Gugliaro and most of the others present at the Franzese reception were in attendance.

On October 8, 1975 FBI CI provided update on the Colombo Family structure. He identified Vincent Gugliaro as Captain and named seven made members of his crew: Robert Barbieri, Jerome 'Gene Magliocco' D'Agati, Lorenzo Lampasi Jr., Frank LoCicero, Frank 'Frankie the Sheik' Musacchio, Salvatore Scarpa and George Tropiano.

On October 25, 1975 sentenced by EDNY Judge Mark A. Constantino to eighteen months Federal imprisonment re loan fraud conviction.

On November 7, 1975 FBI CI (Colombo Member) reported: "[Vincent] Gugliaro [redacted] the Georgetown Inn, Ralph Avenue, Brooklyn, and can be seen there most Friday and Saturday nights, and utilizes the parking lot to talk to people. Informant states [Gugliaro used Frank LoCicero] as a [redacted; Acting Captain?] before [Frank] went to jail, and may now use Sal Scarpa in his place." (This individual appears to have begun informing around the time of Scarpa's deactivation as a source and continued to provide information, particularly on the Family's South Brooklyn crews, through the rest of the decade.)

On December 1975 included in the FBI's list of 73 identified Colombo Family members.

On February 20, 1976 received at USP Leavenworth, Kansas to serve eighteen month sentence.

Earlier the same after the New York Families' books opened for the first time since the late 1950s.

His rap sheet shows a November 1, 1976 arrest for grand larceny in Nassau County, although he is believed to have still been incarcerated.

On December 2, 1976 FBI NY compiled an update on the Colombo Family's structure. The chart identified Vincent Gugliaro as a Captain and listed his crew members as including Robert Barbieri, Lorenzo Lampasi Jr., Frank LoCicero, Frank Musacchio, Salvatore Scarpa and George Tropiano.

Two weeks later released from Federal prison.

T. DiBella (1970s)
By that time the Family had divided into two camps. One side supported Boss Thomas DiBella and the Persicos. The other, headed by Joseph Yacovelli and Underboss Anthony Abbatemarco, felt that DiBella favored the Persicos too strongly and sought to remove him as Boss.

The Yacovelli - Abbatemarco faction had the support of Family Captains Joseph Brancato, James Clemenza, Vincent Gugliaro and Salvatore Lombardino Jr.

The Commission was called in to resolve the dispute and sided with DiBella, leading to Abbatemarco and other dissidents being demoted and the Family undergoing a large scale reorganization.

On February 8, 1977 FBI CI noted that one of the rebel Captains, Vincent Gugliaro, had been reassigned 'possibly temporarily' to Aniello Giannattasio.

On March 3, 1977 FBI CI provided an update on the new Family setup, naming Thomas DiBella and Alphonse Persico as Boss and Consigliere respectively. The Underboss position was vacant and would remain so until Carmine Persico was released from Federal prison in 1980.

Captains were Aniello Giannattasio, Gennaro 'Jerry Lang' Langella, Charles Panarella, Salvatore J. Profaci, Vincenzo Randazzo, Andrew Russo and Unassigned Florida Crew. Thomas DiBella also had a crew reporting directly to him.

A. Giannattasio
Made members under Giannattasio included Vincent 'Little Jimmy' Melia as well as former Gugliaro crew members Lorenzo Lampasi Jr., Frank LoCicero, Frank Musacchio and Salvatore Scarpa. (Vincent Gugliaro himself was assigned to Persico loyalist Gennaro 'Jerry Lang' Langella by the summer.)

On May 13, 1977 arrested by NYPD on charges promoting gambling and possessing gambling device and paraphernalia.

On July 28, 1977 FBI CI (Probable Member Source) reported a large amount of information on New York LCN matters, including a redacted paragraph that mentions the LoCicero brothers. (It's possible the information concerned the induction of Charles A. LoCicero, included in the FBI's 1993 membership list.)

By September 1977 transferred to the crew of Charles Panarella, the only Captain who remained loyal to the leadership during the DiBella - Yacovelli dispute.

Made members of Panarella's crew included Fred Clemenza, Frank Fusco, Ernest LaPonzina, Benjamin LoCicero, Frank LoCicero, Frank 'Beansy' Melli, Rocco Miraglia, Gregory Scarpa (since deactivated as a CI) and Alphonso 'Peanuts' Serrantonio.

An updated chart from November 1977 listed the same crew members.

On December 14, 1977 arrested by Nassau County PD on petit larceny charge. Pleaded guilty and fined $500.

On May 23-25, 1978 wake for Former Boss Joseph Colombo held in New York. Event heavily attended and subject of LE surveillance. Those present included Colombo Consigliere Alphonse Persico, Soldiers Harry Fontana, Benny and Frank LoCicero, Rocco Miraglia and Rosario Nastasa as well as Lucchese Soldier Joseph Frangipane and Possible Lucchese Member Nicola 'Nicky Edkins' DiCostanzo. (DiCostanzo was inducted around this time.)

