Cleveland Recent news

http://www.cleveland.com/court-justice/i...i.html#comments

heres another bust
http://www.cleveland.com/court-justice/index.ssf/2015/02/eight_indicted_in_large-scale.html

Nice find fella....not much family stuff going on though

Way to go protecting a child rapist

Agreed. I think the world would be a little bit better off had the FBI allowed this to happen, although I'm not naive and I know that would never be allowed to happen, nor should it be. But, in my opinion, one less animal on the streets who rapes children (or anyone for that matter) is a good thing.

I also wonder who this E.C. character is. The indictment named him as a known member/associate of the Pittsburgh LCN. I've also never heard of James Martino either, and one of the recorded telephone calls in the indictment says that he "ran with and worked under" E.C. for years. Is Martino more aligned with Cleveland or Pittsburgh?

Only guy i can think of from pittsburgh with those initials was eugene chiarallo not sure if i spelled that right but he passed a couple of years ago.

There talking about Eugene ciasullo

I thought the same thing too, Scalish. Eugene Chiarelli is also the only E.C. that I could think of from Pittsburgh. It couldn't have been him though, because Chiarelli passed away in June 2012. In the indictment, it details a meeting on May 2, 2013, in which Confidential Source #2 states that he wanted to get ahold of E.C. to see if "he could help with this".

Don't think it is ciasullo he has been gone forever and a day.

100 percent Ciasullo , Martino is A collinwood guy.

Good enough for me pal.

Strococs, does Ciasullo live in Pittsburgh (or somewhere in PA) now? Admittedly, I don't know much about him, or the Cleveland LCN for that matter, except what I've read in the past.

If it is indeed Ciasullo, then the indictment is very misleading. The footer at the bottom explaining the mentioning of E.C. in the meetings/telephone calls made it seem as if he was an associate/member of the Pittsburgh LCN, not a member of the Cleveland LCN who is now simply just living in Pittsburgh.

yeah he lives In PA it just says that Martino tried to get A hold of EC. There really is no Cleveland LCN left per say to be A associate of. Although Martino did try to get Loose to set up the hit according to the indictment smarty he declined.

I know -- much the same way as whats going on in Pittsburgh nowadays, too. No formal hierarchy or structure to be considered an actual mob "family", but remnants left who are still operating the traditional bread and butter rackets of the LCN, just maybe not in much of an "organized" manner.

Although, from what I've read, I believe that in terms of an organizational structure, it seems as if Cleveland is much better off today than Pittsburgh. Maybe you could shed some light on this (like I said, I have no knowledge of Cleveland), but I've read that Iacobacci and Papalardo had both inducted new members in the last 15-20 years, and both were attempting to "rebuild" the family while they served as boss. Of course you have to take everything that you read on the internet with a grain of salt, but I've read that some people believe there may be 10 to 15+ made guys. What's your opinion?

I think those 2 guys you mentioned are the only guys left that may be made in Cleveland.

Wow. If that's true, then Cleveland is no better off than Pittsburgh either. And Iacobacci is supposed to be retired and living in Pennsylvania as well, right? Pittsburgh is also down to one "made" member themselves, and at his old age, that number will probably be down to zero sooner rather than later.

Yep not long left for sonny.

http://mafiamembershipcharts.blogspot.it/search/label/Cleveland

Iacobacci-Joseph Joe Loose b.1949 Boss Retired ?
Papalardo-Russell b.1941 ?


Carabbia-Ronald The Crab b.1929
Ciarillo-John* b.1946-
Ciasulo-Eugene* The Animal b.1931 Sol
Cirelli-John* Sol
Cirricullo-Paul* Paul Lish Sol
Comella-James b.1960- Sol
Denova-William b.1940 Sol
Dileno-William Billy D b.1937 Sol
Lucarelli-Ronald b.1958 Sol
Lucarelli-Samuel Sol
Massetta-Russell Rusty b.1952- Sol
Massimiani-John* b.1967 Sol
Oliviero-John b.1952 Sol
Perrotti-Paul* Sol
Sirna-Salvatore* Sol
Vellotta-Anthony b.1941 Sol
Zingale-Thomas* b.1930 Sol retired ?


If the source are reliable there are 19 made men in Cleveland.

Some of the charts made by that guy aren't bad, but I wouldn't consider him very reliable at all. I don't know who his so called sources are or where he gets his information from, but he claims a lot of guys to be made men with absolutely no proof to back it up (and no other sources to confirm). The one he has for Pittsburgh is laughable at best.

I don't know very much about Cleveland, and I clicked on that link and took a five second glance over the page and noticed a glaring mistake right off the bat. He claims John Nardi as a soldier, and obviously that's wrong. If someone with hardly any knowledge about that family noticed that, I can only imagine the rest of the mistakes he's made.

http://mafiamembershipcharts.blogspot.it/search/label/Pittsburgh

Off the top of my head, his 1950's thru 1980's Pittsburgh membership has AT LEAST 12 guys he claims as soldiers who were only associates. And, I'm sure someone like Oscar who is a much more knowledgeable researcher on Pittsburgh than myself could even add a few more mistakes.

