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| S. Timpani |
1. New Posts: Edward 'Blackie' D'Agosta and Salvatore Timpani (DeCav)
2. Updated Post: Rotondo Crew (1977-2001) - Added photos and additional bio details of Vincent Rotondo, D'Agosta and Felice LaMela.
Monday, June 16, 2025
Salvatore Timpani (DeCavalcante)
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| 1998 |
Salvatore 'Little Sal' Timpani was a Soldier in the DeCavalcante Family.
Born September 24, 1943 in Torregrotta comune of Messina, Sicily.
On September 11, 1956 arrived at Port of New York aboard S.S. Queen Federica.
By the early 1970s associated with the DeCavalcante Family.
By 1973 resided at 449 Fourth Ave in Peterstown section of Elizabeth, New Jersey. Worked as a barber.
On January 22 of that year arrested by the local PD on a gambling charge.
Born September 24, 1943 in Torregrotta comune of Messina, Sicily.
On September 11, 1956 arrived at Port of New York aboard S.S. Queen Federica.
By the early 1970s associated with the DeCavalcante Family.
By 1973 resided at 449 Fourth Ave in Peterstown section of Elizabeth, New Jersey. Worked as a barber.
On January 22 of that year arrested by the local PD on a gambling charge.
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| 1970s |
Timpani is believed to have been inducted into the DeCavalcantes by December 1976, when he was spotted at a Family Christmas party held at Ange and Min's Restaurant in Kenilworth, New Jersey.
All of the identified attendees were known as longtime or recently inducted members, with the exception of Timpani and Carmelo 'Melio' Cocchiaro.
Both may have been made with Joseph Colletti, Joseph LaSala and others circa Fall 1976. (Colletti and LaSala were also among the party guests at Ange and Min's.)
It's possible that Timpani and Cocchiaro were instead part of a separate group comprised of proposed associates who attended as a way to be introduced to the wider membership. This was done on more than one occasion in the mid-1960s. (Carmelo Cocchiaro is confirmed as a made member in a January 1977 report.)
Timpani was possibly reporting to Captain Louis 'Fat Lou' LaRasso.
On August 21, 1979 the Elizabeth Police Department advised the FBI's Newark Field Office: "[PD] had received recent information indicating that [Salvatore Timpani and Unsub] had been elevated to positions of power within the DeCavalcante LCN Family."
Timpani then resided in Toms River, New Jersey and was employed with the Family-controlled Local 394 Hod Carriers Union in Elizabeth.
In early January 1981 an FBI informant noted that Timpani 'has no money and cannot ever pay his bills'.
By 1982 he resided at 36 3rd Ave in Neptune City, New Jersey.
In May of that year a Federal racketeering investigation was opened on Timpani, DeCavalcante Acting Boss John Riggi, Captain Giacomo 'Jake' Colletti, Soldier Joseph 'Fat Joe' Colletti (Jake's son) and Associate Charles Alfano. (Alfano was born 1943 in Brooklyn. His family, like Riggi and the Collettis, was from Ribera in Agrigento.)
In early June 1982 Timpani attended a celebratory dinner held at the Amber Cafe located on 3rd Ave in South Brooklyn. Hosted by John Riggi, the occasion was to honor three newly made members of the DeCavalcantes and to introduce them to other Family members.
Those present in addition to Timpani included Acting Boss Riggi, (Acting?) Captain Joseph Colletti, Captains Paolo Farina and Vincent 'Jimmy' Rotondo, Soldier Girolamo 'Jimmy' Palermo and newly inducted members James 'Jimmy Pitt' Gallo, Anthony Rotondo and Gaetano 'Corky' Vastola. (Palermo may have been a Captain.)
On September 30, 1982 Timpani traveled to Italy.
Around that time John Riggi replaced Simone DeCavalcante as the Family's official Boss.
In February 1983 Timpani was identified as a DeCavalcante Soldier during US Senate Hearings on Organized Crime in America. Entry stated: "Sal Timpani is a 'Soldier' in the 'DeCavalcante Crime Family'. He was given this position due to his money-making potential as a key gambling operative in the Jersey Shore area."
On April 16, 1984 subject of FBI surveillance in connection with the RICO investigation opened in 1982.
On December 10, 1984 FBI NK reported: "...John Riggi is the acting head of the DeCavalcante LCN Family which operates primarily out of its base in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Riggi directs the illegal activities of the DeCavalcante Family which includes [Joseph] Colletti and [Salvatore] Timpani. [Charles] Alfano although not a 'member' of the DeCavalcante Family is a close associate and is believed to be a 'hit man' for the DeCavalcantes."
Among 19 DeCavalcante Soldiers named in a 1985 Federal chart.
On February 7, 1985 FBI Agents surveilled Timpani at the Cafe Italia located on Third Ave in Elizabeth. Also observed was an auto registered to local resident Salvatore Trapani (1942-2019).
All of the identified attendees were known as longtime or recently inducted members, with the exception of Timpani and Carmelo 'Melio' Cocchiaro.
Both may have been made with Joseph Colletti, Joseph LaSala and others circa Fall 1976. (Colletti and LaSala were also among the party guests at Ange and Min's.)
