Angelo Perna (Cleveland)

1965

Angelo 'Andy' Perna was a made member of the Cleveland Family active in Toledo, Ohio.

Stepbrother Paul Lamonge (1913-1999) was a Suspected Member.

Born July 31, 1910 in Niles, Ohio to Vincenzo (41y) and Maria D'Angelo (39y). Parents from Termini Imerese comune of Palermo, Sicily.

In 1915 Maria died and Vincenzo later married Catherine Martino, whose first husband Paul died in 1914.

Catherine was the mother of Future Suspected Member Paul Lamonge. (Paul Sr. was from Bellona comune of Caserta, Campania.)

By April 1920 the family resided at 308 Grant St in Niles. Vincenzo owned grocery.

First arrest of record was in 1929, when charged with armed robbery and assault. Case believed dismissed.

By April 1930 they moved about a block over to 313 East Park Ave. Angelo listed occupation as contracting painter.

By April 1940 Perna, his wife Anna DeFazio (31y) and their daughter were living in the household of Anna's father Victor located at 1800 West Ave in Elyria, Ohio, about twenty miles outside of Cleveland. (Victor DeFazio was from Catanzaro Province, Calabria.)

By September 1943 the couple moved a few houses down to 330 18th Ave.

By April 1950 they were living in Washington, Ohio, where Perna worked as a house painter.

Believed to have been a formally inducted member of the Cleveland Family by the early 1960s.

The Family was then headed by John Scalish (1912-1976) with Antonio Milano (1888-1978) as Underboss. John DeMarco (1903-1972) may have been Consigliere. (Scalish and DeMarco were Sicilian, hailing from Carini, Palermo and Licata, Agrigento respectively. Milano was from San Roberto comune of Reggio Calabria.)

On January 7, 1962 the FBI's Cleveland Field Office opened an anti-racketeering investigation on Perna, noting: "It has been established that [Perna] is an associate of [Anthony Besase] in the numbers rackets in Toledo."

Detroit Member Anthony 'Whitey' Besase (1907-1977) is believed to have been related by marriage to Perna and Perna's stepbrother Paul Lamonge; like Perna, Besase's father was from Termini Imerese.

Lamonge may himself have been an inducted member by this time.

On June 15, 1964 identified by FBI Cleveland as Toledo-based LCN member.

Further sections of report noted:
"

Angelo Perna [resides] at 5915 Everwood Road, Toledo, Ohio. Perna has an arrest record since 1929 on charges of armed robbery, assault to rape but has no convictions. Since 1945, he has been arrested ten times for gambling. Perna is the brother-in-law of Anthony 'Whitey' Besase, Toledo racket leader. Perna is one of Besase's lieutenants in the operation of the numbers racket in Toledo. Perna previously was a racket figure in Niles, Ohio. During the past few years, Perna has been reported agent or distributor for I.M. Suffrin Company, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, printer of Numbers 'K' Books. Perna was recently indicted at Toledo, Ohio, for furnishing false information on a wagering tax stamp (misdemeanor and also for excise tax evasion.) 

...[Wife] of Paul Lamonge [advised] she had no positive information that her husband belonged to the 'organization' or 'syndicate', but that in conversation with her husband he often referred to 'organization' members as Anthony Delsanter of Warren, Ohio, James Licavoli of Cleveland, and Leo Moceri, Ernie LaSalle, and James LaFatch of Akron, Ohio. Other associates of her husband whom she would consider members would be 'Whitey' Besase and Angelo Perna, her husband's half brother, both of Toledo, Ohio.

"

(Everwood Rd was in Toledo's Whitmer - Trilby neighborhood. James LaFatch [1911-1993] was a Cleveland Member. James Licavoli [1904-1985], Calogero 'Leo' Moceri [1907-1976] and Ernest 'Ernie LaSalle' Fusco [1903-1974] were Detroit Members. Licavoli took over the Cleveland Family upon John Scalish's death in 1976, after which Moceri and Anthony Delsanter [1911-1977] became his first Underboss and Consigliere respectively.)

Fall 1965 (L to R): J. Besase and A. Perna

On October 4, 1965 FBI surveilled and photographed Perna, Whitey Besase's brother John and an Unsub in or near Toledo.

Fall 1965 FBI Surveillances

On a separate occasion Agents photographed Perna and Besase brothers John and George at the same location.

Around 1967 retired as general contractor.

On August 7, 1968 among 23 identified by FBI as LCN members residing in Cleveland Division. Report noted Perna's Family affiliation unknown.

On August 14, 1968 FBI CI reported: "...[CI] was shown photographs of the following Cleveland hoodlums but did not recognize them by name or photo: [Group includes Perna]."

c. 1969

Around 1969 issued Handgun Owner's ID in Toledo.

On February 13, 1974 FBI Cleveland reported: "Sources familiar with [Perna]'s activity have stated subject not involved in gambling activity. Subject is considered to be 'retired' from illegal gambling business."

On December 18, 1974 FBI Cleveland reported: "Repeated contacts with sources familiar with gambling activities in the Toledo area have established that Andy Perna is no longer involved in any gambling business."

On June 14, 1976 FBI CV reported: "[Perna] is quite sickly and aged, which has contributed to his inactivity...Sources familiar with subject's activity have advised that subject is not involved in illegal activities and has become divorced from criminal element."

Perna died December 29, 1979 at St. Vincent Hospital in Toledo.

On January 2, 1980 waked at H.H. Birkenkamp Mortuary located in Trilby.

On November 16, 1982 FBI Cleveland reported: "[Organized Crime Information System] lists Perna as an inactive LCN member."