1. Ernie Biondillo - Youngstown associate, never made
2. Eugene Chiarelli - never made
3. Augustine Ferrone - never made
4. Eugene Gesuale - never made
5. Tony Grosso - not even considered an associate by some, he merely ran a large numbers racket (and paid tribute) that the Pittsburgh family took over after he was imprisoned in 1986, let alone being a made man - and they have him listed as the consigliere at some point?
6. Robert Iannelli - never made, how could he be a capo? Or underboss/consigliere as some other sites have claimed
7. Anthony Imburgia - his father was the consigliere for some time, but Anthony was never made
8. Anthony Martano - don't believe he was a made guy (never even heard of him)
9. Mauro Matone - never made
10. Sandy Naples - his brother Joey, along with Lenny Strollo and Vincenzo "Brier Hill Jimmy" Prato were the only guys from Youngstown to be inducted into the Pittsburgh LCN
11. John Scalzitti - definitely never made, he was just a drug dealer who associated more with the Pagans M.C. than he did with LCN
12. Dante Strollo - Lenny's brother, he also was never made

I understand where you are coming from, King. However, compiling lists like that is extremely difficult, and I wouldn't be too hard on the guy...in fact, I give him a lot of credit for even undertaking that task. As you point out there are some errors in the Pittsburgh family, however, I'm not even sure if what you have listed above is entirely correct...Oscar would probably agree with what you have, but there are a couple of the above, that I think have been made recently (by recently, I mean in the last 15 yrs.)...the real problem is that you won't find a "correct" list from the FBI or even the state police, because they simply aren't investigating them anymore...their juice level isn't enough to justify it.

Yes this is the question,outsite real error like john nardi as soldier when in fact was a powerful associate. The FBI have more dangerous OC gang like the mexican or the bikers to investigate and the cleveland police consider the mafia dead in the 80s eraly 90s;so where we can find a updates list ?
Maybe who rules in the Cleveland or Pittsburgh family can made some people in the end of 90s to today ?
Maybe some guys trip to NY for ask the ok ?

Furio my friend that list on Cleveland is way off pal.

No Cleveland guy is going to NY to ask for an OK on anything.

No sir.

So Scalish what do you think ?

Both Cleveland and Pittsburgh are definitely dead ?

Both are finished. Cleveland appears to have a few more members still alive but what remnants there are in Pittsburgh seem to have been more active in recent years.

Yep Furio they are done I have more member's in my family my wife and 2 kids buddy.

You are right. I wasn't trying to be too hard on him, as you said, compiling a list like that takes nothing short of hours upon hours of research and work. It's a monumental task. My only issue with it is where his information/sources come from. He claims guys as "made" that definitely are not, and if there is even the smallest chance that some of those guys have been made, how is it that only he would know, when nobody else does?

And, do you really believe that Sonny (or anyone else for that matter) has made anybody in Pittsburgh in the last 15 years? I just find that highly doubtful. I couldn't imagine Genovese inducting anybody in his last few years, either.

I agree with you 100%, and I never said otherwise. I shouldn't have used the term "organizational structure", because what I was trying to say came off wrong. In my post above, I wrote "I know -- much the same way as whats going on in Pittsburgh nowadays, too. No formal hierarchy or structure to be considered an actual mob "family", but remnants left who are still operating the traditional bread and butter rackets of the LCN, just maybe not in much of an "organized" manner."

I was trying to say, that it seemed Cleveland was in a better position in terms of "made guys" left, even if not all of them (or many of them) are still active today. They still have the resemblance of their former mafia family, with a boss and a few soldiers underneath of him (as of the 2011 chart that Mukremin made). Pittsburgh may have a boss, but to me that is simply a de facto title being that he is the last "made member" left, and he is 86 (or 87) years old now, on top of the fact that there is no "family" anymore like you stated.

Eugene "The Animal" Ciasullo, he was a chief enforcer and made member with the old guard. He retired to Pennsylvania. Martino was a go between for Ciasullo and Joe Iacobacci. He was a low level associate. The article stated he spoke of Pittsburgh members. The only living made man who did not cooperate in Pittsburgh is Sonny Ciancutti and I could guarantee you he wouldn't speak to Martino. Cleveland has been finished for many years, still some remnants left as it's every man for himself. However, I'm curious as to who the intended target is. Any ideas?

Furio, both families have been dead for a while. Pittsburgh at least lasted until 2006 but Cleveland has been dead since the mid 1990's.

The only other character that E.C could be from Pittsburgh is Geno Chiarelli, he was a master burglar and enforcer for Chucky Porter. He recently died. Here is his information:

His full name is Eugene Chiarelli, he was convicted in the 1990 RICO trial along with Chucky Porter (Underboss) and Louis Raucci (Made Member).

http://www.post-gazette.com/news/obituar...es/201206210241

James Martino was definitely aligned with Cleveland and was the go between for Eugene Ciasullo and Joe Loose

E.C. is Eugene....J.I. is Joe Loose....drawing a blank on who R.B. may be. Any ideas???

Maybe Bucci?

I just don't see a way to get Cleveland ever started again without a lot of casino cash to throw around. It takes a lot of cash to get things rolling again and there aren't enough jobs there to support the "tax" on the Area. Not enough around like what someone that would be interested in starting anyways. Too many people are just letting it go - because every time they get anything going it is jumped on and there isn't enough structure there to hold it together after the initial bust. Too many other ways to make money.

Plus there is nobody of any substance there. Guys like Lonardo, Rockman, Scalish, Licavoli were old school. Guys like Joe Loose and Russell Papalardo never had and will never have what it takes. It's been over for 20 years+ in Cleveland. And those days are never coming back.

Add to that just too damn many people are DEAD and the ones left that knows how - knows better than to start up again at their age - they don't need it.

Licavoli needed to make about 25 guys before he got sent away...he didn't. Now, a few small timers still exist but nobody who was considered a rising star. If Cleveland were still functioning, Ron Carabbia from Youngstown certainly would have been considered for the job...but he is smart and never went back to the life since he was released from prison 13 years ago.

millions are being made in Ohio . If you want it you just have to take it. Just check out the gambling rackets being popped recently. who cares about structure means nothing anymore

I agree. It's not LCN, but gambling still exists even in Anchorage, Alaska. It's human nature.

I never said it was, I just refuting the guys point that there is noting to take. J

If I'm not mistaken, I believe the Hungarian population in Cleveland is pretty big into illegal gambling. I know of a "few" after hours gambling joints around the city and on the outskirts.

