- Bio added for Genovese Soldier Joseph 'Joe Curly' Agone.
- The post on Joseph Lapi has been updated with additional information and his Sing Sing booking photo from 1936.
Wednesday, July 24, 2024
Joseph Agone (Genovese)
Joseph 'Joe Curly' Agone was a member of the Genovese Family.
Born June 30, 1913 in Manhattan to Silvio (32y) and Mary Galore (28y). Family from Ciminna comune of Palermo, Sicily.
By September 1918 the Agones resided at 7 E 3rd St in East Village, Manhattan. Joseph's father worked for a stevedore company headquartered in Hoboken, New Jersey.
First arrested in 1929.
On January 3, 1931 married Angelina Raccuglia (17y) in Manhattan.
By Summer 1934 they resided at 332 Hart St in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. Listed occupation as truck helper.
By 1935 listed employment as office clerk with Ross Trucking Company on Mulberry St in Manhattan's Little Italy. (Genovese Captain Peter DeFeo was later said to have a controlling interest.)
On November 4, 1935 armed robbery committed on Ansonia Bootery at Broadway and 51st in Manhattan's Theater District.
Four days later robbers stole $12,000 from Pickslay & Co. jewelry store at 338 Park Ave in Midtown.
The following morning, at approximately 1:30 AM, Agone and two others were charged with the Pickslay robbery. Co-defendants were Joseph Lapi (22y), a future Genovese Captain, and East Village resident Harry Landino (22y). The trio, also suspected of having carried out the Ansonia Bootery job, pleaded not guilty before West Side Court Judge Louis Brodsky and were held without bail pending a hearing on November 12.
On that date they were cleared of suspicion in the Ansonia case when shop manager Murray Kolman failed to make positive ID.
The defendants subsequently pleaded guilty to armed robbery 3rd degree in the Pickslay case. On January 8, 1936 each was given a sentence of nine-to-eighteen years by Manhattan General Sessions Judge Koenig. The following day they arrived at Sing Sing Prison.
By April 1940 Agone had been transferred further upstate to Clinton Prison in Dannemora.
As of May 1943 he was paroled and residing at 299 Stockton St in Bed-Stuy.
On August 24, 1950 he filed for divorce against his first wife in Garland Chancery Court in Arkansas.
In 1959 married Nancy Ann DiChiara in Manhattan.
He was by then a formally inducted member of the Genovese Family and may have been reporting to Captain Vincenzo 'Jimmy Alto' Altomari in Lower Manhattan.
Others believed reporting to Altomari at the time included Agone's former co-defendant Joseph 'Joe Beck' Lapi.
Born June 30, 1913 in Manhattan to Silvio (32y) and Mary Galore (28y). Family from Ciminna comune of Palermo, Sicily.
By September 1918 the Agones resided at 7 E 3rd St in East Village, Manhattan. Joseph's father worked for a stevedore company headquartered in Hoboken, New Jersey.
First arrested in 1929.
On January 3, 1931 married Angelina Raccuglia (17y) in Manhattan.
By Summer 1934 they resided at 332 Hart St in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. Listed occupation as truck helper.
By 1935 listed employment as office clerk with Ross Trucking Company on Mulberry St in Manhattan's Little Italy. (Genovese Captain Peter DeFeo was later said to have a controlling interest.)
On November 4, 1935 armed robbery committed on Ansonia Bootery at Broadway and 51st in Manhattan's Theater District.
Four days later robbers stole $12,000 from Pickslay & Co. jewelry store at 338 Park Ave in Midtown.
The following morning, at approximately 1:30 AM, Agone and two others were charged with the Pickslay robbery. Co-defendants were Joseph Lapi (22y), a future Genovese Captain, and East Village resident Harry Landino (22y). The trio, also suspected of having carried out the Ansonia Bootery job, pleaded not guilty before West Side Court Judge Louis Brodsky and were held without bail pending a hearing on November 12.
On that date they were cleared of suspicion in the Ansonia case when shop manager Murray Kolman failed to make positive ID.
The defendants subsequently pleaded guilty to armed robbery 3rd degree in the Pickslay case. On January 8, 1936 each was given a sentence of nine-to-eighteen years by Manhattan General Sessions Judge Koenig. The following day they arrived at Sing Sing Prison.
By April 1940 Agone had been transferred further upstate to Clinton Prison in Dannemora.
As of May 1943 he was paroled and residing at 299 Stockton St in Bed-Stuy.
On August 24, 1950 he filed for divorce against his first wife in Garland Chancery Court in Arkansas.
In 1959 married Nancy Ann DiChiara in Manhattan.
He was by then a formally inducted member of the Genovese Family and may have been reporting to Captain Vincenzo 'Jimmy Alto' Altomari in Lower Manhattan.
Others believed reporting to Altomari at the time included Agone's former co-defendant Joseph 'Joe Beck' Lapi.
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| 1960 Arrest |
On December 9, 1960 among six picked up for consorting in Manhattan. Those held were Genovese Acting Underboss Anthony 'Tony Bender' Strollo, Colombo Soldier Joseph Gallo and Genovese Soldiers Joseph Agone, Philip 'Philly Katz' Albanese, Frank 'The Bug' Caruso and George 'Flip' Filippone.
The group, apprehended while having coffee in the rear of Luna's Restaurant on Mulberry St, was initially sought for questioning in the car bombing murder of loanshark Kenneth Feinberg (26y) the previous day in Forest Hills, Queens. Magistrate Vincent P. Rao threw out the consorting charge.
