Joseph Aiello (Madison)

1960s

Joseph Aiello was a Chicago member who transferred to the Family in Milwaukee's capital city of Madison, where he served as the Underboss to Carlo Caputo.

Connected in-laws included Milwaukee Captain (and fellow Chicago transplant) Michele 'Mike' Mineo (1897-1973) and Milwaukee Members Giacomo 'Jack' Enea (1908-1955) and Giuseppe 'Joe' Spera (1908-1970).

Aiello was born March 30, 1901 in Bagheria comune of Palermo, Sicily to Orazio and Maria DiSalvo.

On August 20, 1920 arrived at Port of Boston aboard S.S. Canopic.

By June 1924 he was living in Chicago, where he married his first wife Frances Puccio (16y). Bride's parents from Marineo and Cefala Diana in Palermo.

By April 1930 they resided at 5927 Grand Ave in the Belmont Cragin section of Chicago's Northwest Side. Joseph operated a grocery at 3009 Natchez Ave in the same neighborhood.

On March 30, 1931 arrived at Port of New York aboard S.S. Conte Biancamano.

On July 8, 1931 filed Declaration of Intention in US District Court Chicago.

1931 (from citizenship papers)

It's not known when Joseph was made into the Chicago Family, but he was likely a member by the early 1930s.

By March 1935 the Aiellos had moved to the same location as the grocery on Natchez Ave.

On March 18, 1935 filed Petition for Naturalization in USDC Chicago.

Witnesses were fellow Bagheresi Vincenzo 'James' Graziano (1891-1968) and Nick Pipia (1895-1986), grocers who lived on the West Side. (Graziano married a Morici from Bagheria, whose relatives were involved with the Chicago Family and may have been early members.)

Joseph was naturalized September 25, 1935.

By 1942 the Aiellos resided at 3758 Chicago Ave in Humboldt Park. Joseph owned a grocery across the street at 809 Hamlin.

On March 31, 1942 Josephine Greco Pipia (41y), wife to Joseph's Petition witness Nicholas, filed Petition of Naturalization. Witnesses were Josephine Incrocci and Aiello's wife Frances.

Joseph's wife, according to an FBI member source, led to Joseph being shelved by the Chicago leadership. On October 5, 1965 the source reported: "...Informant also said that Aiello, although an LCN member in Madison, was previously a member of the Chicago LCN, but was allegedly thrown out of the Chicago Family for not killing his wife. Informant said that Aiello's first wife allegedly ran around with other men and the LCN Family expected him to put her out of the way, but he would not do this and so fell into disgrace with the Family." (This source was probably Milwaukee Member August 'Augie' Maniaci.)

Aiello was residing in Madison by the following Summer.

Local press reported in mid-July that he sold property in that city to Madison Soldier Cosimo DiSalvo. (Cosimo was son to Benedetto [1878-1964], a potential early Boss.)

In August 1943 Aiello and Carlo Caputo made a joint purchase of property in the Elmside neighborhood.

The next year Aiello opened the city's first pizzeria, Joe's Pizza Pie Shop.

In March 1945 Aiello sold Elmside property to Caputo.

By Summer 1945 a divorced Aiello was residing at 907 Regent St in Madison's Greenbush section. Cosimo DiSalvo owned a spaghetti house three doors down. (Greenbush, commonly referred as the Bush, was the city's Italian enclave.)

By April 1950 Aiello had remarried. He and wife Mary Enea resided at 415 Washington Ave in the Old Market Place neighborhood. (Both Mary's father Michelangelo [1872-1941] and uncle Giuseppe [1867-1943] were Milwaukee members who are believed to have transferred from Chicago. Giuseppe Enea's son Giacomo aka Jack [1908-1955] was a made member killed for plotting against the Family leadership. Jack's sons Joseph [1931-1976] and Russell [1941-2015] were possible members.)

It's not known when specifically Joseph Aiello transferred to the Madison Family.

By Summer 1961 the Family was believed headed by Carlo Caputo and Joseph Aiello as Boss and Underboss respectively.

C. Caputo (1964)

In August a letter was sent anonymously to the FBI's Milwaukee Field Office and later summarized: "[Letter] contained reliable information concerning individuals in the Milwaukee Italian-American community [and] reflected the following: A paragraph stated that Joe Aiello and Carl Caputo of Madison, WI are Mafia leaders and are meeting with the Milwaukee element at and around North Jackson and East Lyon Sts in Milwaukee."

Aiello and wife were then residing at 1045 South Park St in the Bay Creek neighborhood south of Greenbush.

By Summer 1962 the Aiellos had moved to 511 E Main St in Old Market Place. He ran the J & A Grocery from the old 907 (later 822) Regent St address in Greenbush. Maintained additional financial interest in Ferrara and Aiello located at 1125 North Jackson in Milwaukee's East Town.

On June 8, 1964 Carlo Caputo's twenty-one-year old son Bernard was killed in a car crash. The wake was held two days later in Madison. Attendees included Madison Underboss Joseph Aiello, Milwaukee Soldier Salvatore 'Sam' Ferrara, Madison Soldiers James Vincent Caruso, Matthew Pellitteri and Vincent Troia and Possible Madison Member James 'Little Jimmy' Schiavo. (Schiavo was described as 'recently made' in Fall 1965.)

On June 30, 1964 Madison Police Department advised the FBI's Milwaukee Field Office: "[Detective Captain] advised that he knew of no organized criminal activity in Madison and while he knows the name of Joseph Aiello as that of the proprietor of an Italian grocery store, he has never heard this name in connection with the Mafia, Cosa Nostra or the Rackets. [PD] stated that in years gone by, it was rumored that Ben DiSalvo, who passed away some months ago, was the head of the Rackets in the Madison area, but he stated he never heard of any other individual being the head of a criminal syndicate in Madison."

On June 30, 1964 Madison PD advised FBI:

"

[Detective], who is well acquainted with the Italian community in Madison, advised that he feels he is well acquainted with Joseph Aiello and patronizes his grocery store. He has never heard of Joseph Aiello being connected with the rackets in any way and says he has always thought of him as a friendly and kindly man, who would help a fellow Italian out when in trouble. He believed that Aiello had done well financially through his grocery store, and through investment properties in Madison, and he stated that he had never heard he had come by any of his money illegally.

[Det] did state that he is aware Joseph Aiello is on friendly terms with one Carlo Caputo, who operates a pizza house on State Street [and] who also has made considerable money through investment properties in Madison. [PD] stated that he does not trust Carlo Caputo, and while he knows of no underworld connections, he recalls when Caputo first came to Madison, many years ago, various people in the Italian community would kid Caputo about being connected with the syndicate and this kidding has continued over the years, with Caputo not objecting to such kidding and seemingly enjoying it. [PD] stated that he could not say exactly why he is distrustful of Caputo, but believes it is probably because he considers him a 'sharp' businessman who would take advantage of another person to make a financial profit. He said it is possible Caputo may exercise some influence over Joseph Aiello, although he does not know this to be a fact, but does know that they associate together and believe they may have made trips together to Milwaukee in the past where he believes they might have joint business interests in view of their restaurant and pizza pie businesses.

"

The FBI interviewed Aiello on November 19, 1964:

"

He was acquainted with John DiBella (Former Bonanno Member) through the cheese business in which the latter engaged, as DiBella made almost weekly trips to Madison to sell cheese. However, he had never met Joseph Bonanno and had no knowledge or information concerning Bonanno's disappearance or the whereabouts of Bonanno's son, Salvatore Bonanno, aka Bill Bonanno.

He said that he was born in Sicily and came to the US as a young man in 1920. Upon arrival he went to Chicago and there operated a grocery store. He was naturalized in Chicago. While there he used to make trips to Richland Center, Wisconsin to buy eggs. He also became acquainted with several people in Madison including the Pellitteri family and old man Fiori. In the early 1930s, perhaps around 1932, he went to McKeesport, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh, where he stayed for about eighteen months. He said at that time he was looking around for something to do as he had given up his grocery business. Then, in 1932 or 1933, he observed an empty store building in Madison and decided to rent it and establish a grocery business. Thereafter he moved to Madison and has been in the grocery business since. (One possible match for 'old man Fiori' is Antonio Fiore [1872-1954] from Palermo.)

He said that he knew Carlo Caputo of Madison in the old country as they both came from the same town and lived only a short distance apart. He could not recall whether he or Caputo came to Madison first.

He said that he had watched some of the Valachi testimony before a Senate Committee on TV, but declined any knowledge of LCN matters. He said that he had heard there was a lot of trouble and there were a number of murders in Madison in the old days during prohibition but said he knew nothing about those affairs.