More Cleveland Family posts can be found in the Index.

Paul Lamonge (Cleveland)

Dec. 1963

Paul Lamonge was a suspected member of the Cleveland Family active in Warren and Trumbull counties.

Stepbrother Angelo 'Andy' Perna (1910-1979) was a Cleveland Member.

Born October 14, 1913 in Youngstown, Ohio to Paul (49y) and Catherine Martino (37y). Father from Bellona comune of Caserta, Campania.

In 1914 the elder Paul died and Catherine later married Vincenzo Perna, whose first wife died in 1915.

Vincenzo, from Termini Imerese in Palermo, was the father of Future Cleveland Member Angelo Perna.

By April 1920 the family resided at 308 Grant St in Niles, Ohio located in Trumbull County, about eight miles from Youngstown. Vincenzo owned grocery.

By April 1930 they moved about a block over to 313 East Park Ave.

By 1946 Lamonge resided at 415 North Cedar Ave in Niles and worked as bartender.

On May 3 of that year married Mary Kozup (25y).

By April 1950 the couple and their three children were living at 869 John St in Niles. Paul listed occupation as horsebetter.

By the late 1950s both Lamonge and his stepbrother Angelo Perna involved in criminal activity.

On October 2, 1958 FBI's Cleveland Field Office described Lamonge as 'known fence and racketeer from Niles'.

A. Perna

Perna, by then believed to be a made member of the Cleveland Family, was a noted associate of Detroit Member Anthony 'Whitey' Besase in Toledo's numbers racket. (Besase is believed to have been an in-law of Perna and Lamonge; like Perna, his father was from Termini Imerese.)

Lamonge may himself have been an inducted member by this time.

By 1961 he operated Capri nightclub located on Highway 422 in McKinley Heights, Ohio. Liquor license held by wife.

Around September 23, 1961 appeared under subpoena before Trumbull County Grand Jury investigating local sewage contracting project.

The Plain Dealer (10/4/61)

On October 2, 1961 among seven indicted by County Grand Jury re $283,000 extortion scheme involving local contractors and 'city business transactions'. Others indicted included Possible Cleveland Member James 'Bananas' Matash (1911-1977), also of Niles, as well as Trumbull County Democratic Party Chairman Frank Cickelli (51y) and City Councilman Raymond Little (49y).

Lamonge, specifically charged with extortion and witness intimidation, surrendered October 3.

On December 21, 1961 Capri nightclub destroyed by fire causing damage estimated at $75,000 (nearly $1 million today's value).

On February 5, 1962 began standing trial in Common Pleas Court. United Press International reported: "Lamonge is charged with threatening to kill two officials of contracting firms working on [sewer] project, larceny of $10,000 by trick and attempting to corrupt a witness."

On February 11, 1962 convicted on extortion and larceny charges. Acquitted on attempted extortion count and witness corruption charge dismissed prior to jury deliberations.

On February 16, 1962 sentenced by Common Pleas Judge G. H. Birrell to six to thirty-seven years imprisonment Ohio Penitentiary. Released on $10,000 bond pending appeal.

On or around November 5, 1962 Fourth District Court of Appeals affirmed conviction.

On May 15, 1963 Ohio Supreme Court upheld Court of Appeals' decision.

By late December 1963 serving sentence. (See top)

On June 15, 1964 identified by FBI Cleveland as Warren-based LCN member. Report noted Lamonge still incarcerated. (At least one other individual listed, John Nardi, is confirmed not to have been made.)

Further sections of report noted:
"

Paul Lamonge, date of birth unknown, is a resident of Niles, Ohio, alleged member of La Cosa Nostra, and has attended meetings with other individuals suspected of being in that organization. He is the half brother of Angelo Perna who resides in Toledo and who appears to be an underling of Anthony 'Whitey' Besase, who is reported to be a lieutenant of Jack White [James Licavoli] of Cleveland. Presently, Lamonge is serving a term at Ohio State Penitentiary in connection with an extortion plan to shake basic contractors for City of Warren, Ohio, sewage disposal plant. Lamonge attempted to bomb the home of the Niles Chief of Police John Ross and is responsible for a bombing at the C & S Club in Liberty Township, Ohio, several years ago. He formerly operated the Capri Night Club, Highway 422, near Niles, Ohio, which was destroyed by fire allegedly set by Lamonge. He was also in the bonding business in the Niles-Warren area.

...[Wife] of Paul Lamonge [advised] she had no positive information that her husband belonged to the 'organization' or 'syndicate', but that in conversation with her husband he often referred to 'organization' members as Anthony Delsanter of Warren, Ohio, James Licavoli of Cleveland, and Leo Moceri, Ernie LaSalle, and James LaFatch of Akron, Ohio. Other associates of her husband whom she would consider members would be 'Whitey' Besase and Angelo Perna, her husband's half brother, both of Toledo, Ohio.

"

(James LaFatch [1911-1993] was a Cleveland Member. James Licavoli [1904-1985], Calogero 'Leo' Moceri [1907-1976] and Ernest 'Ernie LaSalle' Fusco [1903-1974] were Detroit Members. Licavoli took over the Cleveland Family upon John Scalish's death in 1976, after which Moceri and Anthony Delsanter [1911-1977] became his first Underboss and Consigliere respectively.)

Same report noted: "[Sources] identified the following individuals as members of the 'Sicilian organization' in the Youngstown area which is under the control of the Cleveland 'Sicilian organization', probably operating under the jurisdiction of James Licavoli...Paul Lamonge."