Around March 1961 Agone, then Business Organizer for Local 5 Amalgamated Workers Union, was designated the subject of an FBI anti-racketeering investigation.
The group, apprehended while having coffee in the rear of Luna's Restaurant on Mulberry St, was initially sought for questioning in the car bombing murder of loanshark Kenneth Feinberg (26y) the previous day in Forest Hills, Queens. Magistrate Vincent P. Rao threw out the consorting charge.
Around March 1961 Agone, then Business Organizer for Local 5 Amalgamated Workers Union, was designated the subject of an FBI anti-racketeering investigation.
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| Forlano (L) and Stein (R) (1961) |
On November 16, 1961 FBI CI reported: “[CI] advised that Ruby Stein, Jiggs Forlano, and Joe Curley (Joseph Agone) were meeting every Monday to conduct business at the El Borracho Night Club.” (Nicholas 'Jiggs' Forlano was then a Colombo Soldier. Stein, on-record with Forlano, later transferred to the Genovese Family and was murdered in 1977 by the West Side Irish Mob or Westies).
On January 16, 1962 FBI CI reported: “[CI] advised [Joseph] Agone is a labor racketeer who acts in a protector capacity for the labor organizations of [Redacted].”
On March 8, 1962 FBI reported: "...Informant information alleges Joseph Straci and Joseph Agone act as 'protectors' and exert influence in several NY local unions." (Straci was a Genovese Soldier in the Family's Harlem crew.)
On May 2, 1962 Genovese Soldier Michael 'Mike the Loader' Clemente was visited by Colombo Soldiers Salvatore J. Profaci and Robert Barbieri. An FBI bug recorded the trio discussing, among other topics, Joseph Agone's involvement in labor racketeering.
On September 1962 FBI CW Joseph Valachi was interviewed re various LCN members: "...Joseph Agone: known to him as Joe Curly, Valachi named Agone as a member under Rosario Mogavero, whom he calls Saro, a caporegima in the Genovese Family."
On October 8, 1962 Joseph Valachi was shown a photograph of Agone: “Known to Valachi as Joe Curly, a union racketeer close to Joseph Lapi aka Joe Beck. Valachi stated that they were both in the Genovese Family under Rosario Mogavero.”
On January 16, 1962 FBI CI reported: “[CI] advised [Joseph] Agone is a labor racketeer who acts in a protector capacity for the labor organizations of [Redacted].”
On March 8, 1962 FBI reported: "...Informant information alleges Joseph Straci and Joseph Agone act as 'protectors' and exert influence in several NY local unions." (Straci was a Genovese Soldier in the Family's Harlem crew.)
On May 2, 1962 Genovese Soldier Michael 'Mike the Loader' Clemente was visited by Colombo Soldiers Salvatore J. Profaci and Robert Barbieri. An FBI bug recorded the trio discussing, among other topics, Joseph Agone's involvement in labor racketeering.
On September 1962 FBI CW Joseph Valachi was interviewed re various LCN members: "...Joseph Agone: known to him as Joe Curly, Valachi named Agone as a member under Rosario Mogavero, whom he calls Saro, a caporegima in the Genovese Family."
On October 8, 1962 Joseph Valachi was shown a photograph of Agone: “Known to Valachi as Joe Curly, a union racketeer close to Joseph Lapi aka Joe Beck. Valachi stated that they were both in the Genovese Family under Rosario Mogavero.”
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| R. Mogavero FBN Mafia Book |
By Fall 1962 made members of Rosario Mogavero's crew included Joseph Agone, Philip Albanese, Joseph 'Little Carlo' Calabro, Frank Caruso, Michael Clemente, Carmelo 'Charlie Bananas' Coppolino, Albert DiStefano, George Filippone, Louis 'Louie Healthy' Gaccione, Salvatore 'Salvie' Gencarelli, Louis 'Louie the Hood' Georgiano, Joseph Lapi and Saro's brother Joseph Mogavero.
On December 27, 1962 Agone's LCN membership was further confirmed to the FBI through CI Alfred Santantonio, a Gambino Soldier murdered the following year after his informant status became known.
On January 7, 1964 FBI CI reported: “[CI] advised that he is not a member of Cosa Nostra, but has associated with members or ‘made guys’ as he calls them all of his life...he considers the following persons either made or not made and he considers them to be with the particular Family he designates...12. Joseph Agone aka Joe Curley [in Genovese Family].”
On January 24, 1964 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that he has known [Redacted] as one of the toughest members of the Jewish 'combination' who has, through the years, been respected by and closely associated with many of the Italian hoodlum element in Lower Manhattan. Among this group whom [Redacted] knew well are Rocky Midnight, Joe Curly [Agone] and Joe Beck [Lapi]."
On December 27, 1962 Agone's LCN membership was further confirmed to the FBI through CI Alfred Santantonio, a Gambino Soldier murdered the following year after his informant status became known.
On January 7, 1964 FBI CI reported: “[CI] advised that he is not a member of Cosa Nostra, but has associated with members or ‘made guys’ as he calls them all of his life...he considers the following persons either made or not made and he considers them to be with the particular Family he designates...12. Joseph Agone aka Joe Curley [in Genovese Family].”
On January 24, 1964 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that he has known [Redacted] as one of the toughest members of the Jewish 'combination' who has, through the years, been respected by and closely associated with many of the Italian hoodlum element in Lower Manhattan. Among this group whom [Redacted] knew well are Rocky Midnight, Joe Curly [Agone] and Joe Beck [Lapi]."
