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| c. 1980s |
George Adragna was a Pittsburgh Member who transferred to the Family in San Jose, California around 1970.
In 1986, at 76 years old, he was arrested in that city for conspiring to smuggle heroin.
Three brothers were affiliated with LCN:
By June 1917 family residing at 196 Montrose Ave in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
Williamsburg was more or less ground zero for the early Bonanno Family. Giuseppe Adragna, working at the time as bartender, may have been a member of that group. (Bonanno members from Alcamo included Consigliere Frank Italiano and the Parrino brothers. Frank Melia [1893-1971] of the Colombo Family was also from Alcamo.)
Some or possibly all of the Adragnas returned to Sicily, arriving back to New York aboard the S.S. Dante Alighieri on February 29, 1924.
Over the next five years they resided at 221 -> 223 Johnson Ave in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Bushwick, another Bonanno stronghold.
Giuseppe, who listed his occupation as self-employed retailer, died in February 1931 as the Castellammare War was coming to a close.
On October 5, 1939 George was injured in a two-car collision at St. Clair and Hays St in the East Liberty section of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Taken to West End Hospital with possible broken clavicle.
The press noted an address at 529 McDonald St in the Larimer neighborhood on the city's East End.
From November 27, 1942 to October 15, 1945 served in US Army.
By October 1946 he was back with family at 233 Johnson Ave in Bushwick. Listed occupation as salesman.
On November 23, 1946 married Rosalia LoCicero (28y) at Nativity Church in Manhattan. Pittsburgh Member Domenic Anzalone and his wife acted as witnesses.
The bride's family resided in East Village, Manhattan and hailed from the comune of Misilmeri, Palermo. (Gambino Family member and fellow East Village resident Stephen 'Stevie Coogan' Grammauta was also from Misilmeri, as were the Colombo Family Maglioccos.)
By March 1950 Adragna returned with his wife to Pennsylvania, residing in the city of Monongahela located about 15 miles outside of Pittsburgh.
Around this time operated a restaurant at 17 Schoonmaker Ave in nearby Monessen.
Around March 26, 1954 testified on behalf of Pittsburgh Member Domenic Anzalone in the latter's deportation hearing. The Pittsburgh Press reported: "[Adragna], who admitted serving five months in Allegheny County Jail 25 years ago for counterfeiting, testified that he assisted Anzalone in 1953 to prepare his address report card and mailed it. On cross examination Adragna said he formerly managed a horse room about three years for Anzalone."
In 1986, at 76 years old, he was arrested in that city for conspiring to smuggle heroin.
Three brothers were affiliated with LCN:
- Older brother Frank Adragna (1892-1962) was a probable Pittsburgh Member.
- Younger brother Vito Adragna (1917-2008) was a Pittsburgh -> San Jose Associate who may have been inducted into the latter Family.
- Youngest brother Joseph (1924-2010) was a little known Bonanno Member.
By June 1917 family residing at 196 Montrose Ave in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
Williamsburg was more or less ground zero for the early Bonanno Family. Giuseppe Adragna, working at the time as bartender, may have been a member of that group. (Bonanno members from Alcamo included Consigliere Frank Italiano and the Parrino brothers. Frank Melia [1893-1971] of the Colombo Family was also from Alcamo.)
Some or possibly all of the Adragnas returned to Sicily, arriving back to New York aboard the S.S. Dante Alighieri on February 29, 1924.
Over the next five years they resided at 221 -> 223 Johnson Ave in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Bushwick, another Bonanno stronghold.
Giuseppe, who listed his occupation as self-employed retailer, died in February 1931 as the Castellammare War was coming to a close.
On October 5, 1939 George was injured in a two-car collision at St. Clair and Hays St in the East Liberty section of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Taken to West End Hospital with possible broken clavicle.
The press noted an address at 529 McDonald St in the Larimer neighborhood on the city's East End.
From November 27, 1942 to October 15, 1945 served in US Army.
By October 1946 he was back with family at 233 Johnson Ave in Bushwick. Listed occupation as salesman.
On November 23, 1946 married Rosalia LoCicero (28y) at Nativity Church in Manhattan. Pittsburgh Member Domenic Anzalone and his wife acted as witnesses.
The bride's family resided in East Village, Manhattan and hailed from the comune of Misilmeri, Palermo. (Gambino Family member and fellow East Village resident Stephen 'Stevie Coogan' Grammauta was also from Misilmeri, as were the Colombo Family Maglioccos.)
By March 1950 Adragna returned with his wife to Pennsylvania, residing in the city of Monongahela located about 15 miles outside of Pittsburgh.
Around this time operated a restaurant at 17 Schoonmaker Ave in nearby Monessen.
