Thursday, October 15, 2026

Paul Lombardino (Colombo)

1965
Paul Lombardino (1904-1998) was a New Jersey-based Colombo Soldier and a probable former member of the Newark Family prior to its disbandment in the late 1930s.

Several relatives were confirmed Colombo (Former Newark?) Members:
  • Salvatore 'Turi' Lombardino (1891-1967) was the Colombo Family's Jersey Captain by the 1950s.
  • Salvatore's sons Rosario (1925-1988) and Salvatore Jr. (1931-2015) were members, the latter serving as Captain during much of the 1970s. Rosario married Paul's daughter Marie.
  • Andrew Lombardino (1904-1979), the elder Salvatore's nephew, was another member in the Family's Jersey crew.
A few additional relatives were possible members.

Born Paolo Lombardino on September 20, 1904 in Gibellina comune of Trapani, Sicily to Giuseppe (30y) and Maria Genna (Zenna?) (34y).

On July 5, 1921 arrived with parents and four siblings at Ellis Island, New York aboard S. S. Duca D'Aosta. Destined for Paul's older brother Carlo residing at 321 S 7th St in Newark, New Jersey's Central Ward.

On July 2, 1925 married Christine Balsamo (16y).

By April 1930 the couple were living in the household of Lombardino's mother Marie at 44 Stewart Ave in Irvington, New Jersey. Listed occupation as mixer at bakery.

Paul, along with relatives Salvatore and Andrew Lombardino, was by then believed to be a formally inducted member of the Newark (Colombo?) Family.

By 1933 he and his wife had moved further west to 187 Westervelt Ave in North Plainfield. Owned Lombardino-Balsamo Bread Company in Newark.

On March 13/14, 1933 Paul Lombardino (29y) and Newark resident Anthony Dideo (57y) picked up in Philadelphia for operating a numbers lottery in that city. The Associated Press noted pair in possession of '50 numbers books' at time of arrest. (This Paul is probably identical with the Colombo-Newark member.)

On July 13, 1933 among 5 arrested by Essex County LE on charge of conspiring to defraud. Those arrested in addition to Paul were his wife Christine (24y), his sister Jennie Pizzolato (26y), sister Rose Lombardino (18y) and his brother-in-law (Jennie's husband) Benjamin Pizzolato (28y). One Angelo Castellano also sought. Lombardino picked up by North Plainfield PD and transferred into Newark custody. The Courier-News reported: "[Lombardino] is accused by the complainant, Mrs. Katherine Schilling, Westfield, with having swindled her out of $6,000 in a deal which was transacted in Newark." The Associated Press reported: "County detectives said Mrs. Schilling lived alternately with the Pizzolatos and the Lombardinos. Later, they alleged, she came to Newark where the man sought, Angelo Castellano, induced her to sign an order transferring her funds from the Central Savings Bank of New York to the Sicily Trust Company. It is alleged the money later was withdrawn by Mr. Castellano." On July 21, 1933 Lombardino and Pizzolato released on $2,500 bail each. Rose Lombardino released on $1,000 bail. Case subsequently dismissed. (Paul's brother-in-law was related to Biagio 'Benuzzo' Pizzolato [1896-1964], a made member of the Lucchese Family's Abate crew in New Jersey and a probable Newark member before that.)

On February 23, 1947 among 4 arrested following New Jersey State Alcoholic Beverage Control raid on an unregistered still operating in the small community of Dayton. Those arrested in addition to Paul were George Antal (46y), owner of the still, as well as Newark residents Thomas Marino (20y) and Joseph Savittieri (31y). Defendants held on $1,000 bail each.

J. Savittieri
Joseph Savittieri, residing in Scottsdale, Arizona at the time of his death in 1979, was from Valguarnera Caropepe comune of Enna, Sicily. Paul's relative Andrew Lombardino married into the Fidemi family, also from Valguarnera.

On June 14, 1937 Lombardino, Savittieri and George Antal changed pleas from not guilty to no defense.

On July 2 Lombardino and Antal each fined $150. Savittieri (32y) placed on two years probation.

On February 10, 1939 the trio, along with Thomas Marino (22y) and Dominick Derettza (38y), were sentenced in US District Court Trenton on Federal charges related to the raid. Each given two year suspended sentence and five years probation.

Press noted Lombardino's address as 58 Telford St in the Lower Vailsburg section of Newark.

By April of the following year he was living at 437 S 15th St in Central Ward and employed as a baker.

Around this time sold Lombardino-Balsamo Bread Company.

By the early 1940s the Newark Family had disbanded and the Lombardinos, if not Colombo members to begin with, were transferred to that Family.

By February 1942 Paul returned to Lower Vailsburg, residing at 57 Smith St and listing occupation as self-employed jobber.

Three months later filed Petition for Naturalization in USDC Newark. Gave occupation as retail bread dealer. Petition witnesses were Lucille Balsamo, of 531 15th Ave in Central Ward, and Michael Don Diego, a bus driver and neighbor of the Lombardinos on Smith St. (Don Diego is believed to have been born on the Italian mainland.)

Naturalized early January 1944.

Paul was then working as a laborer with Frederick Page Company headquartered at 45 E 17th St in Union Square, Manhattan. He did jobs primarily in New Jersey and ended his employment with the company in February 1946.

S. Accardi
FBN Mafia Book
Sometime that decade also operated a grocery. Later stated in interview with FBI: "[In] the 1940’s he operated a grocery store in the vicinity of 15th Avenue and Fairmount Street in Newark, and it was during this time he became acquainted with Settimo ‘Big Sam’ Accardi. He explained that he became acquainted with Accardi when Accardi came into his store to purchase groceries. He denied any other than a business relationship." In 1968 FBI CI reported: "[Lombardino] operated a store, a number of years ago, which store was located on 14th Avenue in Newark. Informant said that there was a fire in this store which was of a suspicious nature and that subsequent to the fire Lombardino became the sole owner of the business." (Settimo 'Big Sam' Accardi [1902-1977] was by the 1960s a member of the Lucchese Family under Joseph Abate in New Jersey; other members of that crew included Biagio 'Benny' Pizzolato, a relative of Lombardino's brother-in-law of the same name noted above.)

By 1950 listed occupation as clerk with Ferrugia Grocery. (It's not clear if this is the grocery referred to above.)

By June 1956 employed with Real Bread Company, formerly operated by Salvatore Lombardino and then run by his sons Rosario, who was also Paul's son-in-law, and Salvatore Jr.

S. Lombardino
The elder Salvatore Lombardino was by that time the Colombo Family's Captain in New Jersey.

By 1958 made members of Lombardino's crew included Emanuel 'Nello' Cammarata, Salvatore Cammarata, Salvatore Cannella, John D'Amico, Andrew Lombardino, Paul Lombardino, brothers Rosario and Salvatore Lombardino Jr., brothers Arturo 'Art Price' Misuraca and 'Big John' Misuraca, Onofrio Sciortino and Angelo Speciale.

Probable crew members included Gaspare D'Amico, John's older brother and the Former Newark Boss.

Other suspected crew members included Alessio 'Al Bar' Barrasso, who might have been the crew's only mainlander.

Aside from the Lombardinos from Gibellina, the remainder were from various towns in Palermo, including Bagheria (Sciortino), Borgetto (Salvatore Cammarata), Giardinello (the Misuraca brothers), Montelepre (Speciale) and Villabate (Emanuel Cammarata and the D'Amicos.)

As of the late 1950s the Colombo Family Boss was Joseph Profaci, who succeeded Salvatore DiBella around 1931. Joseph Magliocco and Joseph 'Peppino' Buffa served as Underboss and Consigliere respectively.

By May 1959 Paul and family resided at 66 Smith St in Lower Vailsburg, Newark. As a member of Local 342 Bricklayers Union he worked for multiple companies over the next couple of years including Underhill Construction headquartered in Jamaica, Queens; Arthur Venerri Company in Westfield, NJ; and Wigton Abbott Corporation in Plainfield, NJ.

Following the death of Joseph Profaci in early June 1962, his brother-in-law Joseph Magliocco took over as the Family's Acting Boss. (This was not sanctioned by the Commission, however, and Magliocco voluntarily stepped down in September 1963.)

J. Colombo (2)
On April 5, 1964 Joseph Colombo was elected new Boss of the Colombo Family. He appointed Salvatore 'Charlie Lemons' Mineo as his Underboss. Consigliere position initially vacant.

J. Misuraca (1964)
Colombo soon appointed John Misuraca as Captain of the Family's Jersey crew, replacing the ailing Salvatore Lombardino.

In September 1964 Paul was interviewed for the first time by Agents with the FBI's Newark Field Office:
"
[He] said he was a foreman for Wigton Abbott Corporation, and in 9/1964, was employed with this company on a 17 story addition to the Hoffman La Roche Pharmaceutical Company, Clifton, New Jersey.

Paul Lombardino said [daughter Marie] is married to the [son of Salvatore Lombardino], Newark, NJ. He said they are very distant relatives. He also indicated that he is a baker by trade and for several years worked for Salvatore Lombardino on a part time basis in a bakery operated by Salvatore Lombardino in the vicinity of his residence.