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| G. Catena (L) and T. Pecora (R) |
On February 17, 1964 Genovese Captain Gene Catena was visited by a crew member, Soldier Thomas 'Timmy Murphy' Pecora, in New Jersey. An FBI bug recorded the pair discussing, among other topics, a union dispute re Lasky and Frankie Gold, on-record with Pecora: "[Bug] said that Pecora told Catena that Lasky and Gold had it out recently and Pecora did not find out about it until one of Joe Curley's (Joseph Agone) men came over and told him about their fight and mentioned that Joe Curley would like to meet with Pecora. Pecora then met Curley and Lasky. Lasky again belittled Gold, and Pecora defended Gold to both Lasky and Agone telling them that everyone else has a high opinion of Gold and, therefore, Gold must be okay. One of the troubles in this situation is that Pecora does not know who 'has' Lasky. Pecora stated that at various times he had been told that Lasky belongs to Mike Clemente, Tony Pro (Anthony Provenzano), Johnny Dio (DioGuardia), and Joe Curley (Joseph Agone). Pecora plans to find out definitely who has Lasky and will sit down with this individual and work out a plan where Gold and Lasky will have equal rights and power in the union they have. Gene Catena told Pecora he will support him if any further problem arises in the matter."
By 1965 resided at 477 FDR Drive on Manhattan's Lower East Side.
By 1965 resided at 477 FDR Drive on Manhattan's Lower East Side.
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| F. Caruso FBN Mafia Book |
On February 12 of that year listed in FBI report on prominent New York area shylocks. Report noted: "[Agone] has a lengthy criminal record dating from 1929 including arrest for grand larceny, assault and robbery, possession of revolver, vagrancy, armed robbery, violation of parole and consorting...[He] is principally engaged in shylocking although he is also actively engaged in labor racketeering. He has been identified by Joseph Valachi as being a member of the Genovese Family under Rosario Mogavero. According to CS 2, Agone, a former delegate of Local 222, International Jewelry Workers Union, allegedly took over the territory of Frank Caruso, aka 'Frankie the Bug', when Caruso was incarcerated. CS 3 advised Agone recently took over 'Red Pollacks' Restaurant, 55th St and 2nd Ave, NYC, through a shylock loan of $5,000."
On March 26, 1965 FBI reported: "[CI1] advised that Joseph Agone was backer of card game operating in New York City in late 1964. [CI2] advised that Agone took over 'Red Pollack' East Side Night Spot, was paying Pollack $100 per week and entire amount was being applied to reduce shylock loan from Agone to Pollack."
On August 2, 1966 an FBI CI reported meeting with Bonanno Associates Samuel 'Hank' Perrone and Angelo 'Vic' Lapi: "[CI] said that Hank and Vic were partners [and both] appeared eager to 'get a reputation' and also that Vic's father was Joe Lapi, aka Joe Beck, who is presently out on appeal pending a narcotics conviction and who has an apartment located upstairs from the Posh Place. Beck is in LCN with Joe Curly, under Capo Jimmy Alto, now deceased." (Hank Perrone was shot to death in March 1968. Angelo Lapi was inducted into the Genovese Family during the 1970s.)
In September 1968 included in the FBI's list of 209 identified Genovese Family members.
By October 1968 served as assistant to the President and special coordinator for Local 11 Hotel & Restaurant Employees & Bartenders International Union.
On October 6, 1968 an FBI member source reported on various Genovese members. He identified Rosario Mogavero as a Captain and listed among his crew members Joseph Agone, Frank Caruso, Michael Clemente and Carmelo Coppolino.
On October 17, 1968 an article in Long Island Newsday reported that Agone was being looked at in an investigation of labor racketeering re Local 11: "...Agone, the sources said, is a key figure in two phases of an investigation began nearly two years ago by New York City police and Manhattan District Attorney Hogan. The phases included a $138,000 shortage in union welfare and pension funds and a scheme by union officials to pay $12,000 to an unidentified official of the State Insurance Department to deliver a 'favorable report' on the welfare-pension fund."
On April 24, 1969 Local 11 President Fred Ferrara and four others were indicted on charges of conspiracy and violating the Taft-Hartley Law for accepting over $15,000 in kickbacks re Wechsler Coffee Co. located in The Bronx. Agone was charged with threatening violence towards laborers. New York Daily News reported: "[AUSA] said that the union officials had forced Walgreen Drug Stores to buy coffee from [Wechsler]...Officers of the coffee distributorship company then made payments as 'commissions' to the union leader, he said...[Joseph Agone was] special assistant to president Ferrara." Long Island Newsday later reported: "[Agone indicted] on charges of threatening a member of the union in an argument over Agone's alliance with the then Vito Genovese crime family." Subsequent to indictment Agone left the local. In August 1971 Ferrara and others were convicted.
In November 1969 included in the FBI's list of 216 identified Genovese Family members.
By 1970 Joseph Agone and Benjamin 'Bennie the Bug' Ross operated Allied Crafts Security Union of North America. Around 1972 Ross was imprisoned and his interest given to Pat Sottile.
By Summer 1971 resided at Canaan Lake in North Patchogue, Long Island.