Around March 26, 1954 testified on behalf of Pittsburgh Member Domenic Anzalone in the latter's deportation hearing. The Pittsburgh Press reported: "[Adragna], who admitted serving five months in Allegheny County Jail 25 years ago for counterfeiting, testified that he assisted Anzalone in 1953 to prepare his address report card and mailed it. On cross examination Adragna said he formerly managed a horse room about three years for Anzalone."
On June 12, 1956 departed Port of New York aboard S.S. Andrea Doria.
On August 11, 1956 arrived at Port of New York aboard S.S. Vulcania.
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| D. Anzalone |
In March 1957 FBI CI reported: "[Domenic] Anzalone and George Adragna had purchased a partnership in the West Brownsville Iron and Metal Company, West Brownsville, PA, a scrap metal company, investing in a considerable sum of money in the business although they knew nothing about the operation of it. According to the source, Anzalone and Adragna planned to deal in nickel. He said that another partner in this operation was to be Frank E. Plisko, an experienced scrap man who was reported to have made large sums of money from dealing in 'grey market nickel'."
In June 1957 FBI CI reported: "[The] 'syndicate' controlled the gambling fraternity in Brownsville, Pa. According to [CI], the syndicate at that time was headed by Domenic Anzalone, George Adragna, Vito Adragna and 'Tony' Ripepi of the Pittsburgh area. It was further pointed out that since the 'Syndicate' had moved into Brownsville, the little man cannot operate and everything must be channeled through Domenic Anzalone or one of his henchman. The entire Anzalone operation is fronted by George Adragna and Vito Adragna. The amount of money made by these individuals is fantastic, which is derived from their pinball racket and numbers racket." (Pittsburgh Member Tony Ripepi [1902-1996] was from Reggio Calabria.)
In June 1957 FBI CI reported: "[The] 'syndicate' controlled the gambling fraternity in Brownsville, Pa. According to [CI], the syndicate at that time was headed by Domenic Anzalone, George Adragna, Vito Adragna and 'Tony' Ripepi of the Pittsburgh area. It was further pointed out that since the 'Syndicate' had moved into Brownsville, the little man cannot operate and everything must be channeled through Domenic Anzalone or one of his henchman. The entire Anzalone operation is fronted by George Adragna and Vito Adragna. The amount of money made by these individuals is fantastic, which is derived from their pinball racket and numbers racket." (Pittsburgh Member Tony Ripepi [1902-1996] was from Reggio Calabria.)
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| F. Scalise Gang Land News |
On June 17, 1957 Gambino Captain Frank Scalise was shot to death in The Bronx. Address books seized by the NYPD included an entry for Adragna with residence listed in Monongahela.
On December 16, 1957 Fayette County, PA Detective advised the FBI's Pittsburgh Field Office: "[The] West Brownsville Iron and Metal Company was originally owned by Louis Croce and Frank E. Plisko and that George Adragna and Domenic Anzalone purchased the interest of Croce and became partners with Plisko. They said the business is essentially a junk business and that during one period, Anazalone and Adragna lost about $30,000 on a miscalculation in the purchase of nickel. It is the opinion of [Det and CI2] that Adragna and Anzalone are attempting to sell their interest in the business to Plisko and that Plisko had recently made the statement that he was now the sole owner of the West Brownsville Iron and Metal Company." The Detective described Adragna as the individual 'who looks after the numbers in Fayette County'.
Believed to be a made member in Pittsburgh by the late 1950s. Possibly sponsored by Domenic Anzalone.
The Family was then headed by John LaRocca.
On January 10, 1958 Monongahela resident Frank Piccolo interviewed by FBI PG: "...Piccolo stated that August Bucci was a key man employed at the Getodo Club when it first began operation and that later George Adragna and Joe White were more or less the key men. He said that he could not recall identities of other individuals who worked at the club because the turnover in dealers and stickmen was constant."
On January 10, 1958 Joe White interviewed by FBI PG: "[White advised] he first started in the numbers business in 1939, as an employee of Tony Ripepi, operating in Washington County until 1948, when he started working at the Getodo Club. [He] stated further that he was given the job of operating the horse room and that on orders of [Domenic] Anzalone, George Adragna assisted him."
On February 3, 1958 August Bucci interviewed by FBI PG: "[Bucci advised] after his return [from WWII], the group of four [Bucci, Anzalone, Ripepi, Geno Serventi] established the Sportsmen Club and they made George Adragna of Wickersham Terrace, Monongahela, operator of this club along with Joe White, of Donora." (August James Bucci [1905-1986] was involved with Pittsburgh Family activities in the area. His family was from Roccaraso in the Province of L'Aquila, Abruzzo.)
