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| 1970 |
Fred Clemenza (1923-1980) was a member of the Colombo Family active in union activity, real estate and the garment business in Brooklyn.
Older brother James aka 'Jimmy Brown' (1911-1993) was a Colombo Captain during mid-to-late 1970s.
Another older brother, Charles (1901-1979), was an Associate.
All three were in John 'Johnny Bath Beach' Oddo's crew by the early 1960s.
Fred's nephews Gerard aka 'Jerry Brown' and James 'Jimmy Green Eyes' Clemenza Jr., Jimmy's sons, have been identified in various FBI documents and court proceedings as Colombo members.
In-law Charles 'Charlie Moose' Panarella (1922-2017) was a Colombo Captain who briefly served as Acting Consigliere in the mid-1970s.
Fred Clemenza was born May 4, 1923 at 743 Park Ave in Brooklyn's Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood to Antonio (51y) and Antonina DiCarlo (45y).
Both parents were Sicilian, with the father from Partanna comune of Trapani and the mother from the city of Catania in the province of the same name.
At the time of Fred's birth the family was living at the Park Ave address and remained in the area (743 -> 830 -> 818 Park Ave) for the next couple of decades.
By June 1942 employed with US Navy Yard in Fort Greene, Brooklyn.
Served in US Army from February 6, 1943 to October 16, 1944.
By April 1950 resided at 4812 Ave J in Flatlands, Brooklyn. Listed occupation as salesman at ladies blouse factory.
By 1954 he was President of Star Blouse Company located at 810 Broadway in the Williamsburg neighborhood.
Older brother James aka 'Jimmy Brown' (1911-1993) was a Colombo Captain during mid-to-late 1970s.
Another older brother, Charles (1901-1979), was an Associate.
All three were in John 'Johnny Bath Beach' Oddo's crew by the early 1960s.
Fred's nephews Gerard aka 'Jerry Brown' and James 'Jimmy Green Eyes' Clemenza Jr., Jimmy's sons, have been identified in various FBI documents and court proceedings as Colombo members.
In-law Charles 'Charlie Moose' Panarella (1922-2017) was a Colombo Captain who briefly served as Acting Consigliere in the mid-1970s.
Fred Clemenza was born May 4, 1923 at 743 Park Ave in Brooklyn's Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood to Antonio (51y) and Antonina DiCarlo (45y).
Both parents were Sicilian, with the father from Partanna comune of Trapani and the mother from the city of Catania in the province of the same name.
At the time of Fred's birth the family was living at the Park Ave address and remained in the area (743 -> 830 -> 818 Park Ave) for the next couple of decades.
By June 1942 employed with US Navy Yard in Fort Greene, Brooklyn.
Served in US Army from February 6, 1943 to October 16, 1944.
By April 1950 resided at 4812 Ave J in Flatlands, Brooklyn. Listed occupation as salesman at ladies blouse factory.
By 1954 he was President of Star Blouse Company located at 810 Broadway in the Williamsburg neighborhood.
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| J. Clemenza (1939) |
His brother James, in addition to his involvement in a realty and construction company, also served as Business Agent for the Blouse Association headquartered in Manhattan's Garment Center.
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| J. Oddo FBN Mafia Book |
By 1958 both Fred and James Clemenza were formally inducted members of the Colombo Family and probably reported to Captain John Oddo.
Made members of Oddo's crew included Cassandro 'Tony the Chief' Bonasera, Fred Clemenza, James Clemenza, Charles 'Lolly' DePierro, brothers John and Patsy Guariglia, Charles Panarella and Salvatore 'Sammy' Peritore.
Members Louis Barbusca and Joe Greca may have started out with Oddo as well.
By 1963 Fred and James were partners Reo Realty and Construction Company located at 5006 Ave D in Flatbush, Brooklyn.
On January 29 of that year FBI CI and Colombo Soldier Gregory Scarpa was shown various photographs of suspected members: "James Clemenza aka Jimmy Brown - a good fellow in the Magliocco Family who was under Harry Fontana. He has a brother who is a good fellow and a member of the Ladies Garment Manufacturers Association." (This is the only report that links James Clemenza to the Fontana crew. The following month either Scarpa or another member source placed him under Oddo.)
On September 3, 1963 unspecified relative interviewed by FBI: "[Unsub] advised [James Clemenza] is out of the city on vacation but he would be in his office on 9/4/1963. He stated that Clemenza and his brother, Fred Clemenza, operate Reo Realty and Construction Company, builders of commercial and industrial buildings."
Two days later Agents interviewed James Clemenza: "Clemenza advised that he operates above company in partnership with [brother Fred]. Clemenza stated Reo Realty deals in commercial properties only. He explained that he will locate a lot which he will purchase and then construct a one story concrete block structure. Clemenza related after the construction is complete he will then either sell or lease the property for commercial use. Clemenza related many of the one story commercial buildings on Utica Avenue have been put up by him. He stated this has proven an extremely profitable business and he has cleared as much as $20,000 [about $200,000 in today's value] on a single building."