It's possible that Timpani and Cocchiaro were instead part of a separate group comprised of proposed associates who attended as a way to be introduced to the wider membership. This was done on more than one occasion in the mid-1960s. (Carmelo Cocchiaro is confirmed as a made member in a January 1977 report.)
Timpani was possibly reporting to Captain Louis 'Fat Lou' LaRasso.
On August 21, 1979 the Elizabeth Police Department advised the FBI's Newark Field Office: "[PD] had received recent information indicating that [Salvatore Timpani and Unsub] had been elevated to positions of power within the DeCavalcante LCN Family."
Timpani then resided in Toms River, New Jersey and was employed with the Family-controlled Local 394 Hod Carriers Union in Elizabeth.
In early January 1981 an FBI informant noted that Timpani 'has no money and cannot ever pay his bills'.
By 1982 he resided at 36 3rd Ave in Neptune City, New Jersey.
In May of that year a Federal racketeering investigation was opened on Timpani, DeCavalcante Acting Boss John Riggi, Captain Giacomo 'Jake' Colletti, Soldier Joseph 'Fat Joe' Colletti (Jake's son) and Associate Charles Alfano. (Alfano was born 1943 in Brooklyn. His family, like Riggi and the Collettis, was from Ribera in Agrigento.)
In early June 1982 Timpani attended a celebratory dinner held at the Amber Cafe located on 3rd Ave in South Brooklyn. Hosted by John Riggi, the occasion was to honor three newly made members of the DeCavalcantes and to introduce them to other Family members.
Those present in addition to Timpani included Acting Boss Riggi, (Acting?) Captain Joseph Colletti, Captains Paolo Farina and Vincent 'Jimmy' Rotondo, Soldier Girolamo 'Jimmy' Palermo and newly inducted members James 'Jimmy Pitt' Gallo, Anthony Rotondo and Gaetano 'Corky' Vastola. (Palermo may have been a Captain.)
On September 30, 1982 Timpani traveled to Italy.
Around that time John Riggi replaced Simone DeCavalcante as the Family's official Boss.
In February 1983 Timpani was identified as a DeCavalcante Soldier during US Senate Hearings on Organized Crime in America. Entry stated: "Sal Timpani is a 'Soldier' in the 'DeCavalcante Crime Family'. He was given this position due to his money-making potential as a key gambling operative in the Jersey Shore area."
On April 16, 1984 subject of FBI surveillance in connection with the RICO investigation opened in 1982.
On December 10, 1984 FBI NK reported: "...John Riggi is the acting head of the DeCavalcante LCN Family which operates primarily out of its base in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Riggi directs the illegal activities of the DeCavalcante Family which includes [Joseph] Colletti and [Salvatore] Timpani. [Charles] Alfano although not a 'member' of the DeCavalcante Family is a close associate and is believed to be a 'hit man' for the DeCavalcantes."
Among 19 DeCavalcante Soldiers named in a 1985 Federal chart.
On February 7, 1985 FBI Agents surveilled Timpani at the Cafe Italia located on Third Ave in Elizabeth. Also observed was an auto registered to local resident Salvatore Trapani (1942-2019).
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| J. Riggi, V. Palermo Gang Land News |
Around 1987 DeCav Boss John Riggi was involved in a dispute with an unnamed union delegate. Riggi, believing the delegate and his supporters were planning to move against him, decided to kill them first. Those involved in the murder plot included DeCav Consigliere Stefano 'Steve the Truck Driver' Vitabile, Captain Vincent Rotondo and Soldiers Vincent 'Vinny Ocean' Palermo and Salvatore Timpani. Palermo later testified:" [This] black delegate wasn't listening to John Riggi what he wanted done, and he was acting on his own. So he had an argument with him. And he sent somebody to give him a beating. They hit him over the head with a pipe."
Palermo and Timpani were put together to carry out the hit. Palermo: "[Jimmy Rotondo] said that there was a couple guys trying to kill John, they been sitting by his house, waiting for him. We need you to pull up and shoot them in front of his house...[Me and Timpani] were about to pull out, and a pickup truck started [toward] us with the brights flashing up and down, going pretty quick. Pulled up along side of us, it was Steve the Truck Driver, he says, forget about it, it's the FBI sitting there [outside Riggi's house]. Leave." The pair drove to a nearby diner, where Timpani immediately ran from the vehicle and left Palermo inside with the guns. Palermo: "[Later Jimmy Rotondo] says that we took care of the guy. He didn't say how or what and I didn't ask."
Palermo and Timpani were put together to carry out the hit. Palermo: "[Jimmy Rotondo] said that there was a couple guys trying to kill John, they been sitting by his house, waiting for him. We need you to pull up and shoot them in front of his house...[Me and Timpani] were about to pull out, and a pickup truck started [toward] us with the brights flashing up and down, going pretty quick. Pulled up along side of us, it was Steve the Truck Driver, he says, forget about it, it's the FBI sitting there [outside Riggi's house]. Leave." The pair drove to a nearby diner, where Timpani immediately ran from the vehicle and left Palermo inside with the guns. Palermo: "[Later Jimmy Rotondo] says that we took care of the guy. He didn't say how or what and I didn't ask."