...On this occasion, Paul Lombardino said he does not belong to any clubs either social or clandestine nor does he belong to any similar organizations. He claimed the only information he had regarding the membership of La Cosa Nostra or any such secret organization is information which he obtains from reading the local newspapers.
"

On October 7, 1964 interviewed for a second time: "On this occasion Paul Lombardino denied being connected with any secret organization such as the Mafia. He indicated he was aware that his relatives, Salvatore Lombardino and Andrew Lombardino had gone to Cleveland in 1928 and were arrested there by local police. Paul Lombardino said while he was in the bakery business his creditors ran up sales totaling $40,000, which they never paid, and he and his wife had only recently ‘burned the books’, inasmuch as they never expected to collect any of this past indebtedness."

F. Fusco (May 1965)
On May 15, 1965 the youngest daughter of Colombo Acting (Official?) Captain Frank Fusco was married and a reception held at Claridge Caterers at 631 Ave P in Gravesend. The event was heavily attended and, thanks to forewarning by FBI CI and Colombo Soldier Gregory Scarpa, a target of FBI surveillance. Those observed included Boss Joseph Colombo, Underboss Salvatore Mineo, at least eight of the nine Family Captains (Simone Andolino may not have been present), Lucchese Captain Carmine 'Gribbs' Tramunti and at least thirty-one identified Colombo Soldiers. Lombardino and his Captain John Misuraca were present and photographed by Agents. (Within a couple of days it was reported that Fusco had been promoted to official Captain.)

J. Misuraca (L) and P. Lombardino at Fusco reception
The following month CI Scarpa shown the photograph of Lombardino and Misuraca: "[Scarpa] observed a photograph of John Misuraca and another individual [and] said he does not know the identity of the person with Misuraca, but stated this person is a member of the LCN from New Jersey and is in the regime of John Misuraca." (This was Lombardino's first known identification as an LCN member.)

On August 19, 1965 FBI Newark reported: "[CI Greg Scarpa] identified Salvatore Lombardino, uncle to Andrew and Paul Lombardino, who apparently are cousins, as a former Caporegima of the Colombo Family. Newark is attempting to learn Andrea and Paul Lombardino's LCN Family membership. Joseph Valachi said Andrew and Paul Lombardino were in the Genovese Family but investigation and contact of Newark sources fail to support Valachi's statement. New York Office is requested to contact Gregory Scarpa and exhibit enclosed photographs of Andrea and Paul Lombardino to him to see if this informant has any knowledge of Andrea and Paul Lombardino and their LCN Family affiliation."

Genovese Member Paul M. Lombardino
The FBI had not yet identified the Unsub in the Fusco wedding surveillance and initially focused on a different Newark resident with the same name: Paul Mario Lombardino (1912-1983), a Genovese Soldier who reported to Captain Frank 'Funzi' Tieri in Brooklyn.

Four days later CI Scarpa was shown a photograph of the Genovese Paul Lombardino: "Informant stated to his knowledge that he had never seen or heard of Paul Lombardino before, but the photograph of Andrew Lombardino looked vaguely familiar to him. Informant stated, however, he could not place this individual. Informant was advised that the above individuals are related to Salvatore Lombardino and informant stated that to his knowledge he was never introduced to any individuals who are related to Salvatore Lombardino."

On December 1, 1965 a meeting between Boss Joseph Colombo and the Misuraca crew held inside New York residence of unspecified Colombo Associate. Colombo accompanied to meeting by Underboss Salvatore Mineo, Consigliere Benedetto 'Benny' D'Alessandro, Captains John 'Sonny' Franzese and Carmine 'Junior' Persico as well as Colombo Soldiers Nicholas Bianco, Rocco 'Rocky' Miraglia and FBI CI Gregory Scarpa. Scarpa subsequently reported that the meeting was held for Colombo to extend holiday greetings to the crew and to hear any problems the members were having in the Family. Scarpa noted: "Meeting was held in New York because Salvatore Mineo, the Underboss, suffers from claustrophobia and will not drive through the tunnels from New York to New Jersey, if it can be avoided at all." Misuraca crew members named as attending meeting included John D'Amico, Andrew Lombardino, Salvatore Lombardino (not clear if the father, son or both) and Paul LNU who was described as approximately thirty-five years old. Scarpa noted: "[In] addition there were 3 older men present, whose names he did not know. Informant stated that all of the members of Misuraca's regime reside in New Jersey." (There is no known Colombo member fitting Paul LNU's description. It's possible Scarpa confused the names and 'Paul' instead referred to Paul Lombardino.)

On January 10, 1966 CI Scarpa was again shown photographs of Andrew Lombardino and the Genovese Paul Lombardino: "Informant advised that Paul Lombardino was unknown to him, but Andrew Lombardino was definitely a member of the Colombo Family of LCN and assigned to the regime of John Misuraca. Informant noted that while the photograph of Andrew Lombardino is an old one, it is a reasonable likeness to him and from this photograph was able to make a definitive identification."

On March 18, 1966 Agents, following a lead obtained during their investigation of the other Colombo Family Lombardinos, visited Paul's Smith St residence in an attempt to get an interview. They instead spoke with his son, and subsequently with Paul's son-in-law, Colombo Soldier Rosario Lombardino, who happened to arrive at the house during the Agents' visit. Rosario gave background information on himself and his family: "...[Rosario] said his father was never connected with the La Cosa Nostra and stated that most of his older friends are deceased. He said to his knowledge, none of his relatives were La Cosa Nostra members. He further stated that he was acquainted with the late Joseph Profaci, contending he was not aware of any LCN leadership or membership on Profaci's [behalf]."

On July 8, 1966 an unidentified FBI CI cleared up the confusion over the Lombardinos by identifying the Unsub photographed with Misuraca at the Fusco reception: "Informant observed the photograph and said this appears to be ‘Big John’ and one Paul Lombardisi or Lombardino. Informant then pointed out the address 66 Smith Street, Newark, as Paul’s residence."

An FBI spot check of 66 Smith St on September 18, 1966 noted Rosario Lombardino's automobile parked at the address.

On October 21, 1966 FBI CI reported: "[Paul] Lombardino and [Redacted], who [redacted] with Lombardino have through the years been engaged in the illegal manufacture of alcohol. Informant said they have a reputation for this activity and he, the informant, has not known them to be seriously engaged in any other endeavor. Informant said that Lombardino is not regularly employed and presumably lives from his past or present illegal activity."

On December 19, 1966 FBI CI reported: "[Both] Paul Lombardino and [Redacted] have been active in the sale of alcohol in the Newark area. Informant said they are particularly active prior to the holidays. Informant said it is his impression that they probably have a still located in the countryside of New Jersey. However, he was unable to furnish any particulars concerning their activities in this area."

Former crew leader Salvatore Lombardino died January 13, 1967 at St. Michael's Hospital in Newark's University Heights section.

Five days later his wake was held at Tamburro Memorial Home on 13th Ave in the Fairmount neighborhood. Attendees included Colombo Captain (?) John Misuraca and Soldiers Paul Lombardino, Rosario Lombardino and Salvatore Lombardino Jr. (Misuraca may have already stepped down or been demoted and his men placed with Joseph Yacovelli [see below]).

On March 8, 1967 FBI CI reported: "[Paul] Lombardino does not have a regular employment, however, he sometimes works in the construction field."

Same date CI reported on the January 18 Lombardino wake:
"
[Redacted] Tamburro Memorial Home at the time Salvatore Lombardino Sr. died. [Redacted section] and there was evidence of substantial amounts of money given to the deceased’s widow in the form of envelope contributions. Informant said they did not make the usual collections as is sometimes done at Italian funerals...Informant noted this was a very interesting funeral from the standpoint of observing the amount of respect shown to the older persons present. Informant said that Salvatore Lombardino was Sicilian and there was a great display of the double cheek kissing custom among the Sicilian men. He said subject’s son Salvatore Lombardino Jr., appeared to be accorded considerable respect by those persons.

Photographs of the following named individuals were displayed to the informant for his comments and they are as follows: John Misuraca – Informant said he believes this person was present, but could not be certain; Paul Lombardino – Informant said this person was present everyday of the wake and was accorded considerable respect among those present; Joseph Colombo – Informant said he does not recall seeing this individual at the funeral; Salvatore Lombardino Jr. – Informant said Salvatore Lombardino was prominent at this funeral. He noted that [redacted] of Paul Lombardino, mentioned above; Rosario Lombardino – Informant said Rosario Lombardino is subject’s son, but he was not as prominent or appeared to enjoy the same respect as his brother, Salvatore Lombardino Jr.

Informant said many of the associates of the deceased were former members of the Sons of Ageria Club, a Sicilian organization formerly located on 14th Avenue and 6th Street in Newark. He noted the photograph of John Misuraca is one of those individuals once active in this club.
"

J. Yacovelli
By Fall 1967 the New Jersey crew was reporting to Captain Joseph 'Joe Yak' Yacovelli, who also had a few New York-based members reporting to him.