On December 16, 1957 Fayette County, PA Detective advised the FBI's Pittsburgh Field Office: "[The] West Brownsville Iron and Metal Company was originally owned by Louis Croce and Frank E. Plisko and that George Adragna and Domenic Anzalone purchased the interest of Croce and became partners with Plisko. They said the business is essentially a junk business and that during one period, Anazalone and Adragna lost about $30,000 on a miscalculation in the purchase of nickel. It is the opinion of [Det and CI2] that Adragna and Anzalone are attempting to sell their interest in the business to Plisko and that Plisko had recently made the statement that he was now the sole owner of the West Brownsville Iron and Metal Company." The Detective described Adragna as the individual 'who looks after the numbers in Fayette County'.
Believed to be a made member in Pittsburgh by the late 1950s. Possibly sponsored by Domenic Anzalone.
The Family was then headed by John LaRocca.
On January 10, 1958 Monongahela resident Frank Piccolo interviewed by FBI PG: "...Piccolo stated that August Bucci was a key man employed at the Getodo Club when it first began operation and that later George Adragna and Joe White were more or less the key men. He said that he could not recall identities of other individuals who worked at the club because the turnover in dealers and stickmen was constant."
On January 10, 1958 Joe White interviewed by FBI PG: "[White advised] he first started in the numbers business in 1939, as an employee of Tony Ripepi, operating in Washington County until 1948, when he started working at the Getodo Club. [He] stated further that he was given the job of operating the horse room and that on orders of [Domenic] Anzalone, George Adragna assisted him."
On February 3, 1958 August Bucci interviewed by FBI PG: "[Bucci advised] after his return [from WWII], the group of four [Bucci, Anzalone, Ripepi, Geno Serventi] established the Sportsmen Club and they made George Adragna of Wickersham Terrace, Monongahela, operator of this club along with Joe White, of Donora." (August James Bucci [1905-1986] was involved with Pittsburgh Family activities in the area. His family was from Roccaraso in the Province of L'Aquila, Abruzzo.)
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| C. Luciano FBN Mafia Book |
On June 17, 1958 FBI CI reported: "[He] had learned from a 'high source', whose name he declined to furnish, but who may be [Domenic] Anzalone, that George Adragna was going to meet with Charles 'Lucky' Luciano in Italy, reasons unknown. This source further advised that Adragna allegedly was convicted for violation of narcotics laws, believed to be in New York City, and served a sentence in a Federal Penitentiary believed to be in Atlanta, Ga., some years ago."
Adragna's movements were watched upon his June 24 departure from New York.
On July 18 he arrived in Palermo and spent three days at the Jolly Hotel before driving to Alcamo.
Six days later he returned to Palermo with his mother. FBI later reported: "During his stay at the Jolly Hotel in Palermo Adragna received visitors from [Alcamo], however, nothing happened which was considered suspect from the behavior or appearance of the visitors."
On August 21-23 stayed at Hotel Principe Piemonte in Turin, Northern Italy.
He arrived back at New York on September 15 and was subjected to a thorough search by Customs.
By March 1960 resided at 1302 Wickerham Drive in Monongahela.
That month he and his wife purchased a two-story brick building on Donner Ave in Monessen.
This is believed to have been the site of Adragna and August Bucci's Orbit Billiard Parlor established by early 1962.
Adragna's movements were watched upon his June 24 departure from New York.
On July 18 he arrived in Palermo and spent three days at the Jolly Hotel before driving to Alcamo.
Six days later he returned to Palermo with his mother. FBI later reported: "During his stay at the Jolly Hotel in Palermo Adragna received visitors from [Alcamo], however, nothing happened which was considered suspect from the behavior or appearance of the visitors."
On August 21-23 stayed at Hotel Principe Piemonte in Turin, Northern Italy.
He arrived back at New York on September 15 and was subjected to a thorough search by Customs.
By March 1960 resided at 1302 Wickerham Drive in Monongahela.
That month he and his wife purchased a two-story brick building on Donner Ave in Monessen.
This is believed to have been the site of Adragna and August Bucci's Orbit Billiard Parlor established by early 1962.
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| V. Adragna (1963) |
By 1963 George and his brother Vito operated a numbers business in the area.
Workers included August James Bucci, John Guzzie, Albert Pauline and Albert John Pellish.
On July 18, 1963 FBI CI reported: "[August Bucci]'s activities in the rackets consists of operating the numbers operation for Vito Adragna and George Adragna in Monessen, Pa. Informant advised that subject is relatively inactive and that most of the work in handling the numbers operation for Bucci is done by an individual by the name of John Guzzie."
On July 24, 1963 raids conducted by the Pennsylvania State Police on Hiller Volunteer Fire Department in Luzerne Township and on Vito Adragna's coin machine company in Alicia Heights. Over thirty-five machines were seized.
Shortly after this Vito left Pennsylvania and joined a son in San Jose, California. He was put on-record with Former Pittsburgh Member Domenic Anzalone, who had moved to the city a couple of years prior.
On July 31, 1963 FBI PG reported: "[Adragna brothers and August Bucci] are employees of [Domenic Anzalone], who controls the rackets in Fayette County, Pa."