C. Moceri
The Akron Beacon Journal

On February 9, 1965 Lamonge, still incarcerated at Ohio Penitentiary, called to testify at tax fraud trial of Detroit Member Calogero Moceri. The Cleveland Press reported: "[Lamonge and others] testified that Moceri purchased a string of automobiles during a four-year period when he claimed he had no income." The Plain Dealer reported: "Lamonge said that in November, 1960, Moceri instructed him to buy a Cadillac for $4,300 in Lamonge's name. He said Moceri gave him the cash to buy the car from a man who had won it in a raffle. He said he did not know why Moceri wanted him to buy the car in that manner." (Moceri received a directed verdict of acquittal the following month. In 1976 he disappeared as a result of a feud with Cleveland Associate John Nardi, noted above, and Irish gangster Danny Greene.)

On August 14, 1968 FBI CI reported: "...[CI] was shown photographs of the following Cleveland hoodlums but did not recognize them by name or photo: [Group includes Lamonge]."

On August 26, 1968 among 14 listed by FBI as suspected LCN members residing in Cleveland Division.

On April 6, 1969 among 3 arrested by Youngstown PD on possessing burglar tools charge. Others held were Joseph D. Rizzo and James Hardwick. Trio sitting in parked auto at 1531 Belmont Ave when confronted. The Plain Dealer later reported: "A search of the car revealed tools used in burglaries and loot stolen earlier in the night from the Chamber of Commerce office in Girard."

One week later arrested by US Secret Service on charges of possessing and attempting to sell $50,000 worth of counterfeit $100 bills. Lamonge, giving occupation as antique furniture finisher, remanded to Cuyahoga County Jail pending further hearing.

On May 12, 1969 Lamonge and four others, including Youngstown LCN affiliate Mario Guerrieri (37), indicted by US Attorney's Office in Cleveland on distribution and conspiracy charges re counterfeit bills. (Guerrieri [1931-2011] remained active into the late 1990s when convicted in an arson case.)

Around November 5, 1969 Lamonge and Joseph D. Rizzo each sentenced by Mahoning County Common Pleas Court Judge to one-to-five years Ohio Penitentiary following conviction on burglar tools charge re April 1969 arrest.

By May 1971 counterfeiting case co-defendants pleaded guilty and Lamonge stood trial alone in US District Court Cleveland.

On May 13 Former USSS Agent testified in case. The Plain Dealer reported: "Motto testified [that] agents arrested [Lamonge] after he had delivered a package of counterfeit $100 bills at 3 in the morning at the Holiday Inn on Ohio 8 in Boston Heights. Motto had contacted Lamonge in the evening at the motel bar, he said. He was introduced to the defendant by Charles DeMoss, an informer. Defense lawyer John R. Spain said DeMoss may be dead."

Five days later convicted. The Plain Dealer noted: "His was the first case to be prosecuted at trial by the strike force against organized crime here."

On June 16, 1971 sentenced by Judge Ben C. Green to five years per each of three counts to run concurrently. Released on $10,000 bond pending appeal.

Absent from a Federal chart of Cleveland membership compiled in 1985.

Little else is available on Lamonge.

He died August 12, 1999 in Warren.

More Cleveland Family posts can be found in the Index.

Update

M. Minaden

New Posts:

1. Fred Aveni (Milwaukee)

2. Frank Giammona (San Jose)

3. Michael Minaden (Cleveland)

Michael Minaden (Cleveland)

1965

Michael Minaden was a Suspected Member of the Cleveland Family active in labor affairs.

Born Michael Minadeo in Cleveland to Salvatore (25y) and Anna Demore (23y).

Family from Ripalimosani comune of Campobasso, Molise. (Others from the town included Future Cleveland Consigliere Anthony Delsanter [1911-1975].)

By June 1900 the Minadens resided in Mentor, Ohio. Salvatore worked as a railroad laborer.

By April 1910 the family resided at 1914 East 123rd St in Cleveland's Little Italy neighborhood. Michael listed his occupation as shop helper.

On September 20, 1916 married Emily Schryer.

By June 1917 the couple were living at 14626 Ardenall Ave in East Cleveland. Within a few years they moved half a mile over to 13305 Milan Ave. Michael worked as a machinist.

A. Milano
FBN Mafia Book

A 1978 report entitled "Organized Crime and the Labor Unions" noted that Minaden was an associate of Cleveland Member Anthony Milano by the early 1920s. (Anthony was Underboss by 1950. His younger brother Frank Milano [1891-1970] headed the Family during the first half of the 1930s.)

By April 1930 Minaden and wife resided at 3934 Bluestone Rd in Cleveland Heights. Listed occupation as excavation contractor.

By April 1940 they had moved a couple of miles south to 3214 Yorkshire Rd.

A. Milano
FBN Mafia Book

In December 1943 The Cleveland Press reported that Minaden owned shares in the Tip Top Brewing and Distributing Company operated by recently indicted Cleveland Boss Alfonso 'Big Al' Polizzi.

In October 1950 elected first Vice President of the International Association of Cleaning and Dye House Workers during week-long convention hosted in Cleveland.

By December 1964 resided at 14015 Superior Rd in East Cleveland. Served as Vice President of ILA 1 Laundry, Dry Cleaning and Dye House Works headquartered at 1735 E 23rd St in Downtown Cleveland.

