Jerome D'Agati (Colombo)

c. 1965

Jerome 'Gene Magliocco' D'Agati was a member of the Colombo Family.

He was related by marriage to the Badalamenti, Magliocco and Profaci families.

Jerome was born May 19, 1920 in Villabate comune of Palermo to Francesco (34y) and Antonia Magliocco (25y).

Antonia, from nearby Portella di Mare, was a sister of future Colombo Family Members Joseph (1898-1963), Ambrose (1901-1982) and Antonio (1909-1994), as well as suspected Colombo Member Angelo (1885-1940). (Joseph and Ambrose rose to Acting Boss and Capodecina respectively.)

On December 2, 1920 Jerome and family arrived at Ellis Island, New York aboard S.S. Dante Alighieri. Destined for grandfather Giovanni Magliocco (62y) residing at 512 4th Ave in Gowanus, Brooklyn.

F. D'Agati (Passport Photo)

 

On December 29 of that year, at approximately 8:30 PM, Francesco D'Agati shot and killed his wife at the Magliocco home after an argument. Giovanni Magliocco, upon hearing the shots, retrieved his own handgun and killed Francesco. Jerome and his siblings were present at the time. The following day New York Daily News reported: "Magliocco told police that Mrs. Dagote (sic) and her four children were in his basement rooms last night when [Frank] Dagote rang the bell. She ran back as two shots rang out. She fell with two bullets in her body. Magliocco, on the first floor, heard the shots and reached into a bureau drawer for his own .45-calibre automatic. He ran down the stairs and at the bottom he saw Dagote standing over his wife's body. He fired several shots, he told police, he did not know how many, at his son-in-law. The police say he fired nine shots, two of which took effect. Dagote died instantly." The charge of homicide against Giovanni was dismissed the following month.

By April 1930 Jerome, along with brothers Vincent and John, were living with their uncles Joseph and Antonio Magliocco at 279 Bay 11th St in Bath Beach, Brooklyn. (Joseph was by then a made member of the Colombo Family and would become its Underboss. Twenty-year-old Antonio may have already been a member as well.)

By 1941 D'Agati, still residing in the Magliocco household, worked for his uncle at Sunland Beverage Corporation located at 125 Lawrence Ave in Parkville, Brooklyn.

He served in the US Army during World War II, reporting for active duty at Camp Upton, New York on November 21, 1942.

On September 21, 1943 became naturalized US citizen in Superior Court for Cumberland County in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

On November 19, 1945 honorably discharged from US Army as Staff Sergeant at Fort Dix, New Jersey.

On December 13, 1947 Jerome married Marie Badalamenti (21y) in Brooklyn.
 

Marie's father Giuseppe, a suspected Colombo Member who died in 1944, was from Carini in Palermo. Mother Maria Gangarossa from Porto Empedocle in Agrigento. (Giuseppe Badalamenti's brother Salvatore aka Sam was a Colombo Captain by the 1950s.)

The couple returned from their honeymoon on January 15, arriving in Miami from Havana, Cuba.

By April 1950 the D'Agatis resided at 268 Bay 17th St in Bath Beach. Jerome listed his occupation as traffic manager for the Magliocco family's liquor wholesale business in Parkville.

It's not known specifically when D'Agati was inducted into the Colombo Family. Given his family connections, he could have been made early that decade or possibly during the late 1940s. He was a confirmed member by 1957.

Joseph Magliocco's presence at the Apalachin Meeting in November 1957 led to the suspension of D'Agati's New York State Pistol Permit the following month. Jerome was then residing at 8874 15th Ave in Bath Beach and employed as the Alpine Wine and Liquor Company's General Manager.

It's not known who Jerome's Captain was pre-1965. He may have reported to in-law Salvatore 'Sam' Badalamenti.

Made members of Badalamenti's crew included Carmelo 'Joe' Mutoli and brothers Anthony and Joseph Peraino. Probable crew members included fellow Carini natives Nicolo Failla and Vincenzo Randazzo.

