Joe Greca (Colombo)

1966

Joe Greca was a member of the Colombo Family who was involved in the garment business in the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Bath Beach and Bensonhurst.

Believed to have originally been a part of the Bonasera / Oddo crew, by the mid-1960s he reported to Captain Salvatore 'Sally the Sheik' Musacchio and served as the latter's Acting Captain as of Spring 1965.

His son Angelo 'Jilly' Greca, a Colombo Soldier, figured in the early part of the FBI's Donnie Brasco investigation.

Brother-in-law Louis Barbusca was a fellow Colombo member who also probably started out under Bonasera - Oddo.

Nephew Gaetano 'Tommy' Barbusca, son to Louis, was a proposed Colombo Associate murdered in 1974.

Joe Greca was born March 9, 1897 in Enna, Sicily to Biagio (39y) and Angelica Emma (27y). Records on Ancestry indicate Angelica may have been born in Messina, Sicily.

On October 1, 1913 arrived at Port of New York aboard S.S. Canada. Destined for older brother Frank (24y) residing on 1st St in Brooklyn.

By June 1918 lived and worked at the Wilder coal mining camp located in Russell County, Virginia.

By April 1920 resided with wife Vincenza 'Vera' Greca (21y) at 1277 64th St in the Brooklyn's Dyker Heights neighborhood. Listed occupation as tailor at pants factory.

On January 9 Greca's sister Mariannina 'Mary' Greca (27y) married Future (?) Colombo Member Louis Barbusca (26y) in Brooklyn. Witnesses were Leonardo Ferrara (1901-1980) and Angelica Greca. (Ferrara, also from Enna, married a niece of Greca's late the following year.)

One week later Greca filed Declaration of Intention in US District Court Brooklyn.

By 1929 moved further south to 1326 76th St.

In April of that year filed Petition for Naturalization in USDC Brooklyn.

Witnesses were Caesar Bonasera (1894-), a machinist from Enna, and dress manufacturer Louis Isabella (1898-1949) of Caltanissetta, Sicily. (There doesn't appear to be a relationship between Caesar Bonasera and Greca's close associate Cassandro 'Tony the Chief' Bonasera, a Colombo Member from Caltanissetta.)

Greca was naturalized July 23, 1929.

By April 1930 listed occupation as presser at pants factory.

Greca was likely a made member by the 1930s.

In addition to brother-in-law Louis Barbusca, his known associates included fellow Colombo Members Cassandro Bonasera and John 'Johnny Bath Beach' Oddo. (Bonasera may have been an early Captain.)

By April 1940 listed occupation as operator (dresses).

That Fall listed employment with Damon Dress Company at 148 W 37th St in Manhattan's Garment District.

In 1944 F. & G. Dress Company was established at 1452 86th St in Bath Beach. Partners were Joe Greca, his older brothers Frank (55y) and Paul Greca (50y) and their brother-in-law Angelo Fontana (54y). (No apparent relation between Fontana [1890-1966], also from Enna, and the more well known Colombo Fontanas.)

By 1946 believed resided at 7806 New Utrecht Ave in Bensonhurst. Established Bivian Dress Company at the same address. Employees included Colombo Member Cassandro Bonasera.

C. Bonasera
FBN Mafia Book

On September 30, 1953 Greca put up Bonasera's $3,000 bond when the latter was arrested by the INS on a deportation order. (The proceedings were terminated early the following year.)

By 1954 Greca and Bonasera established the Sarah Lee Dress Company at 8208 17th Ave.

On February 3 of that year the pair was allegedly robbed of the company payroll at gunpoint. FBI later summarized press coverage: "[Bonasera] was described as the victim of an $800 payroll stickup by two young thugs. This same article indicated Bonasera was en route to his dress manufacturing concern to pay his employees at the time of the stickup and he was accompanied at the time by Joseph Greca described as his partner in the Vivian Dress Company, 7806 New Utrecht Avenue.” (Greca's interest in Sarah Lee was later sold to his sister Mary Barbusca, the wife of Colombo Soldier (and fellow Ennese) Louis Barbusca.)

In January 1958 described in LE report Bonasera's associate and bondsman.

A report from two months later described him as Bonasera's partner.

On April 3, 1958 reportedly robbed for a second time when two Unsubs accosted him at Bivian Dress, tied him up and took $4,650.

On May 13, 1958 interviewed by FBI Agents regarding Cassandro Bonasera and his involvement with the dress company:
"

[He] was born on 3/9/1897, at Enna, Sicily, and was naturalized in Brooklyn in 1929. He advised he was born Giuseppe Greca, but has used the name Joe Greca from the time of his naturalization...Greca stated he has been in the garment line all of his adult life. He stated that he was in business with his brother-in-law, Angelo Fontana, and his brothers, Frank and Paul Greca, from 1944 to 1946, under the trade style of F. & G. Dress Company at 1452 86th Street, Brooklyn.

...He stated Anthony Bonasera has never had an interest in Bivian Dress Company, but was on the payroll for several years. He said he has known Bonasera almost as long as he has been in this country and although Bonasera had no official capacity in Bivian he was at his, Greca's, disposal six days a week. He stated Bonasera's duties consisted of helping in the shop wherever needed. Greca said the union requires 60 per cent of a jobber's work must be done by a permanently registered contractor, and in 1954 the union found Stanley had too many temporary contractors. He stated at this time Sarah Lee Dress Company was established by himself and Anthony Bonasera and this company became a permanently registered contractor of Stanley...Greca stated his [sons] also operate a business known as Bivian Teen. He said this business is a retail outlet and has no connection to Bivian Dress Company.

...Greca stated he has never had any labor troubles, and he stated no payments had been made to alleged racketeers or union officials by or in behalf of Bivian to avoid labor troubles or for any other reason. He stated no payments were made to Anthony Bonasera other than salary payments and an occasional loan. He said Bonasera repaid all such loans. Greca said he is casually acquainted with Joseph Profaci, but knew nothing of his activities.

"

On April 12, 1961 Greca and Colombo Underboss Joseph Magliocco were observed by LE departing Colombo Captain John Oddo's Vale Frocks located at 1742 86th St in Bath Beach.

S. Musacchio (1965)

By 1962 Greca is believed to have been with Captain Salvatore Musacchio.

Musacchio, who may have also come up under Bonasera / Oddo, headed a large crew spanning Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island.

Made members of Musacchio's crew included:

1. Sebastiano 'Buster' Aloi
2. Vincenzo Aloi [Future Captain, Acting Consigliere and Acting (?) Boss]
3. Anthony 'The Gawk' Augello
4. Louis Barbusca
5. Joseph 'Little Joey' Brancato [Future Captain and Acting Boss]
6. Joseph Colombo [Future Captain and Boss]
7. Salvatore 'Sally D.' D'Ambrosio
8. Fred 'Freddie Red / No Nose' DeLucia
9. John 'Sonny' Franzese [Future Captain and Underboss]
10. Joseph 'Joe Jelly' Gioeli
11. Joe Greca [Future Acting Captain]
12. Frank Melia
13. Vincent 'Little Jimmy' Melia
14. Rocco 'Rocky' Miraglia [Future Captain]
15. Frank 'Frankie the Sheik' Musacchio
16. Modesto 'Duke' Santoro
17. Michael Savino
18. Dominick 'Mimi' Scialo [Future Captain]
19. Joseph 'Jo Jo' Vitacco
20. Joseph 'Fat Richie' Zorzi

Associates of interest included future Colombo Members Benedetto 'Benny' Aloi, Gaetano Barbusca (if not with Oddo), Dominic 'Little Dom' Cataldo, Pasquale Fusco, Angelo Greca, Vito Guzzo, Anthony 'Butch' Maltese and John 'Johnny Irish' Matera.

Around mid-July 1962 Joseph Colombo and John Franzese were made Captains and a portion of Musacchio's crew was split between them.
 
In May 1964 an additional portion of the crew was placed with Vincenzo Aloi following the latter's promotion to Captain.

J. Colombo (2)

On June 11 recently elected Boss Joseph Colombo called a meeting at Greca's Bensonhurst residence. Those present included the new Underboss Salvatore 'Charlie Lemon' Mineo and seven of the nine Family Captains.

The purpose of the meeting was to introduce the Captains to members of Colombo's crew, of whom all but three were also present. (Nicholas Bianco, John Cutrone and Larry Gallo did not attend.)