On February 10, 1965 the FBI's Cleveland Field Office reported: "According to [redacted paragraph. Those mentioned included Cleveland Boss John Scalish, Former Cleveland Boss Frank Milano and Michael Minaden]. It is noted that Minaden [resides in East Cleveland and employed as labor VP]. It is recommended that [anti-racketeering] case be opened on Minaden in view of the above indicated association with Frank Milano and Scalish." (John Scalish [1912-1976] was elected Family Boss around 1949 and held the position until his death in late May 1976.)

On February 18, 1965 an informant was shown a chart of 'reported La Cosa Nostra members from the Northern Ohio area' and identified several 'as actual members of LCN'. The remainder of the report is redacted but Minaden was one those mentioned.

On March 10, 1965 FBI CI reported: "[During] the period since Jack White [James Licavoli] has returned from his vacation, Michael Minaden (International Representative of the Laundry, Dry Cleaning and Dye House Workers Union and who is closely associated with Anthony Milano) has been a frequent visitor to White's residence." (James 'Jack White' Licavoli [1904-1985] transferred from Detroit to Cleveland and succeeded John Scalish as Boss following the latter's death in 1976.)

On March 31, 1965 FBI Cleveland reported: "[Minaden] was reportedly in the trucking business in Oakland and Hollywood, California area in 1936."

On July 10, 1965 surveilled and photographed by Unspecified Police Department. (See top)

On October 20, 1967 included in the FBI's list of 34 identified Cleveland Family members.

By September 1974 resided at 2112 Acacia Park Drive in Lyndhurst, Ohio.

On May 28, 1975 FBI Cleveland reported: "[Case] has been opened in Cleveland Division since 2/1965 and during this period, very little information has been received indicating that Minaden is involved in any illegal activity."

On August 6, 1976 identified by FBI Cleveland as 'reputed LCN member'.

On January 10 and 17, 1977 Minaden's auto was observed during FBI spot checks on the Italian-American Brotherhood Club.

The club was frequented by longtime Minaden associate and Former Underboss Anthony Milano, described in an FBI report from the same month as an 'Elder statesman' of the Family.

An August 1978 article in Cleveland Magazine noted: "[Anthony Milano] still hosts weekly dinners at the Italian-American Brotherhood Club in Little Italy. The dinners are attended by many of the city's leading politicians, labor leaders and businessmen." (Milano died the same month.)

Michael Minaden died August 31, 1980 in Beachwood, Ohio.

A two-day wake was held at DiCicco & Sons Funeral Home in Mayfield Heights.

Buried in Cleveland's Lake View Cemetery.

More Cleveland Family posts can be found in the Index.

Paul DeMaio (Cleveland)

1966

Paul DeMaio was a suspected member of the Cleveland Family active in Akron, Ohio.

His father-in-law was possible Cleveland Member Stefano Giglio (1888-1979).

Born Paul Charles DeMaio on July 4, 1908 in Lima, Ohio to Rosario 'Russell' DeMaio (28y) and Rose LaMarca.

Russell DeMaio was from Licata in Agrigento, the birthplace of several Cleveland Family members including leading figures Joseph Lonardo and Joseph Porrello.

By September 1918 the DeMaios resided at 212 Pine St in Buffalo, New York.

By 1930 Paul listed his residence at 74 Commercial St in Downtown Buffalo.

His first arrest of record was on March 27 of that year, when he and two others were arrested in Erie, Pennsylvania for passing counterfeit $10 notes.

The trio was stopped on the highway after attempting to pass one of the bills at the Ritz Restaurant in Union City. $180 worth of counterfeit tens was found in the auto.

An April 2 article in the Warren Times Mirror noted that DeMaio unsuccessfully attempted to cover for co-defendants Frank Tallarida (sp) and Louis Salerno by taking sole blame for the notes. The men were held on $10,000 bail each and remanded to Erie County Jail. On May 9 The Kane Republican noted: "The three men are believed members of a ring which has flooded state with spurious money and their apprehension and expected conviction is expected to prove a strong deterrent [against] fraudulent operations."

The three were convicted at trial and, on May 26, USDC Pittsburgh Judge F. P. Schoonmaker sentenced DeMaio to four years imprisonment and a $100 fine. Tallarida and Salerno were each given two years.

On June 17, 1930 received at USIR Chillicothe, Ohio.

By December 1934 he was released and possibly already residing in Akron.

Late that month held on suspicion by the Akron PD. Three days later the charge was dismissed.

On February 21, 1935 arrested by Akron PD on suspicion (counterfeiting) charge. Given suspended sentence and fined court costs.

On April 27, 1935 arrested by Akron PD for violating the Revenue Act (illegal alcohol still). Convicted and sentenced to four months.

On October 5, 1935 began serving sentence at the Federal Detention Farm in Milan, Michigan.

By 1936 resided at 580 Wooster in Akron.

On March 31, 1936 held for suspicion by Akron PD. Received a suspended sentence and fined court costs.

On May 4, 1936 among seven picked up by Akron PD for highway robbery. Others arrested included Ernest Foti (23y), Joseph Mollica (25y) and Frank Rosanna (26y). Within four hours of arrest DeMaio and all but one of his codefendants were formally indicted by a Grand Jury. (The families of Foti [1912-1969] and Mollica [1910-1977] were from Messina, Sicily and Rosanna [1910-1978] from Vico Equense in Naples.)

Later that month trial commenced in Akron Common Pleas Court and, after the May 26 testimony of former codefendant George Mongeon, DeMaio and others halted the proceedings with guilty pleas.

On May 29, 1936 DeMaio, Foti, Mollica and Rosanna were each given sentences of ten-to-twenty-five years at the Ohio State Penitentiary in Columbus.

In November 1943 transferred to London Prison Farm in Madison County.

On July 12, 1946 released from the Prison Farm.

