Merlino was very powerful in Philadelphia because he AND his gang were feared. But, it was territorial power. The Pagans have/had a ton a power in the city too; but they wield it at THEIR bars, clubs, neighborhoods. No one group controls philly.

Philly is a very small, city, when you start cutting up the territory. PHilly mob has ZERO clout in North Philly, West Philly, and Center City. So, that leaves south Philly. Which, has been overrun by asians and african americans.

And with respect to the Genovese backing: THey had no choice but to back Merlino. Manna wanted Gotti Dead; Gotti backed Stanfa. Genovese would back anyone but Stanfa.

So, he is a big fish in a small pond. I wouldn't want the guy knocking on my door, but you can't compare Philly LCN to NYC; that stopped in the 80s.

Outside of Philly, in the surrounding areas, you can be independent of the mob. It's done all the time. There is no more street tax, unless you are looking to become associated with the Mob and want their protection.

He was in his very early 30s when he came into power. Drunk at bars and clubs, taking peoples money from the bar, beating bookies, etc. People just had to deal with it because of who his father was, the reputation and actions of the Mob around that time, Plus, he was fucking nuts too. There were dead people turning up.

His first go at boss had very immature behavior. It was 20 years ago. That's all I know of him, having witnessed it, just like a lot of people his age who lived in that area at the time.

But, I'm sure he's not beating bookies and taking money from bars anymore. He has more sophisticated scams now involving old jewish guys.