On June 17, 1964 CI Scarpa reported: “[Both] James and Charles Clemenza are members of the Colombo Family and are probably assigned to the regime of John Oddo.” (Fred was misidentified as Charles more than once early on.)
On July 29, 1964 FBI's New York Office reported: “[Fred Clemenza investigation] was inadvertently opened as a result of 6/22/1964 memo of [Special Agent] regarding [CI Scarpa] who had reported that one Fred Clemenza was a member of La Cosa Nostra in the Colombo Family. It has been determined that this was in fact Charles Clemenza, subject of [separate investigation].” (The confusion over Fred and Charles wasn't cleared up until a few years later.)
On April 21 a Family gathering was held at a Bensonhurst catering establishment to celebrate Joseph Colombo having completed his first year as Family Boss. Those present included Colombo, Underboss Salvatore 'Charlie Lemons' Mineo, eight of the ten Captains, two Acting Captains, Patriarca Member Nicholas Bianco and approximately twenty Colombo Soldiers. CI Scarpa noted each Captain brought a couple of crew members and no Family business was discussed.
Attendees included:
Made members of Oddo's crew included Cassandro 'Tony the Chief' Bonasera, Fred Clemenza, James Clemenza, Charles 'Lolly' DePierro, brothers John and Patsy Guariglia, Charles Panarella and Salvatore 'Sammy' Peritore.
Members Louis Barbusca and Joe Greca may have started out with Oddo as well.
By 1963 Fred and James were partners Reo Realty and Construction Company located at 5006 Ave D in Flatbush, Brooklyn.
On January 29 of that year FBI CI and Colombo Soldier Gregory Scarpa was shown various photographs of suspected members: "James Clemenza aka Jimmy Brown - a good fellow in the Magliocco Family who was under Harry Fontana. He has a brother who is a good fellow and a member of the Ladies Garment Manufacturers Association." (This is the only report that links James Clemenza to the Fontana crew. The following month either Scarpa or another member source placed him under Oddo.)
On September 3, 1963 unspecified relative interviewed by FBI: "[Unsub] advised [James Clemenza] is out of the city on vacation but he would be in his office on 9/4/1963. He stated that Clemenza and his brother, Fred Clemenza, operate Reo Realty and Construction Company, builders of commercial and industrial buildings."
Two days later Agents interviewed James Clemenza: "Clemenza advised that he operates above company in partnership with [brother Fred]. Clemenza stated Reo Realty deals in commercial properties only. He explained that he will locate a lot which he will purchase and then construct a one story concrete block structure. Clemenza related after the construction is complete he will then either sell or lease the property for commercial use. Clemenza related many of the one story commercial buildings on Utica Avenue have been put up by him. He stated this has proven an extremely profitable business and he has cleared as much as $20,000 [about $200,000 in today's value] on a single building."
On June 17, 1964 CI Scarpa reported: “[Both] James and Charles Clemenza are members of the Colombo Family and are probably assigned to the regime of John Oddo.” (Fred was misidentified as Charles more than once early on.)
On July 29, 1964 FBI's New York Office reported: “[Fred Clemenza investigation] was inadvertently opened as a result of 6/22/1964 memo of [Special Agent] regarding [CI Scarpa] who had reported that one Fred Clemenza was a member of La Cosa Nostra in the Colombo Family. It has been determined that this was in fact Charles Clemenza, subject of [separate investigation].” (The confusion over Fred and Charles wasn't cleared up until a few years later.)
On April 21 a Family gathering was held at a Bensonhurst catering establishment to celebrate Joseph Colombo having completed his first year as Family Boss. Those present included Colombo, Underboss Salvatore 'Charlie Lemons' Mineo, eight of the ten Captains, two Acting Captains, Patriarca Member Nicholas Bianco and approximately twenty Colombo Soldiers. CI Scarpa noted each Captain brought a couple of crew members and no Family business was discussed.