My understanding is that Carabbia isn't even made. And ongoing local gambling busts without LCN involvement is one of the surest signs that a family is finished or nearly so. Structure means a lot as far as a family still existing. It's one of the two basic criteria for an ongoing criminal enterprise. However, as we've seen in Pittsburgh and Kansas City, for example, individual LCN members and associates can still run gambling operations with there being no real formally structured family left.

The ages need updating but these are the living made members I have seen.

1. William "Billy" DeNova/71
2. William "Billy D" Dileno/75
3. Joseph "Joe Loose" Iacobacci/62
4. Ronald Lucarelli Jr/53
5. John Oliverio/59
6. Russell Papalardo/70
7. Anthony Velotta/70


I've also seen these names floated from time to time but I don't think any are made. Ages also need updating. Some may have died.

Edward Angelucci
Ralph "Bosie" Bucci/62
Ronald "Ronnie Crab" Carabbia/83
John Ciarello
Eugene "The Animal" Ciasullo/82
John Cirelli
Paul Cirricullo
James Comella
Samuel Lucarelli
John Massimiani/47
Nicholas "Nick" Nardi/85
Paul Perrotti
Salvatore "Sam" Sirna
Thomas Zingale/84


Members who have died since 2000 include John Iorillo and Pater Sanzo in 2010 and Joseph Gallo in 2013.

the fact that a criminal organization has been downed to a living 5-7 members makes me not even interested in it, like its not even interesting OC anymore, the mobsters should keep in mind people like us who watch and know they should just retire knowing that it would make us watchers lives easier than to argue whether they still exist or not. maybe they could come out and just say "we exist" or "we dont exist" you know?

Carabbia got buttoned while in prison and they took excellent care of his wife Josephine because they were afraid he would talk. Carabbia was Tony DelSanter's hand chosen successor to the Warren/Niles (Trumbull County) rackets.

I hear ya Extortion...but I don't think these guys are looking to make headlines about whether they exist or not. Their primary concern is making money. All of us enjoy debating whether they exist, but I highly doubt guys like Carabbia and company do. From a history perspective, Cleveland has one of the best in the country and had more clout with the Teamsters Union than any other family (arguably). If you enjoy history, then talking about now defunct crime families is enjoyable...especially if you're from the area like I am.

Exactly Structure or no structure it's only about the money , everyone is being low key and just making money

Why would the FBI only release initials ? Instead of naming ciasullo and company ?

Ciasullo has been retired to Western PA for a long time, I highly doubt he is involved in any organized crime these days. I'd be shocked if he was part of the planning.

Ronnie Carabbia spends most of his time in Sarasota. His son made millions from his dad's gambling money by investing in real estate, a large fireworks company called Sky King and from the "games of skill" machines. He's enjoying his grand kids and helping his son out.

Yes - I heard some of the same - The only thing I would add is that Ronnie is actually 84 he was born in September 1930. Josephine is 75. Ronnie A. Carabbia is 51 lives in Sarasota/Lakewood Ranch, FL Area. I don't want to put to much out there.

Wouldn't surprise me at all guy had been Acrook his whole life , according to the indictment it said they couldn't even get ahold of him. Just wondering why they only refer to him as ec, why not use his name just seems like the da and the Feds we're trying to snag a big name and failed

I'm not implying they are behaving criminally, Big Ron paid his dues like a man, his son was able to have the foresight to do the right thing and be a legitimate businessman. His family has been persecuted enough my the local media and the fact of the matter is that they are a good family and well respected. When the bombing wars were over, Big Ron kept the city of Struthers safe and prosperous. Many local Mahoning County residents wish guys like Ronnie Carabbia and Jimmy Prato ran the show...had Ronnie not gone to prison, his brother Charlie wouldn't have disappeared...You could take that to the bank. When Ronnie went to prison for the Danny Greene murder, shortly thereafter is when Brier Hill Jimmy and Joey Naples started wiping out Cleveland guys on direct orders from Big John LaRocca in Pittsburgh...Ronnie was Tony DelSanter's protege and hand chosen successor. People say he wasn't made in the early 70's and that is the most likely scenario, but keep in mind that NY and the Genovese Crime Family who represented Cleveland in the National Commission had a moratorium on new members, as did all other families across the country. The books were closed on membership and "high level associates" had the responsibilities of made guys and Capo's, but they had to have permission from the Genovese's. Tony Salerno in NY gave Lonardo/Licavoli permission to make 10 or more members and that if they needed more, just let "Peanuts" know, referring to John Tronolone, high ranking advisor to Cleveland and the direct go between for John Scalish, James Licavoli and Angeli Lonardo and Tony Salerno at the Palma Boys Social Club in East Harlem. Ronnie would have been in Tony DelSanter's position had he not got indicted for the Danny Greene bombing. DelSanter died in late August of 1977 and RC was arrested in October not long after the bombing of Greene. Crazy memories for the locals considering Youngstown's size comparing to large cities.

Very arguably. A number of families had more Teamster clout than Cleveland, starting with the Genovese. I would also add the Gambinos, Luccheses, and Chicago. I think Cleveland would be more on par with the Bufalinos or Kansas City.

Ahhh...I think you're a bit off Wiseguy. Through Tony & Frank Milano, Cleveland was heavily involved in unions and had most of the motion picture unions in L.A, through Maishe Rockman and his close friendship to Bill Presser and Jackie Presser, they had almost all locals in greater Cleveland under their control and Ohio has one of the largest Teamsters presence in the country.

1978 Report

Ohio States Conferences of Teamsters - William Presser is the Chairman of this conference. His son, Jackie, is recording secretary, and John J. Felice, a confidant of Jimmy Hoffa, is Trustee.

Teamster Joint Council 41 IBT Cleveland - William Presser is the President and Jackie Presser is Vice President of this organization. John J. Felice, Jr., is recording secretary. John J. Felice is very close to Chuck O'Brien and Tony Giacalone. Also an employee of Joint Council 41 prior his death was John Nardi a major figure in the organized crime community in the Cleveland area.