Made members of Yacovelli's crew included Emanuel Cammarata, Salvatore P. Cammarata, Salvatore Cannella, John D'Amico, Benjamin 'Benny Sidge' LoCicero, Frank 'Gandy' LoCicero, Andrew Lombardino, Paul Lombardino, Rosario Lombardino, Salvatore Lombardino Jr., Salvatore S. Profaci (nephew of the Former Boss), and Angelo Speciale.

Probable crew members included Onofrio Sciortino and the Jersey members' Former Captain John Misuraca.

On February 11, 1968 Salvatore Lombardino Jr. married Lucille Anastasio, with the reception held at Thomm's Caterers on Park Ave in Newark. Attendees included Colombo Captain Joseph Yacovelli, Acting Captain Carmelo 'Joe' Mutoli, Acting Captain Charles 'Charlie Moose' Panarella and at least ten Soldiers including Paul Lombardino and FBI CI Gregory Scarpa.

Following day Scarpa reported: "In addition, informant advised [Redacted] was in attendance as well as a number of New Jersey people, who were reputed to be LCN members, but whose names were not familiar to him. Informant was told that a member of the Colombo Family, who was described to him as approximately 84 years old, wearing thick glasses and walking with a cane, and had allegedly boasted that years ago he had hidden an individual out at his house who was wanted by the police for murder was also present at this affair." (This may be referring to Salvatore Cannella.)

On April 13, 1968 Joseph Rinaldi (35y) shot and killed by North Bergen, NJ LE.

On May 1 FBI CI reported: "Informant observed a photograph of Paul Lombardino [and] said this person was in attendance at the wake for one Rinaldi, who was recently shot and killed by the police. Informant said he heard that this person planned a trip to Sicily for a visit." (Joseph Rinaldi [1933-1968], whose father Louis is believed to have hailed from Castello d'Alife in Caserta, Campania, resided at 374 12th St in Fairmount.)

On June 14, 1968 wife interviewed at the Smith St residence: "[She] advised her husband has not been away on a trip. She said he is employed in construction and is a shop steward."

S. Lombardino Jr.
Around early December 1969 Joseph Yacovelli elected Consigliere and succeeded as Captain by Salvatore Lombardino Jr.

On June 28 Boss Joseph Colombo was shot and seriously wounded during the IACRL's Unity Day Rally in Manhattan. (He remained disabled until his death in 1978.)

By July 1971 employed, along with both Rosario and Salvatore Lombardino Jr., on Ruscon Construction Project in New Jersey.

Around October 21, 1971 FBI CI reported: "[Salvatore] Lombardino, Paul Lombardino and Emanuel Cammarata aka Nello were no longer seen on a regular basis in the South Orange Avenue area of Newark. This change of pattern for these individuals occurred shortly after the killing of Lou Luciano early this year." (LCN Member Dominick 'Lou' Luciano [1924-1971], father believed from Campobasso, Molise, was shot to death February 1971 in an unsanctioned killing carried out by Newark's Campisi crew.)

Around January 1972 Paul, his family and son-in-law Rosario Lombardino moved to 15 Yvette Drive in East Hanover, NJ.

On April 5, 1972 FBI CI reported: "[He] has heard [redacted] Paul have moved to East Hanover, New Jersey. Informant reported that he does not know if [Redacted] is ‘made’ in the Colombo LCN Family, but believed this to be true since [Redacted] and several other close relatives are in this Family."

E. Cammarata
FBN Mafia Book
In early September 1972 Colombo Soldier Emanuel Cammarata (68y) was shot to death in North Miami, Florida. Cammarata, hit with six to eight rounds fired from a .30 caliber carbine, died at hospital. The Miami Herald later reported: "...As he was lying in the street dying from multiple bullet wounds, Cammarata told onlookers, 'Don't call the police. I'll take care of it.'" Hit believed unsanctioned.

On September 27, 1972 FBI CI reported: "Salvatore Lombardino Jr. was in the South Orange Avenue area of Newark on [Sep. 9th], accompanied by Carl Lombardino. Informant noted that this occurred the day after Emanuel Cammarata was killed. Informant was unable to furnish any suspects in the killing of Cammarata, but noted his killing could logically have been an extension of the Gallo feud. Informant was unable to provide any pertinent information concerning a farm where Joseph Yacovelli may be hiding, noting only the Profaci farm is located in Central New Jersey, but this place is well known. Paul Lombardino, according to the informant, owns a farm in New Jersey, but the location is unknown." (This is believed referring to Paul's son Carl Lombardino [1928-2004].)

On December 15, 1972 FBI CI reported: "[He] has not seen Salvatore, Paul or Rosario Lombardino in the South Orange Avenue area of Newark for more than a month. He said the racket guys seldom hang out there any longer."

On May 15, 1973 observed doing yard work during an FBI spot check of residence.

The Colombo Family was by this time headed by Thomas DiBella, with Anthony 'Abbey' Abbatemarco and Alphonse 'Allie Boy' Persico serving as Underboss and Consigliere respectively.

On July 12, 1973 CI Scarpa reported: "[Scarpa] stated that Salvatore Lombardino has taken over the New Jersey crew of the Colombo Family and the remnants of the old Yacovelli crew in New Jersey. Informant stated that Salvatore Profaci, Jr., Salvatore J. Profaci and the other Lombardino brothers are Colombo members in this crew." (Salvatore J. 'Sally Pro' Profaci [1936-2018] was Former Boss Joseph Profaci's son.)

On July 26, 1973 CI Scarpa provided an update on the Colombo Family's structure and the activities of various members. Scarpa identified Salvatore Lombardino Jr. as a Captain and named the other Lombardinos as crew members.

C. Panarella
Same date Scarpa noted: "[Captain Charlie] Moose Panarella is very ambitious and has set up a meeting to be held in New Jersey between himself, an aide from his crew and members of Tuttie Lombardino's Jersey faction of the Colombo Family. Moose commented, 'It's about time I got to meet these people and see who they are' although the informant feels that Panarella's motivated by a desire to form an alliance of understanding that would be useful in some future shift of power."

By May 1974 made members of Lombardino Jr.'s crew included Salvatore Cammarata, John D'Amico, Andrew Lombardino, Paul Lombardino, Salvatore Lombardino, Salvatore J. Profaci, Salvatore S. Profaci and Angelo Speciale.

Associates included brothers Aurelio 'Ray' and Rocco Cagno, Samuel DeRogatis, Joseph Donatiello, Joseph Messina, James 'Jimmy Ran' Randazzo and Gus 'Buddy' Spatafora. (Randazzo and the Cagno brothers were later inducted into the Colombo Family.)

By August 1974 Paul and son-in-law Rosario Lombardino both employed with Briscoe Construction Project underway at Newark Airport.

Around October 1, 1974 left to proposed two to six week trip to Italy.

J. Vitacco
On January 27, 1975 FBI CI noted that the 'Lombardinos from New Jersey' were expected to attend the February 8 wedding reception for Colombo Soldier Joseph 'Jo Jo' Vitacco in Queens: "[There] will be a big turnout because although Vitacco is not considered a powerful guy, he knows a lot of people and it will give the rest of the Family members a legitimate reason to gather together and transact some LCN Family business." (Joseph Vitacco [1927-1980] was a member of Joseph 'Little Joey' Brancato's crew.)

On January 28 FBI CI reported: "[He] provided the following list of people he believes to have a 'button' and they Family they belong to...Paul Lombardino - Colombo."

On December 2, 1976 FBI NY compiled an update on the Colombo Family's structure. The chart identified Salvatore Lombardino Jr. as a Captain and listed his crew members as including Andrew Lombardino, Paul Lombardino, Rosario Lombardino and Salvatore S. Profaci.

T. DiBella
By that time the Family had divided into two camps. One side supported Boss Thomas DiBella and the Persicos. The other, headed by Joseph Yacovelli and Underboss Anthony Abbatemarco, felt that DiBella favored the Persicos too strongly and sought to remove him as Boss.

The Yacovelli - Abbatemarco faction had the support of Family Captains Joseph Brancato, James Clemenza, Vincent Gugliaro and Salvatore Lombardino Jr.

The Commission was called in to resolve the dispute and sided with DiBella, leading to Abbatemarco and other dissidents being demoted and the Family undergoing a large scale reorganization.

Salvatore Lombardino Jr. was broken to Soldier and replaced as the New Jersey Captain by Salvatore J. Profaci.

On February 28, 1977 FBI CI, not aware of the recent changes, reported: "[CI] advised that Salvatore 'Tutti' Lombardino is a captain in the Colombo LCN Family, but has very few men to the best of the informant's knowledge. Informant advised Paul Lombardi (TN Paul Lombardino), who lives in the Vailsburg Section of Newark, New Jersey, is a member of the Colombo Family, who is 'with' Salvatore Lombardino."