"

Aiello was interviewed a second time on September 30. A few days later an informant advised the FBI:

"

Informant said that Nick Fucarino made the statement that two FBI Agents had recently talked to Joseph Aiello and James Schiavo in Madison and that Schiavo had been asked about his relationship with Frank Balistrieri, about organized crime, and about possible shake downs by the hoodlum element. Informant said that Aiello was talked to about the party Frank Balistrieri gave on 9/5/65 for his son, Joe, and that he told the agents that he was not invited and so did not attend.

It should be noted that [SAs] did talk to Aiello and Schiavo at Madison on or about 9/30/65 and that the conversations were along the lines set out above. This indicates that the Madison LCN members communicate with Milwaukee and it appears that Fucarino knew about this because of his close ties with Schiavo.

"

As of Fall 1965 the Madison Family consisted of nine confirmed members:

• 1. Carlo Caputo (Boss; 62y)
• 2. Joseph Aiello (Underboss; 64y)
• 3. Sam Paul Buscemi (37y)
  
• 4. Filippi 'Phil' Candela (Soldier; 74y)
• 5. James Vincent Caruso (Soldier; 71y)
• 6. Cosimo DiSalvo (Soldier; 60y)
• 7. Matthew Pellitteri (Soldier; 55y)
• 8. James 'Little Jimmy Schiavo (Soldier; 42y)
• 9. Vincent Troia (Soldier; 69y)

A tenth may have been Filippi Candela's son John (21y), known to have been a member by June 1966 at the latest. (Candela possibly transferred from Detroit around that time.)

The Family is notable in that the entirety of its known membership was not just Sicilian but hailed solely from Palermo province.

The FBI's various investigations during the time period uncovered little to no information as to criminal activity. The members appeared to be almost entirely legitimate or retired and inactive.

By November 1965 Madison Soldier James Schiavo's son Anthony was engaged to a daughter of Milwaukee Soldier Nick Fucarino. On the 7th a wedding shower was held at Alioto's Restaurant located on Highway 100 in Milwaukee. Attendees in addition to Schiavo included Joseph Aiello, Rockford Underboss Frank Buscemi and Madison Soldier Cosimo DiSalvo. FBI CI later reported: "[Shower] attended by about 200 women...While the shower was in progress, about 20 men who brought their wives met in a separate room, but there was no particular significance to this meeting." (Alioto's Restaurant was owned by Schiavo's in-law, and former Milwaukee Boss, John Alioto.)

On November 8, 1965 FBI CI reported:

"

Informant said that there was considerable activity with reference tọ the forthcoming Fucarino - Schiavo wedding which was scheduled for 1/1966. Informant said that Nick Fucarino told him that all of the Madison LCN people would come and that a number of invitations would be sent to the LCN family in Rockford, IL. Nick said that he was sending these directly to Frank Buscemi for distribution there. Informant said that all of the Milwaukee LCN people would attend, in his opinion, and there would be something of a showing from other places because Nick Fucarino had always been faithful in attending weddings and funerals.

Informant stated that on 11/7/65 there was a shower for the daughter of Fucarino, the bride-to-be, at Alioto's Restaurant on Highway 100. He said that about 200 women were present, and in addition there were about 20 men who had to drive their wives to the shower. The men met in a separate room, but the meeting was of no great significance because Frank Balistrieri was not there nor was John Alioto even though the party took place in his restaurant. Informant said that among the men who came were at least four from Madison: Cosmo DiSalvo, Joseph Aiello, James Schiavo (father of the groom), and [Redacted].

"

On November 8, 1965 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised he recently learned (through conversation with Nick Fucarino) that there are only 8 members in the Madison LCN Family. Informant said he also learned that one of these is Vincent Troia, who has been back in Madison for some time, after visiting California. Informant said he also learned that one of the members is a man named [Redacted] about whom he will try to get further information. Informant said that five of the other six members are James Caruso, Joseph Aiello, Carlo Caputo, James Schiavo and Cosimo DiSalvo. He said he did not know the eighth member, unless it was possibly Phil Candela, who is the cheese maker for the Grande Cheese Company of Fond du Lac, WI. (Informant knows Candela to be an LCN member but does not know whether he belongs to the Madison Family.)"

On December 6, 1965 the Schiavo - Fucarino wedding was held in Milwaukee. A reception at the Eagle Club was attended by representatives from the Milwaukee, Madison, Chicago and Rockford Families, including Joseph Aiello and most or all of the Madison members. (The one possible exception was Madison Soldier Vincent Troia.)

On October 1, 1969 FBI CI reported: "Source advised that Joseph Aiello is an elderly gentleman who operates the J & A Grocery, 800 block Regent Street. There is no information that he is involved with any criminal activity. He is one of a group of Italian persons who are supposed to be members of the Mafia in Madison, Wis. There has never been any information developed to support this rumor. Aiello at the present time confines his activity to operating the store and socializing with persons in his own age bracket (70's). Source stated that James Schiavo is now involved in operating the Bee's Tavern, S. Park St, Madison, which he recently purchased. It is believed that this is mostly for his son, Anthony Schiavo. There has been no information concerning any recent activity on the part of Schiavo showing he has been in contact with any LCN people either in Madison or Milwaukee."

Troia (Obit Photo from The Capital Times)

On November 26, 1969 FBI MI reported: "On (6/23; 7/17-18; 8/25; 9/15/69) physical surveillances were conducted at the residence of Vincent Troia, 2965 Fish Hatchery Road. Subject was observed in most instances to stay close to his residence or travel by automobile from his residence to Regent Street at J & A Grocery Store which is operated by Joseph Aiello. Subject on the two occasions observed making trip to the grocery store remained there for only a period of 20 minutes when he was observed to come from store with packages indicating purchases."

On February 18, 1970 FBI CI reported: "Source advised that [Joseph Aiello] is still operating his grocery store, J&A, in the 800 block of Regent Street. This individual is not known to be involved in any gambling activities and continues to live a normal life of a small businessman in the Madison community."

Aiello (Obit Photo from The Capital Times)

Joseph Aiello died November 7, 1970 in Madison.

The next day his wake was held at Fitch-Lawrence Funeral Home at 626 University Ave in the city's Downtown.

A second wake was held on the following day at Guardalabene & Amato Funeral Home located at 2001 N Holton St in Brewers' Hill, Milwaukee. Attendees included:

- Frank Balistrieri (Milwaukee Boss)
- Joseph Caminiti (Milwaukee Underboss)

- John Alioto (Milwaukee Capo)
- Steve DiSalvo (Milwaukee Capo)

- Harry D'Angelo (Milwaukee Soldier)
- Salvatore 'Sam' Ferrara (Milwaukee Soldier)
- Nick Fucarino (Milwaukee Soldier)
- FBI CI August 'Augie' Maniaci (Milwaukee Soldier)
- John Pernice (Milwaukee Soldier)

He was buried in Milwaukee's Holy Cross Cemetery and Mausoleum.

On December 4, 1970 The Capital Times reported that Aiello left approximately $2,500 personal property and $50,000 in real estate. (Nearly $400,000 present-day value.)

On March 22, 1971 FBI CI reported: "...With regard to the Madison LCN Family, the informant advised the Underboss, Joseph Aiello, died within the past year, and the informant was not aware who took his place as Underboss. Carlo Caputo continues to be Boss of the Madison LCN Family, and it was the understanding of the informant that Caputo took over Aiello's business, both imported and domestic, which he in turn sells to pizza houses in the Madison area."

Two years later the membership convened and voted to dissolve the Family, with a couple of the more active members electing to transfer into Families located in nearby cities. (In January 1976 the FBI listed Carlo Caputo as a Milwaukee Captain.)

Filippo Maita (San Francisco)

1952

Filippo 'Little Phil' Maita was a Captain in the San Francisco Family.

His younger brother Francesco Maita (1893-1970) was also a Family member.

Two of his daughters married sons of Joseph Lintini (1884-1947), the Underboss in San Jose. (Another San Francisco Member, Frank Joseph Genovese [1904-1995], married Lintini's daughter.)

Filippo was born May 13, 1884 in Lercara Friddi comune of Palermo, Sicily to Salvatore (26y) and Magdalena Nuccio (22y).

On October 20, 1907 arrived at Ellis Island, New York aboard S.S. Germania. Destined for a relative in San Francisco.

His father, along with Phil's younger brother Frank, immigrated the previous year.

By April 1910 the family resided at 24 Wilder St in the Glen Park neighborhood.

On October 11, 1911 Filippo married Giovanna 'Jennie' Gaipa (19y) from Cefala Diana, Palermo. (Filippo's father may have originally been from Cefala Diana as well.)

On February 13, 1917 filed Declaration of Intention in US District Court San Francisco.

By September 1918 resided at 583 Sunnyside and ran a grocery from the same address.