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| Oct. 1989 |
On October 19, 1989 John Riggi, Salvatore Timpani and Soldiers Girolamo Palermo, John Riggi Jr. and Vincent Riggi were indicted by the US Attorney's Office for the District of New Jersey on Federal racketeering charges. Press reports described Timpani as the former owner of Sal's Concrete Company and a 'bag man' for Riggi.
Following the indictment a Family meeting was held at the Meadowlands Hilton in New Jersey. Those present included Boss John Riggi, Underboss John D'Amato, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile and Captains Philip Abramo, Vincent Palermo, Anthony Rotondo, Larry 'Shorty' Schiro and possibly Rudy Farone. Purpose of meeting was to discuss a potential murder plot against Timpani. Palermo later testified: "[Riggi] reported to us that Sal was going around saying things [like] the Family wasn't helping him. That he didn't have any money to put on the table, he was out of a job, and he was just [illegible] out of desperation. [Vitabile] said what are you waiting for, just get rid of him." Plot ultimately called off.
In May 1990 the Federal racketeering trial began in Newark.
On July 20 verdicts were reached.
Following the indictment a Family meeting was held at the Meadowlands Hilton in New Jersey. Those present included Boss John Riggi, Underboss John D'Amato, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile and Captains Philip Abramo, Vincent Palermo, Anthony Rotondo, Larry 'Shorty' Schiro and possibly Rudy Farone. Purpose of meeting was to discuss a potential murder plot against Timpani. Palermo later testified: "[Riggi] reported to us that Sal was going around saying things [like] the Family wasn't helping him. That he didn't have any money to put on the table, he was out of a job, and he was just [illegible] out of desperation. [Vitabile] said what are you waiting for, just get rid of him." Plot ultimately called off.
In May 1990 the Federal racketeering trial began in Newark.
On July 20 verdicts were reached.
Girolamo Palermo and Riggi's sons John Jr. and Vincent were acquitted on all counts.
Riggi himself was convicted of extortion and labor law violations but was acquitted of racketeering.
Timpani was convicted on a single extortion count.
On October 25, 1990 he was sentenced to eight years imprisonment.
On January 15, 1991 received at FCI La Tuna, Texas.
On December 12, 1991 the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals reversed both Riggi and Timpani's convictions. Timpani is believed to have then pleaded guilty to forego a second trial.
On June 8, 1992 he was released from Federal prison.
Riggi himself was convicted of extortion and labor law violations but was acquitted of racketeering.
Timpani was convicted on a single extortion count.
On October 25, 1990 he was sentenced to eight years imprisonment.
On January 15, 1991 received at FCI La Tuna, Texas.
On December 12, 1991 the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals reversed both Riggi and Timpani's convictions. Timpani is believed to have then pleaded guilty to forego a second trial.
On June 8, 1992 he was released from Federal prison.
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| G. Schifilliti Court Exhibit / The Real Sopranos Documentary |
Following release he reported to Captain Giuseppe 'Pino' Schifilliti.
Made members under Schifilliti included James Gallo, Francesco 'Joe' Gatto, Lorenzo 'Larry' Giacobbe, Francesco 'Cheech' Guarraci and Salvatore Timpani.
Associates included Local 1030 Business Manager James Castaldo and Local 394 Business Agent Mike Lombardo.
In March 1997 the FBI's Newark Office opened a new investigation on Timpani 'for currently being involved in extortion and for being an active, 'made' member of the DeCavalcante LCN Family'.
In March and April 1997 Agents conducted spot checks on Timpani's residence in Toms River.
On June 16, 1997 the wake for DeCavalcante Underboss Jake Amari was held at Corsentino Funeral Home in Elizabeth. The occasion, surveilled by members of the Union County Prosecutor's Office, was heavily attended by Family membership and many associates. Also present was Joseph Arcuri, Gambino Captain and liaison between the Families. Schifilliti, Timpani and all members of the Schifilliti crew except possibly James Gallo were observed.
In the wake of Amari's death a ruling panel was formed consisting of Captain Vincent 'Vinny Ocean' Palermo, Captain Charles Majuri and Soldier Girolamo Palermo.
Made members under Schifilliti included James Gallo, Francesco 'Joe' Gatto, Lorenzo 'Larry' Giacobbe, Francesco 'Cheech' Guarraci and Salvatore Timpani.
Associates included Local 1030 Business Manager James Castaldo and Local 394 Business Agent Mike Lombardo.
In March 1997 the FBI's Newark Office opened a new investigation on Timpani 'for currently being involved in extortion and for being an active, 'made' member of the DeCavalcante LCN Family'.
In March and April 1997 Agents conducted spot checks on Timpani's residence in Toms River.
On June 16, 1997 the wake for DeCavalcante Underboss Jake Amari was held at Corsentino Funeral Home in Elizabeth. The occasion, surveilled by members of the Union County Prosecutor's Office, was heavily attended by Family membership and many associates. Also present was Joseph Arcuri, Gambino Captain and liaison between the Families. Schifilliti, Timpani and all members of the Schifilliti crew except possibly James Gallo were observed.
In the wake of Amari's death a ruling panel was formed consisting of Captain Vincent 'Vinny Ocean' Palermo, Captain Charles Majuri and Soldier Girolamo Palermo.
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| Top: Backstreet Deli Bottom: Crystal Diner |
Through the first half of 1998 Timpani was a subject of multiple FBI surveillances. He was photographed at the Backstreet Deli and also at the Crystal Restaurant and Diner, both in New Jersey.