On October 2, 1963 brother-in-law (?) Pietro Piazza arrived at Port of New York and met by George Adragna and Thomas Borgese (48y). The trio met with Piazza's brother-in-law Peter Bova, after which Adragna, Bova and Piazza went to the Hotel Claridge. Two days later Adragna and Piazza traveled to Pittsburgh. On October 9 Piazza departed for Italy. FBI later reported: "[CI] advised that French authorities had seized one Paul Stefani in France and at the time of arrest Stefani had 30 kilograms of heroin in his possession. French authorities requested that Pietro Piazza and Charles [Illegible]ileoni, who were believed to be members of the same group, be carefully checked by proper authorities upon arrival in the United States." (Like Adragna's wife, Thomas Borgese [1915-1972] was from Misilmeri. He died of natural causes while staying at a hotel in Uditore, Palermo. Peter Bova may have also been Adragna's brother-in-law; George's younger sister Rosa marred one Peter J. Bova [1915-1973] from Termini Imerese.)
On February 11, 1964 FBI CI reported: "[Vito] Adragna, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, told informant that his brother, George Adragna of Pittsburgh was visiting him in San Jose, California. George Adragna is a close associate of [Domenic] Anzalone."
On February 13, 1964 FBI CI reported: "[On 2/12/64] Jose Cerrito, a don of La Cosa Nostra, San Jose, California, visited the Vito Adragna residence. George Adragna [also present]."
Workers included August James Bucci, John Guzzie, Albert Pauline and Albert John Pellish.
On July 18, 1963 FBI CI reported: "[August Bucci]'s activities in the rackets consists of operating the numbers operation for Vito Adragna and George Adragna in Monessen, Pa. Informant advised that subject is relatively inactive and that most of the work in handling the numbers operation for Bucci is done by an individual by the name of John Guzzie."
On July 24, 1963 raids conducted by the Pennsylvania State Police on Hiller Volunteer Fire Department in Luzerne Township and on Vito Adragna's coin machine company in Alicia Heights. Over thirty-five machines were seized.
Shortly after this Vito left Pennsylvania and joined a son in San Jose, California. He was put on-record with Former Pittsburgh Member Domenic Anzalone, who had moved to the city a couple of years prior.
On July 31, 1963 FBI PG reported: "[Adragna brothers and August Bucci] are employees of [Domenic Anzalone], who controls the rackets in Fayette County, Pa."
On October 2, 1963 brother-in-law (?) Pietro Piazza arrived at Port of New York and met by George Adragna and Thomas Borgese (48y). The trio met with Piazza's brother-in-law Peter Bova, after which Adragna, Bova and Piazza went to the Hotel Claridge. Two days later Adragna and Piazza traveled to Pittsburgh. On October 9 Piazza departed for Italy. FBI later reported: "[CI] advised that French authorities had seized one Paul Stefani in France and at the time of arrest Stefani had 30 kilograms of heroin in his possession. French authorities requested that Pietro Piazza and Charles [Illegible]ileoni, who were believed to be members of the same group, be carefully checked by proper authorities upon arrival in the United States." (Like Adragna's wife, Thomas Borgese [1915-1972] was from Misilmeri. He died of natural causes while staying at a hotel in Uditore, Palermo. Peter Bova may have also been Adragna's brother-in-law; George's younger sister Rosa marred one Peter J. Bova [1915-1973] from Termini Imerese.)
On February 11, 1964 FBI CI reported: "[Vito] Adragna, formerly of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, told informant that his brother, George Adragna of Pittsburgh was visiting him in San Jose, California. George Adragna is a close associate of [Domenic] Anzalone."
On February 13, 1964 FBI CI reported: "[On 2/12/64] Jose Cerrito, a don of La Cosa Nostra, San Jose, California, visited the Vito Adragna residence. George Adragna [also present]."
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| J. Cerrito |
On March 12, 1964 FBI CI reported: "[Joseph] Cerrito of Los Gatos, CA, had returned from approximately a three week trip to Mexico. Cerrito accompanied only by George Adragna of Pennsylvania drove to a small health resort in Mexico where they reportedly spent eight days taking health baths. The resort is located in the town of San Jose Purua located West of Mexico City. Cerrito indicated they traveled 7,500 miles by automobile on this trip; that they traveled to Guadalajara from San Jose Purua, spent a few days in Guadalajara and then returned to the United States, stopping off at Phoenix for a short visit. Cerrito indicated the trip was one of pleasure; that he and George Adragna had taken health baths at San Jose Purua."
On March 18, 1964 FBI CI noted Adragna cut his trip to California short due to a family emergency.
He was back three months later to attend the June 14 wedding of Vito Adragna's daughter. Reception, held at the Cabana Hotel in Palo Alto, included among its attendees San Jose Boss Joseph Cerrito and Members Domenic Anzalone, Anthony 'Toni' Maggio, Thomas Nicosia, Frank Sorce and Filippo Zoccoli. FBI noted: "George Adragna reportedly came to San Jose with his mother and sister and was scheduled to return to [Pittsburgh] on [6/17]." (Frank Sorce [1916-1988] was a suspected CI.)