On September 2, 1919 temporarily held by Berkeley, California Police Department for investigation in a 'Black Hand' case. Berkeley PD later advised the FBI's San Francisco Field Office: "[On] 6/27/18, Ignazio Campagna, 2337 9th Street, Berkeley, had received a threatening letter written in Italian demanding $2,000.00 to be given to two men who would be waiting for him on a street corner. In connection with the ensuing investigation, one [Redacted], a former United States Secret Service Agent who was at that time in the County Jail, [accused] Philip Maita of being one of the extortionists. As a result, Maita was picked up but was released the same day for lack of evidence. [PD] advised that their files are very sketchy since, in 1919, quite a bit of the information was maintained by the Chief of Police at his home."

He filed his Petition for Naturalization the following March and became a US citizen on June 20, 1921.

The Maitas were then residing at 341 Hearst Ave in Sunnyside. Filippo worked as a fruit salesman.

Within a couple of years the family had moved to 98 Curtis St in the Crocker - Amazon section, where they remained through at least the 1970s.

It's not known when Filippo was made into the San Francisco Family, but he was likely a member by the mid-to-late 1920s.

The Family was headed at the time by Francesco Lanza (1872-1937), a former Bonanno member and the father of future Boss James aka Jimmy.

Maita's close associates included Ciro Conetto (1881-1931), a San Francisco Member from Alessandria Della Rocca in Agrigento. Ciro's brother Alfonzo (1884-1963) was the San Jose Boss; their brother Antonino (1887-1955) was a suspected Member.

By April 1930 Filippo owned a grocery / vegetable mart at 5172 Mission St in the Cayuga Terrace neighborhood, less than half a mile from his Curtis St residence.

Around 1932 Antonio Sciortino (1879-1941) moved to San Francisco, joined the Family and became involved in bootlegging with Maita. (An FBI member source later noted that Maita was godfather to one of Sciortino's children.)

On February 13, 1936 San Francisco Member Salvatore 'Sam Castro' Messina filed Petition for Naturalization. Filippo Maita acted as witness along with one Francesco Abbaticola (46y), a barber and musician possibly from Puglia. (Maita had also been a witness for Messina's wife Lena the previous September).

By 1938 Francesco Lanza was deceased and the Family was headed by Antonio Lima.

Maita, by then a Family Captain, was demoted to Soldier at some point by Lima. (An FBI report compiled on Maita in November 1981 gives the year of demotion as 1931).

By the 1940s Maita's associates included Lorenzo Zerillo (1889-1966). Born in Carini, Zerillo moved from Brooklyn to California around 1922 and owned a canning company in Riverbank.

On July 2, 1942 Giacomo 'Jack' Giordano (57y), Maita's brother-in-law, filed Petition for Naturalization in USDC San Francisco. Witnesses were Maita and farmer Antone Alves.

In 1945 Maita and Georgi Giovanni (sp?) formed partnership and purchased Tropical Grill located at 324 Drumm St in Embarcadeo, San Francisco.

On April 15, 1947 FBI San Francisco submitted General Crime Survey. Report noted: "...[Information] obtained from the [FBN] during the course of the [Redacted] investigation revealed that several of Italian mobsters arriving in San Francisco first contacted [Filippo] Maita to ascertain what was going on in the San Francisco area. Maita was regarded by Narcotics authorities as being very active in the 'Mafia' in this area."

F. Genovese

Sometime during the 1940s sponsored Frank Joseph Genovese (1904-1995) for membership.

In 1951 Maita sold his interest in the Tropical Grill and purchased a liquor store from his sons-in-law Angelo and Charles Lintini. The 1308 Stockton St address became the site of Maita's Liquor Store, and was the source of his last few encounters with local law enforcement.

On August 12, 1952 he was arrested by the San Francisco PD for violating the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act. On August 28, 1952 sentenced to six months probation and fined $25.

He was given a fifteen day suspension of his liquor license in December 1952, and again in March 1953, for selling alcohol to minors.

Around the same year Antonio Lima stepped down as Boss due to his own legal problems. He was replaced by Mike Abati.

On October 15, 1958 Unsub interviewed by FBI: "[Unsub] stated that Filippo Maita and [Redacted] were the only individuals of suspected 'Mafia' connections with which he has had contact in recent years."

In 1961 Boss Mike Abati was deported to Italy. James 'Jimmy' Lanza, son to Former Boss Francesco, replaced him. (Lanza's Underboss was Gaspare 'Bill' Sciortino, son to Maita's old-time bootlegging partner Antonio.)

Maita accompanied Lanza to the July 7, 1962 wedding of a cousin to San Jose Member Dr. Gregory Genovese. Other attendees included Gregory's Captain Angelo Marino. FBI SF later noted: "Filippo Maita [was] observed at the wedding and was one of the men waiting in the car of James Lanza. 'Little Phil' Maita is well known among the Sicilian element in the North Beach area of San Francisco and is known to have been in contact with James Lanza and many of his close associates. Maita has just recently sold his liquor store in the 1300 block of Stockton St in SF."

On July 13, 1962 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that James Lanza was talking to Joe Marconi and explained to him that on Tuesday of this week (7/10/62), he had traveled to Sacramento, Calif. with Phil Maita to see Uncle Prisinzano and another sick friend. In this conversation Lanza did not identify the other individual who was called a 'sick friend' but he did explain to Marconi that they were going to have dinner downtown tonight and there will be six of them who will play poker at [Redacted] house." ('Uncle Prisinzano' was Lanza's uncle Mariano [1884-1962]).

On August 8, 1962 Lanza and Maita attended the rosary for San Francisco Member Nunzio Mannina held at A.J. Nicoletti Funeral Home at Folsom Blvd and 54th St in Sacramento. (Mannina, who was born in Corleone and moved to California from New Orleans, may have been the 'sick friend' mentioned by Lanza in the July 13 report.)

On August 9, 1962 FBI CI reported: "[CI advised] James Lanza had gone to Sacramento, CA with Phil Maita to attend the funeral of an old-time friend by the last name of Mannina."

On August 13, 1962 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that James Lanza had told him that he and Phil Maita had traveled to Sacramento, California, to attend the funeral of a man named Mannina. Informant stated that Lanza did not give his first name, but did state that he formerly owned a grocery store in Sacramento and that Lanza used to sell him wine and olive oil. Informant further advised that after the funeral the two men visited with Mariano Prisinzano, after which the two men stated that they were going to Lake Tahoe and stay a few hours before they returned to San Francisco."

On August 21, 1962 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised he had determined Nunzio Mannina was the name of the individual whose funeral James Lanza and Phil Maita had attended at Sacramento. [Mannina] used to be in the olive oil business and was a close associate of James Lanza for many years."

On September 13, 1962 Lanza and Maita returned to Sacramento for Mariano Prisinzano's wake.

On October 16, 1962 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised Joe Cerrito, reported 'Don of the La Cosa Nostra' in the San Jose area, sold an automobile to [Filippo] Maita. [CI] advised that he has not been told that Maita is a member of the 'organization' but he is of the opinion because of the manner in which he was treated by [Redacted]."

On December 6, 1962 FBI SF reported: "...The death notices of 11/30/62 reveal that Giuseppe Maita had died on 11/29/62 at age 75. He is a brother of Philip Maita, who is a close associate and friend of James Lanza."

On December 27, 1963 James Lanza was visited by Filippo Maita. Their conversation was surreptitiously recorded by an FBI bug: "[Bug reported] Phil Maita met with James Lanza, at which time they exchanged greetings and also thanked each other for the Christmas presents they had received...[Bug] further advised that Phil Maita was also invited to attend the poker game set for that evening."

On February 19, 1964 FBI CI reported: "[CI], in discussing a poker group with which [Redacted] is associated, that [redacted] were usually together at least once a week. He stated that Toni [Redacted] had been in the game on some occasions, as well as Phil Maita and [Redacted]. He stated that while this group always played cards he never was aware of any activities which could indicate that they were connected to any group such as 'La Cosa Nostra' or 'Mafia'."

On June 23, 1964 FBI reported: "...The only associate known by [CI] to be close to [Filippo Maita] is [Redacted]. He said Maita is a very friendly person who is very genial and a person who gets along well with anyone. He stated that this might be the reason why individuals coming to San Francisco from other places had contacted Maita in the past. He explained that it was quite natural for an Italian in one city to advise another coming to San Francisco to be sure to look up 'Little Phil' as Maita is known to many people. [CI] advised that while Maita was a bootlegger during Prohibition, he knows of no other illegal activities on his part. He stated that he did not believe Maita would be in any criminal activities since he has always worked very hard and even at the present would not have time to take part in any such activities. He pointed out further that Maita's standard of living did not indicate that he would have any big income from illegal sources."

Maita (c. 1960s)

Filippo was interviewed by the FBI on August 20, 1964: "[Maita advised] he does not know of anyone by the name of Bonanno. He specifically denied receiving any communications by letter, telephone or any means from Bill Bonanno. He stated that he has no personal knowledge of an organization known as 'La Cosa Nostra', but he has heard of it and saw the Valachi hearings on television. He stated that he would be glad to furnish any information which he had but that since he had no knowledge of such an organization he could not lie about something about which he knew nothing. Maita continued with the statement, 'I would be happy to cooperate but I know nothing and I can't tell a lie about something that I don't know nothing about'."