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| J. Gallo Gang Land News |
Around this time Pino Schifilliti tasked crew members Timpani and James Gallo with collecting on a $30,000 debt relating to an asbestos company. Gallo was given half for his involvement. CW Vincent Palermo later testified: "[Gallo] went there and strong-armed the guy, very nasty with the guy. He was annoyed that Little Sally called him up at home and was discussing how we were going to get this money before he even picked it up, hung up on Little Sally and said he wouldn't get any cut of this money at all...[You] don't talk about organized crime on the telephones and he was annoyed that Sally was talking about being very rough with a guy to get money."
In the winter of 1998 Timpani and others were present during a Federal raid (see top photo).
On May 14, 1999 Agents surveilled Timpani near the Ribera Club in Elizabeth.
On December 2, 1999 a large scale Federal indictment charged multiple DeCavalcante members with racketeering, including Acting Admin member Vincent Palermo, Captain Anthony Rotondo and Soldier Anthony Capo.
Capo soon defected, becoming the first made member of the DeCavalcante Family to become a cooperating witness, followed by Vincent Palermo in March 2000.
The defections brought forth a second racketeering indictment that October, charging imprisoned Boss John Riggi, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile and several others, including remaining panel members Girolamo Palermo and Charles Majuri.
In the winter of 1998 Timpani and others were present during a Federal raid (see top photo).
On May 14, 1999 Agents surveilled Timpani near the Ribera Club in Elizabeth.
On December 2, 1999 a large scale Federal indictment charged multiple DeCavalcante members with racketeering, including Acting Admin member Vincent Palermo, Captain Anthony Rotondo and Soldier Anthony Capo.
Capo soon defected, becoming the first made member of the DeCavalcante Family to become a cooperating witness, followed by Vincent Palermo in March 2000.
The defections brought forth a second racketeering indictment that October, charging imprisoned Boss John Riggi, Consigliere Stefano Vitabile and several others, including remaining panel members Girolamo Palermo and Charles Majuri.
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| 2000s Arrest Court Exhibit / The Real Sopranos Documentary |
On April 19, 2001 Pino Schifilliti, Salvatore Timpani and eighteen others were indicted.
Timpani had also been recently been arrested by the INS and was awaiting deportation proceedings.
The following month Former Captain Anthony Rotondo defected.
On August 13, 2003 Timpani and three others entered guilty pleas rather than face trial. Timpani pleaded to one count of extortion.
On February 27, 2004 he was sentenced by SDNY Judge Michael B. Mukasey to eighteen months imprisonment and three years supervised release.
By September 2004 he was serving his sentence at FCI Allenwood Medium in Pennsylvania.
On January 12, 2005 he was released from Federal prison.
By the 2010s he had left the United States for Venetico, located about a mile away from his town of birth in Messina.
He died there on January 9, 2014.
Timpani had also been recently been arrested by the INS and was awaiting deportation proceedings.
The following month Former Captain Anthony Rotondo defected.
On August 13, 2003 Timpani and three others entered guilty pleas rather than face trial. Timpani pleaded to one count of extortion.
On February 27, 2004 he was sentenced by SDNY Judge Michael B. Mukasey to eighteen months imprisonment and three years supervised release.
By September 2004 he was serving his sentence at FCI Allenwood Medium in Pennsylvania.
On January 12, 2005 he was released from Federal prison.
By the 2010s he had left the United States for Venetico, located about a mile away from his town of birth in Messina.
He died there on January 9, 2014.
Friday, June 13, 2025
Edward D'Agosta (DeCavalcante)
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| c. 1980 |
Edward 'Blackie' D'Agosta was a Soldier in the DeCavalcante Family.
Born January 25, 1924 in Brooklyn to Domenico (35y) and Carmela Rosiello (28y). Family from Agropoli comune of Salerno, Campania.
The D'Agostas resided at 885 4th Ave in the Sunset Park neighborhood.
By 1940 Edward was incarcerated at a juvenile facility in Greenburgh, New York.
Born January 25, 1924 in Brooklyn to Domenico (35y) and Carmela Rosiello (28y). Family from Agropoli comune of Salerno, Campania.
The D'Agostas resided at 885 4th Ave in the Sunset Park neighborhood.
By 1940 Edward was incarcerated at a juvenile facility in Greenburgh, New York.
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| 1951 (Press) |
In the early morning hours of September 16, 1951, D'Agosta and Frank Mangano (26y) were arrested on charges of felonious assault and disorderly conduct following the beating of an NYPD patrolman in Coney Island. The New York Daily News reported: "[D'Agosta and Mangano] were engaged with three others in a free-for-all in front of a hot dog stand [when] Patrolman Raduazzo stepped in and tried to stop it. D'Agosta assertedly grabbed the cop's nightstick after the five turned on the cop, and beat Raduazzo on the head with it. When the cop went down, one of the five snatched his gun and tossed it behind the stand. Raduazzo got back on his feet, recovered his gun and went after D'Agosta and Mangano. Other cops had arrived by then and helped him collar the pair a block away." The defendants were arraigned before Felony Court Magistrate Thomas H. Cullen and D'Agosta was released on $32,000 bail. (Mangano was born circa 1925 and resided at 372 Douglass St in Park Slope.)