Locals, 73, 293, and 796 IBT Cleveland - All three of these Teamster Locals are controlled by John J. Felice, Jr. In Locals 73 and 293 he is the Secretary Treasurer and his father is President. In Local 796 he is also Secretary Treasurer with Jackie Presser being the President. As mentioned above Felice is a confidant of Chuck O'Brien and Tony Giacalone.

Local 416 - IBT Cleveland. This local has long been a haven for members of the Cleveland LCN. A former official Pat Catalano was murdered in 1965 as the result of a gang war. Nick Nardi, the current Secretary Treasurer is a brother of the later John Nardi who was killed in May 1977 in a LCN power struggle. Nick Nardi, as was his brother, is a member of the Cleveland LCN.

Local 410 - IBT Cleveland. The former Secretary treasurer, John Nardi, who was recently murdered, has been identified as a member of the LCN. He has been involved in the investigation of a murder of an Akron, Ohio contractor.

Local 860 - Cleveland. Tony Liberatorte(sp), business manager,(see page 51) has served 20 years for a conviction for the murder of a policeman. He has recently been appointed to serve on the Cleveland Sewer Board despite heavy criticism from the press. In 1973 Liberatore supplied $150,000 in stolen securities to Harry Hall, a teamster hanger-on, for sale in Chicago.

CLEVELAND
The leaders of organized crime captured control of the major portion of the labor movement in Cleveland at an early date. This domination continues to this day.

One of the first documented association between organized crime and the labor movement dates back to the early 1940's when John Scalish, the former head of organized crime in Cleveland, and his close associate Frank Embrescia, came into the control of the Cleveland Federation or Labor. Scalish's contact was William Finnegan the Secretary of the Federation. Embrescia and Scalish were both associates of Mickey Cohen, the notorious Los Angeles racketeer.

The real influence of organized crime in Cleveland's Labor Unions begins with Anthony Milano, who during the late 1920's and early 1940's was consiglieri of the Mayfield Road gang, the predecessor organization to the current Cleveland syndicate. Milano gained a foothold in the Teamsters Union by organizing the Commission House Workers Teamster Local 400. The Teamsters were unable to organize the commission house workers and Milano made a deal that if the Teamsters would place an individual of his choosing as the head of the Union he would see that the commission house workers were organized. The Teamsters agreed, and Milano organized the workers. The Teamsters subsequently placed Charles Cimino as the head of that organization pursuant to Milano's request.

The Teamsters Union was also infiltrated by organized crime figures Louis "Babe" Triscaro, Frank Brancato, Michael Rini, John J. Felice and several others, all with the assistance of Milano and Scalish. Mike Minaden an LCN member and currently an official of Laundry Workers Local 1 was an associate of Milano dating back to the early 1920's.

Although Milano's influence within the labor movement has diminished recently because of his age and inactivity, John Scalish and his close associate Maishie Rockman continue the control of the labor unions, especially in the Teamsters through Bill and Jackie Presser. It is generally believed that William Presser gained his position as International Vice President through the Cleveland organized crime family connections with the Detroit and Chicago organized crime syndicates.

There are organized crime figures or close associates of organized crime figures in virtually every Teamster organization in the Cleveland area. A discussion of Teamsters in Ohio and the Cleveland area must begin with William Presser. He is closely allied to all major organized crime figures in the area including Anthony Milano, John Scalish, and John DeMarco, now deceased, and on a national level, Allen Dorfman. Presser, had been a close ally of Hoffa, and now Frank Fitzsimmons.

Jackie Presser, his son, has continued to build his public image in the area through appointment to various civic organizations and favorable publicity in the media. He is cultivating political contacts including a close association with Governor Rhodes, and appears on his way to surpassing his father in power and influence throughout Ohio. His goal is reportedly the presidency of the International Teamsters Union.

Closely allied with William and Jackie Presser is Harold Friedman, brother in law of William Presser, who controls Bakery and Confectionery Workers Local 19 as President. Harold Friedman is a convicted felon and a former close associate of Hoffa.

Tony Hughes, Teamster Local 507 Recording Secretary, former prizefighter and muscleman, is a close associate of Jackie Presser and co-owner with Presser's wife of the Forge Restaurant.

John San Filippo, Teamster Local 346 Business Agent, is an associate of Thomas Licavoli, who was the head of the prohibition era Detroit-Toledo Purple Gang and convicted killer who was released from Ohio Penitentiary in 1971. San Filippo was also associated with LCN members Babe Triscaro and Frank Brancato, both deceased. Since "Babe" Triscaro's death in 1974, Local 436, one of the largest Teamster locals in the area, has been placed in trusteeship with William Presser as a Trustee. Sam Busacca, Triscaro's son-in-law and Local 436 Vice President has been permitted to continue to operate the local under the trusteeship.

Teamster Local 410 is made up of vending machine service employees. It's primary function appears to be to maintain peace in the vending machine indudtry through assurance of sites and locations of machines and equipment. Organized Crime figures have been deeply involved in the vending machine business, including the late John Scalish, Milton Rockman, and Frank Embrescia. Carmen Milano, son of Tony Milano, and an attorney, has, over the years been paid a retainer for few, if any, services to this Local along with similar payments he has received from other Teamster Locals including Local 436.

Nick Francis, President, Teamster Local 416, a local made up of non-skilled employees, received the charter for this Local in 1958 through the intercession of Tony Milano. Local 416 has become a haven for organized crime personalities. In the late 1960's Pat Catalano began clashing with Harold Friedman of Local 507 over organizational jurisdiction. In addition, he began openly displaying a lack of respect for Tony Milano. In April, 1968, Catalano was killed, his body has never been found nor his murderer apprehended. After Catalano's disappearance, Nick Oriti, long-time friend and associate of Milano and boyhood friend of Frank Brancato, succeeded Francis as Local 146 Secretary-Treasurer. Nick Nardi, brother of the late LCN member John Nardi, and nephew of Tony Milano, is Trustee and Business Agent of Local 416.