On June 10-14, 1965 FBI CI Antonio Lima (Former San Francisco Boss) reported: "[CI], in answering further questions as to membership in San Francisco, indicated Phil Maita and Nick Musco are Mafiosos." (Nick Musco [1898-1977], born in Mistretta comune of Messina, may have transferred from the Gambino Family circa the early 1940s.)

On October 17, 1969 FBI CI reported:
"
[CI advised] that he had met Bill Sciortino (Caspara Sciortino) on October 14, 1969, near his residence. Bill Sciortino opened the conversation by stating that because of all the recent publicity about the LCN and its members in the San Francisco family it was about time to 'quit,' as they were not doing anything anyway. Sciortino continued by suggesting that all the members of the San Francisco Family should resign and remove themselves from the LCN.

Sciortino stated that he saw James Lanza recently, but did not specify the date, and all Lanza talks about is 'being left alone'. He said Lanza refuses to see anyone, even the members of his own LCN Family and Sciortino must take care of any visitors who might come to the San Francisco area and want to see Lanza. He said that this was not possible, but Lanza just remarked, 'Tell them I'm out of town'. Sciortino told the informant that he himself is staying away from (other members) Phil Maita, his brother Frank Maita and Salvatore Taranto, who were always close associates as members of the San Francisco Family because of the orders from Lanza.
"

On October 30, 1969 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that he had previously been in contact with James Lanza, Phil Morici and Philip Maita whom he had known for several years. He explained that these contacts had been telephonic in nature and he has had no personal contact with any one of the above in many years." (Philip Ottavio Morici [1888-1972] was a San Jose Member who transferred to Los Angeles the following year.)

On September 27, 1970 James Lanza interviewed by FBI: "...He stated that this past week he visited Phil Maita who is in his 80s and was surprised at how alert Maita appeared and also appeared to be in very good health for a man in his eighties."

Filippo's brother Frank, age 77, died December 12, 1970 in Placerville, CA.

On January 12, 1971 Unsub interviewed by FBI: "...[UM] advised that he has been associated with Philip Maita and Philip's brother, Frank Maita, who recently died, since the 1930's when he met [Redacted] and knows them only as two Sicilians born in the old country who have worked extremely hard all of their lives. He advised that he cannot believe that either of the Maitas were ever involved in any illegal activity and has no knowledge of any affiliation by the Maitas with any organized crime group such as the Mafia or the LCN."

In November 1971 FBI CI (Antonio Lima?) reported: "[CI] was questioned concerning current activities of Philip Maita, and advised Maita is sickly and senile and incapable of being involved in any activity. He further advised Maita is not in contact with any of the members of the San Francisco Family or any other Family of the LCN at the present time."

On November 29, 1971 Filippo was interviewed again by the FBI: "[Maita] indicated he is 87, and celebrated his 60th wedding anniversary during 10/71, and he is happy to report he is in relatively good health. He advised he takes pills for poor circulation and he has some trouble with his inner ear which affects his balance and equilibrium but stated he is still capable of driving a motor vehicle and although not frequently, living in the vicinity of his children's residences, does occasionally travel to the residence of his many children, grand children and great grandchildren, residing in the SF area. Mr. Maita advised that he does not see any of his former associates who have been listed as members of the 'Mafia' by various new media. Maita denied any affiliation with any such organization, and stated he doubts there is any such organization currently active in any way in the San Francisco area."

On January 20, 1972 FBI CI Antonio Lima reported: "...Informant was questioned concerning further background information of [Redacted] who he previously referred to as a recruit. He stated that [Redacted]'s father was a close associate with Jimmy Lanza. He indicated that the health of [Redacted] was very good. [Redacted], the father's name, as a butcher and had a market on Cortland Avenue in San Francisco. He indicated that [Redacted] presently lives in San Mateo, and was also closely associated with Phil Maita."

On March 1, 1972 FBI CI Antonio Lima reported: "Informant discussed the background of the Sciortino family, indicating that Bill's father and the Sciortino family resided in the Los Angeles area prior to 1932 when Bill's father, who was operating a still shot three people in the Los Angeles area who were raiding his still. Following the shooting, the Sciortino family moved to San Francisco and Bill's father, who was cumpari (godfather to one of Sciortino's children) with Phil Maita joined the San Francisco Family and commenced bootlegging with Maita. Informant advised that both Bill's father and Bill were very respected LCN members who were capable of handling any contract."

1970s

On July 20, 1972 FBI SF reported: "Sources familiar with [Filippo] Maita indicate that as Maita is 'sick', he is avoided."

On July 20, 1972 FBI SF reported: "During [redacted] [CI] questioned concerning any knowledge of activity on the part of [Filippo Maita] indicated that [redacted]. [CI] indicated that Maita was a big bootlegger many years ago. [Redacted]. [CI] advised Maita had been a close associate of Ciro Conetto. [CI] has advised in the past Ciro Conetto was a brother of (FNU) Conetto, who was the 'Acting Boss' of the San Jose Family of the LCN in the early twenties. (Bill Sciortino has been identified as the 'underboss' of the San Francisco Family of the LCN.)."

On May 30, 1978 Unspecified Female interviewed by FBI: "[UF] said to her knowledge [Filippo Maita] was not involved in any illegal activities. She stated [Maita] spends most of his time at home because of his old age and in order to take care of his wife who is in bad health."

On August 29, 1978 FBI CI reported: "[CI] said that he had heard [redacted] that [Filippo Maita] was an invalid and was no longer able to get around."

Philip J. Maita (1972)

Through the 1970s and into the early 1980s a grandson, Philip Joseph Maita (1943-2015), was a central figure in various obscenity related cases in California.

On November 6, 1981 FBI SF reported: "At one time [Filippo] Maita was Capo Decina of San Francisco LCN & was put down to a Soldier in 1931 by Anthony Lima...Maita was involved in extortion and narcotics in the San Francisco area."

On May 19, 1982 FBI SF identified San Francisco Family as consisting of Boss James Lanza, Underboss Gaspare Sciortino and Soldiers Frank Joseph Genovese, Antonio Lima and Filippo Maita. Report noted: "The above five individuals are the only known members of the San Francisco LCN." (Absent from the list are Steve Trifiro [1915-2001], inducted in 1965, and Anthony Thomas Esposito [1914-2005], named as a member in James Lanza's FBI file.)

On June 21, 1982 FBI SF reported: "Maita will be 98y in September. He is an invalid confined to a wheelchair and is not known to ever leave his residence. He has not been in contact with members of the San Francisco LCN Family for years. It is therefore recommended that he be deleted from the LCN Index."

Filippo Maita died August 10, 1984 in San Mateo, California.

The wake was held four days later at Valente - Marini - Perata & Company located at 4840 Mission St in San Francisco's Mission Terrace neighborhood.

He was buried in The Italian Cemetery located in Colma, CA.

Carlo DiMaggio (Milwaukee)

1955

Carlo DiMaggio was a member of the Milwaukee Family.

His sons Jerome (1912-1989) and Salvatore aka Sam (1916-1987), along with a nephew also named Jerome (1916-1987), were members as well. Cousin Nicholas 'Nick' Gentilli (1914-1979) was an Associate.

Carlo was born May 31, 1889 in Partinico comune of Palermo, Sicily to Girolamo (30y) and Anna Buccellato (24y).

On June 28, 1906 arrived at Ellis Island, New York aboard S.S. Lombardia. Destined for cousin Pietro Buccellato residing at 318 N Jefferson St in Milwaukee's Third Ward.

By April 1910 resided at 166 N Jefferson St in Third Ward. Employed as butcher.

On November 29, 1910 married Sadie Kretlow (18y) in Waukegan, Illinois.

By Summer 1917 resided at 162 Detroit St in Third Ward. Owned butcher shop.

In the 1920s the Milwaukee Family saw four Bosses, beginning with Vito Guardalabene.

Following Vito's death in 1921, his brother Giovanni Battista aka 'Pete' ran the Family for a time, as did Giuseppe 'Big Joe' Amato who died in 1927.

By 1929 the Family was headed by Joseph Vallone.

Carl was likely a made member by the time Vallone took over.

On April 6, 1929 he was arrested by Milwaukee PD for operating a music and dance hall past midnight. Fined $10.

Two more arrests for related violations, in July 1929 and April 1930, ended with a $25 fine and a suspended sentence respectively.

On November 9, 1931 temporarily held on confidence game charge.

In the early 1930s Carlo opened La Tosca restaurant at 1433 East Clybourn St in East Town, located just north of Third Ward.

On March 25, 1933 arrested on assault and battery charge. Case dismissed.