On June 22 the FBI's New York Office reported: "On 6/11/1964, [FBI CI Gregory Scarpa] attended a meeting of a portion of the Colombo Family, which was held at the home of Joseph Greco, New Utrecht Ave, Brooklyn...[Scarpa] pointed out that Greco is not a member of [LCN] and yet the meeting was held in his apartment. He stated that neither Greco nor any members of his family were present in the apartment while the meeting was held." (It's not clear why Scarpa initially believed [or at least reported] that Greca wasn't a member.)

On March 23, 1965 Colombo meeting held in the basement of Associate Salvatore 'Sally Buzzo' Fusco's residence in Dyker Heights. Those present included Boss Joseph Colombo and Captains Vincent Aloi, Simone 'Sam' Andolino, Harry Fontana, Nicholas 'Jiggs' Forlano, John Franzese, Frank Fusco (Acting), Joe Greca (Acting), John Misuraca, Carmine 'Junior' Persico and CI Scarpa, who told Agents that Greca attended on behalf of Captain Salvatore Musacchio.

On April 1, 1965 CI Scarpa reported: "[3/23] meeting of the Caporegimas of the Colombo Family was held in the basement of the home of 'Buzzo' Fusco, son of Caporegime Dick Fusco. Scarpa stated the only Captain missing from the meeting was Salvatore Musacchio, who was represented by (FNU) Greca who is believed by Scarpa to be the owner of Biven-teen Dress Company, New Utrecht Avenue, Brooklyn."

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 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 Andolino (Captain)
- Harry Fontana (Captain)
- Nicholas Forlano (Captain)
- John Franzese (Captain)
- Frank Fusco (Acting Captain) [Represented Nick Sorrentino]
- Joe Greca (Acting Captain) [Represented Salvatore Musacchio]
- 'Big John' Misuraca (Captain)
- John Oddo (Captain)
- Carmine Persico (Captain)

- Anthony 'Abbey' Abbatemarco [Persico Crew]
- Sebastiano Aloi [V. Aloi Crew]
- Nicholas Bianco (Patriarca Member)
- Joseph Brancato [Franzese Crew]
- James 'Jimmy Bat' Cardello [Persico Crew]
- Fred Clemenza [Oddo Crew]
- James 'Jimmy Brown' 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 Melia [V. Aloi Crew]
- Rocco Miraglia [Colombo Crew]
- Vincent 'Jimmy' Muce [Fontana Crew]
- Carmelo 'Joe' Mutoli [Andolino Crew]
- Salvatore 'Sammy' Peritore [Reported Direct to Mineo]
- Gregory Scarpa [Colombo Crew] [FBI CI]
- Dominick Scialo [Franzese Crew]
- Joseph Yacovelli [Colombo Crew]
- Unsub (c. 65y) [V. Aloi Crew] [Possibly Vincent Melia's father Frank]

L. Barbusca

On September 21, 1965 Barbusca was interviewed for a second time by FBI: "[He] said Joseph Greca, who operates Biven-teen Dress Company, New Utrecht Ave and 78th St, is his brother-in-law. He said Greca formerly owned the Sarah Lee Dress Company, but about 8 years ago he sold it to Barbusca. Barbusca further stated Greca has his two sons [Biagio and Angelo?] running the business for him at Biven-teen since he is 68y. He said Greca resides in the apartment above the dress shop. Barbusca further stated Greca is missing a portion of his thumb on his right hand."

Agents met with CI Scarpa the same date: "[Scarpa] was advised that during an interview with Louis Barbusca, Barbusca had mentioned he was related to Joseph Greca who operates the Biven-teen Dress Company...Barbusca also stated Greca was missing the thumb on his right hand. [Scarpa] stated that this Greca, who resides above the Biven-teen Dress Company, is a member of the Colombo Family of LCN whom he has previously referred to as (FNU) Greca. [Scarpa] stated that Greca is assigned to the regime of John Franzese (sic?) and both he and Louis Barbusca, whom he believes to be related, are virtually inactive in Family matters, both of them being in their 60's. [Scarpa] stated that he recalls sometime ago a meeting of a portion of the Colombo Family was held in the apartment above Biven-teen Dress Company, which he believes to be the apartment of Joseph Greca." (Greca was subsequently designated subject of an FBI investigation).

On November 24, 1965 a meeting between Family Boss Joseph Colombo and Salvatore Musacchio's crew was held inside the Bath Beach residence of Musacchio's half-brother Frank. Colombo accompanied to meeting by Underboss Salvatore 'Charlie Lemon' Mineo, Consigliere Benedetto D'Alessandro, Captain Vincent Aloi, Captain John 'Sonny' Franzese and CI Gregory Scarpa. Scarpa subsequently reported that the meeting was held for Colombo to extend holiday greetings to the crew and to hear any problems the members were having in the Family. Musacchio crew members present included Louis Barbusca, Joe Greca, Frank Musacchio, Frank Profaci, Salvatore J. Profaci, Salvatore S. Profaci and Joseph 'Fat Richie' Zorzi. Scarpa later noted: "[In] addition to the above-mentioned members of the regime there were one or two older men present whom he did not know, but who are also members of the regime. [Scarpa] pointed out that in his position he could not ask the identities of those individuals who were unknown to him, but would recognize a photograph of them if he saw it in the future." (This meeting also served as Scarpa's introduction to Frank Musacchio, whom he had not previously known as an LCN member.)

By 1966 President of Dea Cerese Club located at 6404 Bay Parkway in Mapleton, Brooklyn.

Mar. 1966

On March 16, 1966 interviewed by Agents at his residence: "Joseph Greca was interviewed in the presence of his son, Angelo, and advised he was born on 3/9/1897, at Enna, Italy, and came to the US in 1913 when he was 16 years old. Greca stated he was naturalized as a US citizen in either 1924 or 1926 in Brooklyn, and resides at the above address with his son [Redacted; Biagio / Virgil]. Greca stated he has been in the dress making business almost all his life and formed and operated Bivan-teen Dress Company at 7808 New Utrecht Avenue, Brooklyn. Greca stated that he was formerly in a partnership with Anthony Bonasera, but Bonasera is now in partnership in a dress company with his brother-in-law, Louis Barbusca. Greca stated that he is also acquainted with John Oddo and [Redacted] since they are also in the garment business in Brooklyn. Greca stated he is also acquainted with Joseph Colombo and the deceased Joseph Profaci having known them from both business and social activities in the neighborhood. Greca was questioned concerning 'La Cosa Nostra' and stated the only knowledge he had of this supposed organization was what he read in the newspapers or saw on television. He stated he did not know definitely of the existence of such an organization and had never in any way been connected with LCN." Photographs were taken with a hidden camera during questioning, a tactic commonly used by Agents at the time to get pictures of the more obscure figures.

On June 21, 1966 CI Scarpa reported he had not seen Greca 'in a long time' and that he was 'not active in LCN activities'.

On August 4, 1966 FBI CI reported: "[He] knew Joseph Greca as the owner of a dress shop on New Utrecht Avenue in Brooklyn. [CI] said that Greca is an old time 'mustache' who commands respect from everybody in the neighborhood. [CI] said he believes Greca is in bad health and his sons now operate the dress shop."

Around August 30, 1966 FBI NYO closed its investigation of Greca: "[This] elderly subject is in poor health and entirely inactive. Additional investigation at this time is unwarranted."

Around the following year Greca left New York for Hollywood, Florida.

On January 31, 1968 CI Scarpa contacted by FBI: "[Greca] is completely inactive and 'can be forgotten' as far as any LCN activity is concerned. Informant stated Greca still hangs around the Bivan-teen Dress Company [but] does very little work because of his age and never associates with Joe Colombo or any other LCN members except on a purely social basis."

A. Greca (1968)

On June 20, 1968 Joe's son Angelo 'Jilly' Greca (41y) and Charles Paul Dongara (63y) were arrested in Zurich, Switzerland while attempting to deposit a stolen $100,000 US Treasury Bill into a Swiss bank account. The bill was one of several reported stolen in New York the previous month. In early July the pair was indicted by the US Attorney's Office in Manhattan for illegally transporting the stolen bill from New York to Zurich. (Charles Paul Dongara [1915-1999], from the Enna comune of Villarosa and residing in Milltown, New Jersey, is not to be confused with Gambino Captain Rosario Charles Dongarra [1896-1973] from Gangi, Palermo.)

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

On September 10, 1969 the FBI attempted to interview Greca at his old address on New Utrecht Ave and instead found his son Angelo: "[His] father, Joseph Greca, is completely retired and is now permanently living in Florida at 2836 Monroe in Hollywood, Florida. Angelo Greca refused to answer any further questions concerning his father's activities or his own activities."

