Has this been a myth, even when caught? How many capos/button men were whacked for being caught? I'm talking about when they were in good standing and not considered a threat to sing.

Many dons and acting dons have been well publicized as being drug men, it must have been known throughout the ranks. I'm sure you all know the following, but let me post it as a point of reference.

Gambinos: The Gotti's and Sammy the Bull rose to the top on the strength of drug dealing. Gene got sent away- obviously, he was never whacked.

Bonanno: Carmine Galante went to jail over drug trafficking. And when he came out, he was looking to take over the rackets....he didn't act as if he was going to be whacked or demoted based on his drug conviction.

Genovese: Vito ran the family from behind bars, and seemingly had no shame for being convicted for drugs.

Lucchese: Paulie Vario supposedly had a deal and die rule- as per Henry. But Tony Ducks passed him over for the top spot in favor for two known drug men- Vic and Gas.