He may have been inducted into the Cleveland Family after his release. (CW Angelo Lonardo, the former Cleveland Acting Boss, later noted that few new members were brought in after John Scalish took over the Family in the late 1940s.)

By 1953 resided at 2227 Zollinger Rd in Columbus.

On May 16 of that year married Angela Giglio (27y) in Summit County.

Angela's father was Possible Cleveland Member Stefano Giglio, also from Licata.

Stefano's brother-in-law Salvatore 'Black Sam' Todaro was believed to be the Family's Boss at the time of his 1929 murder.

In 1954 DeMaio worked as a bartender at Ghent Road Inn and Father Duffy's Post in Akron.

In 1955-1956 listed employment with the Eagles Grill and later Commonwealth Loan.

Around this time, according to a later FBI report, DeMaio was 'a partner' of Cleveland Member Carl Rospo. (Rospo [1897-1964], TN Ruspo, was born in Rutigliano comune of Bari, Puglia to mainlander parents.)

June 1960

In June and September 1960 arrested by Akron PD on gambling (numbers / lottery slips) charges. In both cases convicted on final charge of possessing lottery slips and given ten days and a $200 fine.

By 1961 resided at 1128 Nome Ave in West Akron. Listed occupation as used car and insurance salesman.

On April 3, 1961 arrested by Akron PD on charges suspicion (possessing lottery slips) and promoting a lottery. On August 15 pleaded guilty and sentenced to forty-five days imprisonment at the City Workhouse and a $700 fine plus costs.

By 1962 managed Trueman Labor Service employment agency at 7 North Main in Downtown Akron.

On April 10, 1962 DeMaio and James Grant (39y) were arrested in Barberton, Ohio after the local PD raided their numbers operation. The Akron Beacon reported: "Refusing to open the outer door, Grant fled through an inner door and locked it just as police burst into the room. They quickly battered down the second door and arrested him. Demaio was arrested outside as he left to get sandwiches. Numbers sheets, two adding machines and some office supplies were confiscated." DeMaio was released on $1,000 bond.

On March 31, 1966 the FBI's Cleveland Field Office designated DeMaio the subject of an FBI anti-racketeering case: "Investigation at Akron, Ohio has reflected Paul DeMaio, 1128 Nome Ave, Akron, manager of Trueman, Inc., a former gambler and numbers man, has been in contact with and allegedly is a friend of Leo Moceri, in addition to being associated with other Akron hoodlums such as Nunzie Destro, [Redacted] and others. He has also been in contact with Columbus, OH hoodlum Michael DeAngelo during the summer of 1965, and recent inquiry by the Cincinnati Office indicates that DeAngelo has been in telephonic contact with DeMaio's residence. In addition, DeMaio evidently has had contact with New York hoodlum [Redacted] presently in the Akron area, and an associate of Leo Moceri in a numbers operation in Akron." (Mike DeAngelo [1894-1982] was a member of the Cleveland Family from Termini Imerese in Palermo. Calogero 'Leo' Moceri [1907-1976] was a Detroit member who later transferred to Cleveland and was appointed that Family's Underboss in 1976. He was murdered in August of the same year.)

Around April 1966 FBI CV reported: "...It is noted that Paul DeMaio is known to be one of Leo Moceri's closest personal friends and Moceri frequently hangs around the [DeMaio's] Employment Agency [Trueman]."

On June 14, 1966 Ralph Boyer (42y), an employee at Trueman, was shot three times in the leg by DeMaio after an argument. Taken to St. Thomas Hospital in stable condition. The Akron Beacon Journal reported: "According to a witness, police said, the argument began after DeMayo had given Boyer a dollar for lunch and was told it would come out of his pay." DeMaio surrendered that evening on a shooting to wound charge and was released on $1,000 bond.

On July 10, 1966 FBI reported: "During the months of April, May and June, 1966, [DeMaio] was observed on a daily basis, Monday through Friday, at Trueman, Inc. [from] 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM."

On October 20, 1967 included in the FBI's list of 34 identified Cleveland Family members.

In 1968 partnered in forming Ameritemps, Inc.

By Summer 1976 resided at 29 Guise Park in Munroe Falls, Ohio. Operated Hour Man - Hour Girl Inc. spot labor business located at 5 East Market St in Akron, Ohio.

On August 5, 1976 DeMaio and Cleveland Associate Nuncio Destro were surveilled in discussion outside the business. (Nuncio Joseph Destro [1914-2000] was born to Sicilian parents from Bronte, Catania and Sant'Agata di Militello in Messina.)

L. Moceri
The Akron Beacon Journal

On August 22, 1976 Cleveland Underboss Leo Moceri, previously described as one of DeMaio's closest friends, disappeared. Ten days later police found his auto, with blood pooled in its trunk, in the parking lot of a Holiday Inn in Fairlawn.

It was subsequently determined that Moceri's murder was unsanctioned and arose from a feud with Cleveland Associate John Nardi and Irish gangster Danny Greene. (The Family killed Nardi and Greene with car bombs in May and October 1977 respectively.)

By December 1976 DeMaio moved Hour Man - Hour Girl business to 9 East Market St. FBI reported: "[Move] due to vandalism at the previous address."

On December 6, 1976 FBI CV reported: "[DeMaio] continues to operate spot labor business in Akron, Ohio and resides in suburban community. Subject observed on regular basis at business. DeMaio claims having no positive information regarding missing Akron hoodlum, Leo Moceri."

