Gangland Wire Gary Jenkins: Mafia Detective

Retired Intelligence Detective Gary Jenkins brings you the best in mob history with his unique perception of the mafia as he interviews Kansas City Massacre expert Terence O’Malley. Today is June 18, 93 years after this event. This episode delves deep into the manhunt for the suspects, Pretty Boy Floyd, Verne Miller, and Adam Richetti. The Union Station Massacre was a significant event that shook the law enforcement community. We learn about the aftermath of the massacre, including the actions of infamous criminals like Pretty Boy Floyd, Adam Ricchetti, and Vern Miller. The narrative takes us through the events following the shootout at Union Station, including the individuals’ escape, pursuits, and ultimate fates. The intricate connections between different gangs, mobsters, and law enforcement agencies become apparent as we uncover how the Lazia gang aided Pretty Boy Floyd and Adam Ricchetti and later met tragic ends. Jimmy Needles LaCapra’s testimony sheds light on the inner workings of the criminal underworld and its interactions with law enforcement during that turbulent period. The relentless pursuit of justice and the repercussions of the massacre are explored, highlighting the intense crackdown on notorious criminals of the time. The episode also touches on how the Union Station Massacre differed from other criminal events due to the involvement of law enforcement officers, leading to heightened scrutiny and backlash against organized crime. Through historical accounts, personal anecdotes, and detailed investigations, we unravel the complexities surrounding the Union Station Massacre and its impact on the criminal landscape of that era. The final episode concludes with reflections on the significance of these events and the lasting repercussions felt by those involved. This comprehensive exploration offers a fascinating insight into a critical moment in criminal history and the relentless pursuit of justice that followed in its wake.

Find Terence O’Malley’s documentaries at Black Hand Strawman.

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Transcript

[0:00] So welcome back, wiretappers, to the third in this series on the Union Station Massacre.

You know, we’ve been through the day before and all the stuff that happened the day before, how they almost got caught in some little town down in South Missouri as pretty boy Floyd and Adam Reschetti are coming north.

Retired Intelligence Detective Gary Jenkins brings you the best in mob history with his unique perception of the mafia. In this episode, we delve into the intriguing life of Charles “Chucky” Nicoletti, a notorious Chicago Outfit hitman known for his involvement in numerous mob hits and his alleged ties to significant events like the JFK assassination. Nicoletti’s background is painted with a turbulent upbringing, including shooting his father in self-defense, leading him to join the infamous 42 Gang alongside other notorious mob figures. His partnership with Milwaukee Phil Alderisio solidified his reputation as a feared hitter in Chicago.

The episode explores Nicoletti’s involvement in high-profile hits, such as targeting the M&M brothers, which involved brutal torture methods made infamous in the movie “Casino.” His cold-hearted demeanor earned him the nickname “Typewriter,” though the moniker’s origin remains a mystery. Nicoletti’s demise came in 1977 when he was ruthlessly gunned down in his Oldsmobile in a suburban parking lot, suspected of being a part of internal mob conflicts as critical figures like Giancana, Richard Cain, and Mad Sam DeStefano faced similar fates.

The narrative weaves through the intricate web of Chicago mob connections, hinting at ties to CIA operations, the JFK assassination, and the plot to kill Castro. The episode speculates on the possible motives behind Nicoletti’s assassination, pointing to shifting allegiances within the Outfit after the deaths of influential figures like Giancana and Ricca. The mysterious circumstances surrounding Nicoletti’s death, coupled with the demise of critical associates, emphasize the dangerous and volatile world of organized crime in Chicago during that era.

Throughout the episode, the host reflects on the broader implications of Nicoletti’s story, urging caution on the roads and highlighting resources for PTSD, addiction, and seeking help. As the podcast delves deep into the underworld of Chicago mob history, the legacy of figures like Chucky Nicoletti serves as a chilling reminder of the ruthless nature of organized crime and its far-reaching consequences.

#chicagooutfit #tonyaccardo #samgiancana #mafia #underboss #organizedcrimegroups

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To go to the store or make a donation or rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click here

To rent Brothers against Brothers, the documentary, click here. 

To rent Gangland Wire, the documentary, click here

To buy my Kindle book, Leaving Vegas: The True Story of How FBI Wiretaps Ended Mob Domination of Las Vegas Casinos.

To subscribe on iTunes click here. Please give me a review and help others find the podcast.

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Transcript

[0:00]

Introduction

[0:00]Well, hey, all you wiretappers out there back here in the studio of...

Retired Intelligence Detective Gary Jenkins brings you the best in mob history with his unique perception of the mafia. Today is June 17th, and exactly 93 years ago on this date, three desperados named Pretty Boy Floyd, Adam Richetti, and Verne Miller murdered four lawmen as they tried to break Frank Jelly Nash out of custody. In this episode, we delve into the detailed account of the Union Station Massacre with Terrence O’Malley, a renowned expert on organized crime in Kansas City. The incident involved a group plotting to liberate Frank Jelly Nash, a notorious bank robber, leading to a fatal confrontation at Union Station. As Terrence describes the events leading up to the massacre, a vivid picture emerges of law enforcement’s ill-fated attempt to transport Nash from Fort Smith to Leavenworth.