On March 3, 1977 FBI CI provided an update on the new Family setup, naming Thomas DiBella and Alphonse Persico as Boss and Consigliere respectively. The Underboss position was vacant and would remain so until Carmine Persico was released from Federal prison in 1980.

Captains were Aniello 'Allie Lamont' Giannattasio, Gennaro 'Jerry Lang' Langella, Charles Panarella, Salvatore J. Profaci, Vincenzo Randazzo, Andrew 'Andy Mush' Russo and Unassigned Florida Crew. Thomas DiBella also had a crew reporting directly to him.

S. J. Profaci
Made members under Profaci included Andrew Lombardino, Paul Lombardino, Rosario Lombardino, Salvatore Lombardino Jr. and Salvatore S. Profaci.

Early 1980s
On May 1, 1982 event related to the DeCavalcante Family held at T&C Restaurant in New Jersey. Attendees included Paul Lombardino, who retired from Local 342 the previous year.

On July 12, 1990 included in FBI Newark list of Colombo Family membership residing in New Jersey.

On December 16, 1991 FBI Report submitted re Colombo Family: "...Although the majority of the Colombo members continue to be based in the New York metropolitan area, there are numerous 'notable' exceptions...It is noted the following individuals reside and / or operate in the state of New Jersey: Colombo Family [Redacted] and Colombo Family Soldiers Frank Fusco, Salvatore Fusco, Paul Lombardino, Salvatore Lombardino, [Redacted], Ralph Piccirillo, Salvatore Profaci, James V. Randazzo and Philip Rossillo."

It's not known what, if any, role Paul and the other Lombardinos played in the intra-Family war then taking place between a faction loyal to the imprisoned Boss Carmine Persico and those loyal to Acting Boss Vic Orena.

An FBI bug recorded their Captain, Salvatore J. Profaci, voicing support for Orena during a meeting with Bruno Boss John Stanfa.

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

In June 1993 included in the FBI's list of 117 identified Colombo Family members.

On December 29, 1998 Paul Lombardino died at the age of 94 in Morristown, New Jersey.

Waked at Leonardis Memorial Home located at 210 Ridgedale Ave in Livingston, NJ.

J. Tartaglione
Gang Land News
On December 21, 2003 Bonanno Captain and FBI informant James 'Big Lou' Tartaglione was given a Colombo Family induction list to review with members of his crew. The deceased column included 'Tutti Lombardino'. This was likely referring to Paul or possibly his son-in-law Rosario Lombardino, who died in 1988; the elder Salvatore died in 1967 and Salvatore Jr. was still living at the time.

More Colombo Family posts can be found in the Index.

Monday, October 12, 2026

Frank Lastorino (Lucchese)

Gang Land News
Breakdown of known members reporting to Lucchese Captain 'Big Frank' Lastorino by early 1991.

Born April 1939 to a family with roots in Santa Lucia del Mela comune of Messina, Sicily, and Rossano comune of Cosenza, Calabria, Lastorino grew up on E 87th St in Canarsie, Brooklyn and later moved to Howard Beach in Queens.

By the early 1980s he was known to associate with various local LCN figures, including members of the Gambino Family's DeMeo crew, and frequented DeMeo associate Richard Mastrangelo's R-Twice Collision located on Ralph Ave in the Flatlands neighborhood.

Suspected co-conspirator in January 1983 murder of the crew's leader, Gambino Soldier Roy DeMeo.

R. Amuso
By Spring 1987 formally inducted member of Lucchese Family and believed reporting to Captain Robert 'Bobby' Amuso.

On June 19, 1987 FBI CI reported that the Family's Brooklyn faction 'continues to gain strength'. The informant identified Lastorino as a made member and Robert Amuso as a Captain, noting: "[Amuso] is a capo and in all probability is heavily involved in narcotics trafficking, specifically heroin." (This identification of Lastorino led to the FBI officially recognizing him as an LCN member.)

The Amuso crew was previously headed by Bobby's younger brother Vittorio 'Vic' Amuso, who was appointed Family Boss the previous Fall, and subsequently by Anthony 'Gaspipe' Casso, by that time named the Family's (Acting?) Consigliere.

Lastorino was involved, often as an active participant, in several murders carried out on behalf of Amuso and Casso during the mid-to-late 1980s and into the early 1990s:
  1. James 'Jimmy' Hydell (Gambino Associate; 27y) (October 18, 1986) - Helped dispose of the body per CW Casso.
  2. James Bishop (Lucchese Associate; 60y) (May 17, 1990) - On scene as blocker.
  3. Bruno Facciolo (Lucchese Soldier; 53y) (August 24, 1990) - Personally stabbed Facciolo multiple times in the back before another participant finished victim off with gunshots to the head.
  4. Laurence 'Larry' Taylor (Lucchese Associate; 31y) (February 5, 1991) - Co-conspirator; suggested his 'cousin', Associate Thomas 'Tommy Red' Anzeulotto, be used as a shooter.
  5. Alfred 'Flounderhead' Visconti (Lucchese Associate; 51y) (March 26, 1991) - Co-conspirator.
  6. Bartholomew 'Bobby' Borriello (Gambino Acting Captain; 46y) (April 13, 1991) - Identified as shooter.
  7. Anthony Fava (Lucchese Associate / Architect; 37y) (April 13, 1991) - Suspected by CW D'Arco of having personally participated, as Fava was stabbed and, as D'Arco later agreed in court, 'Lastorino's way of killing was stabbing'.
  8. Patrick Testa (Lucchese Soldier; 35y) (December 2, 1992) - Identified by CW Casso as the shooter.
By 1988 made members of Robert Amuso's crew believed included Frank Bellino, Peter Chiodo, Angelo Defendis, Nicola 'Nicky Edkins' DiCostanzo, Frank Lastorino, John Petrucelli and George 'Georgie Neck' Zappola.

By early 1989 Robert Amuso stepped back due to health and George Zappola was named the crew's Acting Captain. CW Alfonso D'Arco later testified: "[Bobby] had cancer and it was pretty serious...Vic removed him. He didn't remove him, he just gave him that nobody should bother him and Bobby was told to like take it easy. They appointed an Acting Captain in his place [meaning] George Zappola."

In March of that year Lastorino was promoted to Captain over a new crew believed to have consisted primarily of men who formerly reported to Amuso. Promotion announced at Family meeting held in Brooklyn residence of unspecified Lastorino relative.

Attendees included Boss Vittorio Amuso, Consigliere Anthony Casso, Captain Peter Chiodo, Captain Alfonso D'Arco and Soldier Michael Perna, a member of the New Jersey crew formerly headed by outlaw Anthony 'Tumac' Accetturo.

Several Accetturo crew members had refused to attend a meeting called by Amuso and Casso the previous December.

The situation was temporarily smoothed over at a subsequent meeting, where the Jersey crew was assigned to Alfonso D'Arco and Michael Perna was elected the crew's spokesman by the other members.

Perna was brought to the March 1989 meeting by Lastorino.

D'Arco, who became a Cooperating Witness in September 1991, later testified:
"
[Lastorino], some relative of his, he said, he got a safe house, and we assembled in the house. It was myself, Anthony Casso, Vic Amuso, Frank Lastorino and Petey Chiodo, and Michael Perna was brought in.

Again,
[Mike Perna] didn't know where he was going, and he had made a complaint before that, that he didn't like the basement, but he came to the house anyway, and he was pretty shaken up that he was being brought into the house. He didn't know where he was at and whatnot, but he did show up.

...[Amuso and Casso] made Frank Lastorino a Captain. He wasn't a Captain up until that time and they made him a Captain, and then there was a conversation regarding [Jersey crew].
"

D'Arco also testified: "[Lastorino crew was in] Canarsie. It's another group there...[Peter] Chiodo was also a Captain, and he was down on a little different section of Brooklyn, like the McDonald Avenue section." At a later date D'Arco also referred to Lastorino's regime as the 'Utica Avenue' crew. (It appears that by 1989 the original 19th Hole crew under Chris 'Christy Tick' Furnari had been split three ways among Amuso, Lastorino and Chiodo.)

Lastorino and his crew would participate in the murder plots ordered against several Jersey crew members after they again fled a follow-up meeting called to introduce them to their new Captain, Peter Chiodo. (The murder contracts were still active at the time of D'Arco's defection in 1991.)

During his time as Captain, Lastorino took an active role in other murders ordered by the leadership (see above), and was also a co-conspirator in many additional murder plots that never came to fruition.

He was also responsible, along with fellow Captain Robert Amuso, for overseeing the Family's shylock bank.

J. DeFede
In October 1989 Joseph 'Little Joe' DeFede, an Associate direct with Vic Amuso, visited by Robert Amuso at The Liberty Lounge in Ozone Park. DeFede later testified: "[Vic] put me on what we call on his list, I was proposed, and I didn't know exactly when [until Bobby] called me to come down...[Bobby] told me to get dressed. This was on Saturday, to get dressed, on Monday somebody will pick you up, which they did, they dropped me off at a Canarsie restaurant, met a few other people there, in turn we went into Brooklyn."