A. Magliocco (1964)

 

Alternatively, D'Agati may have reported to his uncle Ambrose Magliocco, Joseph's younger brother, by mid-1962.

Made members of Magliocco's crew included Vincent Mangano, Vincent 'Jimmy' Muce, Rosario 'Black Sam' Nastasa, James 'Jimmy' Rubertone and FBI CI Gregory Scarpa.

Simone Andolino (Source: FBN)

By 1965 he reported to Captain Simone 'Sam' Andolino.

Made members of the Andolino crew included Jerome D'Agati, Paul D'Amico, Vincent Mangano and Carmelo 'Joe' Mutoli. Possible additional crew members included Robert 'Bob' Barbieri and Giuseppe 'Pino' Tipa Jr.

On January 19, 1965 Jerome was re-issued an NYS Pistol Permit. His occupation was then listed as Alpine's Traffic Manager and Warehouse Manager.

J. D'Agati at Fusco Reception (1965)

On May 15, 1965 the youngest daughter of recently promoted Colombo Captain Frank Fusco was married, with the reception held at Claridge Caterers located at 631 Ave P in Gravesend. The event was heavily attended and, thanks to forewarning by CI Scarpa, a target of FBI surveillance. Those observed included Boss Joseph Colombo, Underboss Salvatore 'Charlie Lemons' Mineo, at least nine of the ten Family Captains (Simone Andolino may not have been present), Lucchese Captain Carmine 'Gribbs' Tramunti and at least thirty-one identified Colombo Soldiers. D'Agati was present and photographed by Agents.

Four days later CI Scarpa reported: "[Scarpa] advised that he had attended the wedding of Dick Fusco's daughter on 5/15/65. [Scarpa] stated that there were a number of members of the Colombo Family there and it is anticipated these individuals will be identified at a later date with the assistance of photographs which will be exhibited to [Scarpa]...[Scarpa] also stated that both Anthony and Ambrose Magliocco were in attendance at the wedding and they were accompanied by Gene (LNU) who is also described by [Scarpa] as a member of the Colombo Family. [Scarpa] stated that Gene is employed at Alpine Liquor by Anthony Magliocco and is a relative of the Maglioccos, probably a nephew.”

On June 14, 1965 Agents brought D'Agati's Pistol Permit photo to a meeting with Scarpa: "A photograph of Jerome D'Agati was exhibited to [Scarpa] who advised this individual was identical with Gene (LNU) who had been previously identified as a member of the Colombo Family of LCN by [Scarpa]. [Scarpa] also stated Gene is a relative of the Magliocco family and is employed in the warehouse of Alpine Liquor Company, Brooklyn." This was the first identification of Jerome D'Agati as an LCN member and resulted in his being named the subject of an anti-racketeering investigation.

On January 7, 1966 the US Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York contacted the FBI's New York Office: "[AUSA] telephonically contacted [SA] and requested information as to whether the NYPD has been advised that Jerome D'Agati was currently in possession of a pistol license. [AUSA] stated that he felt the NYPD should be advised of D'Agati's status in LCN and the fact that he does have a pistol permit."

On January 11, 1966 FBI contacted NYPD: "[SA] discussed with Deputy NYPD Commissioner Edward J. McCabe the above info and [McCabe] stated that a hearing was held concerning D'Agati's license at the Division of Licenses on 1/27/58. The hearing developed that while D'Agati is a blood relation and was raised by Joseph Magliocco and related to Joseph Profaci through marriage, he lived a separate and independent life from that of his family. In his employment at Alpine Wine and Liquor Company he works independent of the Maglioccos, has no criminal record, and has an excellent reputation in the vicinity of his home. In addition, D'Agati denied having ever been associated with the Mafia or any other suspect organizations and also denied having knowledge any of the Maglioccos were associated with or attended any meetings with any Mafia members. [NYPD] stated in view of the above information at the hearing and in the absence of any information other than the relationship, this pistol license probably would not be taken away."