On March 18, 1964 FBI CI noted Adragna cut his trip to California short due to a family emergency.
He was back three months later to attend the June 14 wedding of Vito Adragna's daughter. Reception, held at the Cabana Hotel in Palo Alto, included among its attendees San Jose Boss Joseph Cerrito and Members Domenic Anzalone, Anthony 'Toni' Maggio, Thomas Nicosia, Frank Sorce and Filippo Zoccoli. FBI noted: "George Adragna reportedly came to San Jose with his mother and sister and was scheduled to return to [Pittsburgh] on [6/17]." (Frank Sorce [1916-1988] was a suspected CI.)
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| J. Lanza FBN Mafia Book |
On June 16, 1964 FBI CI reported: "[Joseph] Cerrito, Domenic Anzalone and George Adragna had driven to San Francisco on Monday, June 15, 1964, for a luncheon engagement with [San Francisco Boss] James Lanza. Informant advised that the group met Lanza at Tadish's Grill in San Francisco, and that the discussion, in the informant's presence, was strictly social and of no significance. Informant advised, however, that at the conclusion of the lunch, Cerrito suggested that the informant take a walk and buy some fruit from the produce market which was located nearby. Informant stated that he left the grill and did not meet up with the above group for approximately 30 or 40 minutes, when he met them at a parking lot several blocks away. Informant advised that Lanza left the group and apparently returned to his office, which was nearby. Informant stated he could not determine what, if anything, had transpired in his absence from the group."
On June 29, 1965 FBI CI reported: "[Vito] Adragna's brother George Adragna was visiting him and Vito Adragna was considering going to Las Vegas for a short vacation."
On June 27, 1966 FBI CI reported: "[George Adragna], LCN member from [Pittsburgh] was in San Jose. Adragna had just returned from a trip to Italy."
On June 28-29, 1966 George and Vito both attended the rosary and funeral service for Thomas Nicosia, described as former 'secretary' of the San Jose Family, held in Santa Clara, CA. Other attendees included Boss Joseph Cerrito, Underboss Charles 'Stanley' Carbone, Captains Emanuel 'Manny' Figlia and Angelo Marino as well as at least twelve Soldiers.
CI later advised: "[Prior] to the rosary service, a number of individuals gathered in a small room off the foyer and he stated among those present he recognized Anzalone, George Adragna, Vito Adragna, [Alex] Camarata, [Pietro] Misuraca, [Salvatore] Costanza, Figlia, Tony Maggio and the three men from Monterey. CI noted he joined this group shortly before the rosary service commenced and while in the room, overheard George Adragna comment he had just recently returned from a trip to Italy." (San Jose Soldier Salvatore Costanza [1912-1994] was another CI. The 'three men from Monterey' were San Jose Soldiers Nicolo Guastella, Prospect 'Bo' Mule and Salvatore Vassallo.)
On August 31, 1967 FBI CI Antonio Lima, the former San Francisco Boss, advised of a plan by Domenic Anzalone to enlist Lima and George Adragna's aid in resolving a dispute with the Pittsburgh leadership over casino profits Anzalone believed he was owed.
On September 15, 1967 FBI CI reported: "[He] met Sal Taranto, LCN member, San Francisco Family, on the afternoon of [9/14/67] in downtown San Jose. Taranto advised that he had been in contact with Domenic Anzalone and in their discussion had mentioned the fact that the brother of Vito Adragna, Joseph Adragna, of New York City, had lived in the New York area for many years. Taranto indicated that Anzalone volunteered that Joseph Adragna was an active member of the Brooklyn Family of the LCN and that he, Anzalone, considered him to be 'sharper than his brother (George)'. It is to be noted that George Adragna is a member [in Pittsburgh]." (Subsequent investigation of Joseph Adragna appears to have uncovered little to no details on his LCN involvement. He remained an obscure member and is absent from available charts.)
On October 20, 1967 included in the FBI's list of 10 identified Pittsburgh Family members. An additional ten individuals listed as suspected members.
On January 23, 1968 FBI CI reported: "[George Adragna] traveled to California during the early part of [12/67] to visit with Domenic Anzalone and Vito Adragna, his brother. Informant added that Adragna only remained in California for a short time and had returned to Pennsylvania during the early part of [12/67]."
On April 19, 1968 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised Sal Taranto and he paid a visit to Dominick Anzalone and his business associate George Adragna, an identified Pittsburgh LCN member at the De Anza Hotel, San Jose, on 4/17/1968. Informant advised during the conversation, Anzalone mentioned the fact Vito Adragna is his 'recruit'. Anzalone further observed he knows Vito Adragna has two brothers, George and Joe Adragna, who are members of the Pittsburgh LCN Family and one of the NY LCN Families respectively."