By the mid-1970s D'Agosta was an associate of the DeCavalcante Family under Captain 'Big Frank' Cocchiaro.
Cocchiaro crew associates at the time included Frank's younger brother Carmelo 'Melio' Cocchiaro, Edward 'Blackie' D'Agosta, Rudolph 'Rudy' Farone, Angelo Gallo, Umberto 'Verdu' Gallo, Vito Montemarano and Vincent 'Jimmy' Rotondo.
In 1975 D'Agosta married Vincenza Russo in Brooklyn.
The following year the New York - New Jersey Families opened their books for membership.
Several Cocchiaro crew members, including D'Agosta, Rudolph Farone and Vincent Rotondo, were inducted.
By the mid-1970s D'Agosta was an associate of the DeCavalcante Family under Captain 'Big Frank' Cocchiaro.
Cocchiaro crew associates at the time included Frank's younger brother Carmelo 'Melio' Cocchiaro, Edward 'Blackie' D'Agosta, Rudolph 'Rudy' Farone, Angelo Gallo, Umberto 'Verdu' Gallo, Vito Montemarano and Vincent 'Jimmy' Rotondo.
In 1975 D'Agosta married Vincenza Russo in Brooklyn.
The following year the New York - New Jersey Families opened their books for membership.
Several Cocchiaro crew members, including D'Agosta, Rudolph Farone and Vincent Rotondo, were inducted.
By Summer 1978 Vincent Rotondo had been promoted to Captain over a newly formed crew.
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| V. Rotondo (1980s) |
Made members under Rotondo included Edward D'Agosta, Michael 'Mickey' DePietro, Vincent 'Vinny Ocean' Palermo, Paul 'Paulie Doyle' SanFilippo and Louis Telese.
Associates included Joseph Collina, Anthony 'Marshmallow' Mannarino, Bernard NiCastro, Vincent's son Anthony Rotondo and Charles Stango.
In early June 1982 D'Agosta attended the ceremony where Anthony Rotondo and two others were inducted.
The ceremony, presided over by Acting Boss John Riggi, was held in the basement of Rudolph Farone's residence in Mill Basin, Brooklyn.
On the 12th of the same month D'Agosta died in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
He was waked from Louis DeLuca & Sons Mayflower Funeral Home located in Mapleton and buried in Greenwood Heights, both in Brooklyn.
Associates included Joseph Collina, Anthony 'Marshmallow' Mannarino, Bernard NiCastro, Vincent's son Anthony Rotondo and Charles Stango.
In early June 1982 D'Agosta attended the ceremony where Anthony Rotondo and two others were inducted.
The ceremony, presided over by Acting Boss John Riggi, was held in the basement of Rudolph Farone's residence in Mill Basin, Brooklyn.
On the 12th of the same month D'Agosta died in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
He was waked from Louis DeLuca & Sons Mayflower Funeral Home located in Mapleton and buried in Greenwood Heights, both in Brooklyn.
Tuesday, June 10, 2025
John DeSena (Bonanno)
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| DeSena in 1981 / 2015 |
Bonanno Soldier John DeSena died in June 2022, per this notice posted at The Black Hand Forum.
His father Joseph, born in 1926 to parents from Naples and Lazio, was an Associate.
His older brother is a made member in the Lucchese Family.
His father Joseph, born in 1926 to parents from Naples and Lazio, was an Associate.
His older brother is a made member in the Lucchese Family.
John was identified by former FBI UCA Joseph 'Donnie Brasco' Pistone as an associate in Dominick Napolitano's crew as of 1981.
The following year he began serving a three year NYS sentence for assault.
He served four more sentences over the following years, the final one ending in Fall 2015.
DeSena may be identical to the 'John Long Island' LNU named by CW Salvatore Vitale as a Bonanno Soldier in 2004.
His name is included in a government list of Bonanno members compiled ten years later.
DeSena may be identical to the 'John Long Island' LNU named by CW Salvatore Vitale as a Bonanno Soldier in 2004.
His name is included in a government list of Bonanno members compiled ten years later.
Saturday, June 7, 2025
Salvatore D'Ottavio (Bonanno)
Salvatore 'Sally Penn Glass' D'Ottavio was a Soldier in the Bonanno Family.
Born May 11, 1932 in New York to William (27y) and Josephine Roselli (23y). Father from Villetta Barrea comune of L'Aquila, Abruzzo. Mother from Pisciotta comune of Salerno, Campania.
His father's side of the family spent time in Cumberland, New Jersey and Joliet, Illinois prior to settling in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn, where Salvatore was raised. (Salvatore's grandparents were still residing in Joliet as of 1942.)
By 1935 the D'Ottavios were living at 695 Park Ave and listed on home relief.
On November 29, 1949 Salvatore was arrested by the NYPD on a forgery (motor vehicle) charge. Convicted as a wayward minor and given probation.
By April 1950 the D'Ottavios resided at 102 Floyd St (now Martin Luther King Jr. Place) in Bedford-Stuyvesant. Salvatore listed his occupation as grocery store errand boy.
On July 31, 1950 arrested by NYPD on grand larceny (auto) charge. Case dismissed.
On August 27, 1953 charged with assault and armed robbery.