On March 18, 1966 FBI reported: "[FBI CI Gregory Scarpa] has advised that Jerome D'Agati is almost completely inactive in Colombo Family affairs. It is noted D'Agati is related to the Magliocco brothers and employed by Anthony Magliocco at Alpine Wine and Liquors and as such would not be a close associate of Joseph Colombo and his group. [Scarpa] has advised that the Profaci - Magliocco group in the Family does not show Colombo much respect as they apparently feel that he usurped their power."

On March 26, 1966 the son of Colombo Soldier Michael Savino was married, with the reception held at Queens Terrace Caterers at 68-27 Roosevelt Ave in Woodside, Queens. Attendees included Boss Joseph Colombo, Underboss Salvatore Mineo, Consigliere Benedetto D'Alessandro, at least eight of the ten Family Captains (Harry Fontana and John Misuraca may not have been present), Jerome D'Agati and at least twenty-four additional Colombo Soldiers. Others in attendance included Genovese Soldier (Acting Capo?) Joseph Schipani and Colombo Associates Frank 'Frankie the Beast' Falanga, Gennaro 'Jerry Lang' Langella, Nicholas Mainello, Hugh 'Apples' McIntosh, Joseph 'Butch' Musumeci and Alfonso 'Peanuts' Serrantonio.

On September 14,1967 FBI CI Scarpa reported: "[Scarpa] advised that he is familiar with Jerome D'Agati as an LCN member in the Colombo Family, who is employed at Peerless Liquors. [Scarpa] said he believes D'Agati is assigned to the regime of John Scimone (sic; Simone Andolino) but he has been very 'quiet' and inactive and [Scarpa] doubts he is engaged in any criminal activities."

On October 16, 1967 FBI CI Scarpa reported: "[Scarpa] advised there apparently had been a misunderstanding and Jerome D'Agati is presently assigned to Simone Andolino in the Colombo Family; John Scimone has never been a Captain and is merely a Soldier in the Colombo Family and is believed by Scarpa to be assigned to the regime of [Redacted; Possibly Carmine Persico]."

On June 3, 1968 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that Jerome D'Agati is still employed at Peerless or Alpine Liquors and is apparently not involved in any illegal activities to [CI]'s knowledge. [CI] said D'Agati has been 'hitting the bottle' badly during the recent past and consequently lost his job as a dispatcher for above company and has been moved to the office."

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

On March 27, 1969 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised Jerome D'Agati continues to be completely inactive in LCN affairs and is not involved in any illegal activities to his knowledge."

On June 25, 1969 D'Agati and a couple of relatives formed Acorn Trucking at 868 Broadway in Bayonne, New Jersey. An FBI spot check in 1972 found only law offices at the location.

In September 1969 D'Agati's Captain Simone Andolino died in Palermo.

The following month Acting Captain Carmelo 'Joe' Mutoli also died, after which remaining crew members were believed to have been distributed among the other Captains. It's not known who D'Agati was assigned to. (Given some of his later associations and crew affiliation it may have been Vincent Aloi or Nicholas Forlano.)

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

On December 22, 1969 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that Jerome D'Agati continues to be inactive in LCN affairs and to his knowledge is not involved in any illegal activities, but continues to be employed by [Alpine]."

On February 13, 1970 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that Jerome D'Agati continues to be employed by Antonio Magliocco at [Alpine]. [CI] advised Alpine Liquors recently changed location from old Lawrence St location to expanded, modernized quarters downtown at 16 Bridgewater St, Brooklyn. [CI] stated D'Agati is currently in charge of purchasing at this location, having formerly been the head of the warehouse operation at the old location. He advised D'Agati is very quiet and a 'nice fellow' and not involved in any illegal activities as far as he knows."

Throughout 1971 and into early 1972 one or more informants were contacted and advised that D'Agati continued his legitimate employment and was 'completely inactive' in Family affairs.

By May 1972 he had left Alpine Wine and Liquors and took a salesman position with Capitol Distributors at 48-10 31st St in Maspeth, Queens.