He was arrested four days in a row during early December 1933 for dance hall ordinance violations. Each time the charge was dismissed.

By April 1940 resided at 1536 N Franklin Place in Milwaukee's Lower East Side neighborhood.

By 1942 operated a butcher shop at 1939 North 3rd St in Harambee. Employees included son Jerome.

Around 1944 DiMaggio filed Petition for Naturalization in US District Court Milwaukee.

Witnesses were Salvatore Patti (1888-1945), an insurance salesman from Santo Stefano di Camastra in Messina, and Alfred SanFilippo (1893-1946), tavern keeper from Santa Flavia, Palermo.

He was naturalized April 20, 1945.

The following month he was indicted on a Federal charge of transporting counterfeit meat coupons. Records note his release on $500 bail but give no disposition for the case.

In July 1947 DiMaggio, along with brothers Angelo and Louis Migliaccio, formed Milwaukee's Show Boat Company. The Migliaccios were sons to long-time Milwaukee Captain Pasquale Migliaccio.

Both Jerome and Sam DiMaggio were made during the reign of Salvatore 'Sam' Ferrara, who led the Family from approximately 1948 to 1952. Ferrara was succeeded by John Alioto.

On November 6, 1952 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that Carlo DiMaggio operates the La Tosca Cafe, East Clybourn St, and this cafe is a hangout for the young Italian hoodlum element in Milwaukee."

On September 23, 1953 FBI CI reported: "[CI] stated that Carlo DiMaggio operated the La Tosca Cafe, East Clybourn Street, as an after hours joint and that his two sons Jerry and Sam helped him operate the cafe. He stated that DiMaggio [redacted]."

On February 5, 1955 Carlo was arrested for violating food ordinance and for selling liquor without a license. On or around March 15, 1955 convicted on both charges and given suspended sentence and $2,500 fine.

On April 31, 1956 temporarily held on burglary (safe) charge.

On February 13, 1958 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that the young hoodlums in Milwaukee were warned by the Italian syndicate not to talk to the FBI and that if they did they might end up like Jack Enea who was killed in gangland fashion in 1956 (sic; 1955). This warning supposedly came from [Redacted]. [CI] advised Sam DiMaggio's father Carlo is a member of the Italian syndicate in Milwaukee."

By February 1959 owned restaurant at 2710 West Lisbon in Midtown, Milwaukee. The lease on La Tosca had been lost after the city acquired the property for highway construction.

Another food ordinance violation that June resulted in a suspended sentence.

On October 9, 1961 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised he had heard that Carlo DiMaggio held a meeting of some of the members of the DiMaggio gang concerning the forthcoming parole for Carlo's son Jerry. He also advised that Carlo DiMaggio held a benefit for his other son Sam DiMaggio at Augie Maniaci's place of business, Club Midnight, in order that he might raise money for Sam's forthcoming parole."

On December 2, 1961 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that Carlo DiMaggio is 'on the outs' with Frank Balistrieri and that Carlo DiMaggio carries quite a bit of weight in the Italian American organization in Milwaukee."

Frank Balistrieri was then a Captain, having replaced the deceased Pasquale Migliaccio. By the following month he succeeded John Alioto, his father-in-law, as Family Boss.

Several members, DiMaggio included, resented Balistrieri and his style of leadership. Through much of the next decade a faction within the Family unsuccessfully conspired to have him removed as Boss.

On March 12, 1962 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that Carlo DiMaggio is an elderly man who was formerly one the leaders of the Italian syndicate in Milwaukee."

DiMaggio was interviewed by the FBI on August 23, 1963: "He stated he had absolutely no information to the effect that there is an organization in Milwaukee similar to an organization called the Mafia. He stated that if there is the members have been keeping it very quiet. He advised that he realized that his sons Jerry and Sam have extensive criminal records but that this was in no way done by the influence of some organization. He admitted knowing individuals who allegedly are members of the Italian syndicate but stated as far as he knows none of these individuals belong to any such organization. He advised that the Mafia type organization might be in existence in some of the larger cities like Chicago and New York but that there definitely was no such organization in Milwaukee."

On August 30, 1963 an FBI CI named one 'Nick DiMaggio' as 'an elderly member of the Outfit'. This may have been a mis-ID re Carlo.

On September 16, 1963 FBI CI reported: "CI advised his analysis of the crime setup in Milwaukee is as follows: Many years ago, as far back as prohibition, there was a Mafia group in MW and elsewhere in the country which existed by blackmailing other Italian immigrants. This group in MW has since died out and is since replaced by the syndicate which consists not only of Italians but of other nationality groups as well, and this group using money obtained previously by the old timers in the illegal market is now engaged for the most part in various legitimate business endeavors plus principally gambling and shake-down." He identified Carlo DiMaggio as one of the 'old time members of the Mafia', noting that they comprised a faction that was now dormant and had 'divorced themselves from this background [with] no part in syndicate operations'.

On September 16, 1963 FBI CI reported: "[Carlo DiMaggio] has been a member of the Italian syndicate for years and he is a real troublemaker in the organization. He stated that DiMaggio hates Frank Balistrieri who is the head of the Italian syndicate and has tried to help Frank LaGalbo overthrow Frank Balistrieri as recently as 1961. He advised DiMaggio has two sons Sam and Jerry DiMaggio, both of whom are notorious burglars. [CI] advised Carlo DiMaggio operated the La Tosca Cafe, East Clybourn St, as an after hours joint for several years. He stated DiMaggio taught his sons Jerry and Sam how to pull burglaries and stickups." (LaGalbo, then a Chicago Soldier, was a former Milwaukee Member who left that Family after taking part in an unsuccessful move against the former Boss John Alioto.)

On November 22, 1963 FBI MI reported: "[Carlo DiMaggio] is presently employed part time selling meat to Italian restaurants and night clubs. Formerly operated after hours joint called La Tosca. He also has operated pizza joints. He reportedly is member of Italian syndicate and is regarded as one of 'old guard'. He is described as cunning. He has two sons Jerry and Sam both of whom are notorious burglars."

On April 23, 1964 an informant, believed to be Milwaukee Member August 'Augie' Maniaci, named Carlo DiMaggio and his son Salvatore as made members. (This is believed to be the same CI who, four months later, identified Carlo's nephew Jerome as 'a member of the Milwaukee Family [whom] he had previously overlooked'.)

On September 14, 1964 FBI CI reported: "...[CI] stated that [Carlo] DiMaggio is drawing Social Security but sells steaks to various Italian restaurants and night clubs in Milwaukee. He advised, however, that this is a part time job for him and that he makes very little money at it. He stated that DiMaggio is just an old man and is not active in the Italian syndicate."

On September 16, 1964 FBI MI reported: "On [redacted] [CI] advised Frank Balistrieri highly berates Carlo DiMaggio for the activities of DiMaggio's son, Sam, who had recently been arrested by the Milwaukee PD as being involved in a major burglary ring."

On November 3, 1964 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised [that] there was some hard feelings between Frank Balistrieri and Carlo DiMaggio at the present. Informant said that [redacted]. Informant said that [redacted] Carlo has been selling meat on a small scale to a few restaurants 'in order to make himself 25 or 30 dollars a week'. He has no regular place of business for doing this. Informant said that [redacted]."

On December 28, 1964 wake for Milwaukee Member Vito Balestrere held at Guardalabene & Amato Funeral Home located at 2001 N Holton St in Brewers' Hill, Milwaukee. Attendees included Boss Frank Balistrieri, Underboss Joseph Caminiti, Captains John Alioto and Peter Balistrieri, Carlo and Jerome DiMaggio and at least fifteen additional Family Soldiers. Members from Kansas City, as well as various local associates, also attended. (Vito Balestrere was a former Kansas City Member who transferred.)

An informant report from March 11, 1965 named Carlo DiMaggio as a made member.

On May 31, 1965 wake for Gracia Maniaci, the mother-in-law of Milwaukee Soldier Nick Fucarino, held at Guardalabene & Amato Funeral Home. Attendees included Boss Frank Balistrieri, Captain Peter Balistrieri, Carlo DiMaggio and at least twelve additional Family Soldiers.

On June 2, 1965 FBI CI reported: "[Carlo DiMaggio's] only steady income is derived from Social Security payments, but he occasionally sells meat and steaks to various Italian restaurants and night clubs in Milwaukee. He stated that DiMaggio, primarily because of his age and health, is not active in the Italian Syndicate."

On June 15, 1965 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that Carl DiMaggio was campaigning that if Frank Balistrieri goes to jail a new Boss will be elected with no ties with the Chicago organization, so that the Milwaukee Family will be less dependent on Chicago. DiMaggio does not expect to be Boss."