On November 15, 1969 US Probation Office Hollywood, Florida advised FBI: "[Greca] has been extremely ill and is confined to his bed at the present time. Continuing [USPO] said Greca was in the hospital for approximately two months and at one time, was not expected to live. He stated based on conversations with Mrs. Greca, and from observation of the Greca residence, it does not appear they have company frequently."

The same month included in the FBI's list of 79 identified Colombo Family members.

On March 30, 1971 Greca's brother-in-law Louis Barbusca died after falling off the roof of his residence in Bensonhurst. His two-day wake was held at the Colombo-affiliated Prospero Funeral Home located at 2444 86th St.

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

On July 26, 1973 CI Scarpa reported: "Harry Fontana, Big John Misuraca, Louis [Joe] Greca, Vincent Randazzo, Benedetto D'Alessandro, Charles Mineo, John Scimone and Vincent Mangano are all inactive in LCN circles."

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

J. Clemenza

Around early-to-mid May 1974 James 'Jimmy Brown' 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, James' younger brother Fred Clemenza and Former Captains Harry Fontana, John Misuraca, John Oddo and Nick Sorrentino.

Although Greca isn't specifically named in available reports he was a likely member of the crew given his age and Florida residence.

G. Barbusca (L) and J. Coiro (R)

On June 22, 1974 Greca's nephew Gaetano 'Tommy' Barbusca, Louis' son, was shotgunned to death outside a bakery shop in Bensonhurst. Fellow Colombo Associate John Coiro was also killed. (CW[s] later revealed that Coiro was the intended victim and Barbusca was killed only because he was present at the time.)

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

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

Around May 1977 son Angelo (50y) was inducted into the Colombo Family and assigned to Captain Charles 'Charlie Moose' Panarella. (Greca may have already been reporting to Panarella as an Associate; his cousin Gaetano Barbusca as well as John Coiro were both under Panarella at the time of their murders.)

Joe Greca died November 24, 1978 and was waked two days later at Peter C. LaBella Funeral Chapel in Gravesend, Brooklyn.

On April 10, 1980 Angelo Greca (50y) was shot to death while stopped at a red light on New Utrecht Ave. The gunman, riding a motorbike, pulled up alongside Greca's auto and fired four shots into the vehicle. Greca was hit at least twice in the head and killed instantly.

The murder was believed to have been authorized Colombo Boss Thomas DiBella.

Possible suspects included Gambino Associate James 'Jimmy' Hydell, who disappeared after a failed hit on Lucchese Member Anthony 'Gaspipe' Casso in 1986. (Casso was a participant in the 1974 Barbusca - Coiro murders.)

More Colombo Family posts can be found in the Index.

John Bazzano Jr. (Pittsburgh)

John Bazzano Jr. was a member of the Pittsburgh Family.

A son of the former murdered Boss John Bazzano (1889-1932), John Jr. oversaw gambling operations in the Mon Valley / Washington County area. He also had close connections to the membership in Youngstown, Ohio.

He was identified by the Pennsylvania Crime Commission as Captain and Underboss in 1983 and 1987 respectively.

Additional connected relatives included:

• Father-in-law Antonio Ripepi (1902-1996) was a Captain
• Uncle Santo Bazzano (1904-2002) was a Possible Member

Born June 28, 1927 in New Kensington, PA to John (Pittsburgh Member; 38y) and Giuseppa Zappala (31y). Father from Palizzi Marina frazione of Palizzi, Reggio Calabria. Mother from Santo Stefano in Aspromonte also in Reggio.

At the time of his birth the family resided at 916 North St.

By 1930 they moved to 1287 Washington Rd in the Mt. Lebanon suburb of South Hills in Pittsburgh.

By 1932 John Bazzano Sr., now Boss of the Pittsburgh Family, operated the Roma Coffee Shop at 704 Wylie Ave.

On his orders three of the Family's Volpe brothers were shot to death at the cafe on July 29, 1932. (Another brother, Louis Volpe [1901-1987] later served as a Captain and Possible Consigliere.)

Called to New York early the following month to explain his actions, Bazzano was found trussed and stabbed to death on a street in Brooklyn's Red Hook neighborhood. (Those temporarily held in the case included Bosses and members from half a dozen Families.)

By June 1945 John Jr. listed employment with Adams Bottling Company at 1161 4th Ave in New Kensington.

Served in the US Army from August 31, 1945 to March 2, 1946.

By April 1950 resided at 538 Donner Ave in Monessen, Westmoreland County. Listed occupation as coin collector for machine (music) company.

Graduated from Robert Morris Business College the following year.

A. Ripepi

By April 1952 worked for Pittsburgh Member Antonio Ripepi's Keystone Music Company.

Around the same time he married Ripepi's daughter Frances. (Ripepi was also from Reggio Calabria.)

Around May 1957 Ripepi sold the couple a residence on Stanton St in Monongahela, PA.

On June 8, 1958 involved in single car accident in Monongahela. The Daily Herald reported: "The car was traveling south on Fourth Street when the gas pedal stuck and the driver lost control of the machine. It knocked down the street marker at the corner, traveled over the sidewalk and halted on Mamie's lawn. The grill, bumper and fenders of the vehicle were damaged."

By September 1962 the Bazzanos resided in Canonsburg near McMurray in Washington County.

On the 1st of that month injured in another auto accident on Route 837 outside Donora, PA. Mrs. Irene Krall (37y) was killed. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported: "Mrs. Krall's two sons and the driver of the other car, John Bazzano, 35, of Canonsburg, were injured. Police said Mrs. Krall swerved to avoid a puddle of water and struck the Bazzano auto." (The Krall family was later awarded approximately $1,000,000 in today's value due to the poor condition of the road.)

On June 26, 1964 FBI CI reported: "[He] was at the CMAS Club in Youngstown with Mario Guerrieri, hoodlum and bondsman; Dominick Mallamo; John Bazzano from Pittsburgh; and Serafino Romeo from Erie, Pa.; and Mike Romeo from Youngstown. When Mallamo and Bazzano met with the Romeos, all of them kissed each other in greeting. Serafino Romeo is an uncle of Mike Romeo and is reportedly an 'old hatchet man' for the organization, whose specialty is using an ice pick. [CI] stated Bazzano is the 'Compare' of Mike Romeo which would mean that one is the godparent for the other's child and are therefore very close. He stated Dominick Mallamo is the 'Compare' of Paul Guerrieri, father of Mario, and therefore old and close friends." (Dominick Mallamo [1904-1980] was later identified as Pittsburgh's Captain in Youngstown. Michael D. Romeo [1920-2000], son of Member Paul Romeo [1894-1976], and Serafino 'Sam' Romeo [1900-1965] were Possible Members. All were from Reggio Calabria and were identified by an informant as also being members of the local 'Ndrangheta.)

On June 30, 1964 FBI CI reported: "[He] had been in Pittsburgh with Mario Guerrieri, Mike Romeo, local hoodlum and son of Paul Romeo, who is reportedly head of Calabrese Organization in Youngstown, with Dominick Mallamo. They had gone there on the invitation of John Bazzano, who operates pinball and vending machines there. They met Sam Wysocki (ph) or Witsocki (ph) who is a wealthy Pittsburgh bondsman in his 60s, an associate named Striker or Stricker (ph), an Al Ross and Serafino Romeo, also in the vending machines in Erie, Pa. Bazzano the 'Compare' of Mike Romeo, picked up the bill for the entire evening's entertainment of dinner and drinking. There was a discussion about a plan to borrow considerable amount of money from a bank in Nassau, Bahama Islands, in which Wysocki (ph) has some connection. The informant stated he believed the group intends to obtain stolen bonds and use them as collateral to obtain loans from the Nassau bank. [CI] stated that Wysocki after considerable drinking stated he was a friend of the governor of Nassau." FBI noted: "Later [CI] stated these same individuals were at the home of Guerrieri, Youngstown, on 7/6/64, to drive to Cleveland in connection with the Nassau deal and as part of the scheme, Wysocki (ph) [page missing]."

On July 30, 1964 FBI Pittsburgh reported: "[CI] believes four families ruled by [John] LaRocca, Gabriel Mannarino, Frank Amato, and Antonio Ripepi make up the Greater Pittsburgh Area, and that chief lieutenants in these Families are Mike Genovese, Thomas Ciancutti, Joseph Sica, and John Bazzano, respectively."