Attendees included:
- Joseph Colombo (Boss)
- Salvatore Mineo (Underboss)
- Vincent Aloi (Captain)
- Simone 'Sam' Andolino (Captain)
- Harry Fontana (Captain)
- Nicholas 'Jiggs' Forlano (Captain)
- John 'Sonny' Franzese (Captain)
- Frank Fusco (Acting Captain) [Represented Nick Sorrentino]
- Joe Greca (Acting Captain) [Represented Salvatore 'Sally the Sheik' Musacchio]
- 'Big John' Misuraca (Captain)
- John Oddo (Captain)
- Carmine 'Junior' Persico (Captain)
- Anthony 'Abbey' Abbatemarco [Persico Crew]
- Sebastiano 'Buster' Aloi [V. Aloi Crew]
- Nicholas Bianco (Patriarca Member)
- Joseph 'Little Joey' Brancato [Franzese Crew]
- James 'Jimmy Bat' Cardello [Persico Crew]
- Fred Clemenza [Oddo Crew]
- James Clemenza [Oddo Crew]
- Alphonse 'Funzi' D'Ambrosio [Forlano Crew]
- Vincent 'Vinny Sicilian' Gugliaro [Forlano Crew]
- Andrew Lombardino [Misuraca Crew]
- Ernest 'Ernie Lap' LaPonzina [Sorrentino Crew]
- Ralph LaPonzina [Sorrentino Crew]
- Benjamin 'Benny Sidge' LoCicero [Fontana Crew]
- Vincent 'Little Jimmy' Melia [V. Aloi Crew]
- Rocco 'Rocky' Miraglia [Colombo Crew]
- Vincent 'Jimmy' Muce [Fontana Crew]
- Carmelo 'Joe' Mutoli [Andolino Crew]
- Salvatore Peritore [Reported Direct to Mineo]
- Gregory Scarpa [Colombo Crew] [FBI CI]
- Dominick 'Mimi' Scialo [Franzese Crew]
- Joseph 'Joe Yak' Yacovelli [Colombo Crew]
- Unsub (c. 65y) [V. Aloi Crew] [Possibly Vincent Melia's father Frank]
- Salvatore Mineo (Underboss)
- Vincent Aloi (Captain)
- Simone 'Sam' Andolino (Captain)
- Harry Fontana (Captain)
- Nicholas 'Jiggs' Forlano (Captain)
- John 'Sonny' Franzese (Captain)
- Frank Fusco (Acting Captain) [Represented Nick Sorrentino]
- Joe Greca (Acting Captain) [Represented Salvatore 'Sally the Sheik' Musacchio]
- 'Big John' Misuraca (Captain)
- John Oddo (Captain)
- Carmine 'Junior' Persico (Captain)
- Anthony 'Abbey' Abbatemarco [Persico Crew]
- Sebastiano 'Buster' Aloi [V. Aloi Crew]
- Nicholas Bianco (Patriarca Member)
- Joseph 'Little Joey' Brancato [Franzese Crew]
- James 'Jimmy Bat' Cardello [Persico Crew]
- Fred Clemenza [Oddo Crew]
- James Clemenza [Oddo Crew]
- Alphonse 'Funzi' D'Ambrosio [Forlano Crew]
- Vincent 'Vinny Sicilian' Gugliaro [Forlano Crew]
- Andrew Lombardino [Misuraca Crew]
- Ernest 'Ernie Lap' LaPonzina [Sorrentino Crew]
- Ralph LaPonzina [Sorrentino Crew]
- Benjamin 'Benny Sidge' LoCicero [Fontana Crew]
- Vincent 'Little Jimmy' Melia [V. Aloi Crew]
- Rocco 'Rocky' Miraglia [Colombo Crew]
- Vincent 'Jimmy' Muce [Fontana Crew]
- Carmelo 'Joe' Mutoli [Andolino Crew]
- Salvatore Peritore [Reported Direct to Mineo]
- Gregory Scarpa [Colombo Crew] [FBI CI]
- Dominick 'Mimi' Scialo [Franzese Crew]
- Joseph 'Joe Yak' Yacovelli [Colombo Crew]
- Unsub (c. 65y) [V. Aloi Crew] [Possibly Vincent Melia's father Frank]
On August 13, 1965 and April 23, 1966 ticketed in Brooklyn and Sullivan County respectively. (These traffic stops appear to be the extent of Clemenza's criminal record.)
By 1969 Clemenza, in addition to holding a partnership with his brother in Reo Realty, had been elected Vice President of Local 1175 Material Yard Workers union headquartered at 101 W 17th St in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan.
On July 29, 1969 CI Scarpa reported: "Fred Clemenza is an LCN member in the Colombo Family. Informant advised he has not seen Fred Clemenza too often and stated as far as he was aware he is probably inactive."
On August 6, 1969 FBI NYO reported: "It is to be noted that in the past [CI Scarpa] identified one Charles Clemenza as an LCN member in the Colombo Family. However, a photograph was not available for positive identification by the informant. It is noted that during the recent past a surveillance type photograph depicting Charles Clemenza was obtained and on 7/29/1969, this photograph was displayed to [Scarpa]. At this time the informant advised that this individual was the brother of Clemenza that he previously referred to and this individual was definitely not an LCN member. Informant advised the individual referred to by him is known as Jimmy Brown and this individual is an LCN member in the Colombo Family as well as his brother Fred Clemenza. Informant advised he does not see the Clemenzas very often and as far as he is aware they are probably inactive."
On September 29, 1969 an FBI spot check on Clemenza's Ave J address noted a vehicle registered to Local 1175 parked in the driveway.
The following day Fred and his brother James were observed at Reo Realty on Ave D. At 12:30 PM Fred left the business and was followed to the Pancake Inn located at E 77th St and Farragut Rd in Flatbush.
On January 5, 1970 interviewed by FBI Agents for the first time:
"
Clemenza advised that he is currently a partner with his brother, James Clemenza, in the Reo Realty Company, 5008 Avenue D, Brooklyn. Clemenza advised he is also Vice-President of Local 1175, which is the Sand, Gravel, Crushed Stone, Ashes, Material Yard Workers Union, located at 101 West 17th Street, New York City.