His criminal record lists no further arrests until April 20, 1971, when he was picked up on charges of grand larceny and possessing burglar tools. This case was dismissed.
It's not known when D'Ottavio became involved with the Bonanno Family.
He was inducted in the late 1970s and by 1979 reported to Captain Michael Sabella.
Born May 11, 1932 in New York to William (27y) and Josephine Roselli (23y). Father from Villetta Barrea comune of L'Aquila, Abruzzo. Mother from Pisciotta comune of Salerno, Campania.
His father's side of the family spent time in Cumberland, New Jersey and Joliet, Illinois prior to settling in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn, where Salvatore was raised. (Salvatore's grandparents were still residing in Joliet as of 1942.)
By 1935 the D'Ottavios were living at 695 Park Ave and listed on home relief.
On November 29, 1949 Salvatore was arrested by the NYPD on a forgery (motor vehicle) charge. Convicted as a wayward minor and given probation.
By April 1950 the D'Ottavios resided at 102 Floyd St (now Martin Luther King Jr. Place) in Bedford-Stuyvesant. Salvatore listed his occupation as grocery store errand boy.
On July 31, 1950 arrested by NYPD on grand larceny (auto) charge. Case dismissed.
On August 27, 1953 charged with assault and armed robbery.
His criminal record lists no further arrests until April 20, 1971, when he was picked up on charges of grand larceny and possessing burglar tools. This case was dismissed.
It's not known when D'Ottavio became involved with the Bonanno Family.
He was inducted in the late 1970s and by 1979 reported to Captain Michael Sabella.
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| M. Sabella |
By 1979 made members under Sabella included William 'Willie the Tile Setter' Dara, Salvatore 'Sally Penn Glass' D'Ottavio, Anthony 'T.G.' Graziano, Ronald Lorenzo, Joseph 'Pepe' Marino, Stephen Maruca, Joseph Puma and Benjamin 'Lefty' Ruggiero. The crew was comprised of both New York and Florida-based membership.
Sabella was demoted after Carmine Galante's murder in July 1979. D'Ottavio and some other crew members were placed with the newly-promoted Dominick 'Sonny Black' Napolitano.
Sabella was demoted after Carmine Galante's murder in July 1979. D'Ottavio and some other crew members were placed with the newly-promoted Dominick 'Sonny Black' Napolitano.
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| D. Napolitano |
Made members under Napolitano included Salvatore D'Ottavio, Alfred 'Al Walker' Embarrato, James 'Jimmy Legs' Episcopia and Benjamin Ruggiero. Probable crew members included Vito Badamo, John 'Chubby' Galante, Frank 'Cheesecake' Mistretta and Michael Sabella.
By 1981 D'Ottavio resided at 8656 20th Ave in Bath Beach, Brooklyn. Operated Penn Glass located at 8672 18th Ave, also in Bath Beach.
On March 5 of that year he and Gaetano 'Tony' Mule (42y) were indicted by the Kings County District Attorney's Office on conspiracy and loansharking charges.
Gaetano Mule was born 1938 to Sicilian parents from Alcamo, Trapani and Vallelunga, Caltanissetta. His father Gasper (1911-1983) was a nephew of Francesco Puma, a Bonanno member murdered in 1922.
On March 13, 1981 the New York Daily News reported that D'Ottavio's former Captain Michael Sabella was expected to be called before a County Grand Jury as a result of the investigation.
D'Ottavio was subsequently convicted on a final charge of conspiracy 4th degree and fined $2,000.
On May 14, 1981 Dominick Napolitano met with an associate in his crew, FBI UCA 'Donnie Brasco', at Charlie's Lounge in Brooklyn. Topics of discussion included the May 5 triple murder of Family Captains Philip 'Phil Lucky' Giaccone, Alfonse 'Sonny Red' Indelicato and Dominick 'Trin' Trinchera, as well as the planned hit of Sonny Red's son, Family Captain Anthony 'Bruno' Indelicato. After the conversation the pair was joined D'Ottavio and James Episcopia.
Three days later D'Ottavio, 'Donnie Brasco' and Stephen Maruca met inside the Little Italy Restaurant in Hallandale, Florida. Business owned by Joseph Puma who, along with Maruca, had recently been named co-Acting Captains of the Giaccone crew.
By 1981 D'Ottavio resided at 8656 20th Ave in Bath Beach, Brooklyn. Operated Penn Glass located at 8672 18th Ave, also in Bath Beach.
On March 5 of that year he and Gaetano 'Tony' Mule (42y) were indicted by the Kings County District Attorney's Office on conspiracy and loansharking charges.
Gaetano Mule was born 1938 to Sicilian parents from Alcamo, Trapani and Vallelunga, Caltanissetta. His father Gasper (1911-1983) was a nephew of Francesco Puma, a Bonanno member murdered in 1922.
On March 13, 1981 the New York Daily News reported that D'Ottavio's former Captain Michael Sabella was expected to be called before a County Grand Jury as a result of the investigation.
D'Ottavio was subsequently convicted on a final charge of conspiracy 4th degree and fined $2,000.