G. Mannarino
FBN Mafia Book

On November 5, 1966 Georgianne Mannarino (23y), daughter of Pittsburgh Captain Gabriel 'Kelly' Mannarino, married a nephew of Bufalino Boss Russell Bufalino. Reception held at Holiday House located in Monroeville, PA. Attendees included Pittsburgh Boss John LaRocca, Underboss Frank Amato, Cleveland / Detroit Member Calogero 'Leo' Moceri and several Pittsburgh Members and Associates including Bazzano Jr.

On June 5, 1967 convicted of speeding and fined $10.

Gabriel Mannarino's older brother, Pittsburgh Member Salvatore 'Sam', died the same day.

Mannarino was waked June 6-7 at the Manzella - Giunta Funeral Home in Arnold, PA. Attendees included Boss John LaRocca, Captain Gabriel Mannarino and several additional Members and Associates including Bazzano Jr.

J. Sica
Press

By 1969 stockholders in Underhill Motel, Inc. included Bazzano Jr., Frank Rosa, Joseph Sica and Jon Scalzitti. (Joseph Sica [1908-1991] and Frank Rosa [1920-1982] were later identified as Pittsburgh Members, the former a Captain and later Consigliere.)

By 1970 partners with Pat Stanizzo (59y) in Monongahela numbers operation. Bazzano Jr. received 60% profits and Stanizzo 30% plus $200 per week. In March 1976 Stanizzo's widow testified: "[Pat] was booking numbers in association with Johnny Bazzano. [The cut of the profits took place] right at my dining room table. [Bazzano] would come over, sit and have coffee, count the money, was a very likeable, down-to-earth guy."

On September 30, 1974 among 4 subpoenaed to testify before Western District of Pennsylvania Federal Grand Jury investigating organized crime. Those subpoenaed were Pittsburgh Captain (?) Antonio Ripepi (72y) and Possible Members Joseph Sica (66y), John Bazzano Jr. (47y) and Frank Rosa (54y). The Pittsburgh Press reported: "The strike force kicked off its latest investigation last spring when it granted immunity to Michael Genovese, 58, of Gibsonia...Genovese, who has been in ill health, refused to testify before the grand jury and has been in jail since May 9 for contempt of court. Strike force officials would not indicate whether the same 'immunity-contempt' strategy would be used this week against the four men who have been subpoenaed."

By 1975 resided at 107 Lynbrook in Canonsburg - McMurray, PA.

On February 8 among eight arrested by FBI following indictment by the US Attorney's Office WDPA on illegal gambling charges. Others indicted included Joseph DeMarco (50y), Attilio 'Flat Top' Policastro (51y), Charles 'Chuck' Kellington (28y) and Joseph 'Bull' Yimin (40y). The following day a ninth defendant, Frank 'Hog' Dattalo (52y), was apprehended. The Pittsburgh Press identified Bazzano Jr. as the ringleader of the operation, which was based in Monongahela and grossed an estimated $2 million annually.

On March 3 a separate WDPA indictment charged fourteen others with illegal gambling in Washington County. The Pittsburgh Press reported: "According to the indictment, [Defendant Robert] Bordini operated the numbers ring as a branch of a larger gambling operation headed by John Bazzano, 47, of McMurray. Bazzano, named in the indictment as a co-conspirator but not charged, was indicted last week as the top operator of a Mon Valley numbers gambling enterprise...The indictment indicated the FBI used court-approved wiretaps to eavesdrop on bets collected over the telephone by the housewives named in the indictment. The gambling ring allegedly has been in operation since 1970 and the indictment claimed protection payoffs were paid to local law enforcement officials and politicians, although no specific names appeared in the indictment."

Eight days later the FBI raided eleven homes in the South Hills section of Pittsburgh and seized evidence re gambling operation. United Press International reported: "[Agents seized] records, cash and equipment from a multimillion dollar sports betting and numbers operation. Philip R. Sheridan, special agent in charge of the Pittsburgh office, said no arrests were made. However, he said material seized would be presented later as evidence to a federal grand jury that may return indictments. About three dozen FBI agents took part in the raids, which struck at mid-afternoon when numbers and gambling operations are busiest. Similar raids last fall led to the indictments of 23 persons, including reputed rackets kingpin John Bazzano accused of operating a gambling ring in southeastern Allegheny County, and in Washington and Fayette counties."

On June 18, 1975 Bazzano Jr. and thirteen others were indicted by USAO WDPA on Federal gambling conspiracy and obstruction of justice charges. Co-defendants included those named in the previous gambling indictment as well as Pittsburgh Associate Primo 'XG' Mollica (39y), former Clairton, PA Mayor John 'Jack' Matz and six additional current or former public officials. The Pittsburgh Press reported: "[Indictment] charges the officials were 'on the take' from January, 1970, to protect the $2 million to $3 million-a-year Mon Valley gambling ring allegedly headed by John Bazzano Jr. Bazzano, reputedly a top figure in organized crime here, and six others charged with running the ring were arrested under the same indictment." It was noted in the press that approximately forty individuals had been charged in multiple indictments stemming from the Bazzano Jr. operation.

Trial began on March 11, 1976 for Bazzano Jr. and an additional twelve defendants.

Evidence included items seized in an October 1974 raid on a McKeesport, PA numbers bank.

During the witness testimony one FBI Agent conceded that their wiretaps were 'fruitless' in connecting Bazzano Jr. and others to gambling activity.

Prosecution witness Joseph Francesconi provided the first link to Bazzano Jr. when he testified on March 22.

Pat Stanizzo's widow testified the following day and proved 'most damaging' to Bazzano Jr. by giving a first hand account of the gambling partnership.

On March 15 father-in-law Antonio Ripepi was subpoenaed to testify in the case. He cited the Fifth Amendment and was excused after refusing to answer the first three questions.

Around March 18 several co-defendants, including Frank Dattalo (53y) and Joseph DeMarco (50y) were severed from / pleaded guilty in the case. (Dattalo, who was identified a couple of months later as one of seven partners in a local heroin ring, was stabbed to death at a New Years Eve party on the city's North Side in 1978. Joseph DeMarco, another identified heroin partner, was shot to death in October 1979.)

1976
Press

On March 24, 1976 Bazzano Jr. testified in his own defense. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported: "When Harold Gondelman, his defense attorney, asked if Bazzano understood the charges against him, he replied: 'There are a lot of charges. I don't know what half of them mean.' Asked by Gondelman if he was guilty of any of the charges, he responded: 'I am not.' Under previous questioning by his attorney, the accused gambling boss described his past history, relating that he quit school after the 10th grade, served in the Army as a military policeman and that he had no criminal record. He described one of his most significant dealings with the federal government as a meeting with immigration and naturalization officials. 'I had to prove I was born in this country,' Bazzano said."

His testimony continued the following day and was summarized by the Gazette:
"

Under questioning by his attorney, Harold Gondelman, the alleged rackets boss offered the jury of nine women and three men his explanation to two damaging allegations made by government witnesses, earlier in the three-week trial. Mrs. Elizabeth Stanizzo, widow of the late Clairton bookie Pat Stanizzo [and] other witnesses said Bazzano attended a meeting at a West Mifflin lounge at which the Mon Valley rackets were reorganized after her husband became seriously ill.

Bazzano acknowledged that he attended the meeting, but said the only business discussion was an argument between Charles Kellington and Andrew Moody, two other reputed Mon Valley gambling figures. 'They (Moody and Kellington) were fighting over the numbers, business,' Bazzano said. 'I guess it was Pat Stanizzo's.' Asked why he attended the meeting, Bazzano responded: 'Betty (Stanizzo) asked me to attend that meeting, she wanted me to get her $250 a week. She said Patsy (Stanizzo) was dying, he was losing the (numbers).' Another gambling figure testified earlier in the trial that he had received $1,800 from Bazzano to pay off three $600 winning numbers bets. Bazzano admitted handling the money, but said it was not his, that he received it from Joseph (Bull) Yimin and delivered it. 'I thought I was doing a favor,' Bazzano concluded.

"

On March 31 Bazzano Jr. and four others were convicted. Two received acquittals. Released on bail pending sentencing.

On April 12, 1976 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported: "The recent conviction of Mon Valley numbers racket boss John Bazzano and five public officials accused of taking protection payoffs may be the starting point for further investigation and prosecution of public corruption among local and county law enforcement officials."

On November 15, 1976 sentenced by WDPA Judge Herbert P. Sorg to seven years and a $40,000 fine. Allowed to remain free pending appeal.

Sometime that month called before WDPA FGJ investigating narcotics and possibly other criminal activity. Refused to answer questions.

