I would guess that would be way too much work - unless they *knew* from a source inside the FBI/cops that they were being watched and could set it up perfectly. I would think most of their efforts are put into not being watched/surveilled at all, ideally.

It's hard enough to carry out complex criminal plots never mind trying to carry on a parallel plot just for show. I can't imagine the FBI would invest much time following around "decoy" associates who never end up committing any actual crimes. And without evidence of any actual crimes they're not going to end up with warrants, etc. to take the investigation very far.

I'm sure the mob is happy enough to take advantage of "useful idiots" for whatever different purpose, but as a pre-ordained plan I would think its not plausible.