On June 23, 1972 CW Joseph 'Joe Fish' Luparelli, a former Colombo Associate, was extensively interviewed by the FBI while in custody of the US Marshals in Brooklyn. Shown a photograph dated March 8, 1958 he made the following comments: "...He recognized [Redacted] and stated he was known to him as [Redacted] in [redacted]. He stated [Redacted] is definitely a 'made guy' in the Genovese Family and associates on a regular basis with 'Frankie the Bug' (Caruso), Joe Curley (Agone), [Redacted] and 'Little Davey' (Petillo). Luparelli said that this group has always been big in narcotics, loansharking, strong arm work and hits, and any other illegal activity in which they can 'score'."
On July 10, 1972 FBI CI reported: "[CI] said that as far as he can determine Joseph Agone has been spending his time in Florida; however, he continues to maintain his apartment on FDR Drive."
In October 1972 included in the FBI's list of 198 identified Genovese Family members.
On November 21, 1972 New York Daily News reported that Agone and Rosario Mogavero were 'expected to testify' in a Waterfront Commission investigation on whether to grant a stevedore license to a Genovese-linked industrial cleaning company.
Rosario Mogavero died January 1973. By the end of that year Joseph Lapi was identified as his successor.
On March 26, 1965 FBI reported: "[CI1] advised that Joseph Agone was backer of card game operating in New York City in late 1964. [CI2] advised that Agone took over 'Red Pollack' East Side Night Spot, was paying Pollack $100 per week and entire amount was being applied to reduce shylock loan from Agone to Pollack."
On August 2, 1966 an FBI CI reported meeting with Bonanno Associates Samuel 'Hank' Perrone and Angelo 'Vic' Lapi: "[CI] said that Hank and Vic were partners [and both] appeared eager to 'get a reputation' and also that Vic's father was Joe Lapi, aka Joe Beck, who is presently out on appeal pending a narcotics conviction and who has an apartment located upstairs from the Posh Place. Beck is in LCN with Joe Curly, under Capo Jimmy Alto, now deceased." (Hank Perrone was shot to death in March 1968. Angelo Lapi was inducted into the Genovese Family during the 1970s.)
In September 1968 included in the FBI's list of 209 identified Genovese Family members.
By October 1968 served as assistant to the President and special coordinator for Local 11 Hotel & Restaurant Employees & Bartenders International Union.
On October 6, 1968 an FBI member source reported on various Genovese members. He identified Rosario Mogavero as a Captain and listed among his crew members Joseph Agone, Frank Caruso, Michael Clemente and Carmelo Coppolino.
On October 17, 1968 an article in Long Island Newsday reported that Agone was being looked at in an investigation of labor racketeering re Local 11: "...Agone, the sources said, is a key figure in two phases of an investigation began nearly two years ago by New York City police and Manhattan District Attorney Hogan. The phases included a $138,000 shortage in union welfare and pension funds and a scheme by union officials to pay $12,000 to an unidentified official of the State Insurance Department to deliver a 'favorable report' on the welfare-pension fund."
On April 24, 1969 Local 11 President Fred Ferrara and four others were indicted on charges of conspiracy and violating the Taft-Hartley Law for accepting over $15,000 in kickbacks re Wechsler Coffee Co. located in The Bronx. Agone was charged with threatening violence towards laborers. New York Daily News reported: "[AUSA] said that the union officials had forced Walgreen Drug Stores to buy coffee from [Wechsler]...Officers of the coffee distributorship company then made payments as 'commissions' to the union leader, he said...[Joseph Agone was] special assistant to president Ferrara." Long Island Newsday later reported: "[Agone indicted] on charges of threatening a member of the union in an argument over Agone's alliance with the then Vito Genovese crime family." Subsequent to indictment Agone left the local. In August 1971 Ferrara and others were convicted.
In November 1969 included in the FBI's list of 216 identified Genovese Family members.
By 1970 Joseph Agone and Benjamin 'Bennie the Bug' Ross operated Allied Crafts Security Union of North America. Around 1972 Ross was imprisoned and his interest given to Pat Sottile.
By Summer 1971 resided at Canaan Lake in North Patchogue, Long Island.
On June 23, 1972 CW Joseph 'Joe Fish' Luparelli, a former Colombo Associate, was extensively interviewed by the FBI while in custody of the US Marshals in Brooklyn. Shown a photograph dated March 8, 1958 he made the following comments: "...He recognized [Redacted] and stated he was known to him as [Redacted] in [redacted]. He stated [Redacted] is definitely a 'made guy' in the Genovese Family and associates on a regular basis with 'Frankie the Bug' (Caruso), Joe Curley (Agone), [Redacted] and 'Little Davey' (Petillo). Luparelli said that this group has always been big in narcotics, loansharking, strong arm work and hits, and any other illegal activity in which they can 'score'."
On July 10, 1972 FBI CI reported: "[CI] said that as far as he can determine Joseph Agone has been spending his time in Florida; however, he continues to maintain his apartment on FDR Drive."
In October 1972 included in the FBI's list of 198 identified Genovese Family members.
On November 21, 1972 New York Daily News reported that Agone and Rosario Mogavero were 'expected to testify' in a Waterfront Commission investigation on whether to grant a stevedore license to a Genovese-linked industrial cleaning company.
Rosario Mogavero died January 1973. By the end of that year Joseph Lapi was identified as his successor.
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| J. Lapi (1967) |
From a social club at 20 Monroe St, Lapi supervised a crew that included Joseph Agone, Philip Albanese, Joseph Calabro, Albert DiStefano, George Filippone, Louis Gaccione, Salvatore Gencarelli, Vincent Mauro and Saro's brother Joseph Mogavero.