On January 10, 1977 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported: "John Bazzano was to appear in federal court this afternoon, but attorneys would not comment on the purpose of the proceeding. Supposedly, federal prosecutors are seeking immunity from future prosecution for Bazzano in exchange for his testimony before a federal grand jury investigating Pennsylvania. Judge Barron McCune was scheduled to hear the plea by the U.S. attorneys. Bazzano, sentenced to seven years imprisonment last March [has] remained free on bond."

The next day an article in The Pittsburgh Press reported that Bazzano Jr. was being offered immunity to tell 'what he knows about alleged gambling, prostitution and narcotics activities' in Western PA. The move was opposed by his Attorney as an attempt to force a perjury conviction.

On January 14 granted immunity and ordered to testify.

He appeared February 8 and denied involvement in the numbers business with former codefendants as well as with Pittsburgh Boss John LaRocca and Captain (Acting Boss?) Gabriel Mannarino. The Pittsburgh Press reported: "During the day-long questioning, Bazzano wore a path between the grand jury room and the hallway where [his attorney] had stationed himself. Bazzano was to return to the grand jury today for more questioning." Subsequently granted forty-one day reprieve due to schedule conflicts of attorney. Press noted: "Prior to being excused, Bazzano was warned for the second time to answer questions directly. [Judge] yesterday refused to allow Bazzano to bring the transcript of his gambling trial into the grand jury room. During a similar hearing Tuesday, McCune issued the same order and indicated he could find Bazzano in contempt and order him jailed he if he failed to heed the warning. In both cases, McCune held the hearings after Assistant U.S. Attorney James E. Roark charged Bazzano was refusing to give direct answers. Often Bazzano would answer with quotes from the transcript of his trial during which similar questions were asked, Roark said."

On March 22, 1977 returned to testify before the FGJ for approximately ninety minutes. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported: "[Assistant US Attorney] declined to comment on yesterday's brief proceedings before the grand jury, but confirmed reports that Bazzano will be recalled for further testimony."

On August 28, 1977 The Pittsburgh Press reported: "[Bazzano Jr.] is appealing his conviction and seven-year prison sentence, and arguments are slated Sept. 6 before the 3rd Circuit Court."

On December 22, 1977 Third Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the convictions of Bazzano Jr. and five others. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported: "They had asked for new trials on grounds that an FBI agent read grand jury information to witnesses before they testified at the trial in March 1976. The court ruled that their objection did not justify reversal of their convictions."

On February 8, 1978 ordered to begin serving sentence.

By June 1979 incarcerated at FCI Danbury, Connecticut. (See top)

J. DeMarco

On October 11, 1979 Bazzano Jr.'s former codefendant Joseph DeMarco (54y) disappeared. Last seen leaving residence en route to meeting with suspected drug dealer Herman Johnson (49y). Three days later DeMarco's auto was found abandoned in the parking lot of Eastland Shopping Mall in North Versailles Township. On October 22, at approximately 10:00 PM, found shot to death in the trunk of Herman Johnson's Cadillac left at the Greater Pittsburgh Airport. He had been shot multiple times in the torso and head. It was noted that Johnson himself was also missing.

At FCI Morgantown

On November 8, 1979 transferred to FCI Morgantown, West Virginia.

On March 6, 1980 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that Federal law enforcement records on John Bazzano Jr. were entered into the public record as a result of FOIA requests he filed with DEA and FBI. Article stated: "Although the FBI documents have not yet been made public, the DEA's formerly secret information on Bazzano was recently placed on file in the federal clerk of court's office in Pittsburgh. [Bazzano cried] foul and filed civil actions in his behalf against both agencies...U.S. District Judge Maurice B. Cohill Jr. Friday denied Bazzano's claim against the DEA."

J. Bazzano
Pennsylvania Crime Commission Report (1980)

Around December 1980 the Pennsylvania Crime Commission published its A Decade of Organized Crime report. The entry for John Bazzano Jr., described in the report as a Pittsburgh Member, stated: "Son of western Pennsylvania's first crime leader, he is also the son-in-law of Antonio Ripepi. Bazzano managed Ripepi's numbers operation in Washington and Fayette Counties. Bazzano was convicted in 1975 of operating a large-scale gambling business in the Mon-Valley area of Pittsburgh. He is presently serving his sentence in Danbury, Connecticut, federal prison." The section titled 'Labor Racketeering' noted: "[Theodore Peter Homitz] owned stock in Underhill Motel Inc. along with LaRocca Cosa Nostra members Joseph Sica, John Bazzano Jr. and Frank J. Rosa." (This is the earliest document explicitly naming Bazzano Jr. as an inducted member.)

On February 20, 1981 released from Federal prison.

On September 11, 1981 sentencing hearing re Jon E. Scalzitti (41y) held in USDC Pittsburgh. The Pittsburgh Press reported: "FBI Agent Vincent DelaMontaigne told [Judge] Bloch that when he arrested Scalzitti [on cocaine charges] he also seized a briefcase containing several papers. The documents included a newspaper photograph taken at the funeral of Gabriel 'Kelly' Mannarino. A man who appeared to be Scalzitti was among the mourners. [Briefcase] also contained a snapshot of Mannarino's home in Allegheny Township, Westmoreland County; a magazine article about the nation's Cosa Nostra families; an envelope bearing the return address of John Bazzano and another envelope with the name phone number of Thomas 'Sonny' Ciancutti written on the back."

On July 23, 1982 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette published article on Family status of: "[Investigators] caution that [Joseph] Pecora and Bazzano, who will be eligible for parole in the coming months, 'may make a move' to exert their leadership." (Joseph 'Jo Jo' Pecora [1919-1987] was the Underboss.)

On February 23, 1983 Pennsylvania Crime Commission Chairman / Attorney Malcolm Lazin testified re Pittsburgh Family. Administration identified as John LaRocca (Boss), Joseph Pecora (Underboss) and Michael Genovese (Consigliere). Captains identified as John Bazzano Jr., Michael Genovese, Joseph Regino and Antonio Ripepi. 9 Soldiers listed.

On February 3, 1985 The Pittsburgh Press published article identifying John Bazzano Jr. as among 'members of the district's select group of gambling kingpins'.

A Federal chart from 1985 lists Bazzano Jr. as a Soldier.

J. Pecora
PCC Report (1980)

On March 5, 1987 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette published article re death of Underboss Joseph Pecora. Article noted: "Pecora's death creates a leadership vacuum in the area's organized crime family, said law enforcement officials. [If] Mafia protocol is adhered to, the new underboss will be one of three lieutenants in the Pittsburgh family [including John Bazzano Jr., Antonio Ripepi and Joseph Regino]." (Regino died June 1985.)

On April 28, 1987 The Pittsburgh Press, citing a Pennsylvania Crime Commission report, named John Bazzano Jr. as the new Underboss and noted: "[He] becomes the top lieutenant to Michael J. Genovese, boss of the organization known historically as the LaRocca family. The Pennsylvania Crime Commission said Antonio Ripepi of Whitehall remains a capo, a position below underboss. Bazzano is Ripepi's son-in-law."

The PCC report is the only currently available source identifying Bazzano Jr. in this role. Within a couple of years the position was confirmed held by Charles 'Chucky' Porter.

Both Bazzano Jr. and Porter were among those observed during July - August 1989 FBI video surveillance conducted on LA Motors in Pittsburgh. Others surveilled including Acting (?) Boss Michael Genovese, Bazzano's father-in-law and Captain Antonio Ripepi, Captain Thomas Ciancutti and Captain (Consigliere?) Joseph Sica.

On April 14, 1991 The Pittsburgh Press reported on the Family's status following Federal convictions of Underboss Charles Porter and Member Louis Raucci. Article noted Members 'untouched by recent prosecutions' included Bazzano Jr., his father-in-law Antonio Ripepi and five others.

By 1993 resided at 316 Bigham St in Mt. Washington, Pittsburgh.

In June 1993 included in FBI's list of 11 identified Pittsburgh Family members.

On November 5, 2000 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette published article on current status of Pittsburgh Family. Article noted: "In the end, [FBI Special Agent Greenberg] says, the Pittsburgh mob was done in by RICO and its members' greed for profits from the drug trade. It hasn't recovered. These days, no more than a handful of members remain, all of them old men. None are under 70. [Thomas] Ciancutti, recently arrested on gambling charges, is 70. Two other longtime members, Frank Amato Jr. of East McKeesport and John Bazzano Jr. of McMurray, are well into their 70s. And although [Michael] Genovese has a pacemaker that has rejuvenated his bad heart, he's older than all of them."