Teamster Local 415 chartered in October, 1973, has as its principal officers, Dennis Francis and Robert Nardi, sons of Nick Francis, Teamster Local 416 Secretary-Treasurer and the late John Nardi.

John Felice, Senior and his son John, Junior, control Local 292. John Sr., is now semi-retired and control of the organization has been gradually turned over to John Jr. Felice Sr., has been close associate of William Presser and Babe Triscaro through the years. The Felice family is known to have been closely associated with Yonnie Licavoli. Felice Sr., visited Licavoli while in the Ohio Penitentiary and identified himself as a second cousin. Felice Jr., is associated with Jackie Presser in Loca1 796 as Secretary-Treasurer nephew of deceased LCN figure Frank Minnitti

Tony Liberatore is Business Agent, of Laborers Local 860. Liberatore spent 20 years in the Ohio Penitentiary for a gangland-style killing of two Cleveland Detectives. He was a close associate of the late Babe Triscaro. Liberatore was the local representative of the Hoover-Gorin Public Relations Firm, which was awarded a contract for $1.3 million annually by the International Teamsters Union. William Presser was instrumental in arranging this contract between the Teamsters and newly formed Hoover-Gorin. Liberatore is present on the Sewer Board of the City of Cleveland.

The President of Laundry Workers Local l is Michael Minaden, known LCN figure and former organization bagman.

Longshoremen Local 1317, which provides the manpower for the Port of Cleveland has a long history of violence going back to the days when Danny Greene headed the Union. Greene was removed from Office following a conviction for violations of the Landrum Griffin Act.

Greene has been associated with various organized crime figures over the years. He has a very close association with Frank Brancato. Since leaving Local 1317 he has been involved in a rubbish hauling association. Greene is believed to be behind many of the bombings which have occurred in Cleveland in recent years. He is also believed to have been involved in a shakedown of contractors on major construction projects in the area along with Brancato.

Ironworkers Local 17 has a long history of violence, muscle, shootings, bombings, assualts, and murders. It has been a haven for ex-convicts over the years.

Restaurant Workers Local 10 is an amalgamation of former waitresses, bartenders, cooks, and miscellaneous restaurant workers locals, which controls the restaurant industry in Cleveland. The local President until recently was Jackie Presser. Another official is Jack Lubin, a suspected loanshark and convicted arsonist.

Local 18, Operating Engineers, is a state-wide organization engaged primarily in operation of heavy equipment. This Local has a long history of violence, muscle, and bombing activity. The trade relationship between Local 18 and teamster Local 436 and Liberatore's Laborers Local 860 has resulted in a close working relationship between the three. Nick Satullo, a known bomb expert, was part of Local 18 operation for many years. There has also been a close relationship between this organization, Teamsters Local 436, Laborers Local 860, and the Excavating and Paving Contractors Association.

A consequence of organized crime's total domination of the labor movement in Cleveland has been the exertion of power in political and commercial circles where dependence upon unions is a necessity. For instance, the City of Cleveland operates the Cleveland Convention Center and Public Hall. The undisputed but yet unofficial boss of the Cleveland Convention Center is Teamster Local 407 President Eddie Lee. Although Lee's sole function is the head of the Local which unloads and moves about exhibits for conventions, he controls the entire hall. The consequence of such activity is the enrichment of Eddie Lee and the chaotic running of this major source of source of revenue for the community. These abuses are under investigation by the Cleveland Strike Force.

The most significant result of organized crime influence over the labor unions is the resulting political influence. The Cleveland area is primarily an industrial community in which the unions wield a tremendous amount of political power. Corrupt union leaders are able to dictate their wishes to political candidates. Judges and prosecutors must curry their favor.

Michael Rini, former Teamster Local 400 President and now Administrative assistant and Labor Advisor to Mayor Ralph Perk plays a dominant role in hiring and firing of county officials. Rini is also know as a "fixer" for any problems that may arrive for influential organized crime figures. Rini was responsible for the transfer of a Police Sergeant who was harrassinq prostitution activities at the Sterling Hotel, a Local organized crime and Teamster hangout. Ernest Zeve, owner of record of the Sterling Hotel is an associate of William Presser. Rini is a protege of Babe Triscaro who was responsible for Rini's rise to power.

Michael Rini is also partially responsible, along with Anthony Milano, for placing Anthony Liberatore on the Cleveland Sewer Board.

Cleveland is a labor town, and the labor unions are in the hands of organized crime. Through this power organized crime has a definite say in the political and economic life of the city.

Angelo Lonardo Senate Statement 1988

http://mafiahistory.us/maf-invl.html

A few links on Maishe Rockman, Cleveland's Meyer Lansky:

http://articles.latimes.com/1986-11-25/news/mn-13174_1_mafia-leaders

http://articles.latimes.com/1987-06-26/news/mn-6660_1_teamsters-president-jackie-presser

http://articles.latimes.com/1987-04-29/news/mn-1511_1_teamster-chief

I'm familiar with the Cleveland family's history with the Teamsters Union. But just the sheer size difference (both family and locale) of some of the families in NY and Chicago would, in and of themselves, make them more influential in the Teamsters Union than a mid-size family like Cleveland. The Genovese family, for instance, had influence or control over Teamster Locals 97, 145, 191,560, 701, 807, 808, 814, 843, 945, as well as Joint Councils 16 and 73. I'm sure I'm missing others. I've also read statements in the past from law enforcement, prosecutors, as well as former mafiosi saying the Genovese had the most clout in the Teamsters Union. And, of course, Cleveland answered to the Genovese.