Clemenza advised that he is a businessman and has never been involved in any criminal activity of any kind. Clemenza stated there is no reason at all for him not be in a legitimate business. Clemenza advised that he has met Joseph Colombo twice in his whole life and did not recall where it was, but it was awhile ago. Clemenza advised he heard many stories and read many articles about Colombo, but he did not believe everything he has seen or heard.
Clemenza advised that his position in the Local 1175 keeps him busy, and he does not devote as much time as he would like to his Reo Realty Company. Clemenza advised he would cooperate with the FBI if he could, but stated he is not a member of the LCN and has only read about this organization in the newspapers. Clemenza advised he is a businessman, married, and has six children and is working for a living and not engaged in anything illegal.
Clemenza advised that he is a businessman and has never been involved in any criminal activity of any kind. Clemenza stated there is no reason at all for him not be in a legitimate business. Clemenza advised that he has met Joseph Colombo twice in his whole life and did not recall where it was, but it was awhile ago. Clemenza advised he heard many stories and read many articles about Colombo, but he did not believe everything he has seen or heard.
Clemenza advised that his position in the Local 1175 keeps him busy, and he does not devote as much time as he would like to his Reo Realty Company. Clemenza advised he would cooperate with the FBI if he could, but stated he is not a member of the LCN and has only read about this organization in the newspapers. Clemenza advised he is a businessman, married, and has six children and is working for a living and not engaged in anything illegal.
"
On February 12, 1970 FBI CI reported: “[Fred] Clemenza has been in Florida for the past week but did not know the exact location where Clemenza was staying.”
On April 3, 1970 a Bradford Trucking Company tractor trailer containing approximately $220,000 worth of ladies apparel was stolen from W. T. Grant Consolidation House in Edison, New Jersey. On April 7 the now-emptied trailer was found abandoned in Manhattan.
On the morning of April 9, acting on an informant's tip, FBI Agents surveilled LCN Associates Ralph Broccoli and Matthew 'Matty the Horse' Zarrella to a suspected drop for stolen goods in Brooklyn.
(Ralph Broccoli [1942-1978], a resident of Bath Beach, is described in most available sources as a Gambino Associate and later as a Possible Member. He was known to associate with Edward Lino, a Gambino Associate and Future Captain who at the time reported direct to Gambino Underboss Aniello 'Neil' Dellacroce. Matthew Zarrella [1929-1975], Bensonhurst resident, was a cousin of Genovese Family Captain Matthew 'Matty the Horse' Ianniello and an uncle of Future Bonanno Associate [and Possible Member] Robert Trimaldi.)
After a series of preliminary stops Broccoli and Zarrella were followed to a building owned by Fred Clemenza at 5701 Foster Ave in East Flatbush. Agents watched as the pair, along with a third man, oversaw the loading of what was later determined to be stolen M-8200 cassette players into Zarrella's rented van. The pair was followed a short distance from the scene before being arrested, Broccoli after having exited the van and attempting to flee on foot. Both were indicted by the US Attorney's Office in Brooklyn on theft from interstate shipment charges.
The cassette players were determined to have been stolen the previous week from Arbour Transportation Company in Maspeth, Queens.
In a subsequent search of the Foster Ave building two trucks, determined to have been rented by Zarrella, were found to contain the $220,000 worth of ladies apparel from the April 3 theft in Edison.
On the same day as the arrests Fred Clemenza, observed exiting the address, was questioned:
"
On February 12, 1970 FBI CI reported: “[Fred] Clemenza has been in Florida for the past week but did not know the exact location where Clemenza was staying.”
On April 3, 1970 a Bradford Trucking Company tractor trailer containing approximately $220,000 worth of ladies apparel was stolen from W. T. Grant Consolidation House in Edison, New Jersey. On April 7 the now-emptied trailer was found abandoned in Manhattan.
On the morning of April 9, acting on an informant's tip, FBI Agents surveilled LCN Associates Ralph Broccoli and Matthew 'Matty the Horse' Zarrella to a suspected drop for stolen goods in Brooklyn.
(Ralph Broccoli [1942-1978], a resident of Bath Beach, is described in most available sources as a Gambino Associate and later as a Possible Member. He was known to associate with Edward Lino, a Gambino Associate and Future Captain who at the time reported direct to Gambino Underboss Aniello 'Neil' Dellacroce. Matthew Zarrella [1929-1975], Bensonhurst resident, was a cousin of Genovese Family Captain Matthew 'Matty the Horse' Ianniello and an uncle of Future Bonanno Associate [and Possible Member] Robert Trimaldi.)