The narrative unfolds with the assembling of lawmen at Union Station, including FBI agents and local police officers, to escort Nash. However, a mix-up with firearms escalates tensions, culminating in a deadly shootout as they prepare to depart in a car. Shots fired from inside the vehicle kill Frank Nash and Ray Caffrey, initiating a chaotic exchange of gunfire resulting in the deaths of several law enforcement officers.

The aftermath of the massacre sees onlookers swarming the crime scene, hindering investigations. The city of Kansas City, already notorious for criminal activities, further solidifies its lawless reputation with this tragic event. As the podcast delves into the complexities of the Union Station massacre, intricate details emerge, including speculations on missing weaponry, law enforcement blunders, and the subsequent impact on the city’s history.

The episode provides insights into the high-stakes nature of law enforcement operations during that era, highlighting the unpredictability of gun battles and the challenges faced by officers in such intense situations. Terrence’s storytelling expertise brings to life the cascading events that unfolded on that fateful day, shedding light on the complexities and repercussions of the Union Station Massacre.

As the episode concludes, the host emphasizes the importance of awareness regarding PTSD and substance abuse, offering resources for those in need. Encouraging audience engagement through likes, shares, and subscriptions, the podcast aims to reach a broader audience while delving into intriguing historical accounts. The narrative, woven with personal anecdotes and historical insights, captivates listeners, offering a deeper understanding of the Union Station Massacre and its lasting impact on Kansas City’s history.

Find Terence O’Malley’s work at Black Hand Strawman.

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Subscribe to get new gangster stories every week.

Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer @ganglandwire

Click here to “buy me a cup of coffee”







To go to the store or make a donation or rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click here

To rent Brothers against Brothers, the documentary, click here. 

To rent Gangland Wire, the documentary, click here

To buy my Kindle book, Leaving Vegas: The True Story of How FBI Wiretaps Ended Mob Domination of Las Vegas Casinos....

Retired Intelligence Detective Gary Jenkins brings you the best in mob history with his unique perception of the mafia. Gary thanks long-time subscriber Greg Scavuzzo for his continuing support and input. This and the next two episodes about the Union Station Massacre were In a recent enthralling episode of Gangland Wire, Gary hosts KC Mafia expert Terence O’Malley, and they examine the Union Station Massacre, a pivotal event in the history of Kansas City’s underworld. today is June 16th, the day before the actual Kansas City Massacre.

The tale unfolds around Frank Nash, a notorious criminal figure involved in train robberies, whose career spanned from horseback holdups to bank heists using fast automobiles and Thompson machine guns. Nash was a character of intrigue, skilled in handling nitroglycerin and elusive to photographs, making him a charming yet dangerous criminal.

The narrative weaves through Nash’s apprehension in Hot Springs, Arkansas, by FBI agents Joe Lackey and Frank Smith, setting off a chain of events that would culminate in the Union Station Massacre. As Nash is transported to Kansas City, other criminals like Pretty Boy Floyd and his sidekick Adam Ricchetti traverse towards the same destination. Floyd, a charismatic yet lethal figure, gravitated towards Kansas City due to existing connections and a history of evading capture. The episode unearths the convergence of different criminal elements in Kansas City, with Nash’s associate Vern Miller seeking assistance from Johnny Lazia’s gang to liberate Nash from custody. Through discussions between Lazia and Miller, Pretty Boy Floyd’s involvement in the plan emerges. We learn that KC mafia boss Johnny Lazia directs an underling named Sam Scola and Jimmy “Needles” LaCapra to help equip and connect Vern Miller with a traveling bank robber named Pretty Boy Floyd. The stage is set at Union Station, tensions rise, and a web of criminal affiliations and motives interplay in the lead-up to the tragic event. The host elucidates the intricacies of each character’s background, painting a vivid picture of Kansas City’s criminal underworld during the 1930s. From Nash’s multifaceted criminal career to Pretty Boy Floyd’s enigmatic personality and connections, the episode expertly navigates the complexities and alliances culminating in the fateful Union Station Massacre. As the narrative unfolds, listeners are immersed in a world where crime, power, and deceit intertwine, leading to a dramatic and tragic climax at Union Station.

 

Please click here to see Terence O”Malley’s mafia work, Black Hand Strawman

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To go to the store or make a donation or rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click here

To rent Brothers against Brothers, the documentary, click here. 

To rent Gangland Wire, the documentary, click here

To buy my Kindle book, Leaving Vegas: The True Story of How FBI Wiretaps Ended Mob Domination of Las Vegas Casinos.