On March 15, 1977 FBI spot check conducted on Hour Man - Hour Girl: "[Inquiry] determined DeMaio has been hospitalized since 3/4/1977 with internal complications of unknown nature. It was determined he was to be released 3/11/1977 but he became seriously ill and his hospitalization is to continue. [It] was further determined DeMaio's business has recently increased and he has been furnishing a large number of temporary employees to a local printing business."

On June 9, 1977 interviewed by FBI regarding certain business dealings. Report noted: "Also on this occasion, attempts to interview DeMaio regarding his knowledge of associate activities were not productive. DeMaio's attitude was indicative of one portion of the interview when DeMaio was asked about Leo Moceri and DeMaio answered 'Leo who?'."

DeMaio's activities post-1977 aren't mentioned in available records.

Absent from a Federal chart compiled in 1985.

Died December 18, 2004 and buried in Akron's Hillside Memorial Park.

More Cleveland Family posts can be found in the Index.

 

Edit1: Correct Calogero Moceri's rank from Consigliere to Underboss. 

John SanFilippo (Cleveland)

1961

John SanFilippo was a member of International Brotherhood of Teamsters who associated with the Cleveland and Detroit Families.

Born June 8, 1914 in Cleveland to Giuseppe Cesaro (37y) and Carmella Dublo (27y). Parents from Militello Rosmarino comune of Messina, Sicily.

John grew up in the Central and Mount Pleasant neighborhoods located on Cleveland's East Side. His father worked as a fruit dealer and later became involved in real estate.

By Fall 1940 resided at 3670 Rolliston Rd in Shaker Heights, Ohio. Employed with White Front Provision Company located at 3657 Central Ave in Central, Cleveland.

1942

On April 3, 1942 arrested on unspecified charge.

 

L. Triscaro

By 1961 SanFilippo was a member of IBT Local 436. The union, representing parking lot attendants employed with the city's race tracks, was headed at the time by Cleveland Associate Louis 'Babe' Triscaro.

Around April of that year SanFilippo was observed by FBI Agents visiting LaMarca's Barbershop on Kinsman Rd. The location was described as a 'known hangout' of Cleveland Boss John Scalish and Member (Consigliere?) John DeMarco.

SanFilippo (L) and Unsub

On September 12, 1961 SanFilippo was photographed by Agents in discussion with an Unsub outside the barbershop (above).

On May 22, 1962 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised [Louis Triscaro]'s Teamsters Local 436 represents parking lot attendants at the Cleveland Race tracks and [Triscaro] has in the past made unsuccessful efforts to extend his local's jurisdiction over other racetrack employees. Source recalled that on Easter Sunday 1962 a meeting [was held] at the Hollenden Hotel to ratify a contract for the new racing year. At that time Triscaro and one of his henchmen, John SanFilippo, an officer of Local 436, appeared in the lobby of the hotel. Triscaro indicated a desire to address the meeting of the Para-Mutual employees union but was not allowed to do so."

On December 24, 1964 Cleveland Boss John Scalish held a party at his residence in Pepper Pike, Ohio. Triscaro and SanFilippo attended, as did Cleveland Members Angelo Lonardo, Dominic Sospirato and several other associates and union officials.

On January 2/4, 1965 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised he talked with 'Babe' Triscaro during the Christmas week at the Teamsters Union Hall. Triscaro told informant he had attended a party at the home of John T. Scalish the afternoon before Christmas. Triscaro said he sat at the table on the right side of [John] Scalish and that Angelo Lonardo sat on the left of Scalish. Seated on Triscaro's right was John SanFilippo. Triscaro told informant that Dominic Sospirato was at the party and also that John J. Felice Sr. (President of Local 293 Beer and Beverage Drivers, Teamsters Union) was present. Triscaro also said Skippy Felice (John J. Felice Jr.), son of John J. Felice Sr., and local union official, and 'Chuckie' O'Brien, who is a close friend of Skippy and is from Detroit, Michigan, were present. Source advised that O'Brien is close to James Hoffa and believes he may have been indicted with Hoffa in Tennessee."

By 1973 SanFilippo served as Local 436's Business Agent and resided with wife Lillian Gruttadauria on Bremerton Road in Pepper Pike.

On October 17, 1973 FBI CV reported: "[CI] advised [John SanFilippo] is inactive, to his knowledge, and has heard of no illegal activity on part of [SanFilippo] at the present time."

A 1978 Federal report titled Organized Crime and the Labor Unions noted: "...William Presser is a major international officer allied with organized crime. His ties to the crime syndicate are spread across the country...Presser is connected to the Detroit syndicate through John San Filippo, Business Agent of Cleveland Teamster Local 346 (sic; 436), who is allied to the Licavoli brothers of Detroit and Cleveland."

John SanFilippo died November 2, 2005 in Ohio.

Anthony Mangione (Los Angeles)

1960s

Anthony 'Nino' Mangione was a member of the Los Angeles Family.

Before moving to California he was a member in Cleveland (c. 1924 - c. 1940) and then in Kansas City (1940s - c. 1953).

His father-in-law Dr. Giuseppe Romano (1877-1936) at one time served as Cleveland's Boss and was later the victim of an unsanctioned killing.

Mangione was born November 28, 1900 in Siculiana comune of Agrigento, Sicily to John and Caroline Arena.

On July 17, 1923 arrived at Port of New York aboard S.S. Colombo. Gave destination as residence of 'cousin' Silvestre Cordaro (39y) on Oliver St in Lower Manhattan. (Two years prior the well-traveled and influential Mafioso Nicola Gentile arrived in New York destined for Cordaro, who he also described as a cousin.)