On July 23, 1968 meeting held at Shangri-La Lounge operated by Pittsburgh Associate Sam Fashion in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Attendees included Adragna, Pittsburgh Members John Fontana and Joseph Regino as well as 'Doctor Steve Bondy'. Dinner held on behalf of visiting FBI CI Antonio Lima who reported on the gathering two days later. (Samuel 'Sam Fashion' Fascionetta [1916-1985], at that time a Proposed Associate, was later inducted per his inclusion on a 1985 chart of the Pittsburgh membership. His father was from Villarosa in Enna, birthplace of several other Family members including Boss John LaRocca.)
On August 21, 1968 included in the FBI's list of 21 identified Pittsburgh Family members. An additional four individuals listed as suspected members.
On September 20, 1968 FBI CI reported he was told by Joseph Adragna that his brother George was in New York on August 30 for a 'social visit'.
In November 1969 FBI CI reported: "[George] Adragna, a member of Western Pennsylvania Family of the La Cosa Nostra was coming to the San Jose area to live."
On January 5, 1970 FBI CI reported:
"
On June 29, 1965 FBI CI reported: "[Vito] Adragna's brother George Adragna was visiting him and Vito Adragna was considering going to Las Vegas for a short vacation."
On June 27, 1966 FBI CI reported: "[George Adragna], LCN member from [Pittsburgh] was in San Jose. Adragna had just returned from a trip to Italy."
On June 28-29, 1966 George and Vito both attended the rosary and funeral service for Thomas Nicosia, described as former 'secretary' of the San Jose Family, held in Santa Clara, CA. Other attendees included Boss Joseph Cerrito, Underboss Charles 'Stanley' Carbone, Captains Emanuel 'Manny' Figlia and Angelo Marino as well as at least twelve Soldiers.
CI later advised: "[Prior] to the rosary service, a number of individuals gathered in a small room off the foyer and he stated among those present he recognized Anzalone, George Adragna, Vito Adragna, [Alex] Camarata, [Pietro] Misuraca, [Salvatore] Costanza, Figlia, Tony Maggio and the three men from Monterey. CI noted he joined this group shortly before the rosary service commenced and while in the room, overheard George Adragna comment he had just recently returned from a trip to Italy." (San Jose Soldier Salvatore Costanza [1912-1994] was another CI. The 'three men from Monterey' were San Jose Soldiers Nicolo Guastella, Prospect 'Bo' Mule and Salvatore Vassallo.)
On August 31, 1967 FBI CI Antonio Lima, the former San Francisco Boss, advised of a plan by Domenic Anzalone to enlist Lima and George Adragna's aid in resolving a dispute with the Pittsburgh leadership over casino profits Anzalone believed he was owed.
On September 15, 1967 FBI CI reported: "[He] met Sal Taranto, LCN member, San Francisco Family, on the afternoon of [9/14/67] in downtown San Jose. Taranto advised that he had been in contact with Domenic Anzalone and in their discussion had mentioned the fact that the brother of Vito Adragna, Joseph Adragna, of New York City, had lived in the New York area for many years. Taranto indicated that Anzalone volunteered that Joseph Adragna was an active member of the Brooklyn Family of the LCN and that he, Anzalone, considered him to be 'sharper than his brother (George)'. It is to be noted that George Adragna is a member [in Pittsburgh]." (Subsequent investigation of Joseph Adragna appears to have uncovered little to no details on his LCN involvement. He remained an obscure member and is absent from available charts.)
On October 20, 1967 included in the FBI's list of 10 identified Pittsburgh Family members. An additional ten individuals listed as suspected members.
On January 23, 1968 FBI CI reported: "[George Adragna] traveled to California during the early part of [12/67] to visit with Domenic Anzalone and Vito Adragna, his brother. Informant added that Adragna only remained in California for a short time and had returned to Pennsylvania during the early part of [12/67]."
On April 19, 1968 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised Sal Taranto and he paid a visit to Dominick Anzalone and his business associate George Adragna, an identified Pittsburgh LCN member at the De Anza Hotel, San Jose, on 4/17/1968. Informant advised during the conversation, Anzalone mentioned the fact Vito Adragna is his 'recruit'. Anzalone further observed he knows Vito Adragna has two brothers, George and Joe Adragna, who are members of the Pittsburgh LCN Family and one of the NY LCN Families respectively."
On July 23, 1968 meeting held at Shangri-La Lounge operated by Pittsburgh Associate Sam Fashion in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Attendees included Adragna, Pittsburgh Members John Fontana and Joseph Regino as well as 'Doctor Steve Bondy'. Dinner held on behalf of visiting FBI CI Antonio Lima who reported on the gathering two days later. (Samuel 'Sam Fashion' Fascionetta [1916-1985], at that time a Proposed Associate, was later inducted per his inclusion on a 1985 chart of the Pittsburgh membership. His father was from Villarosa in Enna, birthplace of several other Family members including Boss John LaRocca.)