Like I stated previously, "arguably" but much of the power in the Teamsters came from the midwest, not the east coast. Cleveland may have been the first family who infiltrated a union back in the 1920's through Tony & Frank Milano. Bill Presser was one of the most powerfule, influential Teamster board members in history...and he was childhood friends with Milton "Maishe" Rockman, a top advisor to John Scalish and brother in law.

Lmao persecuted now that's funny.

Oscar's right, the mobs power in the Teamsters were mostly through Mid-West families, like Chicago and Detroit, being the big one and most obvious and spoken about. Size wasn't the ultimate factor, it was mostly about the connections made, Kansas City is in this group too, that's how they got connect to a president, through corrupt union men who'd made those connections, rubbing elbows with local politicians, who were then backed with union/mob money into gaining more prominent, federal positions. Gus Russo's The Outfit book goes deep into the union connections Chicago had and how they got them, as well as a whole section dedicated to Kansas City & Truman.

Oscar, was Jackie presser working with the FBI, when he was controlling a teamsters local for Cleveland?

I believe I read somewhere he was a rat. please correct me if I am wrong.

YES

He was informing on certain individuals who threatened his power...especially Tony Provenzano.

What about fitz joe t

Nice links, Oscar. My family has been in Local 17 for 3 or more generations, at least one being B.A. for quite a long time.

Unless I am overlooking or unaware of something, the earliest LCN involvement in a labor union, at least on a substantial level, is when Genovese captain Joseph "Socks" Lanza created Local 359 of the United Seafood Workers Union in 1923.

Most of the mobbed up Teamster presidents came from the Midwest but the question is what family had the most influence. Hoffa originated in Detroit but would have never been elected in the first place without the support of Anthony Provenzano (and Johnny Dioguardi). Frank Fitzsimmons primarily answered to Provenzano. Roy Williams was affiliated with Kansas City and Jackie Presser with Cleveland but it was Fat Tony Salerno and other Genovese leaders who ultimately selected them as Teamster presidents.

http://articles.latimes.com/1986-03-22/news/mn-21979_1_grand-jury
http://articles.latimes.com/1986-11-25/news/mn-13174_1_mafia-leaders

Unless I am overlooking or unaware of something, the earliest LCN involvement in a labor union, at least on a substantial level, is when Genovese captain Joseph "Socks" Lanza created Local 359 of the United Seafood Workers Union in 1923. [/

Tony Milano was originally part of the Calabrian Black Hand and by the mid 1920's, he was shaking down union members and officers. You may be right on the first "documented" case, but the Jewish Boys from Cleveland and Detroit's Purple Gang also shook down unions in the 1930's.

Hello - my name is Spadine on here. I haven't been on for quite awhile,but i couldn't help commenting on these posts.I was born & raised in Little Italy(cleveland) during the good old days.im not a made man,nor an associate. As a young boy it was my goal --but after everyone going away,thats when it all pretty much stopped.i hung around constant w/ all.I know all the players & pretty much of all that went on .I will not lie bout anything, if i cant answer i will tell you so. Im not a poser or wannabe. As to your questions about the unions & presser & all, i can help alot. Im in my late 50's early60's & dont want to be found out- for my own protection.are you aware of the FBI sting in vegas last week or prior week ?answer back - we can talk alot. I was good friend of friend of henry when i was on bfore

I sent you a pm

The top 3 families in the teamsters union historically was The Genovese through tony pro. Chicago through dorfman Lombardo and senese and the luchesses through Johnny dio and tony Ducks

Tony & Frank Milano from Cleveland through Bill Presser were tied to the highest level of the Teamster Pension Fund. Cleveland was knee deep in labor racketeering and just because they were a smaller family, their Teamster ties were as good as any other family. Yes, Tony Salerno represented Cleveland but ALL of the NY families and Chicago needed favors from Bill Presser and Maishe Rockman.

Good to hear from ya, Spadine.

I didn't hear anything about this - can you tell me more?

Does this have to do with Ohio people? I am a Las Vegas resident from Ohio, incidentally, so that would be interesting to me.

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/fbi-las-vegas-sting-operation-judge-throws-out-evidence/

When was he outed in the plain dealer for being A rat? Then they recanted the story? IRonic he was vouched for by Big Ange

I still believe that Big Ange would never have ratted had it not been for the narcotics violations by his guys.

You are forgetting how things continued on thru jackie presser & his man-harold friedman.then liberatore & so on .cleveland allowed too many misfits in close & were greedy & didnt make any new guys. The danny green problem also pressed problems further.also dont forget bout tony hughes who was w/& worked for jackie presser - hughes also was informer/ carmine parise from 436 local - they all went sour . When all went down the sugarhill gang was left & had no clue what to do . I firmly believe w/ all of me "cleve lcn & assoc" kept sinito in prison & even contributed to his sentence bcuz he was next & truly a very different breed.

Sinito - good to hear from you also.there really hasn't been much talk bout cleveland on here. Until some recent posts & no one has really responded. i would like to get going forward w/ the unions & theire ties & influence on things. This all played such a major role in lcn power & business & family connections(ties) I hope im posting & not just pm ing

Im Spadine.Who is fitz joe t ? For those who do not know me-im not in, not made, not an associate-but associated much withh all of them.did favors for them & was around alot. I was born & raised in murry hill .I stayed there for a very long time before moving . Im in late 50's - early 60's . I like to keep some things vague as to not reveal myself. There. have been times i could easily defend myself-but it give me away. There also things ive seen, done & heard = which would solidify alot- but again- i need be vauge as to not give away who i am.My knowledge is cleveland ,yngstwn ,chitwn & some ny as they pertain & connect to cleveland directly. So lets get going on some recent topics as they started

so why don't you post something to get it started ?

Maybe we need to consider that it may not be in Spadine's best interests to start a post. Perhaps it best if he only responds to those posts that he can speak from his own personal experiences?