By mid-January 1979 transferred back to Aniello Giannattasio's crew and served as the Acting Captain.

On January 22, 1979 FBI CI reported: "[Frank] 'Gandy' LoCicero is currently acting as a Captain in the Colombo Family filling in for Allie Giannattasio. Source claims Giannattasio, who is in his late 60's, and is currently residing with his new wife, [Redacted] (LNU) in the North New Jersey area, has not been feeling well lately, and therefore LoCicero is handling his crew. Source further advised that Gandy LoCicero can be found on a regular basis at a club he is currently operating on Avenue U, between East 27th and East 28th St in Brooklyn. LoCicero is currently booking sports and horse bets, shylocking and running a crap game every afternoon at this social club."

By June 1979 made members of Giannattasio's crew included Dominic 'Little Dom' Cataldo, Alphonse 'Funzi' D'Ambrosio, Paul D'Amico, Philip Fontana, Philip 'Fat Foongi' Gambino, Joseph 'Joe Black' Gorgone, Lorenzo Lampasi Jr., Frank LoCicero, Frank Musacchio, Salvatore Scarpa and John Scimone.

Associates of interest included Future Lucchese Acting Boss Joseph 'Little Joe' DeFede. (DeFede was on record with Cataldo.)

In June 1979 included in the FBI's list of 94 identified Colombo Family members.

Giannattasio died August 10, 1979 and was succeeded by Dominick 'Donnie Shacks' Montemarano.

On October 6, 1980 included in DEA list of 86 identified Colombo Family members.

On October 17, 1980 included in the FBI's list of 90 identified Colombo Family members.

An FBI chart compiled the same date noted that Captain Dominick Montemarano's crew consisted of made members Dominic Cataldo, Philip Fontana, Philip Gambino, Joseph Gorgone, Lorenzo Lampasi Jr., Frank LoCicero, Frank Musacchio, Salvatore Scarpa and John Scimone.

1980s

In or around December 1982 FBI Cooperating Witness reported: "CW advised Benjamin LoCicero owes [redacted] to LoCicero's gambling habits and the payoff of [redacted]. CW indicated Benjamin LoCicero also owes the following individuals money: 1. Frank LoCicero; [Five Redacted Names]."

LoCicero is listed in the June 1983 Senate Chart of Colombo Family membership.

On May 30, 1984 he and Lucchese Soldier Louis 'Louie Beans' Foceri indicted by USAO EDNY on conspiracy charges.

LoCicero specifically accused of conspiracy and possession in relation to the December 1983 theft of $613,700 worth American Express Travelers Checks from Newark Airport.

On June 5 surrendered at FBI Brooklyn-Queens Office. Arraigned before EDNY Magistrate Simon Chen and released on $50,000 bond. Subsequently convicted and given six years.

On May 7, 1985 received at Federal Prison Camp in Big Spring, Texas to serve sentence.

In 1988 included in Senate Chart of Colombo Family membership.

On March 13, 1989 released from Federal prison.

1990s - 2000s

On March 26, 1991 CI Scarpa reported: “Source also noted Joseph Colombo, Jr. and Frank LoCicero were recently released from prison."

V. Aloi
Excerpt from Brooklyn District Attorney's Office Chart
By May 1991 reporting to Captain Vincenzo Aloi.

Made members of Aloi's crew included Pasquale 'Patty' Catalano, 'Fat Dennis' DeLuca, Dennis Guzzardo, Benjamin LoCicero, Frank LoCicero, Charles Lombardo and Ralph Scopo Jr.

By late 1991 hostilities broke out between a faction loyal to the imprisoned Boss Carmine Persico and those loyal to Acting Boss Vic Orena, who named Vincenzo Aloi his Consigliere.

Aloi remained an ardent Orena supporter, and the LoCiceros are believed to have followed suit; on at least two occasions in the mid-1990s, FBI Agents had to warn Benny of a possible contract on his life.

Numerous arrests and subsequent defections brought the hostilities to a cease by the middle of 1992. (Exception being Orena's Acting Underboss Joseph Scopo who was shot to death in October 1993.)

In June 1993 included in the FBI's list of 117 identified Colombo Family members.

B. LoCicero
Around 1995 Benny LoCicero was named Acting Captain for an individual whose name is redacted.

Made member's of LoCicero's crew included Frank LoCicero as well as father and son Vincenzo and 'Charlie Fish' Miceli.

On February 25, 1999 FBI reported: "Benjamin LoCicero is acting capo in the crew of [Redacted]...Benjamin LoCicero, an [redacted; Orena?] faction member, is known to be involved in loansharking, gambling, extortion and other criminal activities...Frank LoCicero currently resides in Florida and believed to be retired."

Frank died August 19, 2011 in New Jersey.

Buried in Green-Wood Cemetery located in Greenwood Heights, Brooklyn.

More Colombo Family posts can be found in the Index.

Update

G. DeCicco New Posts 1. George DeCicco (Gambino) : Captain operating primarily in Bath Beach and Bensonhurst. Uncle of the better-known Fra...