On August 21, 1968 included in the FBI's list of 21 identified Pittsburgh Family members. An additional four individuals listed as suspected members.
On September 20, 1968 FBI CI reported he was told by Joseph Adragna that his brother George was in New York on August 30 for a 'social visit'.
In November 1969 FBI CI reported: "[George] Adragna, a member of Western Pennsylvania Family of the La Cosa Nostra was coming to the San Jose area to live."
On January 5, 1970 FBI CI reported:
"
[Redacted] advised that he had talked to Vito Adragna on [redacted] and was advised that his brother, George Adragna, had purchased a home in the San Jose area. Vito added that George plans on making this his permanent home and will secure some type of employment in this area. Vito made no reference to George's going to work for [Domenic] Anzalone and he made no statements as to what disposition George may have made of his business in Monessen, Pa.
[Redacted] understands Anzalone has already vouched for George Adragna as a member of the Pittsburgh, Pa., LCN 'family' and has recommended to Joe Cerrito that George Adragna be accepted into the San Jose 'family'.
...[Redacted portion re San Jose Captain Manny Figlia and Associate Sal 'Toto' Cancilla]. [Redacted], George Adragna, was in the area and was purchasing a home. He also advised that Anzalone had recommended to Joe Cerrito that George Adragna be allowed to transfer his membership to the San Jose 'family' but of course this cannot be done until approval has been received from Sebastian John LaRocca, 'boss' of the Pittsburgh, Pa., 'family'. Figlia indicated that Cerrito will have to make the contact with LaRocca for this purpose.
[Redacted] Figlia about George Adragna's [redacted] and so far, Adragna had not made any statements as to whether or not he was going to work for Anzalone at the Acme Vending Co.
[Redacted] understands Anzalone has already vouched for George Adragna as a member of the Pittsburgh, Pa., LCN 'family' and has recommended to Joe Cerrito that George Adragna be accepted into the San Jose 'family'.
...[Redacted portion re San Jose Captain Manny Figlia and Associate Sal 'Toto' Cancilla]. [Redacted], George Adragna, was in the area and was purchasing a home. He also advised that Anzalone had recommended to Joe Cerrito that George Adragna be allowed to transfer his membership to the San Jose 'family' but of course this cannot be done until approval has been received from Sebastian John LaRocca, 'boss' of the Pittsburgh, Pa., 'family'. Figlia indicated that Cerrito will have to make the contact with LaRocca for this purpose.
[Redacted] Figlia about George Adragna's [redacted] and so far, Adragna had not made any statements as to whether or not he was going to work for Anzalone at the Acme Vending Co.
"
On June 1, 1970 FBI CI (San Francisco Member) reported: "He said he could furnish no current information about [redacted], Vito and George. He said he believed Vito Adragna and Domenic Anzalone still operate the Acme Vending Company, 1777 Smith Avenue, San Jose. He said he had no information that George Adragna was planning to return to the San Jose area following his eastern visit."
On October 22, 1970 FBI noted: "[Since 11/69 two CIs] reported that Adragna's membership had been transferred to the San Jose LCN Family and he is currently residing in the San Jose area."
The Family was headed by Joseph Cerrito. There was no known Consigliere and the Underboss position was vacant since the death of Charles Carbone in early 1967.
There were two captains, Emanuel Figlia and Angelo Marino, and the group numbered approximately 30 members total.
On June 1, 1970 FBI CI (San Francisco Member) reported: "He said he could furnish no current information about [redacted], Vito and George. He said he believed Vito Adragna and Domenic Anzalone still operate the Acme Vending Company, 1777 Smith Avenue, San Jose. He said he had no information that George Adragna was planning to return to the San Jose area following his eastern visit."
On October 22, 1970 FBI noted: "[Since 11/69 two CIs] reported that Adragna's membership had been transferred to the San Jose LCN Family and he is currently residing in the San Jose area."
The Family was headed by Joseph Cerrito. There was no known Consigliere and the Underboss position was vacant since the death of Charles Carbone in early 1967.
There were two captains, Emanuel Figlia and Angelo Marino, and the group numbered approximately 30 members total.
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| A. Marino |
Adragna may have joined his longtime associate Domenic Anzalone in the Angelo Marino crew.
Made members under Marino included Domenic Anzalone, Domenico Ferrito, Anthony Maggio, Angelo's father Salvatore Marino and Frank 'Fred' Sorce.
Made members under Marino included Domenic Anzalone, Domenico Ferrito, Anthony Maggio, Angelo's father Salvatore Marino and Frank 'Fred' Sorce.
Associates of interest included George's brother Vito, a proposed Associate on-record with Anzalone.