Join us for this captivating bonus episode where we delve into a lesser-known tale surrounding the infamous Al Capone, brought to us by Paul Moses. In 1925, Capone found himself back in Brooklyn seeking medical attention for his son’s hearing issues amidst a backdrop of gang rivalry and violence. At this time, the Brooklyn waterfront was a hotbed of conflict between Irish and Italian gangs, with Anna Lonergan, a key figure adept at navigating the underworld’s secrets.   The narrative unfolds with the tragic demise of Lonergan’s brother, Ritchie, triggering a chain of events leading to a fateful night at the Adonis Social Club. It was there that a confrontation erupted, culminating in a deadly shootout involving Capone, Frankie Yale, and other gunmen, leaving a scene of chaos and carnage. As details of the incident surfaced, Capone’s involvement drew police attention, yet he managed to evade severe repercussions due to lack of evidence.

Through Paul Moses’ vivid storytelling, we are transported back to a volatile era where alliances shifted and power struggles played out on the gritty streets of Brooklyn. The interactions between notable gangsters like Capone, Johnnie Torrio, Frankie Yale, and Ritchie Lonergan paint a picture of a ruthless yet intriguing underworld landscape. The account of how the Brooklyn waterfront eventually transitioned from Irish to Italian dominance adds another layer of complexity to this enthralling narrative.   As the episode concludes, we reflect on the legacy of figures like Paul Kelly, who straddled the line between criminality and legitimacy, leaving behind a complex and multifaceted legacy. Paul Moses’ expertise in unraveling these historical threads offers a glimpse into a bygone era of crime, passion, and intrigue, shedding light on the intricate dynamics that shaped the underworld of early 20th-century New York.

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Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer @ganglandwire

Click here to “buy me a cup of coffee”







To go to the store or make a donation or rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click here

To rent Brothers against Brothers, the documentary, click here. 

To rent Gangland Wire, the documentary, click here

To buy my Kindle book, Leaving Vegas: The True Story of How FBI Wiretaps Ended Mob Domination of Las Vegas Casinos.

To subscribe on iTunes click here. Please give me a review and help others find the podcast.

Donate to the podcast. Click here!

Transcript

[0:00]

Bonus Episode Introduction

[0:00]Hey, guys, a little bonus episode here. Paul Moses is back with us, and he’s going to tell us a really interesting, hitherto unknown story about Al Capone. At least I didn’t know it, and I bet a lot of you guys in Chicago didn’t know it. So, Paul, start out telling us, read something out of your book and lead us into that story and then expand on it a little bit, if you will. Well, first of all, people in Chicago surely know that Al Capone came from Brook...

Gary Jenkins, a retired intelligence unit detective, brings you his unique perspective on organized crime. In this in-depth interview on Gangland Wire, the host welcomes Paul Moses, author of “The Italian Squad,” discussing the true story of immigrant cops fighting the Italian mafia in New York City in the early 1900s. Moses, a retired newspaper reporter and professor, sheds light on the immigrant experience, crime, and policing of the era. They explore the dangerous legacy of Joe Petrosino, assassinated in Sicily in 1909, and the immigrant detectives who followed in his footsteps.

The conversation delves into the challenges faced by Italian officers dealing with newly arrived immigrants, language barriers, and community distrust towards law enforcement. Moses recounts gripping cases of the Italian squad, including kidnappings, extortion, and the complexities of navigating the emerging organized crime landscape.

The interview highlights the political tensions within the police force, with Italian officers like Fiaschetti facing pushback and reassignments. As the mafia gains ground in New York, the significance of the Italian squad’s efforts in combating early criminal networks is underscored. The conversation also touches on the evolving cultural dynamics between Irish and Italian communities and the role of churches in fostering unity.   Moses and the host emphasize the pre-prohibition origins of organized crime in America, setting the stage for the later prominence of figures like Lucky Luciano. The discussion concludes with insights into the historical context shaping the rise of the mafia and the ongoing relevance of immigrant experiences and crime dynamics in modern society.   Overall, the interview thoroughly explores early law enforcement struggles, immigrant integration, and the complex interplay of cultural heritage and criminal activity in shaping New York City’s history. The engaging conversation offers a unique perspective on a lesser-known chapter in the American crime and ethnicity narrative.

Support the Podcast

Subscribe to get new gangster stories every week.

Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer @ganglandwire

Click here to “buy me a cup of coffee”







To go to the store or make a donation or rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click here

To rent Brothers against Brothers, the documentary, click here. 

To rent Gangland Wire, the documentary, click here

To buy my Kindle book, Leaving Vegas: The True Story of How FBI Wiretaps Ended Mob Domination of Las Vegas Casinos.

To subscribe on iTunes click here. Please give me a review and help others find the podcast.

Donate to the podcast. Click here!

Transcript

Introduction and Background

[0:00]Okay. Well, welcome all you wiretappers out there back here in the studio of Gangland Wire. I have a man that I just met named Paul Moses. Welcome, Paul. Good to be with you. Now, guys, Paul Moses wrote a book called The Italian Squad. There it is if you’re on YouTube, and there’ll be links in the show notes down belo...