The fact of the matter is this. The Feds had their foot on Buffalo crime family neck. The family took many hits in the 90's, notably the late 1990's. The Italians were starting to not be a top priority as other dangerous and bigger crime groups started to take center stage. The FBI infomants and wire taps, revealed that Buffalo had lost a lot of its grip it once had. When September 11, 2001 happen, the FBI shifted its resources and personal over to combat terrorism over the next years. They had their foot on the Buffalo crime family necks, but pulled it off and let buffalo breath once again.
That all sounds good, but I believe that the FBI targeted the Buffalo mob, took away its best rackets, and the Buffalo mob limped off into the woods and died from its wounds. That's what happened with many other families across America as well.
Nicky, I appreciate you opinion. You definitely reflect the thoughts of the Buffalo News and the Feds--that is without question. Your arguments have been well thought out and helped us have a great discussion. Although I certainly understand the feds, the buffalo news, and your position my experience tells me otherwise. I know you are a logic guy and experience plays no role in decision making for you... but some of us go by our gut. I think this is why we will not resolve this debate, at this time. If in the next two years or so nothing comes of the Violi arrests, there is no more LCN type crime in WNY, then I will believe the Buffalo News and Feds. I just can't at this point for the reasons Rooster, Giacomo, and I have stated. That may make me naive or gullible in your eyes and the eyes of others, but that is OK.