On April 18, 1973 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that Joe Lapi aka Joe Beck is a member of the Genovese Family of LCN previously under Saro Mogavero, deceased. Joe Lapi has been a close associate of Joe Curly as well as Frank Tieri...[CI] advised that he had not heard who took over for Saro Mogavero as captain, however, to the best of his recollection the following individuals were under Saro: Joe Lapi, [Redacted], Mike Clemente, [Redacted], Joe Curly, [Redacted] and possibly [Redacted]."
On May 3, 1973 indicted by the US Attorney's Office in Manhattan on Federal tax evasion charges.
In October 1973 included in the FBI's list of 190 identified Genovese Family members.
That same month the FBI provided an outline of the Genovese Family hierarchy, naming Frank Tieri as the Boss and listing Joseph Lapi and thirteen other Captains. Identified Lapi crew members were Joseph Agone, Albert DiStefano, Salvatore Gencarelli, Matthew 'Matty the Horse' Ianniello, Salvatore Lauro and Joseph Mogavero. (The following year Lauro is named as a Generoso crew member.)
On September 3, 1975 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that Joe Curly's [redacted] got married approximately three weeks ago and that there was a big reception for her at Leonard's on Long Island. CI advised [Redacted] and Joe Beck Lapi were among the 'wise guys' attending."
On April 18, 1973 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that Joe Lapi aka Joe Beck is a member of the Genovese Family of LCN previously under Saro Mogavero, deceased. Joe Lapi has been a close associate of Joe Curly as well as Frank Tieri...[CI] advised that he had not heard who took over for Saro Mogavero as captain, however, to the best of his recollection the following individuals were under Saro: Joe Lapi, [Redacted], Mike Clemente, [Redacted], Joe Curly, [Redacted] and possibly [Redacted]."
On May 3, 1973 indicted by the US Attorney's Office in Manhattan on Federal tax evasion charges.
In October 1973 included in the FBI's list of 190 identified Genovese Family members.
That same month the FBI provided an outline of the Genovese Family hierarchy, naming Frank Tieri as the Boss and listing Joseph Lapi and thirteen other Captains. Identified Lapi crew members were Joseph Agone, Albert DiStefano, Salvatore Gencarelli, Matthew 'Matty the Horse' Ianniello, Salvatore Lauro and Joseph Mogavero. (The following year Lauro is named as a Generoso crew member.)
On September 3, 1975 FBI CI reported: "[CI] advised that Joe Curly's [redacted] got married approximately three weeks ago and that there was a big reception for her at Leonard's on Long Island. CI advised [Redacted] and Joe Beck Lapi were among the 'wise guys' attending."
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| Agone in Florida (c. Mid-1970s) |
By 1976 owned apartment at Bermuda Apartments located at 1889 South Ocean Drive in Hallandale, Florida.
That February an FBI source described Agone as 'involved in narcotics'.
In January 1977 included in the FBI's list of 198 identified Genovese Family members.
In April 1977 Florida's Organized Crime Control Council issued a report listing LCN members and associates with a presence in the state. Those listed as 'regular Broward visitors' included Genovese Boss Frank Tieri and Soldiers Joseph Agone and Dominick 'Dom the Sailor' DiQuarto.
In June 1979 included in the FBI's list of 177 identified Genovese Family members.
That same month the FBI provided a breakdown of the Genovese Family hierarchy, naming Frank Tieri as Boss, Anthony 'Fat Tony' Salerno as Underboss and John 'Buster' Ardito as Consigliere. Matthew Ianniello was listed as Acting Underboss. Listed Captains included Harry Lanza. Those named as Lanza crew members included Joseph Agone, Carmine 'Thomas Russo' Bove, Albert DiStefano, Salvatore Lauro, Vincent 'Gene Harlow' Martino, Joseph Mogavero, Joseph Schipani and Angelo 'Little Ange' Tuminaro. (The chart was out of date in at least one aspect: Lanza died in late 1977.)
Joseph Agone died January 15, 1982 in Dade, Florida.
Buried in Saint John Cemetery and Mausoleum located in Middle Village, Queens.
That February an FBI source described Agone as 'involved in narcotics'.
In January 1977 included in the FBI's list of 198 identified Genovese Family members.
In April 1977 Florida's Organized Crime Control Council issued a report listing LCN members and associates with a presence in the state. Those listed as 'regular Broward visitors' included Genovese Boss Frank Tieri and Soldiers Joseph Agone and Dominick 'Dom the Sailor' DiQuarto.
In June 1979 included in the FBI's list of 177 identified Genovese Family members.
That same month the FBI provided a breakdown of the Genovese Family hierarchy, naming Frank Tieri as Boss, Anthony 'Fat Tony' Salerno as Underboss and John 'Buster' Ardito as Consigliere. Matthew Ianniello was listed as Acting Underboss. Listed Captains included Harry Lanza. Those named as Lanza crew members included Joseph Agone, Carmine 'Thomas Russo' Bove, Albert DiStefano, Salvatore Lauro, Vincent 'Gene Harlow' Martino, Joseph Mogavero, Joseph Schipani and Angelo 'Little Ange' Tuminaro. (The chart was out of date in at least one aspect: Lanza died in late 1977.)
Joseph Agone died January 15, 1982 in Dade, Florida.
Buried in Saint John Cemetery and Mausoleum located in Middle Village, Queens.