After a series of preliminary stops Broccoli and Zarrella were followed to a building owned by Fred Clemenza at 5701 Foster Ave in East Flatbush. Agents watched as the pair, along with a third man, oversaw the loading of what was later determined to be stolen M-8200 cassette players into Zarrella's rented van. The pair was followed a short distance from the scene before being arrested, Broccoli after having exited the van and attempting to flee on foot. Both were indicted by the US Attorney's Office in Brooklyn on theft from interstate shipment charges.
The cassette players were determined to have been stolen the previous week from Arbour Transportation Company in Maspeth, Queens.
In a subsequent search of the Foster Ave building two trucks, determined to have been rented by Zarrella, were found to contain the $220,000 worth of ladies apparel from the April 3 theft in Edison.
On the same day as the arrests Fred Clemenza, observed exiting the address, was questioned:
"
An individual who identified himself as Fred Clemenza, with the CVC Realty Construction Company, 5006 Avenue D, Brooklyn [was] questioned after he departed the premises [at] which time he advised that he is the owner of the premises [and] his firm is the CVC Realty Company. He said on this AM that he had observed some furniture at the end of the building and stated he was planning to start adding an addition to the end of the building and since this would be in the way he stopped in the building to check on who had placed this junk on the lot. He said that when he entered the premises he determined a lot of furniture was stored inside and inquired as to who was using the premises and was advised by a colored male the space had been subleased from Jolly Distributors by Coastal Van Lines next door. He stated Jolly Distributors was in financial difficulties and his company had instituted a Chapter 11 proceeding against Jolly Distributors. He said he didn’t know whether or not Jolly Distributors lease called for a sub leasing. He stated he had no knowledge of the sub lease until this date. At the time Clemenza was interviewed he was driving a late modeled white Cadillac.
Later the same date, Clemenza returned in the same vehicle, accompanied by a W/M who was driving further described as a W/M, black hair, approximately 40 years old and stopped in front of [address]. [Agent] approached the car and Clemenza pointed out the furniture he had referred to lying at the end of the building and stated this was the end of the building he planned to add on to. He said he planned to start on Monday. He also pointed out the furniture storage area inside the premises of 5701 Foster Avenue. Clemenza departed.
Later the same date, Clemenza returned in the same vehicle, accompanied by a W/M who was driving further described as a W/M, black hair, approximately 40 years old and stopped in front of [address]. [Agent] approached the car and Clemenza pointed out the furniture he had referred to lying at the end of the building and stated this was the end of the building he planned to add on to. He said he planned to start on Monday. He also pointed out the furniture storage area inside the premises of 5701 Foster Avenue. Clemenza departed.
"
(On November 29, 1975 forty-six-year-old Matthew Zarrella was shot to death outside his 76th St residence by two or three masked gunmen. His twenty-year-old daughter was struck by one of the gunmen after attempting to intervene. The daughter's boyfriend, Future [?] Bonanno Associate Robert Carrao, was shot once in the lower body while running from the scene. On January 31, 1978 thirty-five-year-old Ralph Broccoli was gunned down inside Jay's Lounge at 2568 68th St in Bensonhurst. Two ski-masked assailants armed with a shotgun and a large-caliber pistol entered the bar and shot Broccoli multiple times in the upper chest and head. Participants included Genovese Soldier Gerard 'Jerry Papa and Associate Barclay 'Bobby' Farenga; Papa was himself shotgunned to death two years after Broccoli and Farenga later cooperated.)
Over the following months Clemenza was occasionally observed during FBI spot checks conducted at either Reo Realty or his residence in Flatlands.
On October 22, 1970 FBI CI reported: “Fred Clemenza has been inactive for the past couple of years and is not engaged in any criminal activities.”
On October 27, 1970, at approximately 12:30 PM, Fred and James Clemenza was observed in discussion at the corner of Utica Ave and Ave D in East Flatbush. Agents noted James was driving an auto registered to Curry Company in Scarsdale, New York.
On November 12, 1970 interviewed by Immigration and Naturalization Service: "Clemenza stated that he was born on 5/4/1923 [to] Antonio Clemenza, born in Italy and Antonina (Nina) DiCarlo also born in Italy. Clemenza stated he is the youngest of nine children. During the interview Clemenza’s sister, Elizabeth, 58 years of age, arrived at Clemenza’s home and corroborated all of the above information as provided by the subject.”
On February 23, 1971 surveilled by FBI being driven by Unsub from Reo Realty to warehouse on Foster Ave. Clemenza entered the location and briefly met with a second Unsub before being driven back to Reo Realty.
On November 4, 1971 FBI CI reported: “[Fred] Clemenza is not actively engaged in any criminal activity.”
In October 1972 included in the FBI's list of 72 identified Colombo Family members.
Around November 8, 1972 FBI NYO reported: “During the past six months sources familiar with Colombo Family in LCN advised Clemenza not involved in any criminal activity.”
On February 14, 1973 FBI CI reported: "[Last] Saturday, 2/10/73, Charles Panarella's daughter married James Clemenza's son at Leonard's in Great Neck, Long Island. Informant advised that the wedding was not a joyous one because several weeks before, Fred Clemenza's son, who was scheduled to be in the wedding party, was killed in a freak train accident."