John Bazzano Jr. was residing in Peters Township, PA, at the time of his death at 81 years old on July 25, 2008.

His two-day wake was held at Beinhauer Funeral Home in that suburb, followed by burial in Jefferson Memorial Cemetery in nearby Pleasant Hills.

On July 29 an article in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette stated: "[Bazzano was] a convicted gambling kingpin, former underboss and son of a Pittsburgh crime lord who was ice-picked to death in an infamous 1932 ambush in New York."

More Pittsburgh Family posts can be found in the Index.

Joseph Gorgone (Colombo)

c. 1960
Press

Joseph 'Joe Black' Gorgone was a Colombo Soldier active in Lower Manhattan and in Brooklyn's Gravesend neighborhood.

A close associate of several Genovese members, he may have been with that Family before moving to the Colombos. He was part of the first group inducted into the latter Family after the books reopened in 1976.

In later years he was also connected to Philadelphia Boss Nicodemo Scarfo.

Born Giuseppi Gorgone in Manhattan to Giovanni (30y) and Concetta Narvone (28y). Family from Province of Naples, Campania.

Over the next twenty years the Gorgones lived at various addresses in the neighborhood, particularly on Broome (375), Mott (155 -> 151 -> 157) and Spring (176 -> 174) Streets.

Giovanni worked as a salesman, tailor and barber prior to his death in 1936.

Gorgone's first arrest of record came in June 1943 when he was charged with felonious assault. Around January 25, 1945 sentenced to three years probation.

Spent about two months in the US Army from February 1 to April 6, 1945.

On August 25, 1945 among four arrested by NYPD Manhattan on burglary (loft) and concealed weapon (switchblade) charges. Others arrested included Rocco Mari (24y) and Michael Piermontese (49y). Press reported: "They were arrested in connection with the theft yesterday of five thousand dollars worth of cloth from the Mayo Brothers Textile Plant at 428 Canal Street near Broadway." Gorgone arraigned in Youth Court and the others in Felony Court. On September 10 the case against Gorgone was dismissed by the Grand Jury. (Co-defendant Rocco Mari [1921-1972], subsequently convicted and given a term at Sing Sing Prison, was the older brother of Frank 'Frankie T.' Mari, a future Bonanno Member who spent a short time as that Family's Boss before disappearing in September 1969. Michael Piermontese [1895-1963] was from Monte Sant'Angelo in Foggia, Puglia and resided on Mulberry St. He also spent time in Springfield, Massachusetts, where the Genovese Family operated a crew for many decades.)

On September 8, 1949 shot in the throat by a member of the New York Police Department after knifing two Unsubs on Broadway in Manhattan. Charged with felonious assault 3rd degree and later given a suspended sentence. The incident left Gorgone with a scar and what was later described as a 'very raspy' voice.

On July 29, 1954 arrested in Manhattan with Michael Caggiano (29y) on charges of burglary, grand larceny and possessing burglar tools. Gorgone released on $5,000 bond. (Caggiano [1925-2000] was a younger brother of Genovese Soldier 'Frankie Skimp' Caggiano [1915-1975] from Campania.)

By 1960 resided with wife and children at 142 Sullivan St in SoHo, Manhattan. Employed with Local 20 Cement and Concrete Workers Union headquartered at 207 E 84th St in Yorkville.

By September 1965 Gorgone and Genovese Soldier Anthony 'Jack Panels' Santoli were caught up in an FBI gambling investigation. (Santoli [1913-1971], believed from Avellino in Campania, reported to Captain Angelo 'Gyp' DeCarlo.)

Agents interviewed Gorgone about the operation later that month:
"

Gorgone stated he has resided at [142 Sullivan St] for a number of years with his wife and children. He advised that he would treat interviewing agents as 'gentlemen' as long as no allegations were made against him.

Gorgone was asked if he ever owned a 1955 white Ford station wagon. Gorgone denied owning a 1955 white Ford Station wagon [and] stated that he has not owned a car in the past five years. Gorgone was asked whether he knew anyone residing at this address by the name of Joseph Gorgone besides himself, and Gorgone stated that he knew of no one residing at [address] besides himself. Gorgone was asked if he knew a [Redacted]. Gorgone denied knowing [Redacted]. He also denied ever receiving any phone calls from [Redacted]. Gorgone stated that he was in an accident two years ago while employed in construction work and sustained head injuries. He stated his accident caused brain damage and will be on the court calendar next year. He stated he is unemployed. He denied ever allowing anyone to use his name or allowing anyone to register an automobile in his name. He denied ever driving a 'lugger' car from New York City garages to dice game gambling sites. He denied ever being a lugger automobile driver or driving anyone to dice games. He denied knowing [Redacted] or anyone connected with [Redacted] dice games operating in NYC in 1964.

Gorgone admitted to being an avid dice player. He stated, 'I will play every chance I get if I have the money'. He refused to furnish any information regarding any dice games he attended in NYC in 1964. He admitted being arrested by the New York Police Department while attending a dice game in 1964 in the vicinity of 9th Avenue and West 51st Street. He refused to discuss any details of this dice game raid with the exception that he was only there five minutes before the game was raided. He stated the large visible scar on his throat was caused from a fight with an NYPD plain clothes officer years ago.

He exhibited current [chauffeur's license] and refused to discuss the reason for having a chauffeur's license after he admitted that his only employment was that of a laborer-construction worker. He refused to discuss whether the reason for having the chauffeur's license was the fact that he was a driver or 'lugger' of passengers to dice games in NYC. Observation of Gorgone by [SAs] reflected him to be identical to the driver of the 1955 white Ford station wagon observed [in] 1964 in this case. At conclusion of interview, Gorgone asked interviewing agents, 'Take it easy, I have three kids, you each have five, can't you forget about this. Let this one slide. I treated you like gentlemen. Can't you forget about this'. Gorgone was advised this case would be thoroughly investigated and could not be forgotten.

"

In October 1966 he and several others were arrested for gambling conspiracy. Co-defendants included Possible Genovese Member Joseph 'Blackie / Joe Black' Ruggiero. (Joseph Ruggiero [1916-2006] was listed as a Genovese Captain by late 1987.)

By September 1967 Gorgone listed residence at 59 Inwood Place in the Elmwood Village section of Buffalo, New York.

On September 27 he was pulled over in the nearby town of Batavia and arrested by the New York State Police on felony charges criminal possession of stolen property and of a controlled substance (barbiturates). Several firearms seized from the vehicle. The Democrat and Chronicle reported: "After stopping Gorgone near LeRoy for failure to give a proper signal, troopers spotted three antique rifles in the rear seat of the car. They later found 14 handguns and 92 pieces of antique glassware in the car trunk. Some of the weapons recovered are Civil War relics. Authorities said some were taken in a burglary in the home of Roger R. Scott of Snyder, a Buffalo suburb, in which a gun collection of 21 weapons that included rifles, shotguns and handguns were stolen. Police are investigating ownership of the other goods. An inventory of the Snyder home loss is still incomplete, they said. Gorgone gave an Inwood Place address. He also gave addresses in New York City and Canada."

On December 8, 1967 formally indicted on four counts CPSP 1st degree.

Subsequently convicted and, in early March 1969, sentenced by Genesee County Court Judge Glenn R. Morton to five years probation.

By 1972 living at old address of 174 Spring St. Involved in loansharking.

J. Yacovelli

He was then associating with Colombo Consigliere Joseph 'Joe Yak' Yacovelli.

On June 2, 1972 FBI CI reported: "[A white male], 5'10", 180 lbs, approx 41 years named 'Joe Black' is a member of the Genovese Family and works as a supervisor for the Dept of Highways in NYC. CI was advised Joseph Gorgone uses above alias of 'Joe Black' and CI stated he would attempt to see if ident."

On June 9, 1972 Unspecified Male interviewed by FBI: "[UM] advised Joe Gorgone, aka Joe Black, works on weekends in [redacted]. [Gorgone] lives on Spring Street between West Broadway and Thompson Street in Manhattan and drives a blue 1970 Chevrolet. He stated Gorgone is [redacted] and is partners with [Redacted]. [UM] advised Gorgone leaves his house around 9:00 to 9:30 AM on week days in order to collect his shylocking debts."