Mangione then moved to Cleveland, where he became a formally inducted member of the Family by 1924 or 1925.

A. Polizzi
FBN Mafia Book

According to later writings of Nicola Gentile, around this time Cleveland Associate Alfonso Polizzi, also of Siculiana, was proposed for membership by John 'King' Angersola and Charles Colletti.

Per Gentile, Mangione spoke against the proposal on the grounds that Polizzi's father had been shot in the old country for cooperating with law enforcement. Gentile, then a significant member in Kansas City, attended a meeting to argue in support of Polizzi's eligibility for membership. The argument was persuasive and Polizzi was inducted. (The Informer issue on Nicola Gentile is essential reading and can be purchased here.)

On May 6, 1927 Mangione filed Declaration of Intention in US District Court Cleveland.

He was then residing at 2614 East 9th St in Downtown Cleveland and working as a bookkeeper.

By May 1929 he moved to 3416 East 134th St in the Mt. Pleasant neighborhood. Listed occupation as clerk.

That month he filed Petition for Naturalization in USDC Cleveland. Witnesses were Deputy Sheriff Lucian Nardi and Deputy Clerk Charles Trivison (Trivisonno). (Trivisonno also served as witness for Dr. Giuseppe Romano's 1924 US Passport Application. He was from Ripalimosani in Campobasso, Molise, as were Cleveland Members Anthony Delsanter and Mike Minaden.)

Mangione was naturalized September 26, 1929.

In 1930 he made a trip to Sicily, returning through the Port of New York on September 29.

He made another trip around early 1933, returning on March 2 to an address at 3767 East 151st St in Mt. Pleasant.

On December 2, 1933 Anthony married Maria Concetta Romano (24y) at St. Anthony's Church in Cleveland. The bride's father was Cleveland Member and Former (Current?) Boss Dr. Giuseppe Romano from Palermo.

Dr. Romano (US Passport Photo)

On June 10, 1936 Dr. Romano was shot to death by a group that included Soldier John DeMarco and Associates Angelo Lonardo and Milton Rockman. The murder was carried out in retaliation both for Romano's role as co-conspirator in the 1927 murder of Angelo's father, Former Cleveland Boss Joseph Lonardo, and for his perceived responsibility in the death of John DeMarco's brother Domenico on the operating table.

John DeMarco and Angelo Lonardo, facing death for their roles in the unsanctioned killing, were defended and ultimately saved by Alfonso 'Big Al' Polizzi, whose induction had been opposed by Mangione a decade earlier. (Angelo Lonardo later rose to Acting Boss and became the first and only made member in Cleveland to defect.)

Mangione was back in Sicily by the following January, when his first son was born.

On September 13, 1937 arrived with his family at Port of New York.

By April 1940 they were living at 6624 The Paseo in Kansas City, Missouri.

Anthony, who listed his occupation as a liquor salesman, likely transferred his membership to the local Family then headed by Charles Binaggio.

By February 1942 the Mangiones resided at 6633 Olive St. Anthony was employed with the K.C. Distributing Company located at 3309 Troost Ave in the Center City neighborhood.

By Fall 1944 he owned and operated the Quaff Buffet restaurant and bar at 601 Main St.

A. Bonino
FBN Mafia Book

In July 1949 he sold the business for approximately $10,000 (nearly $130,000 present-day value). The location was subsequently owned by Kansas City Member Antonio Bonino.

In the April 1950 census Mangione continued to list his occupation as bar owner.

By 1953 he was residing in Los Angeles, California.

He transferred his membership to that Family, headed at the time by Jack Dragna.

By February 1961 resided at 2575 Woodlyn Rd in Pasadena.

A. Veneziano

By Summer 1961 Mangione was partners with fellow Siculianese Alfonso Veneziano, a Possible Los Angeles Member, in Joe and Nino's Pizza Place located at 3136 West 8th St in Central LA.

S. Piscopo
FBN Mafia Book

By July 1963 FBI CI Salvatore Piscopo, a Los Angeles Soldier, reported that 'one of the partners' of Joe and Nino's was a member of the Los Angeles Family. Piscopo noted that Joe and Nino's had been used in the past as 'a meeting place of Italians involved in criminal activities'.

On April 15, 1964 Agents showed Piscopo a photo of Mangione: "[CI] positively identified Anthony Mangione [as] being identical with Tony Mangione, a member of LCN of the Los Angeles 'Brugad' [redacted paragraph]...This individual, according to [CI], is not engaged in any criminal activity, and the source has no information of any activity on the part of subject within the 'Brugad', other than that mentioned herein by source."

Two weeks later the FBI noted: "A photo of [Alfonso] Veneziano was obtained from [INS] and displayed to [CI, who] advised Veneziano is associated with the above business, but is not a member of LCN."

In May 1965 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised Anthony Mangione is reportedly a member of the La Cosa Nostra and that Mangione's restaurant on Eighth Street near Vermont which is named Joe and Nino's Pizza Place is used on occasion as a message center by La Cosa Nostra members."

On August 31, 1965 FBI LA reported: "[CI] believes knowledge of Anthony Mangione's membership in the La Cosa Nostra is very limited and that any open investigation of Mangione would alert the La Cosa Nostra that the FBI had infiltrated the Los Angeles Family. [CI] feels that in that event he would be the most logical individual to suspect. No open investigation has been conducted on Mangione because of the above."

On September 19/30, 1965 telephone calls were placed from Joe and Nino's Pizza Place to numbers in Vancouver, Canada, including one made to a Joseph Gentile.