Wednesday, July 17, 2024
Chris Furnari (Lucchese)
Photo of Christopher 'Christy Tick' Furnari, future Lucchese Consigliere, at the time he began serving a fifteen-to-thirty year sentence on assault and rape charges.
An FBI source later reported that Furnari 'took the charge' for Lucchese Member Joseph 'Joe Palisades' Rosato, which contributed to his subsequent rise in the Family.
An FBI source later reported that Furnari 'took the charge' for Lucchese Member Joseph 'Joe Palisades' Rosato, which contributed to his subsequent rise in the Family.
Sunday, July 14, 2024
Small Update
The Salvatore Tozzi post has been updated with details of a phone book investigators recovered at the time of his murder.
Monday, July 8, 2024
Colorado Chart (1980)
FBI chart of the Colorado Family compiled around March 1980:
Notes
- Anthony Basile, formerly a member in Rockford, died in 1977.
- In July 1980 the FBI's Denver Field Office reported: "The Denver LCN 'family' is currently composed of six (6) individuals and recent source information indicates two (2) persons are being considered for initiation into this 'family'. There is currently one (1) LCN member in Pueblo, John Russell Foderaro [who] is the son of Sam Foderaro...According to our most recent information, Eugene Smaldone and some of his associates make regular trips to and from Pueblo to consult with Foderaro."
- Foderaro was stabbed to death in November 1980.
- By 1985 Clarence and Clyde Smaldone switched places and Paul Villano was Consigliere.
Sunday, July 7, 2024
Colorado Chart (1976)
FBI chart of the Colorado Family hierarchy compiled on January 16, 1976:
Notes
- Consigliere Joseph Salardino died in 1978.
- By March 1980 the hierarchy had shifted, with Captains Eugene and Clyde Smaldone identified as official Boss and Underboss respectively. Former Acting Boss Clarence Smaldone and four others (one already deceased) were listed as Soldiers. Included in this group was Paul Villano, who was named Consigliere by 1985.
- Consigliere Joseph Salardino died in 1978.
- By March 1980 the hierarchy had shifted, with Captains Eugene and Clyde Smaldone identified as official Boss and Underboss respectively. Former Acting Boss Clarence Smaldone and four others (one already deceased) were listed as Soldiers. Included in this group was Paul Villano, who was named Consigliere by 1985.
Monday, June 3, 2024
Peter Giammona (Los Angeles)
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| c. 1970 |
Peter Giammona was a member of the Los Angeles Family.
Born June 4, 1904 in Giardinello comune of Palermo to Ciro (25y) and Rosalia Misuraca (23y), Peter was the oldest of twelve children.
Ciro Giammona (1878-1948) may have been a Mafia member in Sicily and later the United States.
Rosalia Misuraca's brothers Anthony (1878-1937), Salvatore (1894-1919), John (1897-1986), Arturo (1900-1967) and Pietro (1905-1988) were Members / Suspected Members in Michigan, New York, California and possibly Newark and Tampa. John Misuraca briefly served as the Colombo Underboss in the early 1960s.
Peter Giammona's younger brothers Angelo (1912-2000) and Frank (1908-2001) were both with the San Jose Family, Angelo as a made member and Frank as an Associate / Possible Member.
The Giammonas were related to additional LCN members through marriage:
By April 1910 the Giammonas resided at 1220 7th St in St. Louis, Missouri. Ciro worked as fruit peddler.
They were residing at 128 Hastings St in Detroit at the time of Angelo Giammona's birth in December 1912.
By April 1920 they moved to the West Coast, residing at 496 Willow St in San Jose. Peter and his father worked as ranch hands.
Born June 4, 1904 in Giardinello comune of Palermo to Ciro (25y) and Rosalia Misuraca (23y), Peter was the oldest of twelve children.
Ciro Giammona (1878-1948) may have been a Mafia member in Sicily and later the United States.
Rosalia Misuraca's brothers Anthony (1878-1937), Salvatore (1894-1919), John (1897-1986), Arturo (1900-1967) and Pietro (1905-1988) were Members / Suspected Members in Michigan, New York, California and possibly Newark and Tampa. John Misuraca briefly served as the Colombo Underboss in the early 1960s.
Peter Giammona's younger brothers Angelo (1912-2000) and Frank (1908-2001) were both with the San Jose Family, Angelo as a made member and Frank as an Associate / Possible Member.
The Giammonas were related to additional LCN members through marriage:
- In March 1935 Peter's younger sister Rose married Future San Jose Member Leo Cusenza (1913-1993), son to Captain Joe Cusenza of San Vito Lo Capo in Trapani.
- Younger sister Mary Agnes married a half-brother to San Jose Member Pietro Ruffino (1892-1966) of Montelepre, Palermo.
- In June 1935 John Misuraca's daughter married Future San Jose Member Alex Camarata (1906-1976) of Borgetto, Palermo. Alex's younger brother Salvatore (1918-2008) was a Colombo Soldier.
By April 1910 the Giammonas resided at 1220 7th St in St. Louis, Missouri. Ciro worked as fruit peddler.
They were residing at 128 Hastings St in Detroit at the time of Angelo Giammona's birth in December 1912.
By April 1920 they moved to the West Coast, residing at 496 Willow St in San Jose. Peter and his father worked as ranch hands.
Around 1924 the family moved to Newark, where Ciro ran a produce business. Peter worked for the city as a truck driver.
In 1928 he married Vivian Ann Chiarello (18y) in Grand Rapids. Wife's parents from Palermo and Alcamo in Trapani, Sicily.