On July 7, 1972 FBI reported: "[NYPD] advised on 6/29/1972 two detectives were eating in the Cafe Roma in the Little Italy section of Manhattan. They observed Joseph Gorgone, aka 'Joe Black' enter and converse with an unknown white male and female. They overheard the words [redacted] during the conversation. They followed Gorgone outside where he met with an individual sitting in a car [redacted]. The detectives questioned the individual in the car and identified him as [Redacted]." (Located at 375 Broome St, Cafe Roma was operated by Genovese Member [and the soon-to-be Underboss] Eli Zeccardi.)

On July 20 the FBI closed its anti-racketeering investigation into Gorgone and his activities after confirming that he wasn't yet a made member.

On October 10, 1972 appeared in Manhattan Supreme Court for refusal to testify before a Grand Jury investigating the April 1972 murder of Colombo Soldier Joseph Gallo. New York Daily News reported: "'This man is very friendly to Joseph Yacovelli and has acted as his courier both before and after the Gallo killing,' Assistant District Attorney Robert Tanenbaum said in describing Gorgone to Justice Gerald Culkin...Gorgone, who had been given immunity from prosecution by the grand jury, first complained to Culkin that he did not testify because he is 'a sick fellow.' Then, turning to glare at Tanenbaum, the witness growled, 'You ain't doin' nothin' to help me out.'" Ordered to re-appear for testimony the following week, during which he denied knowing Yacovelli or CW Joseph 'Joe Fish' Luparelli, another Yacovelli associate who defected soon Gallo's murder.

On October 19, 1972 FBI CI reported: "[Joseph] Gorgone is into a lot of money and has recently purchased [redacted]."

On December 12/13, 1972 among 4 indicted by Manhattan DA on criminal contempt and perjury charges re Gallo investigation. Others indicted were Colombo Associate Philip 'Foongi' Gambino as well as Bonanno Associates Alfonse 'Sonny Red' Indelicato and Dominick 'Big Trin' Trinchera. Defendants arraigned at 6:00 PM in Manhattan Supreme Court and pleaded not guilty. Gorgone held on $10,000 bail. (All of those charged were inducted into the Bonanno / Colombo Families after the books reopened in 1976.)

L. Paladino

On March 13, 1973 Genovese Associate Lawrence Paladino was charged with possessing two .38 caliber revolvers. Paladino was arrested after leaving a Brooklyn wake in the company of Genovese Soldier Matthew 'Matty the Horse' Ianniello and Genovese Associate Salvatore 'Zookie' Esposito. New York Daily News reported: "[Paladino] had joined [Genovese Acting (?) Boss Frank] Tieri, Benjamin (Benny Eggs) Mangano, John [Joseph?] Gorgone, John Russo and Matthew (Mattie the Horse) Ianniello in bidding goodbye at a Bath Beach funeral home to a Family associate who had died of natural causes." (Paladino, Esposito, Mangano and Russo were all inducted into the Genovese Family after the books reopened in 1976.)

On May 31, 1974 sentenced by Manhattan Supreme Court Justice John M. Murtaugh to five years probation re Gallo contempt case.

On April 17, 1975 contempt conviction dismissed by Appellate Division. New York Daily News reported: "[Gorgone] said that he was a mental incompetent and had been unable to understand the proceedings. The Appellate Division agreed yesterday and dismissed the contempt case. Associate Justice Emilio Nunez said: 'One cannot read the answers without concluding that the defendant is either a most skillful mental malingerer or a mental incompetent.'"

V. Gigante (c. 1970)

Around this time Gorgone was identified in the NYPD Organized Crime Control Bureau's Public Morals Violators report as an associate of Genovese Soldier (and Future Boss) Vincent 'Chin' Gigante. Chin himself was later found guilty of having faked mental incompetence to avoid jail time. (Scans from this report were posted many years ago on the forum.)

In early 1976 the New York Families opened the books and inductions resumed. Each Family was initially allowed ten new members. On February 5 Gorgone was made as part of the Colombo's initial group under Joseph Yacovelli's sponsorship.

The first available informant report confirming the inductions took place came five days later on February 10.

V. Mangano

On February 25, 1976 FBI CI reported: "[He] had ascertained Joe Black (Gorgone) and Venero Mangano, both of whom come from the Village were made within the last few days in the Tieri Family of La Cosa Nostra. Informant continued that they will be with [Redacted]. He continued [Redacted] was also made in the Colombo Family under [Redacted]. Informant stated that to date no party has been held for new LCN members." (Venero 'Benny Eggs' Mangano [1921-2017] later served as Chin Gigante's Underboss.)

On March 3 FBI CI reported: "[He] has ascertained that Salvatore Fusco was made recently in the Colombo Family under [Redacted]. He further related Sally Fusco is the son of Dick Fusco a button man from Brooklyn in the same crew. He added that previously he stated Joe Black (Gorgone) had been made in the Tieri Family but he has now ascertained Gorgone has recently been made in the Colombo Family under [Redacted]. Source continued because the bosses fear the FBI will know of any party they may have for new members in LCN that a party may not be held for the new members."

On March 9, 1976 FBI CI reported: "[The] other day he was advised by [Redacted]...[Redacted] also stated that Joe Black (Gorgone) was also made, [redacted]. He stated Gorgone always hangs out on Kenmare, near Patrissey's Restaurant. He stated that he has always been a 'desperado' and he is a little surprised Joe Black was made. He stated that he had been shot in the throat years ago and talks with a very raspy voice. He was arrested a few years ago upstate New York with a gun. He advised he expects he will hear of additional individuals who were made in the immediate future."

On March 24, 1976 identified by CI as involved in loansharking.

P. Gambino

On April 7, 1976 FBI CI reported: “[Philip] Gambino aka Fat Foongie and Joseph Gorgone aka Joe Black were both recently made members of the Colombo LCN Family under Joseph Yacovelli. Also made a member was one [Redacted] (LNU) who was made under Joseph Brancato. Informant is attempting to learn the identity of [Redacted]. Informant advised that Joe Gorgone and Philip Gambino were among the associates and friends of Joseph Yacovelli.”

On August 31, 1976 FBI CI reported: "[Joseph] Gorgone recently purchased a home at Yankee Lake, a short distance from [Redacted] residence. Informant stated [redacted]." (The redacted name is believed to be Colombo Associate Nicholas 'Nicky Black' Grancio [1927-1991], inducted the following year and later murdered during the early 1990s intra-Family War. At the time of his murder Grancio was Captain of a crew that included Gorgone.)

A. Abbatemarco

Gorgone was assigned to Underboss Anthony 'Abbey' Abbatemarco by the Fall.

Made members reporting direct to Abbatemarco included first wave inductees Salvatore 'Sally' Albanese, Salvatore 'Sally Buzzo' Fusco, Philip 'Fat Foongie' Gambino, Joseph Gorgone, Anthony 'Scappi' Scarpati and Thomas 'Shorty' Spero.

By the middle of November the Family had divided into two camps. One side supported Boss Thomas DiBella and the Persicos. The other, headed by Yacovelli and 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 'Little Joey' Brancato, James 'Jimmy Brown' Clemenza, Vincent 'Vinny Sicilian' Gugliaro and Salvatore 'Turi' Lombardino Jr.

Charles Panarella was the only Captain loyal to the Persicos, although some of Panarella's men, including Colombo Soldier and Former FBI CI Gregory Scarpa, threw in with Yacovelli.

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.

Abbatemarco's crew was broken up and split between newly promoted Captains Gennaro Langella and Andrew Russo. Gorgone was placed with Russo.

A. Russo

By March 1977 made members of Russo's crew included Leonard Dello, Philip 'Fat Foongie' Gambino, Joseph 'Joe Black' Gorgone, Anthony 'Tony Skee' Scianna and Joseph 'Jo Jo' Vitacco.

On June 7, 1977 FBI CI reported: "[Both] Joseph Gorgone and Nicholas Grancio have houses at Yankee Lake in New York. He said both recently [redacted]." (Grancio was inducted about a month previous.)

By September 1977 Joseph Yacovelli briefly joined his former associates Joseph Gorgone and Philip Gambino in reporting to Russo before being shifted over to the Langella crew.

By November 1977 made members of the Russo crew included John Bolino, Joseph Brancato, Leonard Dello, Carmine 'Turi' Franzese, Philip Gambino, Joseph Gorgone, Joseph Peraino, Anthony Scianna and Joseph Vitacco.

On February 16, 1978 FBI CI reported: "[Joe] Black is [redacted] and does not have much going for him at this time."

On June 1, 1978 observed by FBI on Sullivan St during the Feast of St. Anthony of Padua.