When a July 1966 request by the Los Angeles Field Office to continue checking Mangione's toll records was denied by Headquarters, LA responded: "...As a direct result of telephone calls made from Joe & Nino's Pizza Place, [CI Piscopo] has identified this Joseph Gentile as a 'member' of La Cosa Nostra and a former member of the Los Angeles 'family'." Permission for further coverage was subsequently granted.

Additional phone calls were noted to Dr. Giuseppe Romano's widow Ella in Cleveland Heights. (The report notes that neither local PD records nor the Cleveland Field Office contained information on Mrs. Romano 'or her late husband Dr. Zusepi Romano, who was practicing physician prior to his death'.)

 

On August 23, 1966 FBI LA reported: "As the Bureau is aware, [Redacted; CI Piscopo] has identified Anthony Mangione as a 'member' of the Los Angeles [Family]. The knowledge of his membership is very limited and the informant feels that any open investigation of Mangione would result in the [Family] knowing the FBI had infiltrated the 'family' and this informant would be the individual most likely suspected. For this reason, Mangione's membership is not being set out in [memo]."

On September 30, 1966 FBI Agents surveilled Mangione meeting with an Unsub at Joe & Nino's, it subsequently being noted that he was typically present at the business 'from mid-afternoon until approximately 5 a.m. in the morning'.
 

By 1967 Mangione was a member of the crew headed by Captain Angelo Polizzi.

A. Polizzi (1964)

Members of Polizzi's crew included Soldiers Giuseppe 'Joe' Giammona, James 'Danny Wilson' Iannone, Anthony 'Nino' Mangione, Salvatore Piscopo and Dominic 'Mimi' Tripoli.

On September 28, 1967 FBI CI and Los Angeles Soldier Frank Bompensiero reported: "Informant still could not recall having met [Anthony] Mangione and was unable to recognize his photograph. He had no knowledge concerning him being an LCN member of the Los Angeles Family. Informant did recognize the photograph of Alfonso Veneziano and recalled his name. Informant was quite sure that several years ago he was a member of LCN living in the Los Angeles area. He stated he has not seen him for 16 to 18 years and had no background information of value." (Veneziano died January 2, 1966 in California).

On October 4, 1967 FBI Los Angeles reported re CI Salvatore Piscopo:
"

...Since [9/19/67] informant has been unable to contact [Angelo] Polizzi. Since then informant has been in virtually daily contact with LCN 'members' Joseph Giammona, Dominic 'Mimi' Tripoli and Anthony Mangione, all 'members' of Polizzi's LCN 'regime'. None of these individuals knew of Polizzi's whereabouts and advised informant that Polizzi had not yet contacted them relative to the new Los Angeles Boss.

On 9/30/67, informant advised that Polizzi had telephonically contacted him the night of 9/29/67. Polizzi stated that he had suffered a stroke and had been hospitalized for about the past 10 days. Informant met Polizzi in Polizzi's room at Mt. Sinai Hospital, Los Angeles, California on the night of 9/29/67. Polizzi stated that he is recovering from this stroke and expects to be discharged from the hospital in several days.

At this time Polizzi asked informant if informant had made his choice relative to the new Los Angeles LCN 'Boss'. Informant stated that his preference would be Nick Licata, but that he would support Polizzi and would vote for the individual who was the choice of Polizzi.

Polizzi stated that his choice would be Licata as Polizzi felt that this was no time for any change in the Los Angeles LCN leadership. Polizzi indicated that continued pressure from law enforcement would make it difficult to meet and to reorganize at the present time.

Polizzi stated that to date there had been no opposition to Licata. Polizzi stated that except for informant he had not had a chance as yet to poll other 'members' of his 'Regime', but felt that there would be a general agreement to Licata's selection.

Polizzi requested informant to contact Dominic 'Mimi' Tripoli, Joseph Giammona and Anthony Mangione and advise them of his illness and that he would be in contact with them when he was able.

...Informant advised on 10/4/67, that he had contacted [Polizzi crew members] Tripoli, Giammona and Mangione and advised them of Polizzi's condition.

Informant stated that in view of the fact Polizzi was 'Capo' of the largest 'Regime' in Los Angeles and in view of 'Capo' Joseph Adamo's support, Nick Licata would be the new 'Boss' and additional polling of 'members' would be a mere formality.

"

That month Nick Licata was elected Boss and appointed Joseph Dippolito as his Underboss. Tommy Palermo remained Consigliere.

In July 1969 Mangione, a mostly inactive member of the Family, was further waylaid by a heart attack.

On August 13, 1970 interviewed by FBI: "[Mangione] stated that he is still incapacitated and inactive due to his second heart attack which he suffered in 7/1969. Mangione advised that he was never familiar with any criminal element in the Los Angeles area and restricts his contacts solely to immediate family and close friends."

The FBI checked in with Mangione once a year through 1974, noting that he remained confined to his residence and under a doctor's care. When questioned he continued to profess no knowledge of LCN activity.

He was interviewed by Agents for the final time on June 8, 1978: "Mangione stated [wife deceased] and Mangione was presently residing alone at 2575 Woodlyn Road. Mangione stated that he had sold the restaurant in which he had part ownership, Joe and Nino's Pizza Place, 3136 West 8th Street, Los Angeles, CA and stated that he was living off Social Security plus a small amount of money he was receiving from the sale of his restaurant. Mangione stated he had had a heart attack within the last year and had the 'shakes'...Mangione stated that he had never associated with the Organized Crime element in Los Angeles and further stated that he had been 'an honest man' all of his life."

Anthony Mangione died October 24, 1979 in Los Angeles.