Unlike a great deal of the others who post from what they read on the internet, some of us post from real life experiences. Unlike most of the discussions that involve big city families, smaller families appear to be more personal.

If I understand Spadine correctly then he's much like I was: only a "Family Friend", never really involved, but somewhat knowledgeable. My "Family" was from Pittsburgh and pretty much died in 2006. Regardless of what anyone says, there's no real organization left nor is there anyone who cares about what may or may not have happened in the past. However there may be some "Old Timers" left in Cleveland who do care. Thus it's probably best that Spadine simply contributes rather than initiate.

1978 Link to Corrupt Unions in Cleveland: This link is very detailed.

http://www.americanmafia.com/crime_and_labor.html

This article was done back in August of 1978 in Cleveland Magazine. Very well written piece:

Copy & paste into your browser

http://clevelandmagazine.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=E73ABD6180B44874871A91F6BA5C249C&nm=Article+Archives&type=Publishing&mod=Publications::Article&mid=1578600D80804596A222593669321019&tier=4&id=DF84DD6073D84C4DB49BA3EDFA0AFEFF

I have done enough research for 12 years and I have in my possession prison records from Tony Milano. They detail who he communicated with, who visited him etc. Milano was the TRUE power in Cleveland, hands down. I can't share them as we are doing a project that is being worked on currently with three others and it cost them time and money to get the records. However, very interesting and it makes me believe that Milano was one of the most respected mafioso in the country in his heyday.

So then Milano gave the nod to nardi to whack lips moecri?

I wouldn't be worried about the wise guys , I be more worried about these creeps on the Internet .

Point well taken

I agree

frank fitzsimmons, joe t , a clue vice president

I don't know that, but it certainly is plausible.

Question: Was Sam Lucarelli, owner of Minutemen Staffing Agency a made guy? I know he recently died. Obituary below:

http://www.cleveland.com/metro/index.ssf/2013/11/samuel_g_lucarelli_founder_of.html

My Wife and I were discussing a few weeks ago about when Leo disappeared - how the cops and the FBI started questioning everyone at the Akron Sicilian Club about "where were they that night" and who had their alibis in order, etc. Then looking for the body at various locations...

They absolutely hated Leo trying to run Akron - I never heard anyone that liked the guy.

I've read reports that are very parallel to what you are saying. I know Leo was HATED in Youngstown and many people were happy to see him go. His flunky cousin, Jack Licavoli, didn't do him any favors by bumping him up to Underboss.

Mr untouchable

I wonder if the Feds ever offered Mctaggart A sentece reduction on the lips body whereabouts. Assuming he had anything to do with it.

Sam was not made. He was connected & assoc but was very business saavy & kept as low a profile as possible - &&& he is NOT related to ron luccarelli . Sams nephew is in "charge" of bus. John Oliverio is pres. of
1-800-ohio comp & his man glen pauly is on w/ him as well as pappalardo running minutemen . They have same bus. in chicago-readymen they own & also ny & few other places.many times they went after sam but never got him . Good solid guy/ old schoolRIP Sam.ohio comp was genius in idea . They are insurer for companies & really are between injured worker & BWC( but work for co. ) their name alone confuses people to blieve they are part of bwc ! Ironically they are against injured worker & oliverio still is head of a few unions .!!! These are all very lucrative bus. & legit(along w/ some persuasion tactics. Hah

They may have but the grawe bros.saw it thru. You agree
Or believe oterwise. Lips had alot of enemies, was a slob & not liked as you have all stated. This was a slap in the face to j. white to prove a point. I really dont think many cared is my opinion also.

doesnt matter if he was made he had the politicians ,and he put people back in action . yeah They can thank former mayor voinovich for opening the flood gates of money for the bwc. Little inside baseball ?

Fritz says otherwise , the FBI did say it was Ritson and Hans

Picture

Who's this?

Sorry forgot to add , James martino

That's what I thought...this guy's a nobody. Who was he trying to whack? Has the intended victim's name been released?

Haha , they won't release the names unless it's goes to trial he will plead out moat likely. i am surprised they didn't tap yumpy to handle the job as it was spouse to go down in Vegas .

I'm going to find myself in Cleveland for some business very soon coming up- what are the best Italian restaurants? Pizza parlours? Sports bars? How's the little Italy- is it just a tourist trap like manhattans? I'm counting on you Cleveland guys for some solid local info....

Johnny's Bar on Fulton - Simply the best between Chicago and New York. Make a reservation and ask for a table with Ricky. Much better than Johnny's Downtown.

No, I'm not an owner only an old timer retired from a couple of decades in the restaurant business.

You will not be disappointed!

Thank you Henry! Anyone else have anymore suggestions?

Giovanni's if you want high end on Chagrin Blvd in Cleveland. Pizza at Mama Santa's in Little Italy or Geraci's in University Heights. Nido Italia, a very historic mob hangout is really good as well and in a Little Italy. Where exactly are you staying? And I agree with Henry, Johnny's is tops.


http://www.cleveland.com/dining/index.ssf/2014/04/the_19_best_italian_restaurant.html

Thanks Oscar, Ill be on the westside

Giovanni's is an old world classic. Have a cocktail in the lounge first and enjoy a formal evening with great food. Well regarded wine list to boot. Carl is a most gracious and knowledgeable a host. Women love this restaurant.

Johnny's is less formal, but just a pricey. Somewhat like Angelo's on Mulberry. Most will tell you that as good as the food is at Giovanni's, and it's excellent, Johnny's food is best.

BTW: In addition to Johnny's regular wine list, Bo has a private list that will blow your socks off. Not to mention your BR ;-)

Will you have a car?

Here are some Westside Classics (although Johnny's is the best). I spent many college nights in Lakewood along Detroit Ave. Great times over there.