On May 14, 1981 Dominick Napolitano met with an associate in his crew, FBI UCA 'Donnie Brasco', at Charlie's Lounge in Brooklyn. Topics of discussion included the May 5 triple murder of Family Captains Philip 'Phil Lucky' Giaccone, Alfonse 'Sonny Red' Indelicato and Dominick 'Trin' Trinchera, as well as the planned hit of Sonny Red's son, Family Captain Anthony 'Bruno' Indelicato. After the conversation the pair was joined D'Ottavio and James Episcopia.
Three days later D'Ottavio, 'Donnie Brasco' and Stephen Maruca met inside the Little Italy Restaurant in Hallandale, Florida. Business owned by Joseph Puma who, along with Maruca, had recently been named co-Acting Captains of the Giaccone crew.
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| S. Maruca |
Brasco recorded the conversation, which included further discussion of Alfonse Indelicato's murder:
"
"
Maruca: I only met Sonny Red about three times.
D'Ottavio: Nice guy, wasn't bad...he was a gentleman, but everybody makes mistakes.
Brasco: That's right.
D'Ottavio: Now, we're working under an honor system. You got to be honorable amongst our fellows, right?
Brasco: That's the way it's supposed to be.
D'Ottavio: Nice guy, wasn't bad...he was a gentleman, but everybody makes mistakes.
Brasco: That's right.
D'Ottavio: Now, we're working under an honor system. You got to be honorable amongst our fellows, right?
Brasco: That's the way it's supposed to be.
"
Brasco's undercover role ended in late July 1981 and his status as a Federal agent was made known.
Dominick Napolitano's unwitting role in furthering the Brasco operation contributed to his disappearance the following month. (Former Bonanno Boss Joseph Massino attributed Napolitano's murder primarily to the intra-Family factionalism that persisted in the wake of the three captains murders.)
Most or all of Napolitano's crew is believed to have been placed with James Episcopia. (Episcopia was a confirmed official Captain by November 1983, although there may have been other acting / interim crew leaders.)
On March 15, 1982 D'Ottavio was called to testify before a Federal Grand Jury in Manhattan re indictments brought about by the Brasco case.
In September 1982 he was included in the FBI's list of identified Bonanno Family members.
Named as a Captain in the June 1983 Senate Chart of Bonanno membership.
He is again listed as a Captain in a 1985 Federal chart.
By the Summer of 1986 subject of an FBI RICO investigation.
By 1987 resided in Little Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey.
Brasco's undercover role ended in late July 1981 and his status as a Federal agent was made known.
Dominick Napolitano's unwitting role in furthering the Brasco operation contributed to his disappearance the following month. (Former Bonanno Boss Joseph Massino attributed Napolitano's murder primarily to the intra-Family factionalism that persisted in the wake of the three captains murders.)
Most or all of Napolitano's crew is believed to have been placed with James Episcopia. (Episcopia was a confirmed official Captain by November 1983, although there may have been other acting / interim crew leaders.)
On March 15, 1982 D'Ottavio was called to testify before a Federal Grand Jury in Manhattan re indictments brought about by the Brasco case.
In September 1982 he was included in the FBI's list of identified Bonanno Family members.
Named as a Captain in the June 1983 Senate Chart of Bonanno membership.
He is again listed as a Captain in a 1985 Federal chart.
By the Summer of 1986 subject of an FBI RICO investigation.
By 1987 resided in Little Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey.
 |
| 1980s |
That March he was indicted by the US Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York on multiple counts of perjury stemming from his 1982 Grand Jury testimony. Released on $50,000 bail.
By August 1987 reporting to Captain Alfred Embarrato.
By August 1987 reporting to Captain Alfred Embarrato.
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| A. Embarrato |
Embarrato succeeded James Episcopia when the latter stepped down due to health.
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| L to R: D'Ottavio, Episcopia, Mauro, Mistretta, Sabella Govt Photos / Press |
Made members of Embarrato's crew included Salvatore D'Ottavio, James Episcopia, Russell Mauro, Frank Mistretta and Michael Sabella.
An October 1987 FBI report on the crew noted the following re D'Ottavio: "Presently facing perjury charges from 3/82 Grand Jury appearance where he denied knowledge of Bonanno activities and members. 11 count indictment, SDNY, Trial slated for 1/88."
By 1988 resided at 106-28 East Hudson Drive in Mystic, New Jersey.
In 1988 included in Senate list of 94 identified Bonanno Family members.
Around this time D'Ottavio was transferred to Captain James 'Big Lou' Tartaglione.
An October 1987 FBI report on the crew noted the following re D'Ottavio: "Presently facing perjury charges from 3/82 Grand Jury appearance where he denied knowledge of Bonanno activities and members. 11 count indictment, SDNY, Trial slated for 1/88."
By 1988 resided at 106-28 East Hudson Drive in Mystic, New Jersey.
In 1988 included in Senate list of 94 identified Bonanno Family members.
Around this time D'Ottavio was transferred to Captain James 'Big Lou' Tartaglione.
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| J. Tartaglione Source: Gang Land News |
By the late 1980s made members under Tartaglione included Frank Coppa, Salvatore D'Ottavio and John Palazzolo. (There were many other confirmed crew members by the early 1990s.)