On May 23, 1974 rosary for mother of Boss Joseph Cerrito held at Lima Family - Erickson Cathedral Chapel on Willow St. Attendees included Captains Emanuel Figlia and Angelo Marino as well as George Adragna and at least ten other Soldiers.
Details on Adragna's activities over the next decade aren't available.
Following Joseph Cerrito's death in September 1978, leadership is believed to have gone to his brother-in-law Manny Figlia. (Figlia had reportedly been appointed Underboss in the recent past.)
Source information continued to illustrate that a large majority of the membership were criminally inactive. Those not retired typically concerned themselves with legitimate businesses.
On February 25, 1983 the FBI's San Francisco Field Office reported: "The Family appears to have no firm leadership position or direction at this time. It is anticipated that the Lake Tahoe meeting will provide an insight not previously available into the current thinking of the leadership of the San Jose Family and if in fact it is continuing as a criminal entity or if it is a group of individuals which continue to discuss past activities."
On January 14, 1986 George and his sixty-seven-year old wife Rosa were arrested at their home on a Federal charge of conspiring to smuggle heroin. The charges related to an international ring with contacts in New York and Europe. Released on $100,000 bail.
The Peninsula Times Tribune from the following day reported:
"
The Adragnas 'had contacts with the New York people that the European people didn't have,' the agent said. 'They were part of an organization distributing heroin in the United States imported from France.' The agent said the couple made most of their contacts with the smugglers by phone. He said Mrs. Adragna traveled to New York recently and was paid for putting the two drug-smuggling organizations together.
Federal agents speculate that the Adragnas have known the New York drug smugglers for a number of years. The couple came to California from Pittsburgh in the early 1960s, the agent said. Neither of the two has been arrested before in connection with narcotics, the agent said. The couple, along with the rest of the ring, have been part of one-year investigation, which included court-ordered wiretapping and involved the Drug Enforcement Administration, as well as French and Italian authorities.
Federal agents speculate that the Adragnas have known the New York drug smugglers for a number of years. The couple came to California from Pittsburgh in the early 1960s, the agent said. Neither of the two has been arrested before in connection with narcotics, the agent said. The couple, along with the rest of the ring, have been part of one-year investigation, which included court-ordered wiretapping and involved the Drug Enforcement Administration, as well as French and Italian authorities.
"
On January 30 the husband and wife were ordered to stand trial in New York but George's extradition was stayed pending medical review. The Peninsula Times Tribune noted: "Attorney Allen Ruby, who represented George Adragna, said the 77-year-old man has a bad heart and has suffered multiple strokes. George Adragna sat while his wife stood during most of the brief morning hearing. The two held hands and said nothing."
Adragna died June 1, 1986 in Santa Clara County and was buried in Donora, Pennsylvania.
On May 15, 1987 sixty-nine-year old Rose, free while awaiting trial in New York, was arrested again by Federal agents after being charged in Italy with conspiracy and possession and exportation of heroin. Released on bail pending extradition proceedings. Press accounts referred to her as 'the Godmother'. (It's not clear how the cases were resolved. She died in 2005.)
On June 24 FBI SF contacted the Cleveland Field Office requesting that Cooperating Witness Angelo Lonardo, the former Cleveland Acting Boss, be questioned concerning his knowledge of San Jose and San Francisco. In providing background on the local Families, SF noted: "...In addition to San Francisco and San Jose LCN Family members, there are LCN members from the Pittsburgh area, George Adragna (deceased) and his brother Vito Adragna residing in Santa Clara County, CA." (Vito died April 2008.)
On January 30 the husband and wife were ordered to stand trial in New York but George's extradition was stayed pending medical review. The Peninsula Times Tribune noted: "Attorney Allen Ruby, who represented George Adragna, said the 77-year-old man has a bad heart and has suffered multiple strokes. George Adragna sat while his wife stood during most of the brief morning hearing. The two held hands and said nothing."
Adragna died June 1, 1986 in Santa Clara County and was buried in Donora, Pennsylvania.
On May 15, 1987 sixty-nine-year old Rose, free while awaiting trial in New York, was arrested again by Federal agents after being charged in Italy with conspiracy and possession and exportation of heroin. Released on bail pending extradition proceedings. Press accounts referred to her as 'the Godmother'. (It's not clear how the cases were resolved. She died in 2005.)
On June 24 FBI SF contacted the Cleveland Field Office requesting that Cooperating Witness Angelo Lonardo, the former Cleveland Acting Boss, be questioned concerning his knowledge of San Jose and San Francisco. In providing background on the local Families, SF noted: "...In addition to San Francisco and San Jose LCN Family members, there are LCN members from the Pittsburgh area, George Adragna (deceased) and his brother Vito Adragna residing in Santa Clara County, CA." (Vito died April 2008.)
More Pittsburgh / San Jose Family posts can be found in the Index.