M. Sabella

On May 3, 1979 misidentified by FBI CI as Genovese Member. Informant noted: "[Gorgone] is a close associate of [Redacted; Venero Mangano?] and is in the same crew as [Redacted]. Source stated Gorgone 'hangs around' the Little Italy section of New York City, and was at one time very close to Bonanno Captain, Mike Sabella." (Michael Sabella [1910-1988], who controlled various interests in Little Italy, was demoted to Soldier after the July 1979 murder of Bonanno Acting Boss Carmine 'Lilo' Galante.)

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

A. Giannattasio

An FBI chart from the same month noted Gorgone was then reporting to Captain Aniello 'Allie LaMont' Giannattasio.

By June 1979 made members of Giannattasio's crew included Dominic 'Little Dom' Cataldo, Alphonse 'Funzi' D'Ambrosio, Paul D'Amico, Philip Fontana, Philip Gambino, Joseph Gorgone, Lawrence Lampasi Jr., Frank LoCicero, Frank 'Frankie the Sheik' Musacchio, Salvatore Scarpa and John 'Johnny Green' Scimone.

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

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

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

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

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

On January 28, 1986 Philadelphia Boss Nicodemo Scarfo and his nephew, Captain Philip Leonetti, met for lunch with Buffalo Boss Joseph Todaro, Todaro's son Joseph Jr. and Joseph Gorgone at the Diplomat Resort and Country Club in Hollywood, Florida. Todaro formally introduced Scarfo and Leonetti to Gorgone.

Leonetti, who was soon appointed Scarfo's Underboss and later defected after a Federal racketeering conviction in 1989, identified Gorgone as a New York resident involved in gambling and loansharking.

As a result of the meeting Scarfo used Associate Jerry Blavat to help Gorgone's son obtain a union job with the stagehands in New York. A New Jersey State Commission of Investigation Report, citing information provided by Leonetti, summarized:
"

Gorgone said that Vincent 'The Chin' Gigante usually got his son a job with the stagehand union when his son needed work, but he didn’t want to ask Gigante for help this time because of a minor disagreement. Gorgone informed Scarfo and Leonetti that he and Gigante were usually on very good terms and had been friendly since their youth.

...Scarfo told Blavat that, before Blavat arranged a job, he wanted to touch base with 'The Chin' to make sure it was alright. Scarfo didn’t want to take a chance of going over Gigante’s head if there was some reason why Gigante didn’t want to help Gorgone. Because of this concern, Scarfo had Gorgone get the approval of 'The Chin.'

After Gorgone informed Scarfo that he had received approval from 'The Chin,' Scarfo talked to Blavat in Leonetti’s presence at Scarfo’s apartment. Scarfo informed Blavat that 'The Chin' gave his approval and that Blavat could now go ahead and arrange a job. Blavat was successful in getting a job for Gorgone’s son. Gorgone was impressed that Blavat had the necessary contacts to do that and let Blavat know how much he appreciated his efforts.

"

The report noted: "From the time of their introduction to Gorgone until they were incarcerated in early 1987, Scarfo and Leonetti frequently socialized with Gorgone. Scarfo, Leonetti and other members and associates of the Family met with Gorgone in various places, including Fort Lauderdale, Philadelphia, New York City and the Atlantic City area. [Jerry] Blavat was one of the associates of the Scarfo Family that became friendly with Gorgone [and] Scarfo and Leonetti took Gorgone to visit Blavat at Memories [in Margate City, NJ] on a couple of occasions."

In June 1986 Scarfo briefly visited New York and met with Gorgone, Gambino Captain Joseph 'Joe Butch' Corrao and Gambino Captain James 'Jimmy Brown' Failla at a restaurant in Little Italy.

Scarfo was also observed meeting with Colombo Captain Vincent 'Jimmy' Angellino, who may have taken over some or all of Dominick Montemarano's crew by that time.

Excerpt from Brooklyn District Attorney's Office Chart

Around early April 1988 Pasquale Amato was named Captain to replace Angellino following the latter's appointment to Acting Consigliere. (Angellino was murdered that November.)

In April 1988 included in Senate Chart of Colombo Family membership.

On January 27, 1989 the FBI's Philadelphia Field Office reported: "[Philadelphia LCN] Boss is still considered to be Nicodemo Scarfo. Scarfo is known to be presently attempting to control the activities of the Family through his son, Nicodemo Scarfo, Jr., acting as a conduit for messages to various PHLCN members and associates and also to various NY LCN members. [Redacted; Joseph Gorgone?] Colombo LCN Family, has continued a close relationship with the younger Scarfo and is speculated to be in a position to possibly assist the PHLCN during their transition from the Scarfo leadership. Scarfo Jr. has, during the last six months, also met with John Gotti, Boss of the Gambino LCN and has had contacts with known Genovese LCN members." (That October Scarfo Jr. was wounded in an attempted hit and subsequently released to the Lucchese Family, where he was inducted and rose to Captain by the mid-2000s. The elder Scarfo spent the rest of his life behind bars.)

By early 1990s operated social club in Little Italy.

By March 1991 made members of Pasquale Amato's crew included Robert Barbieri, Alphonse D'Ambrosio, Joseph Gorgone, Louis 'Bobo' Malpeso, Frank Musacchio, Rosario 'Black Sam' Nastasa, Ralph 'Ralphie Patches' Piccirillo, John Rosati, John Scimone and Henry 'Hank the Bank' Smurra.

N. Grancio

The following month Nicholas Grancio was promoted to Captain of a new crew.

By May 1991 made members of Grancio's crew included Alphonse D'Ambrosio, Joseph Gorgone, Joseph 'Joe Legs' Legrano, Anthony 'Butch' Maltese, Rocco 'Rocky' Miraglia and Ralph Piccirillo.

By late 1991 hostilities broke out between a faction loyal to the imprisoned Boss Carmine 'Junior' Persico and those loyal to Acting Boss Vic Orena.

Although Grancio was an active Captain for the Orena side, available sources don't mention what role Joseph Gorgone played, if any.

On the afternoon of January 7, 1992 Grancio was killed by members of the Persico faction in Gravesend, Brooklyn.

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

V. Gigante
Gang Land News

The May 31, 1994 edition of the New York Daily News 'Gang Land' column reported: "A key role [of Colombo Captain Richard Fusco] during the [Colombo] war was keeping relations friendly between the Persicos and Genovese Family Boss Vincent (Chin) Gigante, who often walks the streets in his pajamas and is said by his lawyers to be crazy as a loon. In the line of duty, Fusco reported to Consigliere Carmine Sessa that Gigante was furious not about the war, but that the law had overheard Colombo mobster Joseph (Joe Black) Gorgone say Gigante was merely acting, and 'crazy like a fox'. 'I'll kill him if that statement ever makes it into the courtroom', warned Gigante, according to FBI documents obtained by Gang Land."

On July 2, 1997 Former Philadelphia Underboss Philip Leonetti testified in Gigante's Federal racketeering trial. The New York Daily News reported: "A former top-level Philadelphia mobster yesterday said Vincent (Chin) Gigante ordered the murders of six gangsters who took part in the unsanctioned slayings of two Philly crime bosses...Leonetti said he never met Gigante, but heard about his 'crazy act' from other gangsters. A Colombo mobster, Joseph (Joe Black) Gorgone, allegedly told Leonetti that Gigante was 'just acting crazy' to fool the government." (Gigante was convicted in a partial verdict and given twelve years. In 2003 he pleaded guilty to an obstruction of justice charge, admitted faking his mental condition and received an additional three years. He died in December 2005.)

B. Castellazzo

By 1999 Gorgone was known to frequent Captain Benjamin 'Benji' Castellazzo's social club in Gravesend.

On August 5, 1999 the FBI surveilled Castellazzo, Gorgone and Colombo Soldier James 'Jimmy O'Toole' Spitalere at the club.

On June 13-14, 2002 Gorgone was one of the few (only?) Colombo representatives at the wake of Former Gambino Boss John Gotti, held at Papavero Funeral Home in Maspeth, Queens.

A. Rotondo

On September 30, 2003 CW Anthony Rotondo, a Former DeCavalcante Captain, testified in the Federal racketeering trial of DeCavalcante Member Girolamo Palermo. Questioned on LCN presence in Little Italy during the early 1990s, Rotondo testified: "The Luchese Family had a club called the Roma Cafe. The Bonanno Family had a club on Mulberry Street. The Colombos had a club run by Joe Black, a soldier in the Colombo Family. Everybody was down there."

Joseph Gorgone died November 27, 2010 and was buried in Long Island's Calverton National Cemetery.

More Colombo Family posts can be found in the Index.