(On November 29, 1975 forty-six-year-old Matthew Zarrella was shot to death outside his 76th St residence by two or three masked gunmen. His twenty-year-old daughter was struck by one of the gunmen after attempting to intervene. The daughter's boyfriend, Future [?] Bonanno Associate Robert Carrao, was shot once in the lower body while running from the scene. On January 31, 1978 thirty-five-year-old Ralph Broccoli was gunned down inside Jay's Lounge at 2568 68th St in Bensonhurst. Two ski-masked assailants armed with a shotgun and a large-caliber pistol entered the bar and shot Broccoli multiple times in the upper chest and head. Participants included Genovese Soldier Gerard 'Jerry Papa and Associate Barclay 'Bobby' Farenga; Papa was himself shotgunned to death two years after Broccoli and Farenga later cooperated.)
Over the following months Clemenza was occasionally observed during FBI spot checks conducted at either Reo Realty or his residence in Flatlands.
On October 22, 1970 FBI CI reported: “Fred Clemenza has been inactive for the past couple of years and is not engaged in any criminal activities.”
On October 27, 1970, at approximately 12:30 PM, Fred and James Clemenza was observed in discussion at the corner of Utica Ave and Ave D in East Flatbush. Agents noted James was driving an auto registered to Curry Company in Scarsdale, New York.
On November 12, 1970 interviewed by Immigration and Naturalization Service: "Clemenza stated that he was born on 5/4/1923 [to] Antonio Clemenza, born in Italy and Antonina (Nina) DiCarlo also born in Italy. Clemenza stated he is the youngest of nine children. During the interview Clemenza’s sister, Elizabeth, 58 years of age, arrived at Clemenza’s home and corroborated all of the above information as provided by the subject.”
On February 23, 1971 surveilled by FBI being driven by Unsub from Reo Realty to warehouse on Foster Ave. Clemenza entered the location and briefly met with a second Unsub before being driven back to Reo Realty.
On November 4, 1971 FBI CI reported: “[Fred] Clemenza is not actively engaged in any criminal activity.”
In October 1972 included in the FBI's list of 72 identified Colombo Family members.
Around November 8, 1972 FBI NYO reported: “During the past six months sources familiar with Colombo Family in LCN advised Clemenza not involved in any criminal activity.”
On February 14, 1973 FBI CI reported: "[Last] Saturday, 2/10/73, Charles Panarella's daughter married James Clemenza's son at Leonard's in Great Neck, Long Island. Informant advised that the wedding was not a joyous one because several weeks before, Fred Clemenza's son, who was scheduled to be in the wedding party, was killed in a freak train accident."
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| C. Panarella |
Charles Panarella had by that time succeeded John Oddo as Captain.
Made members in Panarella's crew included:
On July 26 CI Scarpa provided an update on the Colombo Family's structure and the activities of various members. Scarpa identified Charles 'Charlie Moose' Panarella as a Captain and named the Clemenzas as Panarella crew members.
On August 24, 1973 CI Scarpa reported: “Scarpa gave the following characterizations of illegal activities of leading Colombo figures: [The Clemenza brothers] In real estate enterprises plus shylocking with Johnny Oddo and Minx Livoti.”
In October 1973 included in the FBI's list of 71 identified Colombo Family members.
Made members in Panarella's crew included:
- Fred Clemenza
- James Clemenza
- Frank Fusco [Former Captain]
- Anthony LaPonzina
- Ernest LaPonzina
- Benjamin LoCicero
- Frank 'Gandy' LoCicero
- Rocco Miraglia [Former Captain]
- Gregory Scarpa [FBI CI]
- Salvatore Scarpa
- Nick Sorrentino [Former Captain]
- George Tropiano
- Ralph 'Whitey' Tropiano
- Paul 'Paulie Guns' Bevacqua
- Peter Candarini
- Charles Clemenza
- Joseph 'Joe Brewster' DeDomenico
- Richard 'Richie Nerves' Fusco
- Salvatore 'Sally Buzzo' Fusco
- Joseph 'Joe Lane' Gentile
- Michael 'Mikey Head' Gulemmo [Later a Bonanno Associate]
- Joseph 'Joe Notch' Iannaci
- Nicholas Mainello
- Peter Sabatino
- John 'Johnny Sap' Saponaro
- Joseph 'Joe Sap' Saponaro
- Gregory Scarpa Jr.
- Robert 'Rabbit' Stasio
On July 26 CI Scarpa provided an update on the Colombo Family's structure and the activities of various members. Scarpa identified Charles 'Charlie Moose' Panarella as a Captain and named the Clemenzas as Panarella crew members.
On August 24, 1973 CI Scarpa reported: “Scarpa gave the following characterizations of illegal activities of leading Colombo figures: [The Clemenza brothers] In real estate enterprises plus shylocking with Johnny Oddo and Minx Livoti.”
In October 1973 included in the FBI's list of 71 identified Colombo Family members.