DeFede was driven by Lucchese Associate James 'Jimmy' McCann to The Pier restaurant in Canarsie. From there he and others were taken to a residence on Farragut Rd where the ceremony occurred. (The house was owned by Lucchese Soldier Peter 'Rugsy' Vario's son-in-law, named by CW D'Arco as [FNU] Albanese. This may be Lucchese Associate Anthony 'Tony Shape' Albanese.)

Ceremony presided over by Boss Vic Amuso and Consigliere Anthony Casso.

Others present included Captains Robert Amuso, Salvatore Avellino, Anthony Baratta, Peter Chiodo, Alfonso D'Arco and Soldier John Conti.

Others inducted in addition to DeFede (55y) were Michael DeSantis (34y), Frank 'Frankie Pearl' Federico (61y), Richard Pagliarulo (40y) and Frank 'Frankie Bones' Papagni (32y).

D'Arco's debriefing on the ceremony states that DeFede and Papagni were assigned to the Amuso crew after induction.

During his court appearances DeFede made no mention of being in Amuso's crew and instead testified that he was placed with Frank Lastorino.

By mid-1990 several of Peter Chiodo's men were given to Lastorino after Chiodo fell into disfavor with the leadership.

By 1991 made members of Lastorino's crew included:

1.) George 'Goggles / Little Georgie' Conte

G. Conte
Gang Land News
Born 1960 in Manhattan, Conte was an Associate of the Genovese Family on-record with Possible Captain Dominick 'Swaggy' Carlucci by the early 1980s.

Around late 1986 several of Carlucci's associates, including Conte, were transferred to the Lucchese Family. Lucchese Soldier turned CW Frank Gioia Jr. later testified: "[The] Genovese Crime Family had their books closed for so many years. When I say their books closed, their books have to be open for them to take in new members, [the] Genovese Family were not making any new guys for about 15 years, Luccheses were, we had a brand new Boss [meaning Amuso], Underboss, and Swaggy transferred those guys over so they could become made members."

Inducted with five others around August-September 1988.

Alfonso D'Arco's debriefing report states that Conte and three other inductees were all assigned to the Robert Amuso crew.

By mid-to-late 1990 Conte was reporting to Lastorino. D'Arco: "[At that time Conte] was a member of the Family and he was with Lastorino but he did a lot of things for [Underboss] Anthony Casso."

As part of Lastorino's crew Conte participated in the May 1990 murder of Lucchese Associate James Bishop and the attempt on Captain Peter Chiodo's life the following year. (Chiodo, shot a dozen times, survived and began cooperating with the government.)

Appointed Acting Captain for George Zappola following the October 2, 1991 induction ceremony.

(The exact succession from Lastorino to the Zappola and Pagliarulo crews isn't clear; Conte and a few others, possibly including Zappola as well, are believed to have been taken out of Lastorino's regime and made part of a newly formed crew.)

Zappola and Conte were both later demoted and shelved for their suspected involvement in a plot against the Amusos; Conte was then convicted of Federal racketeering charges and released from prison in March 2014.

2.) Joseph 'Joe D. / Little Joe' DeFede

J. DeFede
Gang Land News
Born February 1934 in Brooklyn, DeFede started out as an Associate with the Colombo Family before being released to the Luccheses around the summer of 1988.

Initially reported direct to Boss Vic Amuso, who sponsored him for membership in October 1989.

Following induction assigned to the Lastorino crew.

After the defections and first wave of indictments, the now-imprisoned Amuso promoted DeFede to Captain in October 1993, then named him Acting Boss the following April.

He served in that position over the next five years until his demotion in September 1999 while serving time for extortion.

Two years later, nearing release and fearing for his life, DeFede voluntarily reached out and began cooperating with the government.

Died November 2012.

Full bio here.

3.) Angelo Defendis (1932-2014)

Gang Land News
Born September 1932 in Brooklyn to a father from Bisceglie comune of Bari, Puglia, Defendis was inducted into the Lucchese Family around 1978 through the sponsorship of Captain Chris Furnari, the 19th Hole's crew leader prior to Vic Amuso.

Identified as a member of Lastorino's crew around the time of Joseph DeFede's induction in October 1989.

Over the next couple of years Defendis operated a bar-restaurant and participated in at least two assaults on behalf of the Family.

In February 1995 he pleaded guilty, along with Acting Captain Nicola DiCostanzo, to Federal extortion charges.

He was released in early 2008 and died in the summer of 2014.

4.) Michael DeSantis

M. DeSantis
Gang Land News
Born 1954 in Brooklyn, DeSantis was sponsored for membership in October 1989 by Captain Peter Chiodo.

He had by then participated in multiple murders, assaults and attempted murders with Chiodo.

After falling into disfavor with the Family leadership, Chiodo lost several of his men including DeSantis, whom CW D'Arco named as a Lastorino crew member by September 1990.

D'Arco named on-record Associates of DeSantis as including Gabe Lombardo.

Around that time DeSantis and others acted as armed guards at a meeting between D'Arco and Gambino Underboss Salvatore 'Sammy Bull' Gravano. D'Arco, who noted that DeSantis was armed with an Uzi, later testified: "[I] believed at that time that Sammy Gravano was going to make a move on me and we were to protect ourself, and if it meant killing Sammy Gravano, so be it." (D'Arco flipped in 1991; two months later Gravano followed suit, becoming the first made member of the Gambino Family to cooperate.)

As a member of Lastorino's crew DeSantis operated the Concept body shop located on McDonald Ave in Brooklyn.

Visited at the shop by Alfonso D'Arco around June of 1991, DeSantis confided in the now-Acting Boss that, in the wake of Peter Chiodo's defection, plans were underway to move the body of Former Associate John 'Sonny' Morrissey, murdered by members of Chiodo's crew in September 1989.

The 'weird' behavior of DeSantis, his crew leader Frank Lastorino and others at a ruling panel meeting that September convinced D'Arco that he was to be murdered. D'Arco fled the meeting and within days became the second made member of the Lucchese Family to defect.

Indicted on Federal racketeering charges in October 1992, DeSantis pleaded guilty and was released from Federal prison in June 2010.

Gang Land News named him as the Family's Acting Boss by the middle of that decade.

5.) Nicola 'Nicky Edkins' DiCostanzo (1936-2007)

N. DiCostanzo
Born July 1936 in South Brooklyn to parents from Barano d'Ischia comune of Naples, Campania, DiCostanzo was inducted into the Lucchese Family in the late 1970s and reported to Chris Furnari.

Identified as a member of Lastorino's crew around the time of Joseph DeFede's induction in October 1989.

At the time DiCostanzo was residing in Dongan Hills, Staten Island and operated Edkins Auto Scrap located a few miles north in Port Richmond.

Named the crew's Acting Captain after Richard Pagliarulo's indictment in October 1992.

As Acting Captain DiCostanzo authorized the murder of 'Louie the Albanian' LNU after Louie pulled a pistol on Joseph DeFede during an argument. DeFede and two Unsubs were assigned by DiCostanzo to search Astoria, Queens but the victim was unable to be located.

In February 1995 pleaded guilty, along with crew member Angelo Defendis, to Federal extortion charges.

Sentenced that December to twenty-seven months, he was released in March 1998 and resumed involvement in Family activity.

Died August 21, 2007.

6.) 'Fat Frankie' Giacobbe (1957-2021)

F. Giacobbe (Dec. 1992)
Born September 1957 in Brooklyn, Giacobbe was an Associate of the 19th Hole crew by the late 1980s.

He was inducted under Anthony Casso's sponsorship in March 1991 and, according to the D'Arco debriefing report, assigned to Lastorino.

D'Arco: "George Zappola claimed Frank Jacoby had done a lot of work, meaning a lot of murders for Mr. Amuso and Mr. Casso, and that he was to be used in the [May 1991] shooting of Chiodo."

During this time involved in extortion and the vending machine business in both Staten Island and Manhattan.

In 1994 convicted of robbery and grand larceny and spent the next six years in New York State prison.

Also served a Federal prison sentence, being released in December 2008.

Died May 6, 2021.

7.) Butch LNU

No information on this individual except that he was named by DeFede as a Lastorino crew member, along with his father (below).

8.) Degar (ph) LNU

Father of Lastorino crew member Butch LNU; described by DeFede as '80-some odd years old'.

9.) Richard Pagliarulo (1949-1999)

R. Pagliarulo
Gang Land News
Born November 1948 in Brooklyn to a father whose family originated in Giffoni Valle Piana comune of Salerno, Campania, Pagliarulo was another Genovese Associate released to the Lucchese Family around late 1986.

Like Michael DeSantis, Pagliarulo was sponsored for membership by Captain Peter Chiodo in October 1989.

Also like DeSantis, Pagliarulo had by then been involved in several acts of violence, including at least three murders, as part of Chiodo's crew.

After falling into disfavor with the Family leadership, Chiodo lost several of his men including Pagliarulo, whom CW D'Arco named as a Lastorino crew member by September 1990.

As a member of the crew Pagliarulo gave out shylock loans and operated the Cafe Sicilia in Bensonhurst.

On-record Associate Corrado 'Dino' Marino owned the La Gondola coffee shop in the same neighborhood.

Participant with George Conte and others in the May 1991 shooting of former crew leader Peter Chiodo.

Identified as Lastorino's Acting Captain by July 1991.

Late that month the residence belonging to Pagliarulo's girlfriend was used for the Lucchese Family meeting where fugitive Boss Vic Amuso abolished the acting admin positions and reinstated a ruling panel. (A previous version of the panel had been tried for a time around 1989-1990.)

After Alfonso D'Arco was removed as Acting Boss and placed on the ruling panel, his control of murdered Lucchese Captain Michael Salerno's considerable loanshark book was given to fellow panel member Lastorino, who tasked Pagliarulo with handling the operation.

Within a couple of months Pagliarulo also replaced Former Captain Dominic Truscello as head of the Family's construction panel.

Both Lastorino and Pagliarulo are believed to have participated in the September 15, 1991 murder of architect Anthony Fava.

Promoted to official Captain at the October 2, 1991 induction ceremony.

One year later hit with Federal racketeering charges and opted for trial as the indictment's lone holdout.

Witnesses included former Associate Corrado Marino, who testified that his cooperation came about because he feared that Pagliarulo and others were planning to kill him.

Convicted and sentenced to life, Pagliarulo died behind bars in January 1999.

Buried in Green-Wood Cemetery located in Greenwood Heights, Brooklyn.

10.) Anthony 'Blue Eyes' Santorelli

A. Santorelli
Born 1946 in Manhattan to a father whose family came to the US from Cava de' Tirreni in Salerno, Campania, Santorelli was a made member by the mid-to-late 1980s.

Likely reporting to Captain Samuel 'Sammy Bones' Castaldi during that time.

By the early 1990s transferred to the Lastorino crew in Brooklyn. CW Joseph DeFede later testified: "They had problems. [Santorelli] had problems in the Bronx. So Vic Amuso felt it was better that he will move them over to Brooklyn. This is done a long time [prior to 1995]."

DeFede made Santorelli an Acting Captain in the mid-1990s. (Not clear if over the old Lastorino crew or one of the Bronx-Westchester groups.)

11.) Patrick 'Patty' Testa (1957-1992)

P. Testa
Born March 1957 in Brooklyn, Testa and his brother Joseph were former Associates in the Gambino Family's DeMeo crew.

Following DeMeo's murder in 1983, the brothers were released and put on-record with the Lucchese Family's 19th Hole crew.

Patrick was extremely close to Vic Amuso and, when Amuso became a fugitive in May 1990, served as the Boss's primary messenger and intermediary with other Family members.

He was inducted under Amuso's sponsorship in March 1991 and assigned to Lastorino.

As a member of Lastorino's crew, Testa continued operation of the successful Patty Testa Motor Car Service located on E 89th St in Canarsie.

On more than one occasion Testa used the business to provide or dispose of hit cars.

In early December 1992 a gunman entered the car service's garage and opened fire, killing Testa with nine shots to the head and body.

Former Underboss Anthony Casso, who began providing information in early 1994, confessed to ordering the murder and named Frank Lastorino himself as the shooter.

Murder carried out without imprisoned Boss Vic Amuso's authorization. CW Frank Gioia Jr. later testified: "[There] was a lot of sneaks that were done in the Family, like Patty Testa. You know, people were getting killed without permission. Things were going on, you know...Guys were getting killed in the Family with no permission from anybody. We didn't know where it was coming from. Patty Testa was one of them [and] we were surprised to see Patty get clipped. Like, for what? Nobody knew what was happening." (Casso and Lastorino were both shelved after they were recorded plotting against Amuso's leadership.)

Possible Lastorino crew members included:

1.) Frank 'Frankie Bones' Papagni

F. Papagni
Gang Land News
Born 1957 in Brooklyn to father believed from Bisceglie in Bari, Puglia (same town as 19th Hole crew member Angelo Defendis), Papagni was another of Possible Genovese Captain Dominick Carlucci's men released to the Lucchese Family around late 1986.

Inducted in October 1989 and, according to D'Arco's debriefing report, assigned to Robert Amuso.

Papagni may have been among the Amuso crew members transferred to Lastorino by the early 1990s.

As of October 1991 he was assigned to Captain George Zappola; at least one other Zappola crew member, George Conte, was formerly under Amuso and then Lastorino.

Convicted as a result of the widespread Lucchese indictments of the early-to-mid 1990s, Papagni was released from Federal prison in November 2015.

2-3.) Anthony Senter and Joseph Testa (1955-2026)

L to R: J. Testa, A. Senter, F. Lastorino
Formerly two of the DeMeo crew's core members, Senter and Testa were released to the Lucchese Family sometime after DeMeo's murder.

Both were inducted around August-September 1988 and reported to Robert Amuso.

They may have been among the ailing Amuso's crew members who were re-assigned to Frank Lastorino following the latter's promotion in March 1989.

Both were sentenced to life imprisonment a few months after Lastorino was made a Captain.

4.) Joseph 'Jo Jo' Truncale

1990s
Born January 1931, Truncale was another of the Genovese Associates released to the Luccheses around late 1986.

Made under Vic Amuso's sponsorship in the August-September 1988 ceremony and reported to Vic's brother Robert.

He may have been another of those taken from the Amuso crew and placed with Lastorino. By 2001 he was named as a Soldier under Anthony Santorelli, who previously reported to Lastorino and was made an Acting Captain, possibly of that same crew, in the mid-1990s.

July 1991 - 2000s

In July 1991 Boss Vic Amuso removed Captains Alfonso D'Arco, Anthony 'Bowat' Baratta and Steven Crea from their Acting Admin positions and instated a ruling panel in their place. Panel members were D'Arco, Baratta, Captain Salvatore Avellino and Captain Frank Lastorino.

By this time Peter Chiodo, recovering from his gunshot wounds, had become a Cooperating Witness.

Alfonso D'Arco, suspecting a plot against his life, went to the government that September.

The following month Lastorino was present for the ceremony where five new members formally inducted, including Gregory 'Whitey' Cappello (1958-1997) and Frank Gioia Jr.

At this point it appears that some or all of Lastorino's crew was split up.

Gioia Jr., who became a cooperating witness in 1994, later testified that following the inductions George Conte was named Acting Captain for fugitive George Zappola; Conte, at least, was a former Lastorino crew member.

Gioia also stated that Richard Pagliarulo, who had been taken from Chiodo and assigned to Lastorino by late 1990, was announced as an official Captain.

Lastorino crew member Joseph DeFede, who served as Acting Boss during the mid-to-late 1990s before becoming a cooperator himself, later made statements in court implying that Pagliarulo took over Lastorino's crew.

DeFede: "[Around October 1991] I went up to one of [Pagliarulo's] restaurants to have lunch and he was there, few people there, he got me off to the side, he introduced me to another inductee, Whitey Cappello. He said, Joe, amica nostra [means] Our friends. He introduced me [then Cappello] says Richie Pagliarulo is my captain. Richie told me, I am your captain too, which I didn't know."

During follow-up questioning, DeFede was specifically asked about the subject and gave the following clarification:
"
Q: You were transferred to another crew in 1991 or '92, is that right?

A: No, sir. I stayed in that crew up until '93.

Q: But didn't there come a time in '91 or '92 when you told the authorities you were transferred into a crew headed by a man by the name of Pagarulli?

A: No, sir. He was still the same crew. He just took over as Capo.

Q: You said same crew, but there was a new Captain?

A: Yes.

Q: And there came somebody by the name of DeConstanzo who became the Captain?

A: Acting Captain.

Q: In the same crew?

A: Same crew.
"

(It's possible Lastorino was promoted to Acting Consigliere and his crew given to Pagliarulo, although Gioia specifically identifies him as being part of the ruling panel at the time of the October 1991 ceremony; there are other examples of panel members mistakenly being labeled as administration members.)

Lastorino served as Best Man when Pagliarulo married in April 1992.

Like many others, he was caught up in the indictments issued in the wake of Chiodo and D'Arco's defections.

He pleaded guilty to multiple racketeering counts and on September 16, 1994 was sentenced to eighteen years imprisonment, twenty-one years supervised release and ordered to pay a special assessment of $550.

Prior to entering his guilty plea, Lastorino was set to stand trial with Richard Pagliarulo, who, as noted above, was convicted and died while serving his life sentence.

A few months before pleading guilty, Lastorino and Former Underboss Anthony Casso were shelved on the orders of imprisoned Boss Vic Amuso after it was discovered that the pair were plotting against Vic's brother Robert and Associate Oscar Ansourian.

2000s
According to Lucchese Member turned CW John Pennisi, Lastorino remained shelved after his release from prison in 2008 until at least the mid-to-late 2010s.

He died 2022 and was waked from the Gambino-affiliated Scarpaci Funeral Home in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn.

More Lucchese Family posts can be found in the Index.

Edit: Added info from June 1987 CI report.

Friday, October 9, 2026

Joseph Taglianetti (Bonanno)

2000s
Joseph 'Joe Curly' Taglianetti was a Bonanno Soldier active in Brooklyn, Staten Island and South Florida.

Inducted in the late 1970s, he was referred to in multiple sources as a suspected narcotics dealer in the years leading up to his 1992 conviction for heroin possession.

Born May 19, 1933 in New York to Pietro (33y), a macaroni maker, and Giuseppina 'Josie' DiBiase (24y). Parents from Campagna and Sessa Cilento comunes of Salerno, Campania.

At the time of Joseph's birth the family was believed to be living at 382 Broome St in Manhattan's Little Italy.

Within a couple of years they moved to Brooklyn, residing at multiple addresses on 80th and then 79th St in the Bensonhurst neighborhood.

In 1953 married first wife.

On October 29, 1958, at approximately 10:00 AM, Taglianetti and fellow Bensonhurst resident Anthony Soldano (30y) were arrested while attempting to rob the Carolina Garment Company located at 1406 65th St. New York Daily News reported: "[They] had grabbed the $5,159 payroll [in] front of the building Wednesday morning and told Anthony Cintorino, 32, carrying the money from a bank, to count to 30 while they made their getaway. Cintorino had hardly got through the count when Tony and Joe were pinched by the alert radio cops." Pair, charged with assault and robbery, arraigned before Brooklyn Felony Court Magistrate Louis Wallach and held on $25,000 bail each pending hearing scheduled for November 10. Taglianetti pleaded guilty to final charge robbery 2nd degree and sentenced to seven-and-one-half to fifteen years NYS prison.

On June 17, 1959 received at Sing Sing Prison.

Released by October 1967, when arrested by NYPD on unspecified charge.

On April 2, 1971 among twenty-seven indicted by US Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York on Federal gambling charges.

Co-defendants included:

- Joseph Colombo (Colombo Boss)

- Gaetano 'Tommy Scar' Amato (Genovese Soldier)
- Michael Savino (Colombo Soldier)

- Gaetano 'Tommy' Barbusca (Colombo Associate)
- John Coiro (Colombo Associate)
- Pasquale 'Patty Box-Cars' Cosoleto (Bonanno Associate)
- Joseph 'Joe Notch' Iannaci (Colombo Associate)
- Anthony 'Pee Wee' Lanza (Genovese Associate)
- Joseph 'Sonny' Juliano (Gambino Associate)
- Nicholas Mainello (Colombo Associate)
- Thomas Spero Jr. (Colombo Associate)

Group specifically accused of participation in bookmaking, numbers and sports betting operation conducted from social club in Bath Beach, Brooklyn. Arrests described as first 'major result' of 1970 Organized Crime Control Act signed into law previous October.

Taglianetti subsequently convicted and on March 8, 1974 sentenced to two years Federal imprisonment; arrest record noted he was to serve six months with eighteen months probation.

One week later received at FCI Danbury, Connecticut.

Released by early 1975 when he divorced his first wife.

On May 17, 1975 body of Frank Leonard (30y), wrapped in canvas, recovered from drainage ditch in South Dade, Florida. Determined victim, exhibiting multiple gunshot wounds, in water for two or three days. Taglianetti later named as suspected participant.

In August 1977 described in DEA file as reported drug trafficker.

This entry might have been related to news of Taglianetti's induction into the Bonanno Family; he was a confirmed member by 1979.

On May 9 of that year among ten indicted by USAO Atlanta, Georgia on conspiracy charges re interstate transport of stolen property and violating firearms laws. Others indicted included Bonanno (Colombo?) Associate Michael 'Mikey Head' Gulemmo (1928-2001).

The Associated Press reported: "In one of the counts, all the defendants were charged with receiving and selling stolen goods worth at least $5,000 and transporting stolen goods from Georgia to Florida and New York. The indictment, in another count, describes a firearms operation which allegedly involved transferring, trading, selling and giving stolen firearms from Riverdale, Ga., to a Florida man, John Charles Piazza. Piazza, a convicted cocaine dealer who has been cooperating with authorities, was not indicted...The remaining charges in the indictment deal with the defendants' alleged actions in completing the sale of firearms, including shotguns, revolvers, rifles and one automatic rifle."

Taglianetti released on bond and spent the next several months as a fugitive.

In June 1979 included in the FBI's list of 123 identified Bonanno Family members.

On February 7, 1980 apprehended on ITSP - firearm conspiracy charges.

Most of his co-defendants had been acquitted the previous July.

In early March 1980 married second wife.

On July 30, 1980 convicted of ITSP conspiracy in US District Court Atlanta. Universal Press International later reported: "Testimony during his trial revealed that Taglianetti and others associated with the Bonanno Family came to Atlanta in January 1975 to purchase what they believed was going to be $300,000 worth of stolen jewelry for shipment back to New York City. According to testimony, the purchase price was between $50,000 and $60,000. But the reputed deal never went through and witnesses testified during the trial that the proposed sale of the stolen jewelry was an apparent 'ripoff' attempt. Taglianetti was arrested last year."

On September 4, 1980 sentenced by USAO Atlanta Judge Marvin Shoob to five years Federal imprisonment and remanded without appeal bond. United Press International reported: "Shoob said, 'I think the man is a danger to the community and I order him committed immediately.'...Judge Shoob, citing a confidential pre-sentencing report on the convicted man, said Taglianetti was suspected of being involved in the murder of another organized-crime figure, Frank Leonard of Homestead, Fla., and drug smuggling."

It was noted that during the trial FBI Agent Douglas Fencl and NYPD Detective Kenneth McCabe provided testimony on Taglianetti's known association with both Bonanno and Colombo members.

Same day of sentencing received at USP Atlanta. Volunteered for assignment as orderly in Food Services Department (dining room table upkeep).

Later that month USP Atlanta staff filed an In-Transit Information report concerning Taglianetti's upcoming trip to New York to attend his father's funeral: "Serious prior history since early age. Is connected closely with organized crime. Jumped bond for over six months on instant case."

Early the following month staff compiled Classification Study on Taglianetti:
"
According to the official report, Taglianetti was involved in a 7-man conspiracy to sell stolen jewelry from a hold-up on January 7, 1975, which netted an estimated $30,000.00 in diamonds and jewelry. The official report reflects that six co-defendants all received a direct verdict of acquittal [in late July] 1979.

Mr. Taglianetti incurred his first adult conviction in [10/58], when he was sentenced to 7 1/2 - 15 years for Unarmed Robbery. He has also been arrested and convicted for Robbery and Gambling. As a juvenile, he was summoned before the Children's Court for Being a Delinquent Child, for which he received probation. Mr. Taglianetti is currently under investigation in the State of Florida and law enforcement authorities in that State indicated he is to be indicted for Murder.
"

T. Farese
On December 4, 1980 The Miami Herald reported on trial of Colombo Soldier Thomas Farese: "By the third day of the drug-conspiracy trial, [lawyers] and witnesses have said: Farese has put out a 'contract' on chief prosecution witness John Charles Piazza, who ordered 'hits' on one-time associates Rhett Zambito and Charles Keck. And drug dealers Patty Tammary and Joe (Curley) Taglianetti threatened to kill Piazza after murdering Piazza's partner [Frank Leonard]."

On December 23, 1980 transferred to USP Lewisburg, Pennsylvania.

During his time at the facility Taglianetti was assigned to the Clothing Issue Department, where he sorted shoes, and later to the Arts and Crafts Department as an orderly.

Divorced second wife in April 1981.

Around November 23, 1983 released from USP Lewisburg.

Following his release he may have been assigned to the crew of Bonanno Captain Gabriel 'Gabe' Infanti (1935-1987).

G. Infanti
Infanti, who used a travel agency located on E 4th St in Manhattan's East Village as headquarters, supervised a large crew consisting of members from across the city as well as New Jersey and South Florida.

A. Spero
Alternatively, Taglianetti might have been reporting to Anthony Spero, whose crew members included brothers Gerald 'Jerry' Chilli and Joseph 'Junior' Chilli.

In August 1986 DEA flagged Taglianetti in the Treasury Enforcement Communications System (TECS) database. Later report summarized: "[Taglianetti] may smuggle cocaine or heroin into U.S. from on body or in luggage."

Captain Gabriel Infanti disappeared December 17, 1987 in a Family-ordered murder.

In early February 1988 FBI CI reported: "Source noted that he has recently heard rumors to the effect that 'Joe Curly' (TN unknown), who was reportedly in trouble with the Bonanno Family, is now believed to be dead. Source advised 'Joe Curly', Bonanno Captain Gabe Infanti, who is currently missing, and [Redacted] were all closely associated and frequently were in on the same deals, including narcotics trafficking."