1. Lago (Specialize in Northern Italian, 2nd best on the Westside)
2. Lolita (Mike Symon's restaurant)
3. Cabin Club (Upscale)
4. Pier W (Amazing Views atop a cliff overlooking Lake Erie) http://pierw.com/
5. The Greek Village Grille
6. Bistro on Lincoln Park

Little Italy is in Mayfield which is 25 miles from Lakewood on the Westside, but WELL WORTH the trip if you have a car. Mama Santa's is one of the best pizza parlors in Cleveland as well as Geraci's Pizza in University Heights which is 15 miles from Lakewood (Westside).

Sports Bars are awesome on the Westside, try these:

1. The Harp (Looking out to Lake Erie)
2. Great Lakes Brewing Company-AWESOME local beer, try their Dortmunder Gold

Best Cleveland Little Italy Pizza/Restaurants

http://clevelandlittleitaly.com/

1. Mama Santa's- http://www.mamasantas.com/- MUST DO

2. Nido Italia (Cleveland Mob's primary joint) www.nidoitalia.com MUST DO

3. La Pizzeria- http://www.lapizzerialittleitaly.com/

4. Anthony's- http://www.anthonysoflittleitaly.com/

5. Michaelangelo's- http://www.mangelos.com/ MUST DO

Michael Symon has a place downtown in the Entertainment District, Lola. This entire area is really quite nice. If you go to Lola, ask for their 4-top in the front window. Great view of the area.

You guys are the best, seriously! I will have a car- I'm going to check out a few of these places! Will let u guys know what I think. Thanks again!

Greenhouse tavern
Johnnys bar on Fulton
Lockkeepers
The westside market
Sokolowskis
Slymans
Mama santos
Hot sauce Williams
nido italia (tell em loose sent you )

corbos for pastry

Fuck the corbos

HMMM.. please don't hold really tell us how you feel lol

Charlie Carabbia



Vince DeNiro



Dominic Moyo



DiNapoli Family (Naples)



Joseph "Sandy" Naples, James "Jimmy" Naples, William "Billy" Naples, Joseph "Little Joey" Naples



Sandy Naples



Jimmy Naples

Lakewood is awesome, it reminds me of the nicer parts of Chicago.

I like Cleveland in general, it's gotta be the most underrated city in the world. I will concede that a lot of the East Side is pretty crappy, but Downtown and the areas around it (Little Italy, University Circle, etc.), the West Side, and most of the suburbs are great.

And yeah, Little Italy is the real deal, to whoever asked about that. It's not some crappy tourist trap.

Don't forget the schvitz . Great place for A sitdown.

I love a nice Schvitz after a pastrami on rye with mustard, ever hear of Corky & Lenny's, great food

Yeah I love corky and Lenny's . I tend to go to slymans though . As I am always in Cleveland more so then woodmere. I guess there is one in then casino but I never been to that location .

Yes, there's a Corky and Lenny's in the Casino below the Poker Room just off the escalator. However I too prefer Slymans.

A few years back, I was in the Cleveland area visiting family and came across Gasoline Alley in Bath, OH near the home of LeBron James. Best pastrami on rye I ever had with a layer of cream cheese between the pastrami.

You sure it was cream cheese? I'm betting it was smegma from DickNose's boyfriend. In any event, just go away. You're a bore.

I saw Fritz quite a few times & talked w/ him . He was a little zoned out . It was sometime round 98-or so he was going to do some construction work - he was hanging around the Roddy bros from cleve hts / they do fire chasing & shit . The old man was an atty - got lot of people off & was friends w/ green & his team . Anyway he only talked boit few things. Think the thorzine got best of him !

It is BOSE - Bucci- woodland guy . Likes the sphitz. Hell good steambath, jump in the ice cold pool & steak dinner . Good for sitdown & bs / good place for a hit too.lotta jews & cros starting to go & greeks You remember Pete De Grandes- had the bar w/ pool table. Lotta guys from woodland- marconi & delguyd too.bibbo, celenti & on . Anyways......

Ya, most of my friends, including myself, went for a steak rather than a corn beef.

For what it's worth: The Naples family from Youngstown was not part of Cleveland. They were absolutely part of Pittsburgh. In fact Joey was a Made Man. His Uncle, "Two Gun" Jimmy Prato, upped him.

Why u say guck the corbos. They are good people- never bothered anyone. Brown is dead & Sal is good. You referring to big joe or litttle joe/ their kids ? Elaborate more on this, im curious why so harsh.? You gotta be a westsider.

Has nothing to do with where I a from . But You normally don't care for people who try to fuck you out of money . I will leave it at that .

Where can I get a small loan from guys

East Cleveland, I suspect.

I think some of these people are from fantasy land. They need to see A doctor

Just put $300 down & I'll be right back with your loan...

Try a bank.

i didn't even know the mafia in cleveland was still active. i read about a gambino family member was caught in cleveland too.

The Cleveland mob is long gone.

thanks for dat u cocaROACH

Anytime pal.

Well when people fuck you out of money that changes things. I never knew them to do so but hey, then again i dont know everything they did.It doesnt matter where youre from. I just made a statement. I dont try to be combative on here , its a waste of time & energy.i talk bout real things, things im positive bcuz of circumstances. So enjoy angelos pizza,& the st roccos feast & life

yall some wannabe FUGAYZi ass people on here quit tellin peoples business and gossippin

Great thread. Iacobacci still resides in Mentor, OH. Ciasullo retired to Western PA. I agree, Cleveland is in no better shape than Pittsburgh as far as members go. Licavoli becoming boss was the stake through the heart in cleveland. He was not a leader of men and wasn't respected by his underlings.

Prato's nephew was Strollo (through marriage).

cleveland still around

Thanks for contributing, that was deep.

good glad i can help

Jackie Presser | Teamsters | Cleveland Mafia (1980)