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| J. Clemenza |
Around early-to-mid May 1974 James Clemenza was promoted to Captain over a new crew consisting primarily of the Florida based old-timers.
Made members of Clemenza's crew included Sebastiano Aloi, Fred Clemenza and Former Captains Harry Fontana, John Misuraca, John Oddo and Nick Sorrentino.
Possible crew members included Former Acting Captain Joe Greca.
In November 1974 included in the FBI's list of 74 identified Colombo Family members.
On May 8, 1975 FBI CI reported: "[Dominick Lagana] resides at the Breakers Hotel, Palm Beach, Florida and owns three condominiums in Fort Lauderdale, Florida...Informant advised [Lagana] very close with Natale Richichi, [Redacted], Jimmy Clemenza and Freddy Clemenza while in Florida." (Dominick 'Mimi' Lagana [1903-1977] was a Gambino Soldier formerly under Joseph 'Gus' Colozzo. Natale 'Big Chris' Richichi [1916-2001] was a Gambino Associate under Ettore 'Terry' Zappi who was inducted into the Gambinos after the books opened in 1976.)
On October 8, 1975 FBI CI provided update on the Colombo Family structure. He identified James Clemenza as Captain and named five made members of his crew: Sebastiano Aloi, Fred Clemenza, Harry Fontana, Salvatore Peritore and Nick Sorrentino (deceased).
In December 1975 included in the FBI's list of 73 identified Colombo Family members.
On October 15, 1976 FBI CI reported: “[Fred] Clemenza recently opened a high stakes ziganette game in a social club at 86th Street and New Utrecht Avenue.”
By late 1976 he is believed to have been taken out of his brother's primarily Florida-based crew and placed back under Charles Panarella.
On December 2, 1976 FBI NY compiled an update on the Colombo Family's structure. The chart identified Charles Panarella as a Captain and noted his crew members as including Fred Clemenza.
By that time the Family had divided into two camps. One side supported Boss Thomas DiBella and the Persicos. The other, headed by Joseph Yacovelli and Underboss Anthony Abbatemarco, felt that DiBella favored the Persicos too strongly and sought to remove him as Boss.
The Yacovelli - Abbatemarco faction had the support of Family Captains Joseph Brancato, James Clemenza, Vincent Gugliaro and Salvatore 'Turi' Lombardino Jr.
Clemenza's crew leader Charles Panarella was the only Captain loyal to the Persicos, although some of Panarella's men, including Clemenza himself as well as Colombo Soldier and Former FBI CI Gregory Scarpa, threw in with Yacovelli.
On December 6 an informant noted that one of Fred's nephews (a son of James) was 'carrying a gun' and acting as a bodyguard for Colombo Soldier Salvatore 'Sally' Albanese, one of Underboss Abbatemarco's closest associates.
The Commission was called in to resolve the dispute and sided with DiBella, leading to Abbatemarco and other dissidents being demoted and the Family undergoing a large scale reorganization. (Salvatore Albanese, spared but left on thin ice with the leadership for his betrayal, is believed to have committed some other violation that ultimately led to his disappearance in May 1977.)
It was initially reported that James Clemenza would be allowed to keep his crew because they were primarily based in Florida and he was planning to relocate there himself. By early February 1977 he too had been demoted and the Florida crew was left temporarily vacant.
Fred Clemenza continued reporting to Persico loyalist Charles Panarella.
By September 1977 made members of Panarella's crew included Fred Clemenza, Frank Fusco, Ernest LaPonzina, Benjamin LoCicero, Frank LoCicero, Frank 'Beansy' Melli, Rocco Miraglia, Gregory Scarpa and Alphonso 'Peanuts' Serrantonio.
An updated chart from November 1977 listed the same crew members.
On August 11, 1978 FBI CI reported: “[Fred] Clemenza, who is under Charles Panarella, has cancer and is retired from Family activity.”
In June 1979 included in the FBI's list of 94 identified Colombo Family members.
An FBI chart from the same month listed made members of Panarella's crew as including Joel 'Joe Waverly' Cacace, Fred Clemenza, Frank Fusco, Ernest LaPonzina, Benjamin LoCicero, Anthony 'Butch' Maltese, Frank Melli, Rocco Miraglia, Patsy 'Junior' Palermo, Nicholas Rizzo and Gregory Scarpa.
On August 6, 1980 Panarella began serving a New York State prison sentence for gun possession.
A few days later CI Scarpa reported that Panarella had been demoted and his crew dispersed among the other Captains.
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.
Made members of Clemenza's crew included Sebastiano Aloi, Fred Clemenza and Former Captains Harry Fontana, John Misuraca, John Oddo and Nick Sorrentino.
Possible crew members included Former Acting Captain Joe Greca.
In November 1974 included in the FBI's list of 74 identified Colombo Family members.