By April 1930 the couple were living at 348 Cumberland in Pittsburg, CA. Peter listed his occupation as salesman.
By April 1930 the couple were living at 348 Cumberland in Pittsburg, CA. Peter listed his occupation as salesman.
During the mid-1930s they show up in Newark, New Jersey, near Peter's uncle John Misuraca and cousins the Cammaratas.
By 1940 the Giammonas returned to California, moving around the Bay Area (San Jose, SF, Richmond) before settling further south in Long Beach. Peter worked as an auto mechanic and later as a used car salesman.
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| c. 1960 |
By the mid-1960s he was a formally inducted member of the Los Angeles Family.
It's not known who Giammona's Captain was. Other Family members in Long Beach included Nicolo Marchese (1896-1975).
On August 20, 1965 Peter's brother Angelo Giammona, then a San Jose Soldier, was interviewed by the FBI: "...He stated Peter Giammona has a rather large family and as far as he knows Peter Giammona is not employed."
It's not known who Giammona's Captain was. Other Family members in Long Beach included Nicolo Marchese (1896-1975).
On August 20, 1965 Peter's brother Angelo Giammona, then a San Jose Soldier, was interviewed by the FBI: "...He stated Peter Giammona has a rather large family and as far as he knows Peter Giammona is not employed."
In September 1965 joined a used car business at 4401 Harvey Way in Long Beach. Listed same address as his residence.
On December 6, 1965 an FBI member source in San Jose, possibly Soldier Salvatore Costanza, reported on an attempt by 'Joe and Pete Giammona' to recruit Alex Camarata in a plot to break away from the local Family and join with San Francisco. The FBI noted: "...In view of the large number of Pete and Joe Giammona's all of whom are cousins there is some question as to which is which. It would appear unlikely that a Joe from Point Reyes and a Pete from Long Beach [Angelo Giammona's brothers] would be engaged in recruiting in Modesto and San Jose."
Eight days later an informant provided background on the Giammona siblings and described 'Pete' as retired.
Eight days later an informant provided background on the Giammona siblings and described 'Pete' as retired.
On December 29, 1966 interviewed by FBI:
"
"
[Giammona] was brought to the United States when eleven months old by his mother, Rose Giammona, nee Misuraca. He said his father, Ciro Giammona, had preceded them to the US and they joined him at Grand Rapids, Michigan.
...Giammona stated in 1919, his family moved to Pittsburg, California, from Michigan where his father, Ciro Giammona, opened and operated a wholesale produce business. He said in 1924, the family moved to Newark, New Jersey, where his father operated a food sales route. Giammona said he obtained employment as a truck driver with the city of Newark. He stated in 1927, he obtained employment with Sam Azerello in Grand Rapids, MI in construction.
Giammona advised that in 1928, he moved to Pittsburg, California, where he sold produce for two uncles, John and Sam Giammona. He said he held various jobs between 1930 and 1941, and during this period resided in [San Jose, Grand Rapids and Newark]. Giammona stated in 1942, he moved to Los Angeles and worked a few months for a printing company. In 1943, he was a salesman for Ziegler Produce, Los Angeles. In 1944, Giammona said he moved to Richmond, California and operated a garage through 1945, at which time he moved to Long Beach, California and obtained employment with Olson Bakery, Los Angeles.
Giammona stated that for the last 15 years, he has been self-employed in buying, repairing and selling cars.
Giammona stated he has never been involved in any racket and strongly denied having any affiliation with the La Cosa Nostra. Giammona said he has made many trips to the San Francisco area due to his many relatives and close friends in the area.
Giammona said he visited in San Francisco in October, 1964 or 1965, when [Redacted]. He said on [redacted] was married in San Francisco and that this wedding was attended by nearly all the family members.
...Giammona was questioned regarding having an uncle named Alex. He stated he had no close relatives so named but a cousin of his named [Redacted].
"
On August 20, 1968 included in the FBI's list of 35 identified Los Angeles Family members. (This is one of only two reports confirming Peter's membership status.)
Six days later FBI Member Source (Salvatore Costanza?) reported on a visit between Alex Camarata and Pete Giammona: "...Alex then began to praise Giammona's ability to make money and stated they were going to [redacted]...Alex evaded the question as to Giammona's membership in the LCN and merely stated, 'Don't worry about him, he's okay. He knows all the boys.'"
In July 1969 Frank Giammona informed the FBI that his brother was living 'somewhere in the Los Angeles area'. Agents questioned him about a July 1969 magazine article listing Angelo Giammona as a 'known Mafia' member: "[Frank] said that he has heard the name of his brother, Angelo Giammona, mentioned in the past as being a member of the Mafia, however, he doubted this as 'Angelo wouldn't hurt a fly'. He said that he is in constant contact with Angelo and he has never indicated any Mafia associations. Subject said he would rather suspect his brother, Peter Giammona, might be a member of the Mafia as Peter has always been associated in 'shady deals' involving money and automobiles. He said Peter often visits him during his frequent trips to the Bay area."
On October 9, 1969 FBI CI reported: "...[CI] said he has heard Pete Giammona, from Los Angeles, has been in contact with Alex Camarata recently. He said Pete is brother of Frank Giammona, Pittsburg, and Angelo Giammona, Modesto, all nephews. He said he suspected all three brothers are members of the LCN, Frank and Angelo as part of the San Jose Family but he would not know if Pete would be associated with this Family."