On June 21, 1965 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that unrest existed within the LCN Milwaukee Family concerning meetings of the 'grease balls' at the Peacock Tavern. The old timers including Carlo DiMaggio stated that they held a meeting concerning a successor to Frank Balistrieri and that there was general displeasure that grew out of the fact that Steve DiSalvo, who was in the organization only a couple of years was giving orders to the old timers." (DiSalvo was inducted in February/March 1963.)

On or around July 12, 1965 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that John Pernice and Carlo DiMaggio were both against Frank Balistrieri as LCN Boss and had been worrying about the matter. Informant stated that [redacted]." (John Pernice was a long-time Soldier and the only confirmed Milwaukee member, save for the Kansas City Balestrere transfers, from Trapani.)

Carlo DiMaggio was interviewed by the FBI for a second time on September 27, 1965: "[He] claimed he was not a member of LCN and pointed out his poor situation in life stating that he would be living better if he were a member. He stated that he is hoping his son will soon be released from prison, further that he had not seen Frank Balistrieri recently, and when Balistrieri was referred to as 'boss' the subject maintained everyone in the United States is his own boss. He further went to some length to describe his friendly association to the former Chiefs of Police in Milwaukee, former district Attorneys and other politicians in Milwaukee."

On December 6, 1965 the son of Madison Soldier James 'Little Jimmy' Schiavo married the daughter of Milwaukee Soldier Nick Fucarino in Milwaukee. The reception was held at the Eagle Club and attended by representatives from the Milwaukee, Madison, Chicago and Rockford Families, including both Carlo and Jerome DiMaggio.

On January 11, 1966 FBI MI reported: "[Carlo DiMaggio] is well known to [CI] who described him as a member, however, according to informant, DiMaggio, age 77, is in extremely poor physical condition due to loss of hearing [and] in generally failing health."

On June 24, 1966 wake for John Spera, brother to Milwaukee Soldier Giuseppe Spera, held at Guardalabene & Amato Funeral Home. Attendees included Boss Frank Balistrieri, Consigliere Vito Seidita, Captains Joseph Gumina and Peter Balistrieri, Possible Captain John Alioto, Carlo DiMaggio and at least eleven additional Family Soldiers.

On August 17, 1966 FBI CI reported: "..[Carlo's son] Sam DiMaggio also said that he reported to Frank Balistrieri since returning from prison. Frank criticized Sam DiMaggio for having gotten into trouble in the first place, and having been convicted of the postal theft. Balistrieri told Sam that after Balistrieri's income tax trial, there would be a meeting concerning Sam and in the meantime, Sam should stay quiet. [Redacted] Sam DiMaggio with the LCN)...Carlo DiMaggio was mad at Frank Balistrieri because the latter has allegedly made statements that Jerry DiMaggio is a squealer. Carlo also said that Frank Balistrieri has told Jerry DiMaggio, nephew of Carlo, who works for Frank Balistrieri at the Downtowner Night Club in Milwaukee, that Sam DiMaggio doesn't have a chance of staying in the outfit if they should consider his case because Sam DiMaggio has not abided by orders and chain of command in the local outfit."

On September 6, 1966 wake for father of Milwaukee Member Steve DiSalvo held at Schaff Funeral Home in West Allis, Wisconsin. Attendees included Boss Frank Balistrieri, Underboss Joseph Caminiti, Captain Peter Balistrieri, Carlo DiMaggio and at least ten additional Family Soldiers.

By 1967 the resentment held by DiMaggio and other members toward Frank Balistrieri had escalated into a full blown murder conspiracy.

Members of the plot included DiMaggio, brothers John and Vito Aiello, Santo Nick Marino and FBI CI August Maniaci. Aiello had clocked Balistrieri's movements on more than one occasion.

An informant, possibly Maniaci himself, kept the FBI updated on the situation. This CI admitted his involvement but reassured his handler that he had no intention of actually going through with any plan.

On February 14, 1967 FBI CI reported: "[CI] said that he has recently been accused by both Carlo DiMaggio and John Aiello of 'chickening out' on the deal to knock off Frank Balistrieri. This pertains to a plot in recent months by old-time LCN members in Milwaukee including John and Vito Aiello and Santo Marino to get [CI] to knock off Balistrieri. [CI] said that he is still stalling those men and has no intentions to be a party of any such action against Balistrieri. He is continuing to tell them that they should wait and see the outcome of Frank Balistrieri's Federal Income Tax trial."

On June 14, 1967 CI Maniaci reported on the wedding of Rockford Underboss Frank Buscemi's son, noting that Frank Balistrieri had neglected to pass out invitations to his members: "Nick Fucarino, John Aiello, Vito Aiello and Carlo DiMaggio, all old-timers in the Milwaukee Family, are very upset and angry with Frank Balistrieri for his failure to give out the invitations. Fucarino said that he wants to call a turno (meeting) of the Milwaukee Family to let the membership decide what to do about Frank Balistrieri's disrespect for the other members and particularly Balistrieri's failure to notify [CI] because of his many friends and close ties in the Rockford Family. Vito Aiello commented, 'What are we waiting for,' meaning, according to [CI], as has been demonstrated in the past, Vito would like to see Frank Balistrieri 'out of the way'."

Any further plotting on Carlo's part ended with his death at Milwaukee County General Hospital on January 17, 1968.
 

His wake was held January 20-21 at Guardalabene and Amato. Attendees included Captain Joseph Gumina, Milwaukee Soldiers John and Vito Aiello, Milwaukee Soldier Benedetto 'Benny' DiSalvo and Madison Soldier Cosimo DiSalvo.

He was buried in Holy Cross Cemetery and Mausoleum.

The plot against Frank Balistrieri doesn't appear to have gone further. John Aiello, one of the primary instigators, died late the same year. CI August Maniaci was shot to death in 1975.

Joseph LiCalsi (Gambino)

Oct. 1951

Joseph LiCalsi was a member of the Gambino Family.

Born January 25, 1912 in Tampa, Florida to Antonino (24y) and Vincenza Pullara (19y).

Father and mother were Sicilian, hailing respectively from the towns of Alessandria della Rocca and Santo Stefano Quisquina in Agrigento.

The local Mafia Family included several confirmed and suspected members who traced their origins to the above comunes, including Salvador Pullara (1898-1973), a possible LiCalsi relative.

The LiCalsis resided in Tampa's Ybor City neighborhood, first at 1805 8th Ave and by April 1920 at 1713 15th Ave. Antonino worked as a cigar maker.

By April 1930 the family left Florida for New York, residing at 324 East 76th St in Manhattan's Upper East Side. Joseph worked as a dental technician; his brother Nelson later became a dentist and held a teaching position at New York University College of Dentistry.

The LiCalsi household was across the street from that of Gambino Family Member Domenico 'Mike' Arcuri at 311 East 76th.

Like Antonino LiCalsi, Arcuri was born in Alessandria della Rocca. He arrived in New York at the beginning of 1906, spent a few years in Tampa and returned to the city around 1917. Domenico married a Longo, an alias later used by Joseph LiCalsi. Domenico's son Joseph, born in Tampa, followed his father into the Gambino Family.

By 1936 LiCalsi was living at 321 East 12th St in East Village and partnered in a wholesale dressmaking business.

In June 1938 he married Antoinette 'Ann' Cacciatore (20y) in Brooklyn. The bride's parents, Salvatore (1891-1970) and Maria SanFelippo, were from Alessandria and Sciacca respectively.

By June 1942 the couple resided at 1042 80th St in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn.

In 1946 LiCalsi was partners with Gambino Member Charles Dongarra in an unspecified business.

Dongarra (1950)

Dongarra was a made member in the Family's Biondo - Riccobono crew and took over the regime by the early 1960s.

By April 1950 LiCalsi resided with the Cacciatores at 2039 81st St in Bensonhurst.

The following year he was caught up in one of the decade's most publicized LCN murder cases.

On the morning of October 4, 1951 Genovese Member Guarino 'Willie' Moretti was shot to death inside Joe's Restaurant located on Palisades Ave in Cliffside Park, New Jersey. Moretti had been a figure of influence since the 1920s and headed a large crew in the state.

Later that month Pat Collins, an ex-girlfriend of Joseph LiCalsi, contacted authorities and claimed she had driven LiCalsi and two unidentified men to Joe's Restaurant on the day Moretti was killed.

She claimed to have seen LiCalsi and the others greet Moretti outside and then enter the establishment, after which she circled the block and returned to pick the trio up. It was only the following day, Collins claimed, that she learned Moretti had been murdered. She told investigators that one of the hats left at the scene by the suspected killers belonged to LiCalsi.

On October 20 LiCalsi was picked up by the NYPD in Manhattan on a vagrancy charge and held pending further investigation.

Three days later the Bergen County Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant charging LiCalsi with murder.

He remained in New York pending an extradition hearing, which was held later that year.

In the lead-up Pat Collins suffered multiple blows to her credibility. The hat she claimed belonged to LiCalsi was determined not to fit the suspect. Initially claiming LiCalsi recruited her because of her expert driving ability, she proved unable to operate a vehicle and then changed her story to put LiCalsi in the driver's seat.

The extradition hearing was held December 21. As reported in the following day's edition of The Morning Call, presiding Judge Greenblatt stated: "This is one of the easiest cases I ever had to decide. This woman, from early youth, has led an unsavory existence and, I am convinced, there is not a shred of truth in the testimony she gave here." LiCalsi was promptly released. An FBI report later noted: "LiCalsi disappeared shortly thereafter, and his whereabouts have been unknown to [New Jersey State Police] since that time."

Information on LiCalsi's activities through the remainder of the decade isn't available.

By 1958 he was a formally inducted member of the Gambino Family and possibly reported to Domenico Arcuri, his former Upper East Side neighbor and now a Family Captain.

Arcuri and his son Joseph, a Gambino Soldier, operated the Arcuri Liquor Store at 302 East 78th St. They also held an interest in the Victory Star Social Club at the old East 76th St address. Both locations served as hubs for the Gambino Family's Upper Manhattan faction as well as members from other Families. The liquor store was used as a meeting point for members and associates from across the city and out of state.

Arcuri's crew included a still obscure group of New York members, along with Connecticut-based Gambino Soldiers Isadore 'Jerry' Castiglione, Ignazio 'Benny' Marchese, Nicola Patti and Frank Piccolo.

LiCalsi first came to the attention of the FBI in the early half of 1963. CI Alfred Santantonio, a Gambino Soldier, identified one 'Joe LiCalsi' as a fellow member. (The original report isn't available, so it's not known what, if any, additional details Santantonio provided. He was murdered that summer.)

On June 12, 1963 FBI CW Joseph Valachi reported: "[Valachi advised] Joseph LaScali (sic) was held as a material witness in the gangland slaying of hoodlum Willie Moretti. [Valachi] stated that [redacted]." Valachi initially identified LiCalsi as a Lucchese member.

On October 10, 1963 Valachi was re-contacted: "[The] correct spelling of Joseph LaScali's name was determined to be Joseph LiCalsi. Also, it was determined through [Valachi] that LiCalsi was a member of the Carlo Gambino Family rather than the Thomas Lucchese Family, as he originally stated."

Joseph's brother Louis LiCalsi, owner of a barbershop in Tampa, was interviewed by the FBI in late July 1964. During the interview LiCalsi stated re the Moretti case: "[Joseph LiCalsi] was picked up by the NYPD back in 1951; however, such was all because of some jealous woman who made up some story about him being involved...He said that the New York authorities refused to approve the extradition of his brother to New Jersey and subsequently, Joe was cleared of the whole mess. He stated he personally never heard of Joseph LiCalsi's friends [Redacted], claiming that he did not know the close friends or associates of his brother, Joe, and Joe went his way and they never palled around too much when in New York." Louis denied all knowledge of LCN: "[LiCalsi] related that he thought if he were a member of such an organization, he would not have to eke out a living as he has done all his life...He agreed he was born and raised on 8th Avenue in Tampa, Florida in the heart of the former Italian area; his parents came from Sicily and he knew numerous people of Sicilian descent, but he did not know of the existence of [LCN]."

Joseph's other brother, Dr. Nelson LiCalsi, was interviewed in August 1964: "...LiCalsi said the last time he saw his brother Joe was last March [during Nelson's hospital stay]. He was surprised, he said, to see Joe, since he had not seen him for several years owing to a 'falling out' between them which occurred for undisclosed reasons. It was noted by Doctor LiCalsi that his brother is a gambler and he intimated that there was lacking between them a brotherly rapport because of Joe's questionable activities. LiCalsi refused to enlarge upon what he knew concerning [Joe's activities]."

Questioned regarding various Gambino members, Dr. LiCalsi admitted knowing Gambino Underboss Joseph Biondo and Gambino Captains Paul Castellano and Charles Dongarra as patients. He identified Frank Biondo as his assistant in the Local 27 dental clinic and mentioned providing Paul Castellano with a bail surety ship 'some seven years ago'.

FBI reported: "...Concerning Carlo Gambino, [Doctor LiCalsi] said he had the latter as a patient and had him as a house guest on a number of occasions and regards Gambino as a 'fine gentleman'. He also claimed to know Paul Gambino. He said he hasn't seen Carlo for about two years...He also acknowledged knowing Domenico 'Mike' Arcuri and his son, Joe, operators of [Arcuri Liquor Store]. These persons he claimed to have met when he lived on East 77th St, not in Tampa [although] the Arcuris lived in Tampa years ago as did his parents and other family members. He said he knew [Former Gambino Member] Joe Parisi rather well and it was through Parisi that he became associated with Local 27...His limited comments concerning all of these persons were circumspectly favorable to them and if he had misjudged these people he certainly had been carrying out his professional practice in a vacuum of naiveté. That most of these characters have firmly established themselves as hoodlums with law enforcement came as a mild surprise to LiCalsi."

The LiCalsis' father Antonino (78y) was interviewed the following January: "He claimed to be a citizen of the US and exhibited his naturalization certificate to support this claim. He lived many years in the Tampa, FL area where he established his family. In the 1940's, the family migrated to NY in quest of economic improvement and lived in various places in Greater New York. LiCalsi resided for several years with their son, Nelson [but] never lived with son, Joseph, whom he regarded as unpredictable...As to when he saw his son, Joe, last, LiCalsi recalled it was four of five weeks ago. Joe visits his parents every three or four weeks, has little to say about himself or his involvements and apparently does not have a great deal of income. Joseph let it be known when he last visited that he was then working in a garage in Manhattan, and he intimated he was living in Manhattan too. He also inferred he was making an honest living and was staying out of trouble. Because Joe makes it a point not to disclose much about himself to his family, he is not queried about it, therefore, Mr. LiCalsi doubted if members of the family would have information as to his son's whereabouts specifically. He was requested to ascertain the subject's address when the latter next visits his parents or have him communicate with the [Bureau]. He said he would do so. LiCalsi does not have a telephone in his apartment. He pointed out he has a large family in and around NY; a brother, Louis, lives in Bayside, Queens, and he has a large family, including [Redacted] both of whom are engineers and live in Long Island."

On the same date CW Joseph Valachi was re-contacted: "[Valachi] was exhibited a photograph of Joseph LiCalsi and immediately identified him as [Joe LaScali / LiCalsi]. [Redacted section]. Valachi was unable to pinpoint the reason for believing LiCalsi was in the Gambino Family rather than Lucchese."

On July 22, 1965 FBI reported: "Joseph LiCalsi, under investigation as an identified LCN member, continues among the missing in NYC; his whereabouts are not known to Federal or local authorities and no activity involving him has been reported by informants. LiCalsi has a brother Nelson LiCalsi, a dentist [who] has been uncooperative in the conduct of inquiry to locate Joseph LiCalsi and admittedly is on friendly terms with a number of NYC mobsters including Carlo Gambino."

On October 7, 1965 Dr. Nelson LiCalsi was re-interviewed: "...He said he could furnish no specific information regarding his brother whom he said he has no use for because of his anti-social attitude. Dr. LiCalsi said, further, he would not furnish any information to the authorities concerning his brother reasoning that as long as he was staying out of trouble he did not 'owe it to society' to cooperate with the FBI insofar as his brother was concerned. He added he has met Carlo Gambino and is of the opinion that criticism of Gambino 'by law enforcement agencies is very much overdrawn'. Gambino is a friend of the LiCalsi family, he said."

Joseph had been located by late November 1965, when he was served a subpoena in regard to an unspecified proceeding.

By March 1966 he was residing with his second wife at 41-48 40th St in Corona, Queens. Agents visited his residence early that month seeking an interview: "LiCalsi said that he is not employed and refused to make any disclosures as to his source of income. He said further that he had nothing to say to the FBI, now or any other time."

On March 25, 1966 LiCalsi's building superintendent was interviewed: "[Superintendent] advised Joseph LiCalsi is not regularly employed. He said further LiCalsi enters and leaves the building 'at all hours of the day and night and appears to hang around the area of 40th St and Queens Blvd, Queens'. Indication of his financial condition can be gained, he said, from the fact he has often been reduced to borrowing small sums of money from [superintendent] which he has not been able to repay within a reasonable time. He has owed him $8 for the past two weeks. LiCalsi's wife is regularly employed and appears to be the one responsible for her and LiCalsi's running expenses. Rent is paid by her by check and they are not in arrears. [Superintendent] expressed the opinion that LiCalsi is somehow involved in illegitimate activity judging by the hours he keeps and the fact that, although unemployed, he is usually well dressed. He does not appear to have a car and is often picked up by his cronies, none of whom have been seen visiting LiCalsi in his apartment. LiCalsi appears to be unusually security-conscious and always makes sure his apartment is in a locked condition, even when he is in the apartment. Repairs are made by arrangement when he is present."