Tartaglione later testified about D'Ottavio's involvement in the Summer 1981 murder plot against Bruno Indelicato: "They transferred [D'Ottavio] to me...He told me a story that he was in Florida with Lefty Guns [Ruggiero] in a car [with FBI UCA 'Donnie Brasco' and 'Tony Rossi']. When they were in the car, somebody had a detector. In that detector they had a buzzing going off. Saying that somebody was wired but we know it's none of us that are wired. We just [rented] the car or something like that. He says, we were there to look for Bruno. And ain't it funny as the time went by we come to find out they probably had a bug because they were the two FBI agents that were with us."
On June 29, 1988 began standing trial in Manhattan.
On July 7 convicted on six counts of perjury.
On January 26, 1989 sentenced by SDNY Judge John E. Strizzo to five years imprisonment and fined $30,000.
On April 30, 1990 surrendered at FCI Danbury, Connecticut.
On January 10, 1991 the facility submitted Progress Report: "...Currently, Mr. D'Ottavio is assigned to the Recreation Department where he receives outstanding work reports from his detail supervisor...Upon release from custody, Mr. D'Ottavio intends to return to the Mystic, New Jersey area...Mr. D'Ottavio has been retired since 1981."
On November 30, 1991 involved in an unspecified altercation. Punishment listed as '30 days DS, 15 Days FSGT and Recommended Disciplinary Transfer'. Disposition to be suspended for 180 days clear conduct.
On June 26, 1992 FCI Danbury issued another report: "...The majority of his leisure is spent working on legal issues relevant to his instant offense...Mr. D'Ottavio is a Recreation Aide in the Recreational Department. His work reports are consistently above average."
On February 11, 1993 transferred to FCI Allenwood, Pennsylvania.
In June 1993 included in the FBI's list of 88 identified Bonanno Family members. (The name is redacted but his details match the third entry.)
The following month D'Ottavio was released from FCI Allenwood.
He died on or around November 5, 1999 and was buried in Hicksville, Long Island.
Tartaglione later testified about D'Ottavio's involvement in the Summer 1981 murder plot against Bruno Indelicato: "They transferred [D'Ottavio] to me...He told me a story that he was in Florida with Lefty Guns [Ruggiero] in a car [with FBI UCA 'Donnie Brasco' and 'Tony Rossi']. When they were in the car, somebody had a detector. In that detector they had a buzzing going off. Saying that somebody was wired but we know it's none of us that are wired. We just [rented] the car or something like that. He says, we were there to look for Bruno. And ain't it funny as the time went by we come to find out they probably had a bug because they were the two FBI agents that were with us."
On June 29, 1988 began standing trial in Manhattan.
On July 7 convicted on six counts of perjury.
On January 26, 1989 sentenced by SDNY Judge John E. Strizzo to five years imprisonment and fined $30,000.
On April 30, 1990 surrendered at FCI Danbury, Connecticut.
On January 10, 1991 the facility submitted Progress Report: "...Currently, Mr. D'Ottavio is assigned to the Recreation Department where he receives outstanding work reports from his detail supervisor...Upon release from custody, Mr. D'Ottavio intends to return to the Mystic, New Jersey area...Mr. D'Ottavio has been retired since 1981."
On November 30, 1991 involved in an unspecified altercation. Punishment listed as '30 days DS, 15 Days FSGT and Recommended Disciplinary Transfer'. Disposition to be suspended for 180 days clear conduct.
On June 26, 1992 FCI Danbury issued another report: "...The majority of his leisure is spent working on legal issues relevant to his instant offense...Mr. D'Ottavio is a Recreation Aide in the Recreational Department. His work reports are consistently above average."
On February 11, 1993 transferred to FCI Allenwood, Pennsylvania.
In June 1993 included in the FBI's list of 88 identified Bonanno Family members. (The name is redacted but his details match the third entry.)
The following month D'Ottavio was released from FCI Allenwood.
He died on or around November 5, 1999 and was buried in Hicksville, Long Island.
Thursday, June 5, 2025
FBI Camorra Factions Chart (1987)
On September 1, 1987 a report was sent from FBI Headquarters to all Field Offices with an LCN presence.
The report cites an airtel previously sent to HQ by the Cleveland Office recommending the addition of the Camorra into the Bureau's Organized Crime Information System (OCIS).
The report notes: "...Cleveland also requested that confirmed members of the Camorra be entered into OCIS as 'Nuova Camorra Organizzatta' or 'Nuova Famiglia' rather than the general entity known as Camorra. In addition, these two families (Nuova Camorra Organizzatta and Nuova Famiglia) are broken down into factions. The Nuova Famiglia consists of seven factions and the Nuova Camorra Organizzatta consists of 12 factions and should be entered as such."
The report lists the following Camorra factions:
Nuova Famiglia
- Zaza Clan
- Bardellino Clan
- Vollaro Clan
- Ammaturo Clan
- Giuliano Clan
- Nuvoletta Clan
- Alfieri Clan
Nuova Camorra Organizzatta
- Saviano Clan
- Leonardo Clan
- Balletta Clan
- Serra Clan
- Ferrara Clan
- Maisto Clan
- Puca Clan
- Iodice Clan
- D'Amico Clan
- Iafulli Clan
- Morra Clan
- Riccio Clan
Monday, June 2, 2025
Small Update
Updated Post:
1. Alfred Embarrato Crew : Added Salvatore D'Ottavio, named as a crew member in a newer version of the report.
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