On August 15, 1972 interviewed by FBI: "D'Agati said that he is employed by Capitol Distributors [as] a salesman...D'Agati said that he had attempted to start his own distributorship by forming two corporations both known as Acorn Trucking. He said for ease of transacting business in both NY and NJ he incorporated separately in each state. He said Acorn is no longer in operation since he was unable to get insurance. The only assets of Acorn are two tractors which are presently in storage. D'Agati said since he has no driver's license, he has been unable to register a car in New York State. He said the car used by his daughter is registered to his brother-in-law, Sal Badalamenti. D'Agati advised he still holds a New York pistol permit."

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

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

V. Muce

By May 1974 D'Agati reported to newly appointed Captain Vincent 'Jimmy' Muce.

Made members of Muce's crew included Robert Barbieri, Jerome D'Agati, Paul D'Amico, Philip Fontana, Salvatore John Fontana, Ambrose Magliocco, Antonio Magliocco, Salvatore 'Sammy' Peritore and Michael Savino.

V. Gugliaro (Source: New York Daily News)

 

By October 1975 D'Agati had been transferred to Captain Vincent 'Vinny Sicilian' Gugliaro.

Made members of Gugliaro's crew included Robert 'Bob' Barbieri, Jerome D'Agati, Lawrence 'Larry' Lampasi Jr., Frank 'Gandy' LoCicero, Frank 'Frankie the Sheik' Musacchio, Salvatore Scarpa (brother of Greg) and George Tropiano.

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

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

On January 15, 1976 appeared at the FBI's New York Office for interview: "[D'Agati] voluntarily presented himself at the [NYO] and advised as follows: He is a wholesale liquor distributor salesman for Capital Distributors Corporation, 55-60 58th St, Maspeth...He advised he works on a straight commission of his sales. His area is widespread, including Bensonhurst (Brooklyn), Coney Island, Long Island, Rosedale. He also handles Manhattan to 119th St. Prior to working with Capitol, he worked for Alpine Liquor Distributor. D'Agati advised that he had no contacts with organized crime figures and stated he was unsure of what a 'wise guy' was."

In January 1977 included in the FBI's list of 67 identified Colombo Family members.

In June 1979 included in the FBI's list of 94 identified Colombo Family members. The report listed D'Agati as 'retired'.

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.

By Fall 1981 D'Agati reported to Captain Anthony 'Scappi' Scarpati.

Made members of Scarpati's crew included Vincent Aloi, Anthony Colombo, Salvatore Fusco, Joseph Peraino Jr., Modesto 'Duke' Santoro, CI Gregory Scarpa, Gregory Scarpa Jr., Vincent 'Jimmy Skee' Scianna and George Tropiano.

Associates of interest included future members Joseph 'Joe Brewster' DeDomenico, brothers John and Joseph Saponaro, Carmine Sessa and Robert Zambardi. (DeDomenico and Joseph Saponaro may have already been made.)

On November 19, 1981 CI Scarpa reported: “[Scarpa] identified Gene Magliocco as a member of the Colombo Family under the crew of Anthony Scarpati. Scarpa noted that Magliocco is a liquor salesman for Peerless Importers, which is owned by Colombo Family members Tony and Ambrose Magliocco.”

D'Agati is listed in both the 1983 and 1988 Senate Charts of Colombo Family membership.

A. Russo (Source: Gang Land News)

By May 1991 D'Agati reported to Captain Anthony 'Chucky' Russo.

Made members of Russo's crew included Jerome D'Agati, Vincent 'Jimmy Gooch' Febbraro, Joseph Saponaro, CI Gregory Scarpa and Gregory Scarpa Jr.

Associates of interest included future members Frank 'B.F.' Guerra and Joseph Savarese.

It's not know what, if any, role D'Agati played in the early 1990s Colombo war.

In June 1993 included, under the name Gene Magliocco, in the FBI's list of 117 identified Colombo Family members.

Jerome D'Agati died June 4, 2001 in New York.

His wake was held over the following two days at the Gambino-affiliated Scarpaci Funeral Home in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn.