NICHOLAS (COCKEYED NICK) RATTENNI - born 1906. Raised in the Bronx and by 1945 he had relocated to up to Yonkers, operating in the Bronx-Yonkers, Westchester County areas.
-
He resided for years in a multi-million dollar home (107 Rockledge Avenue).
-
And despite his alleged Mafia connections, Rattenni lead a life resembling that of many successful Westchester businessmen.. He lived with his second wife, Evelyn, and their young son, Robert, in a secluded stately home in the exclusive western residential section of Yonkers.
-
The dark‐red, shingled house sat on 12-acres of land that included a three‐bedroom playhouse, a 200‐ yard driving range and a putting green. The Rattennis belonged to the Willow Ridge Country Club in Harrison, where his older son Nick Jr, was golfing champion.
-
The elder Rattenni was a far poorer golfer than his son, but, according to one story, he was good enough to beat Frank Erickson in a match where $100,000 was at stake.. Erickson, law enforcement said, paid his debt by giving Rattenni 6,400 shares of Roosevelt Raceway stock. That was in the early 1950’s.
-
In 1969, Rattenni sold the stock for, $1,322.676. The sale came to light in a recent lawsuit involving the raceway's stock. Rattenni was not involved in the law suit.
————
A top power in the Genovese Family for decades, serving as the top senior “Capo di decina” for the family troops in those New York communities.
-
He originally served under Rocco Pellegrino, then James Angelina.
He acquired his position by taking over the spot previously held by his captain Angelina, who died in 1967.
————
Activities included:
-
Garbage racketeering
Extortion
Bribery and official corruption
Gambling
Strong-arm tactics
Business infiltration
Shylocking
Stock frauds
......and the guiding force in virtually all criminal activities performed by his minions.
————
By 1970, he had a lengthy arrest record, starting in 1926, but sustained only one 1927 conviction for robbery and served three years of a 2.5-5 year jail term at Sing Sing Prison. He later had a tax-evasion arrest as well.
-
Note: [Family member John Biello went to jail in this case also]
————
In 1970, Rattenni was arrested along with several other reputed Mafiosi and charged with conspiring to bribe Internal Revenue Service agents, and placed on $20,000 bail.
-
He was jailed again in 1972 after the bribery conviction. And served three more years in prison.
————
Rattenni's name had long been linked with those of well‐known top gangsters. Federal investigators say that in the 1930’s and 1940’s he was an associate of the late Frank Erickson, a top New York bookmaker. In 1953 Herbert Brownell Jr., who was then United States Attorney General, described him as a chief lieutenant of Family Boss Frank Costello.
————
When Rattenni moved to Yonkers from the Bronx around 1945 he entered the private carting business, first renting garbage trucks from mobster Joseph (Joey Surprise) Feola, who vanished in 1962 and is believed to have been murdered on Carlo Gambino orders over repeatedly stealing carting accounts including a huge refuse removal contract at the Ford Motor Company assembly plant in Mahwah, N.J.
—
Over the years Rattenni's business prospered, and by 1971, ninety percent of the private garbage collection was done by his two firms, the Westchester Carting Co., and the Fleetwood Haulage Company.
-
His 25‐year‐old adopted son, Nick Jr., entered the family business in 1969, when he became president of A‐1 Compaction, Inc., a new firm listed at the same address as Westchester Carting Company.
The Rattennis' business practices were a major subject of a S.I.C. investigation. The commission charged that Westchester Carting Company trucks had been allowed to use the city incinerator while the city's own trucks were forced to go elsewhere. The practice was said to cost Yonkers $1‐million a year. The matter came under investigation by the Westchester District Attorney's office. The S.I.C. was particularly disturbed by Rattenni's friendships with major city officials.
—
A good example was during the Commission's investigation of Councilman Frank Adamo, who had recently elected to a third-term, testified that he had visited Rattenni at home, had frequently driven him to his office and had used the office telephone to call City Hall to inquire about zoning changes. The commission described the relationship as very “unhealthy.”
————
Another indication of Rattenni's power were the dozen “button men” who served as bodyguards or merely came to listen when he testified before the S.I.C. in 1969.
Among the reputed Mafiosi noted among spectators by state investigators were Frank Sacco, another reputed member of the Genovese family, who had been arrested numerous times on loan‐sharking charges in Yonkers, and John A. Masiello Jr., son of “Gentleman Johnny” Masiello.
————
He died in 1982 at age 76.
—————————————————-——————————————————
Maxie's Genovese Profiles
Moderator: Capos
-
maxiestern11
- Full Patched
- Posts: 1989
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 12:41 pm
Re: Maxie's Genovese Profiles
Thanks anyway, and thanks for trying.MichaelGiovanni wrote: ↑Sun Sep 08, 2019 10:31 amGlad you liked it Bert. I have looked to try and find the 2nd part to it and have never been successful. I had that article saved and am having trouble even finding the original location on the web of it. Sorry
Re: Maxie's Genovese Profiles
Nice storymaxiestern11 wrote: ↑Sun Sep 08, 2019 2:33 pm
The elder Rattenni was a far poorer golfer than his son, but, according to one story, he was good enough to beat Frank Erickson in a match where $100,000 was at stake.. Erickson, law enforcement said, paid his debt by giving Rattenni 6,400 shares of Roosevelt Raceway stock. That was in the early 1950’s.
Do not be deceived, neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God - Corinthians 6:9-10
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maxiestern11
- Full Patched
- Posts: 1989
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 12:41 pm
Re: Maxie's Genovese Profiles
Thank youVillain wrote: ↑Mon Sep 09, 2019 11:29 amNice storymaxiestern11 wrote: ↑Sun Sep 08, 2019 2:33 pm
The elder Rattenni was a far poorer golfer than his son, but, according to one story, he was good enough to beat Frank Erickson in a match where $100,000 was at stake.. Erickson, law enforcement said, paid his debt by giving Rattenni 6,400 shares of Roosevelt Raceway stock. That was in the early 1950’s.
-
maxiestern11
- Full Patched
- Posts: 1989
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 12:41 pm
Re: Maxie's Genovese Profiles
HERMAN (BENNY) LEVINE - born 1895 in Lumza, Russia. Derivative citizenship since 1906.
-
aka “Benjamin Levine”, “Ben Levin”.
——
Although very low-key and conservative, he was widely known as one of the wealthiest Jewish racketeers to ever operate in New York City. A multi-millionaire many times over, he was equally adapt operating at the top levels of the underworld and business world alike!
-
He resided for years at 1136 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan (he owned the entire building - a multi-million dollar value). He also had a second beautiful waterfront home on exclusive Atlantic Beach Estates (1496 Bay Blvd).... in 1955 this home was valued at $100,000. -
(equivalent to $3-Million in 2019 money!)
-
Snowbirds: during winters, he resided in Miami, Florida. He and other Jewish racketeers were known to congregate at “Jimmy Mann’s Auction Rooms” in Hollywood. They had a bookie den operating in the back.
————-
FBI # 1460799, NYCPD # B-36750.
————-
By the late 1930’s-early 1940’s Levine was identified as a close associate and direct subordinate of Meyer Lansky - considered head of the Jewish Mob.
-
He was also, by extension, a top “associate” of the Luciano/Genovese Family.
————-
Benny Levine was an major garment center manufacturer and racketeer. He was reportedly one of the most powerful garment district rackets figures. LE has described Levine as a “Mr. Big” in relation to garment operations.
-
Many argued that Benny Levine was the single most important man in the garment industry!
————-
Criminal Activities:
-
Garment Racketeering
Extortion and Shakedowns
Shylocking
Strong-arm Tactics
————-
Criminal Record: limited recorded convictions included:
-
1914 - assault
1941 - extortion and conspiracy
1951? - tax evasion
————-
Having reputedly started out as a strong-arm enforcer, by the 1950’s
Benny Levine was reported by informants to have gained control over many of the various Jewish “contractors” in the district and would allocate which dress manufacturing houses dealt with which sub-contractors. Thereby virtually controlling the flow of work given out. Through coercion and extortionate tactics, he dictated affairs on behalf of the underworld.
————
Additionally, besides having close hooks with David Dubinsky - president of the ILGWU (AFL-CIO) which provided ease of operation through “sweetheart contracts” for favored shops, he also ran many “non-union” shops, allowing some “key” firms of his to operate heads and shoulders above the competition. These “non-union
shops” included coat and dress factories in:
-
Farmingdale, Long Island
Baltimore, Maryland
Elizabeth, New Jersey
-
Note: [he was considered an overseer and coordinator for the “garment unions”, working through several union “business agents” to
facilitate the mob’s objectives]
————-
He owned or held a partnership interest in many sub-contracting shops, these among them:
-
Olive Coat Co.
Royal Mist Coat., Co.
Kolmar-Freeman Mfg., Co.
Sunray Coat Co.
Schneider, Inc. (ladies coats & suits)
The Fabric Mill (500 7th Ave., NYC)
-
He and Joe Miller also has a “piece” of Lou Schneider Co. (ladies coats and skirts).
—————-
Benny was also active in the garment-trucking racket, holding an ownership interest in City Carriers Corp., (CCC), a major apparel trucker based in the very heart of the district at 222 W. 37th Street, NYC., which dominated certain truck routes and garment houses in agreement with the Italian mob.
-
This trucking firm was known to do business with non-union garment shops.
—————-
It was common knowledge that he was one of several top Jewish hoodlums who by 1953, held significant stock shares in Algam Corp., which owned Yonkers Raceway. Levine was alleged to have provided over $300,000. to his wife and sons to buy the stock shares, giving him a 25% controlling interest.
-
Irving Sherman, Abe Chait, Joe Henschel and Benny Levine were alleged to be the true owners of the racetrack!
—————
He also had major investment in other industries and businesses:
-
Beula Corp.
Kolmer and Company
Royal Equities Corp.
27 Harrison Street Corp.
Levinston Corp.
....... among others!
—————-
Among his criminal associates:
-
Francesco (Frank Costello) Castiglia - the one and only!....alleged to have been close to Costello
-
Meyer Lansky - needs no introduction, overall boss of Jewish racket contingent, Levine is alleged to have been his number two in the garment district - could be considered an “underboss” to Lansky
-
Benjamin (Benny) Kutlow - a notorious garment extortionist and strong-arm, Levine’s longtime partner and muscleman - they ran the “Levine-Kutlow combine”
-
Giuseppe (Joe Adonis) Doto - another friend and associate of Levine
-
Joseph (Joe Stretch) Stracci - major Genovese soldier and garment industry power, a close personal friend to Levine and his main contact with the Italians
-
Salvatore (Sally Stretch) Stracci - brother of Joe, policy racketeer, active in garment rackets with him
-
Abner (Longy) Zwillman - Newark, top NJ rackets boss and garment power
-
Abraham (Abe) Chait - a top Jewish hoodlum, feared and respected, ran several garment trucking firms
—————
It was reported by informant “victims” that they were forced to pay the Levine-Kutlow combine .15 cents for each garment they manufactured regardless of type or the lack or services provided.
-
This “shakedown” was mandatory and pervasive throughout the district. Their many competitors paid the same.
-
The following Jewish “musclemen” were used for collections including:
-
Joseph “Keifie” Miller
Harry Strasser
Willy Milena
Jack Strum
Morris “Sheppy” Shapiro
Samuel “Fat Sidney” Brown
“Dutch” Goldberg
...... several of the above were known killers, and had previously been affiliated with Lepke Buchalter.
—————
Overland Garment Co., 265 W. 37th Street, NYC.
-
In April of 1956, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York got a forensic subpoena to examine the books and records of the above firm after receiving information that the firm was forced to pay “per garment” payoff fees to the Benny Levine and Benny Kutlow mob.
-
Before long the authorities expanded the investigation into possible additional extortion payoffs by Ken Coats Co., and J.I. Kipness, Inc., both of 500 Seventh Avenue.
-
By the month of September of that year the probe had expanded once again after information was developed that other firms had also been forced to make similar “per-garment” payoffs.
-
Lady Lynn Fashions, Inc.,
254 East 35th St., NYC
-
Hampshire Fashions, Inc.,
500 Seventh Avenue, NYC
-
By early 1957, this shakedown racket probe seemed never ending in its breath and scope! Each time the investigators looked, in every direction they looked, they uncovered another victim company!
-
Ascot Casuals Limited
498 Seventh Avenue, NYC...... 600 shares of this firm’s stock had been issued to Levine.
-
Toni-Lynn Maternities, Inc.
66 W. 38th Street, NYC...... this firm was also probed for hidden ownership by Levine and Kutlow.
-
were two more of many listed as under the dominion of Levine and his associates.
————-
I don’t have any solid information about when he retired or died. But while he was active, he certainly was a force to be contended with!
———————————————————————————————————
-
aka “Benjamin Levine”, “Ben Levin”.
——
Although very low-key and conservative, he was widely known as one of the wealthiest Jewish racketeers to ever operate in New York City. A multi-millionaire many times over, he was equally adapt operating at the top levels of the underworld and business world alike!
-
He resided for years at 1136 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan (he owned the entire building - a multi-million dollar value). He also had a second beautiful waterfront home on exclusive Atlantic Beach Estates (1496 Bay Blvd).... in 1955 this home was valued at $100,000. -
(equivalent to $3-Million in 2019 money!)
-
Snowbirds: during winters, he resided in Miami, Florida. He and other Jewish racketeers were known to congregate at “Jimmy Mann’s Auction Rooms” in Hollywood. They had a bookie den operating in the back.
————-
FBI # 1460799, NYCPD # B-36750.
————-
By the late 1930’s-early 1940’s Levine was identified as a close associate and direct subordinate of Meyer Lansky - considered head of the Jewish Mob.
-
He was also, by extension, a top “associate” of the Luciano/Genovese Family.
————-
Benny Levine was an major garment center manufacturer and racketeer. He was reportedly one of the most powerful garment district rackets figures. LE has described Levine as a “Mr. Big” in relation to garment operations.
-
Many argued that Benny Levine was the single most important man in the garment industry!
————-
Criminal Activities:
-
Garment Racketeering
Extortion and Shakedowns
Shylocking
Strong-arm Tactics
————-
Criminal Record: limited recorded convictions included:
-
1914 - assault
1941 - extortion and conspiracy
1951? - tax evasion
————-
Having reputedly started out as a strong-arm enforcer, by the 1950’s
Benny Levine was reported by informants to have gained control over many of the various Jewish “contractors” in the district and would allocate which dress manufacturing houses dealt with which sub-contractors. Thereby virtually controlling the flow of work given out. Through coercion and extortionate tactics, he dictated affairs on behalf of the underworld.
————
Additionally, besides having close hooks with David Dubinsky - president of the ILGWU (AFL-CIO) which provided ease of operation through “sweetheart contracts” for favored shops, he also ran many “non-union” shops, allowing some “key” firms of his to operate heads and shoulders above the competition. These “non-union
shops” included coat and dress factories in:
-
Farmingdale, Long Island
Baltimore, Maryland
Elizabeth, New Jersey
-
Note: [he was considered an overseer and coordinator for the “garment unions”, working through several union “business agents” to
facilitate the mob’s objectives]
————-
He owned or held a partnership interest in many sub-contracting shops, these among them:
-
Olive Coat Co.
Royal Mist Coat., Co.
Kolmar-Freeman Mfg., Co.
Sunray Coat Co.
Schneider, Inc. (ladies coats & suits)
The Fabric Mill (500 7th Ave., NYC)
-
He and Joe Miller also has a “piece” of Lou Schneider Co. (ladies coats and skirts).
—————-
Benny was also active in the garment-trucking racket, holding an ownership interest in City Carriers Corp., (CCC), a major apparel trucker based in the very heart of the district at 222 W. 37th Street, NYC., which dominated certain truck routes and garment houses in agreement with the Italian mob.
-
This trucking firm was known to do business with non-union garment shops.
—————-
It was common knowledge that he was one of several top Jewish hoodlums who by 1953, held significant stock shares in Algam Corp., which owned Yonkers Raceway. Levine was alleged to have provided over $300,000. to his wife and sons to buy the stock shares, giving him a 25% controlling interest.
-
Irving Sherman, Abe Chait, Joe Henschel and Benny Levine were alleged to be the true owners of the racetrack!
—————
He also had major investment in other industries and businesses:
-
Beula Corp.
Kolmer and Company
Royal Equities Corp.
27 Harrison Street Corp.
Levinston Corp.
....... among others!
—————-
Among his criminal associates:
-
Francesco (Frank Costello) Castiglia - the one and only!....alleged to have been close to Costello
-
Meyer Lansky - needs no introduction, overall boss of Jewish racket contingent, Levine is alleged to have been his number two in the garment district - could be considered an “underboss” to Lansky
-
Benjamin (Benny) Kutlow - a notorious garment extortionist and strong-arm, Levine’s longtime partner and muscleman - they ran the “Levine-Kutlow combine”
-
Giuseppe (Joe Adonis) Doto - another friend and associate of Levine
-
Joseph (Joe Stretch) Stracci - major Genovese soldier and garment industry power, a close personal friend to Levine and his main contact with the Italians
-
Salvatore (Sally Stretch) Stracci - brother of Joe, policy racketeer, active in garment rackets with him
-
Abner (Longy) Zwillman - Newark, top NJ rackets boss and garment power
-
Abraham (Abe) Chait - a top Jewish hoodlum, feared and respected, ran several garment trucking firms
—————
It was reported by informant “victims” that they were forced to pay the Levine-Kutlow combine .15 cents for each garment they manufactured regardless of type or the lack or services provided.
-
This “shakedown” was mandatory and pervasive throughout the district. Their many competitors paid the same.
-
The following Jewish “musclemen” were used for collections including:
-
Joseph “Keifie” Miller
Harry Strasser
Willy Milena
Jack Strum
Morris “Sheppy” Shapiro
Samuel “Fat Sidney” Brown
“Dutch” Goldberg
...... several of the above were known killers, and had previously been affiliated with Lepke Buchalter.
—————
Overland Garment Co., 265 W. 37th Street, NYC.
-
In April of 1956, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York got a forensic subpoena to examine the books and records of the above firm after receiving information that the firm was forced to pay “per garment” payoff fees to the Benny Levine and Benny Kutlow mob.
-
Before long the authorities expanded the investigation into possible additional extortion payoffs by Ken Coats Co., and J.I. Kipness, Inc., both of 500 Seventh Avenue.
-
By the month of September of that year the probe had expanded once again after information was developed that other firms had also been forced to make similar “per-garment” payoffs.
-
Lady Lynn Fashions, Inc.,
254 East 35th St., NYC
-
Hampshire Fashions, Inc.,
500 Seventh Avenue, NYC
-
By early 1957, this shakedown racket probe seemed never ending in its breath and scope! Each time the investigators looked, in every direction they looked, they uncovered another victim company!
-
Ascot Casuals Limited
498 Seventh Avenue, NYC...... 600 shares of this firm’s stock had been issued to Levine.
-
Toni-Lynn Maternities, Inc.
66 W. 38th Street, NYC...... this firm was also probed for hidden ownership by Levine and Kutlow.
-
were two more of many listed as under the dominion of Levine and his associates.
————-
I don’t have any solid information about when he retired or died. But while he was active, he certainly was a force to be contended with!
———————————————————————————————————
-
maxiestern11
- Full Patched
- Posts: 1989
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 12:41 pm
Re: Maxie's Genovese Profiles
GIUSEPPE (JOE STRETCH) STRACI - born 1906 in Messina, Sicily. aka: also used the spelling “Stracci”. After immigrating in 1907, the Stracci family settled in East Harlem (313 E. 107th St), (204 E. 112th St) and (2276 2nd Ave), and later (335 E. 116th St). Naturalized in 1945.
-
As he grew in stature and success, he would later relocate (1952) to Englewood, NJ (80 South Woodland Rd). He purchased the house for $36,000., a tidy sum for that era.
-
He liked to play a round of golf at the Englewood Golf Club.
-
Stracci was a “snow bird”, he liked to spend winters in Miami, Florida.
-
Note: [he married Vince and Joey Rao’s sister Cecile. Also, a son Ron Straci would become a labor lawyer. Another son Joseph Thomas Stracci (estranged from him - born thru wedlock) was jailed in 1958 for 10-20 years in Sing Sing on a robbery conviction]
-
Also had a brother Salvatore - also an associate of this Family.
—————-
FBI # 72208, NYCPD # B-64304.
—————-
Since 1926, criminal record reflects six-arrests and one jail term for:
-
1926 - attempted grand larceny (15-30 months - Sing Sing)
1928 - violating Harrison Act (drugs)
1929 - robbery
1929 - robbery
1939 - vagrancy
1945 - suspicious person (Providence, RI)
—————-
An iconic name in mob lore, Stracci was notorious by the mid-1930’s era. He was known as a gunman and Harlem power in league with the equally notorious Tough Joey Rao and Trigger Mike Coppola.
-
Although never elevated above the technical rank of a “soldier”, he, similar to Johnny Dio was one of those rare mafiosi who despite their official rank, exhibited power and influence far beyond a mere soldier.
-
Identified by just about every single LE source and government chart over the last seventy years as a documented member of the Luciano/Genovese Family of LCN.
—————-
Joe Stretch was known as a low-key guy not prone to nightclubbing or bouncing around town with other hoodlums. He was very active in the rackets, especially the garment district, but would take care of his affairs and then retire home, typically spending evening with his wife and children.
-
In stark contrast to his earlier profile and reputation as a gunman and enforcer during 1930-40’s Harlem!
————-
Known hangouts:
-
Dunhall’s Restaurant, 1440 Broadway, NYC - frequently used as a meeting place by Stracci in midtown Manhattan.
-
Duke’s Tavern: the de facto NJ base of operations for the Genovese mob during circa 1940-50’s.
————-
Criminal Activities:
-
Garment Racketeering (influential in the Local #2 -ILGWU and various apparel trade associations)
-
Labor-Union Racketeering (influential with Local #222 International Jewelry Workers Union and five related sister locals that handle “catch-all” industries)
-
Extortion and strong-arm tactics
Policy
Shylocking
—————-
These three garment related firms had Stracci as a registered partner.
-
D. Zimet, Inc., (12 floor)
500 Seventh Ave., NYC (maker of women’s coats and suits). Joe was the general manager of this firm for many years and actually worked an average of 8-9 hrs per day. His partner was David Zimet.
-
Zimray, Inc.,
512 Seventh Ave., NYC
-
Stuart Fashions, Inc.
509 Seventh Ave., NYC
-
Jovon Fashions, Inc.,
225 W. 37th Street, NYC
——-
Additionally, the below firms were alleged to influenced by him or held hidden interests:
-
Joe Miller Fashions
Art-Ed Carriers Inc.
Ann Ames, Inc.
-
“Joe Stretch” was also a principal in several large apparel-trucking firms as shown below, that were among the carriers who dominated that industry. LE said that he and Natale Evola shared the division of power with several major trucking accounts.
-
Metro-Urban Trucking Co.
205 W. 57th St., NYC
—————-
Stracci also had a stock investment portfolio over the years.
—————-
Close Criminal-Business Associates:
-
Michael (Trigger Mike) Coppola - close boyhood friend and his possible “capo”.
-
Vincent (Vincey) Rao - related through marriage. Lucchese consigliere
-
Joseph (Tough Joey) Rao - Genovese power, although technically only a “soldier”, Rao wielded tremendous power
-
Frank (Cheech) Livorsi - boyhood running partner, Genovese power
-
Joseph (Joe Stutz) Tortorici - influential soldier from Harlem
-
Salvatore (Sally Stretch) Stracci - his kid brother, of (238 E.106th St., E. Harlem), ran policy banks as a “controller”, arrested with 13 others in 1958 after a vice raid on three numbers-banks on E. 115th Street. He later plead guilty to “contriving a lottery” and received a six-month suspended sentence.
An “associate” and possible member of this Family. Listed as a production manager at Jovon Fashions Inc.
-
Robert (Bobby) Rao - a nephew, son of Joey, Local # 222 - official and top pension fund administrator
-
and garment district racket associates including:
-
Herman (Benny) Levine - top garment power and close personal friend of the Stracci’s, and his aide
Benjamin Kutlow as well.
-
Vincenzo (Jimmy Doyle) Plumeri - another top garment racketeer
—————
By the early 1970’s, well past his prime, Stracci had faded from view. He may have even been retired by the late 1960’s because no more was heard from him.
-
“Joe Stretch” died quietly in 1984 at age 78!
—————————————————-——————————————————
-
As he grew in stature and success, he would later relocate (1952) to Englewood, NJ (80 South Woodland Rd). He purchased the house for $36,000., a tidy sum for that era.
-
He liked to play a round of golf at the Englewood Golf Club.
-
Stracci was a “snow bird”, he liked to spend winters in Miami, Florida.
-
Note: [he married Vince and Joey Rao’s sister Cecile. Also, a son Ron Straci would become a labor lawyer. Another son Joseph Thomas Stracci (estranged from him - born thru wedlock) was jailed in 1958 for 10-20 years in Sing Sing on a robbery conviction]
-
Also had a brother Salvatore - also an associate of this Family.
—————-
FBI # 72208, NYCPD # B-64304.
—————-
Since 1926, criminal record reflects six-arrests and one jail term for:
-
1926 - attempted grand larceny (15-30 months - Sing Sing)
1928 - violating Harrison Act (drugs)
1929 - robbery
1929 - robbery
1939 - vagrancy
1945 - suspicious person (Providence, RI)
—————-
An iconic name in mob lore, Stracci was notorious by the mid-1930’s era. He was known as a gunman and Harlem power in league with the equally notorious Tough Joey Rao and Trigger Mike Coppola.
-
Although never elevated above the technical rank of a “soldier”, he, similar to Johnny Dio was one of those rare mafiosi who despite their official rank, exhibited power and influence far beyond a mere soldier.
-
Identified by just about every single LE source and government chart over the last seventy years as a documented member of the Luciano/Genovese Family of LCN.
—————-
Joe Stretch was known as a low-key guy not prone to nightclubbing or bouncing around town with other hoodlums. He was very active in the rackets, especially the garment district, but would take care of his affairs and then retire home, typically spending evening with his wife and children.
-
In stark contrast to his earlier profile and reputation as a gunman and enforcer during 1930-40’s Harlem!
————-
Known hangouts:
-
Dunhall’s Restaurant, 1440 Broadway, NYC - frequently used as a meeting place by Stracci in midtown Manhattan.
-
Duke’s Tavern: the de facto NJ base of operations for the Genovese mob during circa 1940-50’s.
————-
Criminal Activities:
-
Garment Racketeering (influential in the Local #2 -ILGWU and various apparel trade associations)
-
Labor-Union Racketeering (influential with Local #222 International Jewelry Workers Union and five related sister locals that handle “catch-all” industries)
-
Extortion and strong-arm tactics
Policy
Shylocking
—————-
These three garment related firms had Stracci as a registered partner.
-
D. Zimet, Inc., (12 floor)
500 Seventh Ave., NYC (maker of women’s coats and suits). Joe was the general manager of this firm for many years and actually worked an average of 8-9 hrs per day. His partner was David Zimet.
-
Zimray, Inc.,
512 Seventh Ave., NYC
-
Stuart Fashions, Inc.
509 Seventh Ave., NYC
-
Jovon Fashions, Inc.,
225 W. 37th Street, NYC
——-
Additionally, the below firms were alleged to influenced by him or held hidden interests:
-
Joe Miller Fashions
Art-Ed Carriers Inc.
Ann Ames, Inc.
-
“Joe Stretch” was also a principal in several large apparel-trucking firms as shown below, that were among the carriers who dominated that industry. LE said that he and Natale Evola shared the division of power with several major trucking accounts.
-
Metro-Urban Trucking Co.
205 W. 57th St., NYC
—————-
Stracci also had a stock investment portfolio over the years.
—————-
Close Criminal-Business Associates:
-
Michael (Trigger Mike) Coppola - close boyhood friend and his possible “capo”.
-
Vincent (Vincey) Rao - related through marriage. Lucchese consigliere
-
Joseph (Tough Joey) Rao - Genovese power, although technically only a “soldier”, Rao wielded tremendous power
-
Frank (Cheech) Livorsi - boyhood running partner, Genovese power
-
Joseph (Joe Stutz) Tortorici - influential soldier from Harlem
-
Salvatore (Sally Stretch) Stracci - his kid brother, of (238 E.106th St., E. Harlem), ran policy banks as a “controller”, arrested with 13 others in 1958 after a vice raid on three numbers-banks on E. 115th Street. He later plead guilty to “contriving a lottery” and received a six-month suspended sentence.
An “associate” and possible member of this Family. Listed as a production manager at Jovon Fashions Inc.
-
Robert (Bobby) Rao - a nephew, son of Joey, Local # 222 - official and top pension fund administrator
-
and garment district racket associates including:
-
Herman (Benny) Levine - top garment power and close personal friend of the Stracci’s, and his aide
Benjamin Kutlow as well.
-
Vincenzo (Jimmy Doyle) Plumeri - another top garment racketeer
—————
By the early 1970’s, well past his prime, Stracci had faded from view. He may have even been retired by the late 1960’s because no more was heard from him.
-
“Joe Stretch” died quietly in 1984 at age 78!
—————————————————-——————————————————
-
maxiestern11
- Full Patched
- Posts: 1989
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 12:41 pm
Re: Maxie's Genovese Profiles
One more PS: the current owners of Rao’s up on 114th and Pleasant are Vincey Rao’s nephews, one of whom was labor lawyer Ron Straci (Son of Joe Stretch)...... little trivia
-
maxiestern11
- Full Patched
- Posts: 1989
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 12:41 pm
Re: Maxie's Genovese Profiles
PASQUALE (LITTLE PATSY) ERRA - born 1916, in East Harlem, NYC. aka: “Patrick Erra”, “Pasquale Michael Erra”, “Little Paddy”.
——
Lived for a time in Astoria, NY before relocating down to Florida in the late-1940’s/early 50’s, Erra resided for years at (3720 Chase Blvd.) Miami Beach, Florida.
——
He had a younger brother Michael, also a Genovese figure. And a son Robert, while not a mob figure per se, was associated with this group.
——
Note: [at 5’-5”, 140lbs. trim-small frame, Patsy’s appearance belied his ability and reputation as a tough guy. He was known to handle himself very well, having been a professional boxer in his youth]
-
Note: [an avid golfer, Patsy and Max Eder - a mob associate, always play as a twosome]
—————
FBI # 1593543, NYPD # B-151752.
—————-
Erra started out as a young hoodlum in New York’s Harlem. Patsy and his brother Mike were said to have performed a contract for Mike Coppola to hit a guy. Although they shot the guy in a Harlem movie theatre, he didn’t die. Nonetheless because of the service to the Family Patsy was “made”.
-
He operated in NYC for some years until visiting Miami during the 1940’s, he liked the atmosphere so much that he eventually relocated there permanently!
-
As the years past, Erra, a very well-liked mafioso, became the un-official “de facto” mob “greeter” so to speak! It seemed that everybody who was anybody made it their business to visit and socialize with Patsy when in South Florida.
—————-
The McClellan Committee in 1964 named Erra as a “soldier” and top leader in the Miami underworld. He was described as a confidant and aide of Trigger Mike Coppola, and the man who was the Miami rackets overseer for Coppola.
-
When subpoenaed to testify before the committee, Erra of course
repeatedly invoked his fifth amendment rights.
-
Upon Coppola’s death, it was said the Erra took over all Genovese LCN regime activities in South Florida. He was definitely one of the controlling powers in Florida in his era at any rate!
-
Over the years Erra was repeatedly subpoenaed before various mob grand juries for testimony, usually pleading the fifth!
—————-
Known Criminal Activities:
-
Gambling rackets: (although Erra was not a gambler, he oversaw others who ran extensive gaming operations for the regime; these included legal casino gaming, bookmaking, policy, cards-dice)
Note: [during the Batista regime in Cuba, “Little Paddy” Erra was known to go back and forth regularly - suspected of overseeing Coppola’s interests there]
-
Shylocking: operated on a large scale through multiple sub-shylocks both in Florida and New York
-
Extortion/Strong-arm tactics: known enforcer in his younger days, said to control the “shakedown” of bookies, shylocks in Miami by his minions
-
Smuggling narcotics: suspected of trafficking in heroin and cocaine, had a previous drug conviction
-
Bar-nightclub infiltration: a primary focus was to move in on licensed establishments throughout Collins Avenue and vicinity
-
Note: [several associates listed with an * below were utilized by Erra for running racket operations for him]
—————-
During the 1950’s and 1960’s, he was suspected of representing mob interests in the famed “Ronde Bar” at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach, a favorite hangout and destination for major racket figures visiting Miami from across the country.
Note: [The Fontainebleau, owned by Lansky associate and financier Ben Novak, was a safe-haven for Erra. He operated gaming, shylock and other rackets for years with total impunity and safety from this locale]
——
Dean Martin’s Restaurant
79th Street Causeway,
N. Bay Village, Miami Beach, Fla.
(Dean Martin backed this venture)
——
Although not officially an owner, Patsy was thought to have had a hidden interest. Erra was listed as the general manger until the SLA forced his “firing”.
——-
“The Dream Bar” (hidden owner of hotel and bar)
in The Johnina Hotel
Miami Beach, Florida
——-
Albion Bar (alleged had an interest)
Collins Ave., Miami Beach area
——-
Reliable Plumbing Co., (partner)
703 71st St., Miami Beach, Fla
——-
Temple Meat-Packing Co.,
W. 14th Street, NY, NY and
64 NW 11th Street, Miami, Florida
(“commission salesman” to restaurants and nightclubs)
-—————-
Virtually nearly all top mobsters from across the country when visiting South Florida made seeing Erra a priority. But among his closer
associates were:
-
Santo Trafficante Jr: often saw Erra when in Miami, associate-friend
-
Joe Massei - semi-retired Detroit top hoodlum, highly respected
-
Michael (Trigger Mike) Coppola - top E. Harlem boss who migrated south, managing his crew from Florida
-
Anthony (Fat Tony) Salerno - watchdog for Coppola’s rackets in NYC, reported to Florida often
-
Alexander (Al Ross) Rosato - Harlem native, crew soldier and major shylock, boyhood friend
-
Dominick (Swats Mulligan) Ciaffone- old-time crew soldier, friend
-
Alfredo (Freddy Red Shirt) Felice - respected, highly fluid Genovese soldier, moved to Florida during the 1940-50’s era, friend
-
Raymond Patriarca -NE Boss close friend
-
Gabriel (Kelly) Mannarino - a top Pittsburgh Boss, also a close friend and associate (Kensington PA)
-
Sam Mannarino - another top Kensington figure, close associate
-
Max (Maxie Raymond) Eder * - a transplanted NYC gambler/loanshark who fronted for Erra and Coppola, ran the card room in the Fontainebleau where high-stakes games were held - Erra was always his partner
-
Salvatore (Sal the Sailor) Ciccone - Lucchese figure, associate of Erra
-
Norman Rothman * - operated a loan-shark ring for Erra, close aide
-
Fabio DeCrestofaro * - a loan collector
-
Jack Herman - another Erra minion and associate, gambler, conman, owns a carpet store & Jewish deli
-
Michael (Mickey) Erra * - kid brother to Patsy and his aide
-
Robert (Bobby) Erra * - Patsy’s son, college educated and personable, became a mob associate of Dad’s
-
Vincent (Terry) Teriaca * - Erra associate, Lansky son-in-law, later murdered
-
Among hundreds more from nearly all the borgata’s in America.
————-
Lengthy arrest record starts 1936:
-
1936 possessing two guns
1937 vagrancy
1937 vagrancy
1938 assault and robbery
1938 fugitive
1939 auto theft, grand larceny (1-2 yrs)
1941 stolen goods
1942 narcotics (1 year federal)
1945 felonious assault
1945 criminal inquiry
1952 criminal registration violation
1950-1960 ? Tax evasion (failure to file federal income tax returns)
1972 gambling and conspiracy
Note: [convicted of several charges,
served related jail terms]
—————-
In 1969, LE reports Patsy, Mickey and Norm Rothman, were in discussion with pornographer Eddie Mishkin to open up to six dirty-book stores to Miami and several dirty-movie theatre’s. Shipping the porno in from out of state.
—————-
Little Paddy Erra died young in 1973. He was only 57 years old!
—————————————————-——————————————————
——
Lived for a time in Astoria, NY before relocating down to Florida in the late-1940’s/early 50’s, Erra resided for years at (3720 Chase Blvd.) Miami Beach, Florida.
——
He had a younger brother Michael, also a Genovese figure. And a son Robert, while not a mob figure per se, was associated with this group.
——
Note: [at 5’-5”, 140lbs. trim-small frame, Patsy’s appearance belied his ability and reputation as a tough guy. He was known to handle himself very well, having been a professional boxer in his youth]
-
Note: [an avid golfer, Patsy and Max Eder - a mob associate, always play as a twosome]
—————
FBI # 1593543, NYPD # B-151752.
—————-
Erra started out as a young hoodlum in New York’s Harlem. Patsy and his brother Mike were said to have performed a contract for Mike Coppola to hit a guy. Although they shot the guy in a Harlem movie theatre, he didn’t die. Nonetheless because of the service to the Family Patsy was “made”.
-
He operated in NYC for some years until visiting Miami during the 1940’s, he liked the atmosphere so much that he eventually relocated there permanently!
-
As the years past, Erra, a very well-liked mafioso, became the un-official “de facto” mob “greeter” so to speak! It seemed that everybody who was anybody made it their business to visit and socialize with Patsy when in South Florida.
—————-
The McClellan Committee in 1964 named Erra as a “soldier” and top leader in the Miami underworld. He was described as a confidant and aide of Trigger Mike Coppola, and the man who was the Miami rackets overseer for Coppola.
-
When subpoenaed to testify before the committee, Erra of course
repeatedly invoked his fifth amendment rights.
-
Upon Coppola’s death, it was said the Erra took over all Genovese LCN regime activities in South Florida. He was definitely one of the controlling powers in Florida in his era at any rate!
-
Over the years Erra was repeatedly subpoenaed before various mob grand juries for testimony, usually pleading the fifth!
—————-
Known Criminal Activities:
-
Gambling rackets: (although Erra was not a gambler, he oversaw others who ran extensive gaming operations for the regime; these included legal casino gaming, bookmaking, policy, cards-dice)
Note: [during the Batista regime in Cuba, “Little Paddy” Erra was known to go back and forth regularly - suspected of overseeing Coppola’s interests there]
-
Shylocking: operated on a large scale through multiple sub-shylocks both in Florida and New York
-
Extortion/Strong-arm tactics: known enforcer in his younger days, said to control the “shakedown” of bookies, shylocks in Miami by his minions
-
Smuggling narcotics: suspected of trafficking in heroin and cocaine, had a previous drug conviction
-
Bar-nightclub infiltration: a primary focus was to move in on licensed establishments throughout Collins Avenue and vicinity
-
Note: [several associates listed with an * below were utilized by Erra for running racket operations for him]
—————-
During the 1950’s and 1960’s, he was suspected of representing mob interests in the famed “Ronde Bar” at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach, a favorite hangout and destination for major racket figures visiting Miami from across the country.
Note: [The Fontainebleau, owned by Lansky associate and financier Ben Novak, was a safe-haven for Erra. He operated gaming, shylock and other rackets for years with total impunity and safety from this locale]
——
Dean Martin’s Restaurant
79th Street Causeway,
N. Bay Village, Miami Beach, Fla.
(Dean Martin backed this venture)
——
Although not officially an owner, Patsy was thought to have had a hidden interest. Erra was listed as the general manger until the SLA forced his “firing”.
——-
“The Dream Bar” (hidden owner of hotel and bar)
in The Johnina Hotel
Miami Beach, Florida
——-
Albion Bar (alleged had an interest)
Collins Ave., Miami Beach area
——-
Reliable Plumbing Co., (partner)
703 71st St., Miami Beach, Fla
——-
Temple Meat-Packing Co.,
W. 14th Street, NY, NY and
64 NW 11th Street, Miami, Florida
(“commission salesman” to restaurants and nightclubs)
-—————-
Virtually nearly all top mobsters from across the country when visiting South Florida made seeing Erra a priority. But among his closer
associates were:
-
Santo Trafficante Jr: often saw Erra when in Miami, associate-friend
-
Joe Massei - semi-retired Detroit top hoodlum, highly respected
-
Michael (Trigger Mike) Coppola - top E. Harlem boss who migrated south, managing his crew from Florida
-
Anthony (Fat Tony) Salerno - watchdog for Coppola’s rackets in NYC, reported to Florida often
-
Alexander (Al Ross) Rosato - Harlem native, crew soldier and major shylock, boyhood friend
-
Dominick (Swats Mulligan) Ciaffone- old-time crew soldier, friend
-
Alfredo (Freddy Red Shirt) Felice - respected, highly fluid Genovese soldier, moved to Florida during the 1940-50’s era, friend
-
Raymond Patriarca -NE Boss close friend
-
Gabriel (Kelly) Mannarino - a top Pittsburgh Boss, also a close friend and associate (Kensington PA)
-
Sam Mannarino - another top Kensington figure, close associate
-
Max (Maxie Raymond) Eder * - a transplanted NYC gambler/loanshark who fronted for Erra and Coppola, ran the card room in the Fontainebleau where high-stakes games were held - Erra was always his partner
-
Salvatore (Sal the Sailor) Ciccone - Lucchese figure, associate of Erra
-
Norman Rothman * - operated a loan-shark ring for Erra, close aide
-
Fabio DeCrestofaro * - a loan collector
-
Jack Herman - another Erra minion and associate, gambler, conman, owns a carpet store & Jewish deli
-
Michael (Mickey) Erra * - kid brother to Patsy and his aide
-
Robert (Bobby) Erra * - Patsy’s son, college educated and personable, became a mob associate of Dad’s
-
Vincent (Terry) Teriaca * - Erra associate, Lansky son-in-law, later murdered
-
Among hundreds more from nearly all the borgata’s in America.
————-
Lengthy arrest record starts 1936:
-
1936 possessing two guns
1937 vagrancy
1937 vagrancy
1938 assault and robbery
1938 fugitive
1939 auto theft, grand larceny (1-2 yrs)
1941 stolen goods
1942 narcotics (1 year federal)
1945 felonious assault
1945 criminal inquiry
1952 criminal registration violation
1950-1960 ? Tax evasion (failure to file federal income tax returns)
1972 gambling and conspiracy
Note: [convicted of several charges,
served related jail terms]
—————-
In 1969, LE reports Patsy, Mickey and Norm Rothman, were in discussion with pornographer Eddie Mishkin to open up to six dirty-book stores to Miami and several dirty-movie theatre’s. Shipping the porno in from out of state.
—————-
Little Paddy Erra died young in 1973. He was only 57 years old!
—————————————————-——————————————————
-
maxiestern11
- Full Patched
- Posts: 1989
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 12:41 pm
Re: Maxie's Genovese Profiles
SALVATORE (SALLY STRETCH) STRACCI - born 1911 in East Harlem, where he resided for many years at (238 E. 106th Street).
———-
The younger brother of Joseph (Joe Stretch) Stracci.
———-
Activities: policy rackets, garment industry.
———-
He listed his legitimate employment as “production manager” at Jovon Fashions, Inc., located at 225 West 37th Street, Manhattan..... a dress manufacturing firm where brother Joe was listed as a partner.
———-
Identified by the late 1950’s as an “associate” in the Genovese mob, and his brothers aide-helper.
———-
In 1958, Sal was one of thirteen arrested after police made a series of raids against three East Harlem numbers “banks”.
-
Considered a policy “controller” in the operation, “Sally Stretch” (47) was one of several nabbed while tallying policy ribbons at one “bank” raiders smashed at 422 East 115th Street.
-
The arrested gamblers were all indicted on charges of conspiracy; contriving, drawing and assisting in a lottery; and maintaining a policy business.
-
Stracci eventually plead guilty to the second count of: contriving, drawing and assisting in a lottery.
-
He was sentenced to a jail term of six-months imprisonment, but said sentence was suspended. He was then placed on probation for the six-month term. He also paid a fine.
-
Note: [Sal Stracci had no previous record]
————
Salvatore “Sally Stretch” Stracci was typical of the many brothers, cousins, uncles, fathers, nephews, and other family members and close friends of top mafiosi who often operated in the shadows all their lives, performing vital functions to keep the various “borgata’s” running smoothly, and yet were completely unknown to the general public!
-
Highly trusted and respected, for their devotion and protection of their family members!
-
East Harlem and many other New York City Italian stronghold neighborhoods were full of them! One of the reasons Cosa Nostra was so strong for decades!
—————————————————-——————————————————
———-
The younger brother of Joseph (Joe Stretch) Stracci.
———-
Activities: policy rackets, garment industry.
———-
He listed his legitimate employment as “production manager” at Jovon Fashions, Inc., located at 225 West 37th Street, Manhattan..... a dress manufacturing firm where brother Joe was listed as a partner.
———-
Identified by the late 1950’s as an “associate” in the Genovese mob, and his brothers aide-helper.
———-
In 1958, Sal was one of thirteen arrested after police made a series of raids against three East Harlem numbers “banks”.
-
Considered a policy “controller” in the operation, “Sally Stretch” (47) was one of several nabbed while tallying policy ribbons at one “bank” raiders smashed at 422 East 115th Street.
-
The arrested gamblers were all indicted on charges of conspiracy; contriving, drawing and assisting in a lottery; and maintaining a policy business.
-
Stracci eventually plead guilty to the second count of: contriving, drawing and assisting in a lottery.
-
He was sentenced to a jail term of six-months imprisonment, but said sentence was suspended. He was then placed on probation for the six-month term. He also paid a fine.
-
Note: [Sal Stracci had no previous record]
————
Salvatore “Sally Stretch” Stracci was typical of the many brothers, cousins, uncles, fathers, nephews, and other family members and close friends of top mafiosi who often operated in the shadows all their lives, performing vital functions to keep the various “borgata’s” running smoothly, and yet were completely unknown to the general public!
-
Highly trusted and respected, for their devotion and protection of their family members!
-
East Harlem and many other New York City Italian stronghold neighborhoods were full of them! One of the reasons Cosa Nostra was so strong for decades!
—————————————————-——————————————————
-
maxiestern11
- Full Patched
- Posts: 1989
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 12:41 pm
-
MichaelGiovanni
- Straightened out
- Posts: 417
- Joined: Thu Dec 21, 2017 8:16 pm
Re: Maxie's Genovese Profiles
Maxie I would love to read what you got on Benny squints.
Nice rug ya got here kid...it’d be great for a craps game
-
maxiestern11
- Full Patched
- Posts: 1989
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 12:41 pm
Re: Maxie's Genovese Profiles
I don’t know how much is out there on Lombardo, but I’ll look into it ok MG..... promise !MichaelGiovanni wrote: ↑Sun Sep 22, 2019 10:08 pm Maxie I would love to read what you got on Benny squints.
-
maxiestern11
- Full Patched
- Posts: 1989
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 12:41 pm
Re: Maxie's Genovese Profiles
PASQUALE (PADDY MAC) MACCHIAROLE - born 1922. Came out of the Williamsburg/Greenpoint section of Brooklyn. Later moved to the Middle Village/Maspeth area (77-03 Elliot Ave), an adjoining neighborhood where many from that section of Brooklyn later bought homes.
———
Identified by the mid-1960’s as a Genovese member, who later rose to be a top “captain” in the Family.
———
Criminal Activities:
-
Gambling
Loansharking
Extortion and Shakedowns
Labor racketeering (unions)
Strong-arm tactics
Hijacking
Fencing stolen goods
Business infiltration (specifically bars, restaurants and nightclubs)
cigarette smuggling
..........he was a very aggressive guy. Once he established himself, he became a major force on the streets until his demise!
———
“Paddy Mac” was a major figure in racket operations from the mid-1960’s through the late 1970’s, when he was found murdered in Brooklyn.
———
Until his demise, Macchiarole was a very active and visible hoodlum, seemingly having burst onto the mob scene and before long became a dominate figure in both metropolitan New York and South Florida, where he also had established a “beachhead” for mob expansion.
———
Legitimate interests:
-
The Golden Chariot - a popular nightclub during the 1960-70’s era off Queens Blvd. in Forest Hills. This nightclub was a major mob hangout, most everybody from the five boroughs frequented the place for years before and after Paddy.
-
Frigid Express, Corp., a major NJ based trucking firm that was said to be co-owned by Paddy and Frank Tieri.
-
Note: [and many other nightclubs and cocktail lounges both in NY, LI and Florida that Macchiarole and his minions were said to have “pushed in” on.
———
Macchiarole had a large crew of associates that included several cousins and nephews and other men, some who’d grown up in the general area he had, that gravitated to him.
These included:
-
Vincent (Jamsey) Delio - a cousin and close aide, top Family soldier, later slain
-
Thomas (Red) Delio - another cousin and associate, hijacker, also later slain
-
Joseph (Doo Doo) Pastore - cigarette smuggler, hijacker, later set up and killed by Joe Massino over a small debt Massino owed him
-
Richard Dorme - associate, Pastore’s half brother killed after he squawked about his brothers murder
-
Anthony (Donuts) DeDona - another Queens hood, ran a vending-machine firm, handled untaxed-cigarettes
-
Anthony (Big Tony) Capotorto - a young hood (6’-5”, 250lbs) vicious enforcer and extortionist, active in the Fort Lauderdale area until he was shot dead
-
Robert Grimaldi - a bartender and mob associate later charged with setting up a mob murder
-
And many other hoodlums not listed .
-
Note: [notice that five of the seven men listed above met violent deaths in short order.... it was a bloodbath]
—————
Paddy Macchiarole also knew and interacted with many other top mafiosi including:
-
Vincent (Jimmy Nap) Napoli - a neighborhood friend and sometime ally of Paddy. Nap may have served “under” Paddy at one point
-
John (Sonny) Franzese - an original neighborhood power, who Paddy tried to usurp after Sonny’s jailing
-
Philip (Rusty) Rastelli - another neighborhood guy who would become Bonanno boss, Paddy would try and overtake some of his operations
-
Frank (Funzuola) Tieri - acting Boss at the height of Paddy’s power. Believed to have ordered/signed off on his death
-
Ottaviano (Tommy) Lombardi - had become a Family power during Paddy’s tenure at the top
-
Salvatore (Sally Dogs) Lombardi - Family soldier, some say he personally whacked Paddy
-
Ralph (The Beak) Jacobson - Jewish hoodlum from Williamsburg who was indicted with Paddy for murder, Genoese associate
-
Daniel Jacobson - Ralph’s brother, Williamsburg hood, also indicted for murder, Genovese associate
—————-
By the early 1970’s Macchiarole and his minions were making a big name for themselves and garnering major LE scrutiny. Having not learned any lessons from a friendly competitor named Sonny Franzese - (and his downfall) - Paddy seemed to be making the same mistakes by running like “gangbusters” through the streets!
-
Before long several of his men were arrested by the Queens D.A.’s office. First for several beatings and property damage they had done to a nightspot in the area, and
shortly thereafter on extortion charges for “shaking down” that nightclub.
-
Conrad’s Cloud Room, a popular nightclub tucked inside the El Capitan Motel by LaGuardia Airport had become the focus of their efforts. The owner, a black man by the name of Conrad Greaves in 1972 had gone to the Queens district attorney Thomas J. Mackell and told him and top prosecutor Anthony Lombardino that he was being forced to pay $400. weekly in “protection” money to Paddy Mac and his crew since October of 1971.
-
Before long an empaneled grand jury hearing testimony returned an extortion indictment against Macchiarole. They also had brought felonious assault charges against Anthony DeDona, Thomas Delio, Joseph Pastore, Richard Dorme and Alfred Caponera for perjury.
——
Three weeks after Greaves’ testimony got Paddy indicted, Greaves would pay a steep price! One evening after closing his club at 5am while walking to his parked car, several men stepped out from the shadows of the parking garage and pumped several bullets into the complaining nightclub owner, killing him on the spot!
-
Shortly thereafter, all charges against Macchiarole and company were dropped for lack of evidence (no witnesses).
-
The D.A.’s office and the public in general were outraged by this 1920’s “Al Capone - in your face” style underworld assault!
————-
After an intensive investigation by the homicide squad and FBI, another indictment was brought against Macchiarole and his men.....this one for Greaves’ “gangland style” execution!
-
Macchiarole, the two Jacobson brothers, Grimaldi and Delio were charged with his murder. But after a lengthy trial they were all acquitted!
-
The subsequent newspaper publicity and acquittal only added to Paddy Mac’s mystique as an untouchable mafioso...... now Paddy really felt his oats!
——————
He garnered much LE attention and underworld accolades alike in the ensuing 3-4 years through the 1970’s.
-
Then there was total silence!........
One day in 1978, Paddy just up and disappeared after driving off in his new burgundy colored Lincoln Continental from his Maspeth home. He had a busy schedule to meet. As the day progressed, and he failed to
be where he was supposed to be or even contact people, those close to him knew something was very wrong.
-
After his sudden “Houdini Act”, three weeks later, his family received an anonymous tip directing authorities to a automobile parked on a Brooklyn street.
-
There, detectives found his body, stuffed in the trunk of his own car, hog-tied “gangland-style” and shot and stabbed numerous times. The body was in a badly decomposed state, indicating that it had been there awhile.
-
Several years before Paddy’s death, and within a year after his murder, some of his closest relatives also met untimely deaths.
-
These included his cousin-nephew, reputed hijacker Thomas (Red) Delio, found murdered in 1974. Shot multiple times, he was found inside his car trunk. LE suggested that he was silenced to protect his older cousin Paddy.
-
In 1979, his own son John (33), was shot multiple times in the head by a masked gunman in a Maspeth tavern John owned not long after his father got killed. It was alleged by informants that John was killed for talking out loud about avenging his father’s 1978 murder.
-
Not long after that in October 1980, Jamsey Delio (55) would also meet a violent end. Shot dead from multiple pistol wounds to the face and chest by gunmen as he approached the front door of his girlfriend’s Ridgewood, Queens home (1811 Starr Street). Again, Genovese Family intrigue over these multiple murders seemingly all related in such a short period of time puzzled LE, allowing for several “theories”.
——————
The true reasons for these multiple gangland hits have never been uncovered. But one things for sure, just as quickly as Paddy and his crew blasted onto the scene like gangbusters, they were all blasted off the scene with bullets!
———-
I guess some would call his grizzly murder being “Paddy-whacked”!
-
.......Paddy was only 56 years old!
———————————————————————————————————-
———
Identified by the mid-1960’s as a Genovese member, who later rose to be a top “captain” in the Family.
———
Criminal Activities:
-
Gambling
Loansharking
Extortion and Shakedowns
Labor racketeering (unions)
Strong-arm tactics
Hijacking
Fencing stolen goods
Business infiltration (specifically bars, restaurants and nightclubs)
cigarette smuggling
..........he was a very aggressive guy. Once he established himself, he became a major force on the streets until his demise!
———
“Paddy Mac” was a major figure in racket operations from the mid-1960’s through the late 1970’s, when he was found murdered in Brooklyn.
———
Until his demise, Macchiarole was a very active and visible hoodlum, seemingly having burst onto the mob scene and before long became a dominate figure in both metropolitan New York and South Florida, where he also had established a “beachhead” for mob expansion.
———
Legitimate interests:
-
The Golden Chariot - a popular nightclub during the 1960-70’s era off Queens Blvd. in Forest Hills. This nightclub was a major mob hangout, most everybody from the five boroughs frequented the place for years before and after Paddy.
-
Frigid Express, Corp., a major NJ based trucking firm that was said to be co-owned by Paddy and Frank Tieri.
-
Note: [and many other nightclubs and cocktail lounges both in NY, LI and Florida that Macchiarole and his minions were said to have “pushed in” on.
———
Macchiarole had a large crew of associates that included several cousins and nephews and other men, some who’d grown up in the general area he had, that gravitated to him.
These included:
-
Vincent (Jamsey) Delio - a cousin and close aide, top Family soldier, later slain
-
Thomas (Red) Delio - another cousin and associate, hijacker, also later slain
-
Joseph (Doo Doo) Pastore - cigarette smuggler, hijacker, later set up and killed by Joe Massino over a small debt Massino owed him
-
Richard Dorme - associate, Pastore’s half brother killed after he squawked about his brothers murder
-
Anthony (Donuts) DeDona - another Queens hood, ran a vending-machine firm, handled untaxed-cigarettes
-
Anthony (Big Tony) Capotorto - a young hood (6’-5”, 250lbs) vicious enforcer and extortionist, active in the Fort Lauderdale area until he was shot dead
-
Robert Grimaldi - a bartender and mob associate later charged with setting up a mob murder
-
And many other hoodlums not listed .
-
Note: [notice that five of the seven men listed above met violent deaths in short order.... it was a bloodbath]
—————
Paddy Macchiarole also knew and interacted with many other top mafiosi including:
-
Vincent (Jimmy Nap) Napoli - a neighborhood friend and sometime ally of Paddy. Nap may have served “under” Paddy at one point
-
John (Sonny) Franzese - an original neighborhood power, who Paddy tried to usurp after Sonny’s jailing
-
Philip (Rusty) Rastelli - another neighborhood guy who would become Bonanno boss, Paddy would try and overtake some of his operations
-
Frank (Funzuola) Tieri - acting Boss at the height of Paddy’s power. Believed to have ordered/signed off on his death
-
Ottaviano (Tommy) Lombardi - had become a Family power during Paddy’s tenure at the top
-
Salvatore (Sally Dogs) Lombardi - Family soldier, some say he personally whacked Paddy
-
Ralph (The Beak) Jacobson - Jewish hoodlum from Williamsburg who was indicted with Paddy for murder, Genoese associate
-
Daniel Jacobson - Ralph’s brother, Williamsburg hood, also indicted for murder, Genovese associate
—————-
By the early 1970’s Macchiarole and his minions were making a big name for themselves and garnering major LE scrutiny. Having not learned any lessons from a friendly competitor named Sonny Franzese - (and his downfall) - Paddy seemed to be making the same mistakes by running like “gangbusters” through the streets!
-
Before long several of his men were arrested by the Queens D.A.’s office. First for several beatings and property damage they had done to a nightspot in the area, and
shortly thereafter on extortion charges for “shaking down” that nightclub.
-
Conrad’s Cloud Room, a popular nightclub tucked inside the El Capitan Motel by LaGuardia Airport had become the focus of their efforts. The owner, a black man by the name of Conrad Greaves in 1972 had gone to the Queens district attorney Thomas J. Mackell and told him and top prosecutor Anthony Lombardino that he was being forced to pay $400. weekly in “protection” money to Paddy Mac and his crew since October of 1971.
-
Before long an empaneled grand jury hearing testimony returned an extortion indictment against Macchiarole. They also had brought felonious assault charges against Anthony DeDona, Thomas Delio, Joseph Pastore, Richard Dorme and Alfred Caponera for perjury.
——
Three weeks after Greaves’ testimony got Paddy indicted, Greaves would pay a steep price! One evening after closing his club at 5am while walking to his parked car, several men stepped out from the shadows of the parking garage and pumped several bullets into the complaining nightclub owner, killing him on the spot!
-
Shortly thereafter, all charges against Macchiarole and company were dropped for lack of evidence (no witnesses).
-
The D.A.’s office and the public in general were outraged by this 1920’s “Al Capone - in your face” style underworld assault!
————-
After an intensive investigation by the homicide squad and FBI, another indictment was brought against Macchiarole and his men.....this one for Greaves’ “gangland style” execution!
-
Macchiarole, the two Jacobson brothers, Grimaldi and Delio were charged with his murder. But after a lengthy trial they were all acquitted!
-
The subsequent newspaper publicity and acquittal only added to Paddy Mac’s mystique as an untouchable mafioso...... now Paddy really felt his oats!
——————
He garnered much LE attention and underworld accolades alike in the ensuing 3-4 years through the 1970’s.
-
Then there was total silence!........
One day in 1978, Paddy just up and disappeared after driving off in his new burgundy colored Lincoln Continental from his Maspeth home. He had a busy schedule to meet. As the day progressed, and he failed to
be where he was supposed to be or even contact people, those close to him knew something was very wrong.
-
After his sudden “Houdini Act”, three weeks later, his family received an anonymous tip directing authorities to a automobile parked on a Brooklyn street.
-
There, detectives found his body, stuffed in the trunk of his own car, hog-tied “gangland-style” and shot and stabbed numerous times. The body was in a badly decomposed state, indicating that it had been there awhile.
-
Several years before Paddy’s death, and within a year after his murder, some of his closest relatives also met untimely deaths.
-
These included his cousin-nephew, reputed hijacker Thomas (Red) Delio, found murdered in 1974. Shot multiple times, he was found inside his car trunk. LE suggested that he was silenced to protect his older cousin Paddy.
-
In 1979, his own son John (33), was shot multiple times in the head by a masked gunman in a Maspeth tavern John owned not long after his father got killed. It was alleged by informants that John was killed for talking out loud about avenging his father’s 1978 murder.
-
Not long after that in October 1980, Jamsey Delio (55) would also meet a violent end. Shot dead from multiple pistol wounds to the face and chest by gunmen as he approached the front door of his girlfriend’s Ridgewood, Queens home (1811 Starr Street). Again, Genovese Family intrigue over these multiple murders seemingly all related in such a short period of time puzzled LE, allowing for several “theories”.
——————
The true reasons for these multiple gangland hits have never been uncovered. But one things for sure, just as quickly as Paddy and his crew blasted onto the scene like gangbusters, they were all blasted off the scene with bullets!
———-
I guess some would call his grizzly murder being “Paddy-whacked”!
-
.......Paddy was only 56 years old!
———————————————————————————————————-
-
maxiestern11
- Full Patched
- Posts: 1989
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 12:41 pm
Re: Maxie's Genovese Profiles
Here you go MG, I just posted Benny Squint for you. It was the best I could do with him. There’s not too much on him. Hope you like it!MichaelGiovanni wrote: ↑Sun Sep 22, 2019 10:08 pm Maxie I would love to read what you got on Benny squints.
-
maxiestern11
- Full Patched
- Posts: 1989
- Joined: Sun Sep 02, 2018 12:41 pm
Re: Maxie's Genovese Profiles
PHILIP (COCKEYED PHIL) LOMBARDO - born 1908. aka: “Benny Squint”.
Came out of the East Harlem, Bronx area. During the 1950’s he resided at 1266 Olmstead Avenue, Bronx.
-
Last resided at 324 Audubon Road, Englewood, NJ.
-
Also spent considerable time (since the 1940’s) in Miami Beach, Florida. Later buying a winter home in the Hollywood section of Broward County.
————-
FBI # 201426, NYPD # B-90771, Miami PD # 4154.
————-
Lombardo cast an unassuming presence; small in stature at 5’-6”, 155lbs., bald with a crossed eye. His appearance belied his ability as a mobster and deadly underworld torpedo!
————-
Identified by the late 1940’s as a major Harlem mob figure under the direction of Trigger Mike Coppola.
Also very close to Vito Genovese. During the 1963 Valachi Hearings Lombardo was named as a Family soldier.
————-
It was not until the early-mid 1960’s with the FBI starting to plant listening devices - “bugs” among certain strategic mob clubs and locations that Lombardi’s true power started to be revealed.
-
His name was bandied around by top mob figures in conversation, allowing the FBI to partially understand his position in the Genovese hierarchy.
————-
Criminal record commenced 1928;
-
1928 violating narcotics laws
1929 robbery
1929 narcotics law violations
1931 attempted extortion
1931 robbery with a revolver
1934 consorting with criminals
1934 consorting with criminals
1939 vagrancy
1939 criminal inquiry (narcotics)
1942 narcotics conspiracy (6 month jail term)
1946 criminal registration (Miami)
1953 possessing a stolen auto
1958 consorting with criminals
-
Despite being picked up at least thirteen times for serious offenses, with the exception of the one small jail term named above, Lombardo seems to have avoided serious legal problems. And although obviously well known to authorities, seemed to have nonetheless stayed in the shadows for much of his career!
————-
A hoodlum through and through, Lombardo was never known to engage in any legitimate business.
————-
Criminal associates included:
-
Vito Genovese
Antonio (Tony Bender) Strollo
Michael (Trigger Mike) Coppola
Anthony (Fat Tony) Salerno
Thomas (Tommy Ryan) Eboli
Gerardo (Jerry) Catena
Charles (Charlie Bullets) Albero
Salvatore (Tom Mix) Santoro
Giovanni (Big John) Ormento
Pasquale (Patty Jerome) Genese
Joseph (Babo) Vento
......... among most others in the NY-NJ underworld.
————-
“Benny Squint” as his friends called him, was considered by both LE and “the street” as a very respected and feared mafioso.
-
He started out under the auspices of Trigger Mike, as his bodyguard-driver. And as stated above, his outward appearance belied his true nature as a violent, vicious hoodlum, known as a very “capable” enforcer for that regime.
-
Note: [at one point he is said to have served as Coppola’s “acting capo” for the Harlem regime during Mike’s extended Florida stays, becoming official after Coppola’s death in 1966]
————-
The FBN (Federal Bureau of Narcotics) listed him as a major wholesaler of heroin throughout the United States. In keeping with the Harlem regime’s propensity for drug trafficking (especially in the 1950’s era).
————-
As the late 1960’s and 1970’s era unfolded, Lombardo was quietly elevated to the “acting boss” position of the Genovese hierarchy. A position he held for years without drawing law enforcements scrutiny. He would ultimately become the “official” boss of that Family, staying in the shadows the entire tenure of his career!
-
Not until the early 1980’s rolled around and several key officially (inducted) members became informers such as Vincent (Fish) Cafaro did LE authorities and the media at large discover who Lombardo really was!
-
Nevertheless, even with that exposure, Benny Squint was able to avoid any serious legal consequences for his remaining years.
————-
Filippo “Cockeyed Phil” Lombardo died in 1987 with little fanfare or media notice.
-
He had lived a life largely in the shadows of New York City, active in the mob for over sixty years operating behind the scenes at the highest levels to facilitate Genovese borgata objectives. Whether it was Coppola’s orders..... or ultimately Vito’s from behind Atlanta Penitentiary’s prison walls.... or later under his own directives, the mob beat marched on!
-
Many of the rank and file soldiers themselves (and that of other families) often didn’t know where the true power in the Family lay! A trend that Lombardo popularized and continues to this very day!
-
He thrived at his chosen “profession”, reaching the very pinnacle of what is arguably the most important and far reaching mafia “octopus” in the United States - The Genovese Family - at that time headed by the venerable Don Vitone himself!
—————————————————-——————————————————
Came out of the East Harlem, Bronx area. During the 1950’s he resided at 1266 Olmstead Avenue, Bronx.
-
Last resided at 324 Audubon Road, Englewood, NJ.
-
Also spent considerable time (since the 1940’s) in Miami Beach, Florida. Later buying a winter home in the Hollywood section of Broward County.
————-
FBI # 201426, NYPD # B-90771, Miami PD # 4154.
————-
Lombardo cast an unassuming presence; small in stature at 5’-6”, 155lbs., bald with a crossed eye. His appearance belied his ability as a mobster and deadly underworld torpedo!
————-
Identified by the late 1940’s as a major Harlem mob figure under the direction of Trigger Mike Coppola.
Also very close to Vito Genovese. During the 1963 Valachi Hearings Lombardo was named as a Family soldier.
————-
It was not until the early-mid 1960’s with the FBI starting to plant listening devices - “bugs” among certain strategic mob clubs and locations that Lombardi’s true power started to be revealed.
-
His name was bandied around by top mob figures in conversation, allowing the FBI to partially understand his position in the Genovese hierarchy.
————-
Criminal record commenced 1928;
-
1928 violating narcotics laws
1929 robbery
1929 narcotics law violations
1931 attempted extortion
1931 robbery with a revolver
1934 consorting with criminals
1934 consorting with criminals
1939 vagrancy
1939 criminal inquiry (narcotics)
1942 narcotics conspiracy (6 month jail term)
1946 criminal registration (Miami)
1953 possessing a stolen auto
1958 consorting with criminals
-
Despite being picked up at least thirteen times for serious offenses, with the exception of the one small jail term named above, Lombardo seems to have avoided serious legal problems. And although obviously well known to authorities, seemed to have nonetheless stayed in the shadows for much of his career!
————-
A hoodlum through and through, Lombardo was never known to engage in any legitimate business.
————-
Criminal associates included:
-
Vito Genovese
Antonio (Tony Bender) Strollo
Michael (Trigger Mike) Coppola
Anthony (Fat Tony) Salerno
Thomas (Tommy Ryan) Eboli
Gerardo (Jerry) Catena
Charles (Charlie Bullets) Albero
Salvatore (Tom Mix) Santoro
Giovanni (Big John) Ormento
Pasquale (Patty Jerome) Genese
Joseph (Babo) Vento
......... among most others in the NY-NJ underworld.
————-
“Benny Squint” as his friends called him, was considered by both LE and “the street” as a very respected and feared mafioso.
-
He started out under the auspices of Trigger Mike, as his bodyguard-driver. And as stated above, his outward appearance belied his true nature as a violent, vicious hoodlum, known as a very “capable” enforcer for that regime.
-
Note: [at one point he is said to have served as Coppola’s “acting capo” for the Harlem regime during Mike’s extended Florida stays, becoming official after Coppola’s death in 1966]
————-
The FBN (Federal Bureau of Narcotics) listed him as a major wholesaler of heroin throughout the United States. In keeping with the Harlem regime’s propensity for drug trafficking (especially in the 1950’s era).
————-
As the late 1960’s and 1970’s era unfolded, Lombardo was quietly elevated to the “acting boss” position of the Genovese hierarchy. A position he held for years without drawing law enforcements scrutiny. He would ultimately become the “official” boss of that Family, staying in the shadows the entire tenure of his career!
-
Not until the early 1980’s rolled around and several key officially (inducted) members became informers such as Vincent (Fish) Cafaro did LE authorities and the media at large discover who Lombardo really was!
-
Nevertheless, even with that exposure, Benny Squint was able to avoid any serious legal consequences for his remaining years.
————-
Filippo “Cockeyed Phil” Lombardo died in 1987 with little fanfare or media notice.
-
He had lived a life largely in the shadows of New York City, active in the mob for over sixty years operating behind the scenes at the highest levels to facilitate Genovese borgata objectives. Whether it was Coppola’s orders..... or ultimately Vito’s from behind Atlanta Penitentiary’s prison walls.... or later under his own directives, the mob beat marched on!
-
Many of the rank and file soldiers themselves (and that of other families) often didn’t know where the true power in the Family lay! A trend that Lombardo popularized and continues to this very day!
-
He thrived at his chosen “profession”, reaching the very pinnacle of what is arguably the most important and far reaching mafia “octopus” in the United States - The Genovese Family - at that time headed by the venerable Don Vitone himself!
—————————————————-——————————————————