On October 30, 1969 FBI CI reported: "Target was contacted [redacted]. He said one Pete Giammona from Los Angeles [redacted] at which time he was driving a big new Cadillac. He said Pete did not stay long but appeared anxious to leave to meet someone but he had no information of who this might be. He knew Pete Giammona had been visiting with Alex Camarata in Martinez, CA but he had no information indicating it was anything other than a social visit."
He was later noted as an associate of Los Angeles Captain Dominick 'Jim Regace' Brooklier and may have been reporting to him by the early 1970s.
On February 26, 1970 FBI CI reported: "...He recently learned [Pete] Giammona, car salesman from Los Angeles, CA, has been spending a lot of time in the Martinez area and apparently in contact with Alex Camarata and his brother, Frank Giammona from Pittsburg, CA. He said Pete Giammona was at one time closely associated with John Misuraca 'back east' and he had no info indicating Pete is an LCN member. He said Giammona's visits could be purely social in nature."
On May 21, 1970 FBI CI reported: "Target said [redacted] Pete Giammona [redacted] continues to have appearances of wealth as he drives a big Cadillac and has much money to display. He never [redacted] and always states he is going to visit Alex (Camarata) in Martinez. He has no definite information, but it would appear 'these two have something going on'. Target did not elaborate but would not discount the possibility of something 'illegal'."
Six days later FBI Member Source (Salvatore Costanza?) reported on a visit between Alex Camarata and Pete Giammona: "...Alex then began to praise Giammona's ability to make money and stated they were going to [redacted]...Alex evaded the question as to Giammona's membership in the LCN and merely stated, 'Don't worry about him, he's okay. He knows all the boys.'"
In July 1969 Frank Giammona informed the FBI that his brother was living 'somewhere in the Los Angeles area'. Agents questioned him about a July 1969 magazine article listing Angelo Giammona as a 'known Mafia' member: "[Frank] said that he has heard the name of his brother, Angelo Giammona, mentioned in the past as being a member of the Mafia, however, he doubted this as 'Angelo wouldn't hurt a fly'. He said that he is in constant contact with Angelo and he has never indicated any Mafia associations. Subject said he would rather suspect his brother, Peter Giammona, might be a member of the Mafia as Peter has always been associated in 'shady deals' involving money and automobiles. He said Peter often visits him during his frequent trips to the Bay area."
On October 9, 1969 FBI CI reported: "...[CI] said he has heard Pete Giammona, from Los Angeles, has been in contact with Alex Camarata recently. He said Pete is brother of Frank Giammona, Pittsburg, and Angelo Giammona, Modesto, all nephews. He said he suspected all three brothers are members of the LCN, Frank and Angelo as part of the San Jose Family but he would not know if Pete would be associated with this Family."
On October 30, 1969 FBI CI reported: "Target was contacted [redacted]. He said one Pete Giammona from Los Angeles [redacted] at which time he was driving a big new Cadillac. He said Pete did not stay long but appeared anxious to leave to meet someone but he had no information of who this might be. He knew Pete Giammona had been visiting with Alex Camarata in Martinez, CA but he had no information indicating it was anything other than a social visit."
He was later noted as an associate of Los Angeles Captain Dominick 'Jim Regace' Brooklier and may have been reporting to him by the early 1970s.
On February 26, 1970 FBI CI reported: "...He recently learned [Pete] Giammona, car salesman from Los Angeles, CA, has been spending a lot of time in the Martinez area and apparently in contact with Alex Camarata and his brother, Frank Giammona from Pittsburg, CA. He said Pete Giammona was at one time closely associated with John Misuraca 'back east' and he had no info indicating Pete is an LCN member. He said Giammona's visits could be purely social in nature."
On May 21, 1970 FBI CI reported: "Target said [redacted] Pete Giammona [redacted] continues to have appearances of wealth as he drives a big Cadillac and has much money to display. He never [redacted] and always states he is going to visit Alex (Camarata) in Martinez. He has no definite information, but it would appear 'these two have something going on'. Target did not elaborate but would not discount the possibility of something 'illegal'."
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| J. Misuraca (1964) |
On February 23, 1971 FBI CI reported: "[Pete] Giammona continues to drive a Cadillac and appears affluent but he had no information as to his source of income."
In the Spring of 1972 moved to Northern California.
By September 1972 employed with Gibson Motors at 233 East Anaheim St in Long Beach.
By late October 1973 the FBI was carrying him as an LCN member.
On November 3, 1973 FBI CI reported: "...Source advised he had attended the funeral of Tony Giammona, brother of Angelo Giammona and Pete Giammona, LCN members. Tony died of a heart attack in San Mateo, CA and most of the Giammona clan residing in California including Tony's brothers Angelo from Modesto, Pete from San Jose and Long Beach, Joe from Point Reyes, Frank from Pittsburg, Sam from Sacramento and John who is a floater, [were] all present." (This is the second of three reports confirming Giammona's LCN membership.)
On January 29, 1974 FBI's San Francisco Field Office reported: "Since moving to Northern California, [Giammona] has continued to spend considerable time in the Long Beach - Los Angeles area as he maintains close contact with his many used car agencies purchasing cars to wholesale in Northern California and also as many of his children reside in Southern CA."
By May 1974 Peter resided at 6518 46th St in Long Beach and worked as a salesman with Les Brand Motors.
He died January 28, 1980 in Los Angeles.
He died January 28, 1980 in Los Angeles.
Edit1: Various additions including confirmation that the FBI identified him as an LCN member by late October 1973.
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