On the same date the location's owner advised: "...LiCalsi gives no evidence of having regular legitimate employment judging from the irregularity of his appearance around his residence. [He] observed LiCalsi does not appear to be in the enjoyment of robust good health and he is a heavy drinker."

On June 2, 1966 began working as chauffeur with the Buckingham Livery Company in Manhattan. Business subsequently absorbed into Fugazy Limousine Service.

In September he was treated at St. John's Queens Hospital for an alcoholic convulsion.

On September 14, 1966 Unspecified Male advised FBI: "[UM] advised in recent months Joseph LiCalsi is supposed to have been working for Buckingham Livery Company in NYC. This is a limousine service and he is reportedly a driver for the firm...[LiCalsi's wife] continues in the employ of New York Furniture Exhibit, Inc. as a general clerk. From time to time, [UM] has seen LiCalsi contacting his wife in the vicinity of the company, location at Park Ave South and East 32nd St, Manhattan. According to what [UM] has noted and heard, LiCalsi meets his wife for the purpose of securing money from her, indicating that he does not have a steady job and depends upon her for handouts. [UM] noted that the company premises have been broken into twice in the past year or two, and the circumstances were such as to make [wife] suspect of complicity in making money in the company safe available to the burglars, quite possibly the subject among them. These events were made known to police assigned to the 13th Precinct in Manhattan."

On September 22, 1966 FBI CI reported: "[Joseph LiCalsi described] as member of La Cosa Nostra, once prominent but now out of favor with organization."

On September 22, 1966 FBI reported: "During the past three month period, [Joseph LiCalsi] has been observed by Agents of the NYO to depart his residence at varying times during the daytime. He usually proceeds to the vicinity of Queens Blvd and 40th St, where he makes visits in the neighborhood stores with no apparent specific purpose. He has been observed to loiter at the corner of 40th St where he is contacted by unknown individuals who leave after brief conversation with him. This particular place for hanging out appears to be Broffni Inn at 43-45 40th St, Long Island City, where he spends a considerable part of his time. He is always neatly dressed in a business suit but wears neither a hat nor a necktie. From outward appearances, LiCalsi indicates involvement in some type of questionable activity in the 40th St area." FBI noted: "...LiCalsi is a chronic alcoholic according to his out-patient record at St. John's Hospital, NYC."

It was also noted that LiCalsi was observed on one occasion visiting the Phoenix Bar located at 2nd Ave and East 11th St in East Village, Manhattan: "[Bar] is a hangout of Joe and Tommy Cusimano, also known in criminal circles as the Satchel brothers. The Phoenix is described by [CI] as [redacted]."

The Cusimano brothers, Joseph (1907-1972) and Thomas (1901-1972), born in the Tomasso Natale section of Palermo, were identified by an FBI informant as Gambino Soldiers under Captain Charles Dongarra, LiCalsi's business partner in the mid-1940s.

In Late January 1967 LiCalsi quit his chauffeur job due to failing health.

On July 28, 1967 he died of a heart attack while visiting a neighbor's apartment in Corona. He was waked from the Lanza and Provenzano Funeral Home located at 43 2nd Ave in East Village.

On October 11, 1967 FBI Agents questioned the neighbor LiCalsi was visiting at the time of his death: "[Neighbor] claimed to be single; at the outset she claimed she was employed and later disclaimed this; she acknowledged being friendly with LiCalsi who was a 'drinking friend of mine in my apartment' on a number of occasions and who died in her apartment of a heart attack. Questions asked about her background, source of income, knowledge of LiCalsi's friends, associates and local activities aroused [neighbor's] hostility at which point the interview was terminated without incident."

Small Update

The bio on Gambino Soldier Vincent 'Jimmy' Amato has been updated with a photograph taken during an FBI interview in the Fall of 1964.

A higher quality copy of Amato's Elmira Reformatory photo has also been added.

Bonanno Family Deaths (1958-1976)

List of Bonanno Family deaths that occurred while the books were closed from 1958 to 1975.

- Antonio 'Tough Tony' Canzoneri (Capodecina) (12.8.1959)

- Joseph 'Joe Chick' DiGiovanna (Soldier) (7.15.1961)

- Salvatore Grippi (Soldier) (9.14.1961)

- Michael 'Mike Angelo' Angelino (Soldier) (5.31.1963) [Suicide]

- FNU 'Spudsy' LNU (Soldier) (1.1964) [Suicide]

- Michael 'Big Mike' Allegato (Soldier) (3.18.1964)

- John DiBella (Capodecina?) (9.1.1964)

- Joseph Sciacca (Soldier) (1.2.1966)

- Vito Bello (Soldier) (4.1966) [Believed identical with the 'Tony Bello' referred to by CI Frank Bompensiero]

- Joseph Notaro (Former Capodecina) (5.17.1966)

- John Tartamella (Former Consigliere) (7.12.1966)

- Frank LaBruzzo (Former Acting Boss) (8.7.1966)

- Anthony 'Tony DeJohn' DiGiovanna (Former [?] Capodecina) (4.30.1967)

- Thomas 'Smitty' D'Angelo (Consigliere) (11.10.1967) [Murdered]

- Michael 'Mikie Pip' Consolo (Capodecina?) (4.1.1968) [Murdered]

- Joseph Spadaro (Soldier) (4.29.1968)

- Matteo DiGregorio (Soldier) (1.1.1969)

- Francesco Garofalo (Former Underboss) (2.1969)

- Frank Sinacore (Soldier) (6.26.1969)

- Liborio 'Big Leo' Carlino (Soldier) (7.5.1969)

- Frank 'Frankie T.' Mari (Boss) (9.18.1969) [Murdered]

- Michael Adamo (Consigliere) (9.18.1969) [Murdered]

- Vincenzo Asaro (Former Capodecina) (1.19.1970)

- Gaspare DiGregorio (Former Boss) (6.11.1970)

- Frank Prisinzano (Soldier) (6.22.1970)

- Anthony 'Nino' Spadaro (Soldier) (8.31.1970)

- Biagio 'Benny' Restivo (Former Capodecina) (12.15.1970)

- Vito Mule (Soldier) (3.13.1971)

- Pietro Bonventre (Soldier) (12.9.1971)

- Nicholas Castello (Soldier) (12.28.1971) [Killed by Civilian]

- Domenico 'Big Mimi' Sabella (Soldier) (1.8.1972) [Accidental Fire]

- Joseph DiFilippi (Consigliere) (2.26.1972)

- Vito Licata (Soldier) (3.2.1972) [Murdered]

- Pasquale 'Patsy' Giganti (Soldier) (6.20.1972)

- Luigi Greco (Acting Capodecina) (12.7.1972) [Accidental Fire]

- Natale 'Joe Diamond' Evola (Boss) (8.28.1973)

- Joseph Asaro (Soldier) (Pre-Fall 1973)

- Gaetano 'Tony' Lisi (Former [?] Capodecina) (2.1974)

- Vincent Tarantola (Former Capodecina?) (5.25.1974)

- Vito 'Willie Rex' Licavoli (Soldier) (9.7.1974)

- Anthony Leone (Soldier) (11.11.1974)

- John Petrone (Former Acting Admin?) (11.13.1974)

- Ciro Gallo (Soldier) (12.12.1975)

Total: 43

Murders: 6

The above figure is only a baseline estimate. There are several possible members who died in this time frame as well, along with an indeterminate number of complete unknowns.

Probable members include Vito Giallo (DOD 4.26.1960), John Messina (3.5.1963), Giuseppe Asaro (5.27.1963), Jerry Rose (6.23.1963), Giuseppe Silinonte (3.28.1964), Gasper Pecorella (4.13.1965), Giuseppe Ruffino (6.1965), Bartolomeo DiGregorio (10.1965), Antonio 'Nino' Domingo (1.13.1969), Frank Amari (12.9.1969), Vittorio Anello (2.13.1972), Giuseppe Navarra (10.1972), Martino Palmeri (Murdered 1.18.1975) and others.

Possible members include Joseph Pepitone/Pipitone (DOD 3.1963), Vincent Restivo (4.4.1963), Anthony Russo (7.1967), Bartolomeo Fontana (Suicide 2.8.1968), Diodato Mastracchio (1.21.1969), Charles 'Charlie Fish' DeBernardo (4.8.1970), Vito Chieco (5.22.1971), Angelo Lanzo (5.19.1974), Angelo Castello (6.28.1974), Giuseppe Sabella (5.1975), the DePasquale brothers Vincent (6.17.1975) and Ignazio (7.19.1975), Vincent 'Willie' Ciccone (10.26.1975) and others.

Small Update

The Antonio Raimondi bio has been updated to add a mugshot of Raimondi's stepson, Dennis 'Danny Raimondi' Lytwyn.

Danny, Federal informant and self-proclaimed made member in the Patriarca Family, was shot to death in April 1977.