A. Persico
New York Daily News
On September 13-14, 1989 wake for Colombo Consigliere Alphonse 'Allie Boy' Persico held at Gambino-affiliated Scarpaci Funeral Home on 86th St. Attendees included Gambino Boss John Gotti, Colombo Acting Boss Vic Orena, Colombo Acting Underboss William Cutolo, Gambino Consigliere Salvatore 'Sammy Bull' Gravano, Lucchese Consigliere Anthony 'Gaspipe' Casso, Bonanno Consigliere Anthony Spero as well as several Captains and dozens of Soldiers from the various Families including Joseph Taglianetti.

By early 1990s resided in Staten Island.

J. Tartaglione
Gang Land News
By 1991 reported to Captain James 'Big Lou' Tartaglione.

Tartaglione, promoted to Captain through the influence of imprisoned Underboss Joseph Massino, inherited men from various former crews including Infanti's.

By 1991 made members of Tartaglione's crew included Frank Coppa (Acting Captain), Salvatore 'Sally Paintglass' D'Ottavio, Alfred 'Al Walker' Embarrato, Ronald Lorenzo, Salvatore 'Chubby' Maiorino, Richard 'Junkyard Richie' Musumeci, John Palazzolo, Anthony Rabito, Salvatore 'Sally Bross' Scudiero, Joseph Taglianetti and Charles 'Crazy Charlie' Travella.

Associates of interest included Generoso 'Jimmy General' Barbieri, Ronald 'Ronnie Mazzarella' Carlucci, Vincenzo D'Antoni, Bari Mascitti and Armando 'Mondo' Rea. All were inducted within a few years, with Barbieri serving as Tartaglione's Acting Captain during the latter half of the 1990s.

B. Borriello
On April 15-16, 1991 wake for Gambino Acting Captain Bartholomew 'Bobby' Borriello held at Raccuglia Funeral Home in South Brooklyn. Bonanno Family attendees included Consigliere Anthony Spero, Captain James Tartaglione and a few of his crew members including Joseph Taglianetti. Taglianetti was photographed at the wake in the company of Spero and Captain Salvatore Vitale.

P. Rastelli (1991)
On June 25-27, 1991 wake for Bonanno Boss Philip 'Rusty' Rastelli held at Papavero Funeral Home in Maspeth, Queens. Majority of active Bonanno membership attended, along with representatives from other NY Families.

Tartaglione, Taglianetti and several other crew members were present, as was Associate Michael Gulemmo, one of Taglianetti's co-defendants in the 1979 Atlanta case.

On September 16, 1991 FBI surveillance conducted on Grand Avenue Social Club in Maspeth. Many Bonanno members and associates present included Captain James Tartaglione along with several of his crew, including Soldiers Generoso Barbieri, Vincenzo D'Antoni, Salvatore Maiorino, John Palazzolo, Anthony Rabito and Joseph Taglianetti.

G. Amato (L) and S. Lombardi
Lombardi: Gang Land News
On the morning of December 3, 1991 Genovese Soldier Gaetano 'Tommy Scar' Amato (78y) fatally shot at social club located on McDonald Ave in Gravesend, Brooklyn. Colombo Associate Joseph Tolino (38y) wounded. Club operated by Tolino's uncle, Colombo Captain Nicholas 'Nicky Black' Grancio.

Same day FBI wiretap recorded Amato's Captain, Salvatore 'Sally Dogs' Lombardi, placing multiple phone calls, including one to Joseph Taglianetti:
"
Lombardi: They just shot somebody I know very good. By accident, it has to be. Would you believe ... just told me they just shot Tommy Scar?

Taglianetti: Get the hell outta. It had to be by accident.

Lombardi: Of course it's by accident. ... They shot him by where, where Funzi's club is on McDonald Avenue...

Taglianetti: Is he in the hospital?

Lombardi: Eh, he's laying in the ... street. I don't know. In the street. In the club? How do I know? I just walked in the door, I got a call.

Taglianetti: Oh my God. These dumb...

Lombardi: I mean if they did something like this, that's a ... disgrace.

Taglianetti: I'm worried about Scar. The ... The way he gets, all he needs is ... to be shot. He's old.

Lombardi: I'm gonna try to get a report.
"

Confirmation of Amato's death received during a call Lombardi then placed to a luncheonette located across from the club.

Soon determined murder result of intra-Family Colombo war, and that the intended target was Joseph Tolino and possibly other Orena faction supporters.

About a week later an FBI informant reported that the Persico faction apologized to the Genovese Family, who responded that 'it was regrettable about Amato,' but there would be no retaliation as 'he should have known better' than to be at a Colombo location. (Joseph Tolino was again present when Persico gunmen returned to McDonald Ave the following month and killed his uncle, Orena faction leader Nicholas Grancio.)

On February 27, 1992 FBI Agents raided Grand Avenue Social Club in Maspeth.

Those present during raid included:

Louis Restivo (Bonanno Captain)
James Tartaglione (Captain)
Salvatore Vitale (Captain)

Michael 'Mickey Bat' Cardello (Acting Captain)

Joseph 'Joe Saunders' Cammarano (Captain?)
Joseph 'Joe Desi' DeSimone (Captain?)

Joseph Cammarano Jr. (Soldier)
John Cerasani (Soldier)
Francesco 'Cheech' Navarra (Soldier)
Joseph Taglianetti (Soldier)
Anthony 'Tony Green' Urso (Soldier)

Joseph Bonanno (Member?) (Not to be confused with the former Boss of the same name, this individual was an inducted member by the 2000s and defected in 2007.)

John Licata (Associate)
Joseph Marsala (Associate)

Evidence seized included cash and personal address books from those present as well as various gambling and loansharking records.

On June 9, 1992 Taglianetti was arrested by the NYPD's 5th Precinct in Manhattan on charges of conspiracy, criminal possession of a controlled substance and criminal sale of a controlled substance. Specifically accused of possessing 4.4 pounds of heroin.

On June 18 pleaded guilty in Manhattan Supreme Court to final charge CPCS 2nd degree.

On July 10 sentenced by Judge Leslie Crocker Snyder to seventy-five months to life.

Taglianetti's conviction was tied to the June 24 indictment of several LCN members and associates connected with the New York Post, including fellow Tartaglione crew member Alfred Embarrato. New York Daily News reported: "[Taglianetti] played an important role in a mob drug ring that imported heroin for Europe for distribution here."

On July 28 received at Downstate Correctional Facility to begin serving sentence.

Five days earlier one Richard Taglianetti (32y) was killed by automatic gunfire outside his apartment building in New Springville, Staten Island. Murder carried out by Lucchese members in retaliation for, among other transgressions, Taglianetti's involvement in the 1983 murder of Lucchese Soldier Angelo Defendis's son.

Victim possibly related to Joseph Taglianetti, as both of their families originated in Campagna and followed a similar trajectory from Broome St in Little Italy to Bensonhurst and later Staten Island.

CW Frank Gioia Jr., Lucchese Soldier and a co-conspirator in the murder who defected in 1994, later testified: "...Gaspipe [Casso] thought it would be a good idea if we went to [Richard's] wake to basically make a mockery out of his death, so we all got [dressed] up, wore flowers, walked into his wake...We visited his relatives at one time. He had a cousin that we heard was peeping around, trying to locate Taglianetti before we killed him. We went to his house to send his family a message to tell them if they had a problem, they had a problem with the whole Family, knocked on their door, went there with about ten guys." (Joseph may be the cousin being referred to.)

F. Pastore
Joseph was paroled by summer 2001, when he became involved with Bonanno Associate 'Big Frank' Pastore (31y) in the extortion an of auto body garage located in Bayonne, New Jersey.

The Jersey Journal (Jul. 2001)
On July 2, 2001 an indictment for extortion conspiracy was unsealed. The following day both men were set upon by FBI Agents when they arrived at the garage.

The Jersey Journal reported: "The arrests followed a months-long investigation that included surveillance of the establishment, between Second and Third streets, [FBI spokeswoman] said...[The pair] ran a protection racket against the Bayonne business owner and forced him to pay a sum believed to be approximately $1,000 a week." Taglianetti and Pastore released on bonds of $250,000 and $100,000 respectively.

On December 17, 2002 both pleaded guilty to a single extortion count.

On June 24, 2003 appeared for sentencing before USDC Newark Judge Hochberg. Taglianetti sentenced to forty-six months imprisonment and three years supervised release; also ordered to pay $8,800 restitution. Pastore given thirty-nine months. (Pastore was inducted into the Bonanno Family shortly after being released in 2008.)

On August 7, 2003 received at Federal Medical Center in Devens, Massachusetts.

Released December 8, 2006 and remanded to New York State prison for violating parole.

On March 26, 2007 released from Downstate Correctional Facility.

In November 2014 among 129 included in Bonanno Organized Crime Family List compiled by Federal government.

Died January 25, 2016 in New York and buried in Green-Wood Cemetery located in Greenwood Heights, Brooklyn.

More Bonanno Family posts can be found in the Index.

Update

A. Polizzi New Posts: 1. Angelo Polizzi (Los Angeles) : Captain during the 1960s and 1970s. 2. Bonanno Family Hierarchy (1989): Covers an ...