On May 8, 1975 FBI CI reported: "[Dominick Lagana] resides at the Breakers Hotel, Palm Beach, Florida and owns three condominiums in Fort Lauderdale, Florida...Informant advised [Lagana] very close with Natale Richichi, [Redacted], Jimmy Clemenza and Freddy Clemenza while in Florida." (Dominick 'Mimi' Lagana [1903-1977] was a Gambino Soldier formerly under Joseph 'Gus' Colozzo. Natale 'Big Chris' Richichi [1916-2001] was a Gambino Associate under Ettore 'Terry' Zappi who was inducted into the Gambinos after the books opened in 1976.)
On October 8, 1975 FBI CI provided update on the Colombo Family structure. He identified James Clemenza as Captain and named five made members of his crew: Sebastiano Aloi, Fred Clemenza, Harry Fontana, Salvatore Peritore and Nick Sorrentino (deceased).
In December 1975 included in the FBI's list of 73 identified Colombo Family members.
On October 15, 1976 FBI CI reported: “[Fred] Clemenza recently opened a high stakes ziganette game in a social club at 86th Street and New Utrecht Avenue.”
By late 1976 he is believed to have been taken out of his brother's primarily Florida-based crew and placed back under Charles Panarella.
On December 2, 1976 FBI NY compiled an update on the Colombo Family's structure. The chart identified Charles Panarella as a Captain and noted his crew members as including Fred Clemenza.
By that time the Family had divided into two camps. One side supported Boss Thomas DiBella and the Persicos. The other, headed by Joseph Yacovelli and Underboss Anthony Abbatemarco, felt that DiBella favored the Persicos too strongly and sought to remove him as Boss.
The Yacovelli - Abbatemarco faction had the support of Family Captains Joseph Brancato, James Clemenza, Vincent Gugliaro and Salvatore 'Turi' Lombardino Jr.
Clemenza's crew leader Charles Panarella was the only Captain loyal to the Persicos, although some of Panarella's men, including Clemenza himself as well as Colombo Soldier and Former FBI CI Gregory Scarpa, threw in with Yacovelli.
On December 6 an informant noted that one of Fred's nephews (a son of James) was 'carrying a gun' and acting as a bodyguard for Colombo Soldier Salvatore 'Sally' Albanese, one of Underboss Abbatemarco's closest associates.
The Commission was called in to resolve the dispute and sided with DiBella, leading to Abbatemarco and other dissidents being demoted and the Family undergoing a large scale reorganization. (Salvatore Albanese, spared but left on thin ice with the leadership for his betrayal, is believed to have committed some other violation that ultimately led to his disappearance in May 1977.)
It was initially reported that James Clemenza would be allowed to keep his crew because they were primarily based in Florida and he was planning to relocate there himself. By early February 1977 he too had been demoted and the Florida crew was left temporarily vacant.
Fred Clemenza continued reporting to Persico loyalist Charles Panarella.
By September 1977 made members of Panarella's crew included Fred Clemenza, Frank Fusco, Ernest LaPonzina, Benjamin LoCicero, Frank LoCicero, Frank 'Beansy' Melli, Rocco Miraglia, Gregory Scarpa and Alphonso 'Peanuts' Serrantonio.
An updated chart from November 1977 listed the same crew members.
On August 11, 1978 FBI CI reported: “[Fred] Clemenza, who is under Charles Panarella, has cancer and is retired from Family activity.”
In June 1979 included in the FBI's list of 94 identified Colombo Family members.
An FBI chart from the same month listed made members of Panarella's crew as including Joel 'Joe Waverly' Cacace, Fred Clemenza, Frank Fusco, Ernest LaPonzina, Benjamin LoCicero, Anthony 'Butch' Maltese, Frank Melli, Rocco Miraglia, Patsy 'Junior' Palermo, Nicholas Rizzo and Gregory Scarpa.
On August 6, 1980 Panarella began serving a New York State prison sentence for gun possession.
A few days later CI Scarpa reported that Panarella had been demoted and his crew dispersed among the other Captains.
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.
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| G. Langella |
An FBI chart compiled the same date noted that Captain Gennaro Langella's crew consisted of made members Benedetto 'Benny' Aloi, Anthony 'Gawk' Augello, Michael Bolino, Joseph Brancato, Fred Clemenza, Edward Fanelli, Vincent Gugliaro, Vito Guzzo, Benjamin LoCicero, Rosario 'Black Sam' Nastasa, Philip 'Chubby' Rossillo, Joseph 'Lefty' SanGiorgio, Ralph Scopo and Joseph Yacovelli.
Fred Clemenza died December 17, 1980.
Two days later waked at Guarino Funeral Home located at 9922 Flatlands Ave in Canarsie, Brooklyn.
Buried in Saint John Cemetery located in Middle Village, Queens.
Posthumously included in 1983, 1988 and 1993 membership lists.
Fred Clemenza died December 17, 1980.
Two days later waked at Guarino Funeral Home located at 9922 Flatlands Ave in Canarsie, Brooklyn.
Buried in Saint John Cemetery located in Middle Village, Queens.
Posthumously included in 1983, 1988 and 1993 membership lists.
More Colombo Family posts can be found in the Index.
