Gangland Wire

Epizódy

• The Secret Six: Chicago’s Vigilantes Who Took on Al Capone 20.07.2026 43min

  In this episode of Gangland Wire, retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective Gary Jenkins sits down with author Kevin E. Meredith to examine a little-known but highly influential force in Chicago’s Prohibition-era crime wars—the Secret Six. Click here for a link to get the book The Secret Six: The Rise and Fall of Chicago's greatest VigilantesMeredith, a former newspaper reporter turned historian, explains how he uncovered the story while researching another project. What he found was a group unlike any other: wealthy businessmen who stepped outside traditional law enforcement to combat the chaos of organized crime and corruption gripping Chicago in the early 1930s.The Rise of the Secret SixThe conversation begins with the conditions that gave rise to the Secret Six—widespread corruption, violent labor disputes, and a city dominated by gangland power structures. A key turning point was the murder of construction supervisor Philip Meeker, which galvanized prominent business leaders into action. Rather than working quietly, the Secret Six operated in full public view, using media attention as a weapon. They were not truly “secret,” nor limited to six members, but their branding captured public imagination during a time of fear and instability. Vigilantes with Resources: Meredith details the group’s unconventional tactics: running a covert jail inside the St. Clair Hotel; financing independent investigations; using early lie-detection technology; coordinating with local law enforcement. Their financial power allowed them to function almost like a parallel police force, blurring the line between legal authority and private enforcement.High-Profile Cases and Mob PressureThe Secret Six became entangled in some of the most notorious events of the era, including fallout from the St. Valentine's Day Massacre. Their aggressive tactics earned both praise and criticism. One of the most striking episodes discussed is their involvement in an extortion case tied to socialite Marian Wright. Their heavy-handed investigative style brought results—but also legal and ethical scrutiny. Their existence also intersected with figures like Al Capone, who recognized the group as a legitimate threat to organized crime operations.The Fall and LegacyOperating from roughly 1930 to 1933, the Secret Six ultimately collapsed under mounting criticism and suspicion. Deals that appeared questionable—such as the recovery of stolen bonds—raised doubts about their methods and motives. Despite their short lifespan, they had a significant impact. Meredith emphasizes how their story reflects enduring tensions between public safety and civil liberties—questions that remain relevant today.Final TakeawayThis episode explores a unique chapter in American crime history where private citizens took the fight to organized crime, raising complex questions about justice, power, and accountability. Get this great book The Rise and Fall of Chicago's Greatest VigilantesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use...
• Chicago Heights Mob History: Al Capone, Frank LaPorte, The Chicago Outfit & The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre Connection 13.07.2026 25min

  In this episode of Gangland Wire, retired Kansas City Intelligence Unit detective Gary Jenkins welcomes author Ray Franze to discuss his historical fiction novel The Heights, a story inspired by the real-life mob figures who controlled Chicago Heights and Northwest Indiana for much of the twentieth century. Drawing on FBI files, family stories, and historical research, Franze explores the rise of Frank LaPorte and the Chicago Heights crew, one of the most influential factions associated with the Chicago Outfit.The conversation begins with the famous 1928 photograph showing Al Capone and several future participants in the St. Valentine's Day Massacre. Franze explains the long-standing belief that members of the Chicago Heights crew may have been involved in planning the infamous gangland murder and discusses the crew's close relationship with Capone and his associates.Gary and Ray examine the unique position of Chicago Heights, located south of Chicago near the Indiana border, and how the area developed its own powerful criminal organization before eventually becoming part of the Chicago Outfit. They discuss the role of the Union Siciliana, the Beer Wars of Prohibition, and the alliance between Capone and local leaders such as Dominic Roberto, Jimmy Emery, and Frank LaPorte.The discussion also covers the expansion of organized crime into Northwest Indiana, Calumet City, and Joliet. Ray explains how gambling, vice, and bootlegging operations flourished in these territories and how Chicago Heights became a major power center within the Outfit structure.The conversation explores Frank LaPorte's leadership style and his remarkable ability to avoid publicity and law enforcement attention. Unlike many notorious gangsters, LaPorte remained largely unknown to the public while building a powerful organization through trusted family members, loyal associates, and strategic insulation from criminal activity.Gary and Ray also discuss the Outfit's transition into seemingly legitimate businesses, including jukeboxes, vending machines, and cigarette distribution, as federal investigators increased pressure on traditional gambling operations. The evolution of mob-controlled businesses reflects the Outfit's efforts to adapt to changing law enforcement tactics.Click here to get Ray's book, The Heights.Another fascinating topic is the legendary Villa Venice nightclub, opened by Sam Giancana with appearances by Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack. Ray shares family memories of the grand opening and explains how these firsthand accounts became one of the most authentic scenes in his novel.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or...
• The Chicago Outfit During the 1960s: Sam Giancana, Anthony Accardo, and Mob Power 06.07.2026 46min

  Retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective Gary Jenkins welcomes back organized crime historian and author John Binder for an in-depth discussion about his new book, The Chicago Outfit During the 1960s. Together, they explore one of the most important yet often overlooked decades in the history of the Chicago mob.The conversation examines how the Chicago Outfit evolved during the 1960s under powerful figures like Sam Giancana and Anthony Accardo. John Binder explains how the Outfit expanded beyond traditional rackets into massive gambling operations, Las Vegas casinos, labor racketeering, prostitution, truck hijacking, and narcotics trafficking. Gary and John discuss the transition from the old Prohibition-era gangsters to a new generation of mobsters emerging from the infamous 42 Gang. The episode details how Giancana cultivated loyal associates, enforced discipline through violence, and helped reshape the Outfit’s power structure during a turbulent period marked by gangland murders and internal rivalries.The discussion also explores the Outfit’s extensive network of political corruption in Chicago. Binder explains how mob-controlled wards, corrupt politicians, and labor influence allowed organized crime to manipulate elections and maintain enormous influence over city government and law enforcement.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"To go to the store or make a donation click here.  To rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click hereTo rent Brothers against Brothers, click here.To rent Gangland Wire, click here.
• Prohibition Chicago: How Al Capone Created America’s Most Powerful Crime Syndicate 29.06.2026 36min

  In this episode of Gangland Wire, retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective Gary Jenkins sits down with organized crime historian and author John Binder to explore the violent and chaotic world of Prohibition-era Chicago. Drawing on his acclaimed book Al Capone's Beer Wars, Binder traces the explosive rise of organized crime in the 1920s and how bootlegging transformed local street gangs into powerful criminal empires.The discussion examines how Prohibition reshaped America’s underworld, creating unprecedented opportunities for ambitious gangsters like Al Capone. Gary and John trace the roots of Chicago’s infamous gang wars, focusing on the bitter conflict between Capone’s organization and the North Side Gang. Central to the story is the assassination of Dion O'Banion, a murder that ignited a bloody cycle of revenge killings and permanently altered the balance of power in Chicago’s criminal landscape.The episode dives into the roles played by immigrant communities, particularly Italian and Jewish gangs, who entered the bootlegging business during a period when economic opportunities were limited. Gary and John discuss how organized crime flourished in poorly policed neighborhoods, where gangs established territorial control and built sophisticated alcohol distribution networks spanning multiple states.Listeners also hear detailed stories about notorious gangland figures including Machine Gun Jack McGurn and the fearsome Frank McErlane, whose violent reputation became legendary even within criminal circles. The conversation reveals the ruthless tactics these men employed as rival factions fought for dominance in the lucrative bootlegging trade. The episode also explores the blurred line between organized crime and legitimate business during Prohibition, showing how gangsters used political influence, territorial control, and business alliances to expand their operations. Gary and John discuss the strategic importance of places like Cicero, which became critical strongholds for Capone’s growing empire.John Binder also discusses his Chicago Prohibition Gangland Tour, which allows participants to visit the streets, neighborhoods, and historic locations where these infamous events unfolded. The tour provides a rare opportunity to experience the physical landscape of Chicago’s mob history while learning about the real people behind the myths. This episode offers a compelling look into the rise of organized crime during Prohibition, separating fact from fiction while uncovering the brutal realities that created some of America’s most notorious gangsters.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"
• From Cuba to Amsterdam, Netherland: Lansky Cellini in the Netherlands 25.06.2026 31min

  Gary Jenkins celebrates the Netherlands, who are in Kansas City for the World Cup. He has a discussion with a Dutch organized crime researcher, David Amoroso, and they trace how the American Mafia expanded its gambling empire after losing Cuba. The episode explores how Meyer Lansky's vision of luxury casinos evolved into an international operation spanning the Bahamas, London, and Amsterdam.  David explains how the Genovese crime family, under Meyer Lansky, relied on the Cellini brothers from Steubenville, Ohio to establish professional casino operations throughout Europe. The discussion examines the logistics of exporting experienced casino managers, dealers, and security personnel while navigating cultural differences and working alongside local criminal organizations.  The conversation also explores the unique gambling laws across Europe, where many governments controlled legal casinos while organized crime filled the demand through illegal gambling operations. Gary and David compare these European developments with the early growth of casino gambling in Las Vegas and the influence of American mob figures.  The discussion shifts to the modern era, where organized crime has increasingly focused on online gambling, sports betting, and international drug trafficking. David describes how ports such as Rotterdam and Antwerp became major hubs for global narcotics smuggling and explains why European criminal organizations have embraced these lucrative markets.  Another major topic is the growing threat of match-fixing in international sports. The hosts discuss how Italian Mafia groups, Chinese gambling syndicates, and other criminal organizations manipulate soccer, tennis, and other sporting events through bribery and coercion. They explain how athletes can become trapped through seemingly minor requests that eventually lead to long-term criminal control.  Gary and David conclude by examining the challenges European law enforcement faces when investigating cross-border organized crime, comparing the fragmented legal systems in Europe with coordinated enforcement efforts in the United States. The episode provides an insightful look at how organized crime has adapted from traditional casinos to today's global gambling and sports betting networks.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"To go to the store or make a donation click here.  To rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click hereTo rent Brothers against Brothers, click here.To rent
• From Albert Anastasia to Joe Colombo: Joey Gallo’s Deadly Mob War 22.06.2026 1h 10min

  In this replay, as a tribute to Camillius "Cam" Robinson, Retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective Gary Jenkins, and co-host Cam dive deep into the wild life and violent death of one of the Mafia’s most unpredictable figures—Crazy Joey Gallo.From Brooklyn’s Red Hook streets to the bloody wars of the Colombo crime family, Joey Gallo built a reputation as a fearless outlaw who challenged Mafia bosses, embraced celebrity culture, and became a folk hero to outsiders and artists alike. Gary and Cam explore Gallo’s transformation from street gangster to media sensation, his fascination with philosophy and existentialism, and his notorious appearances before the McClellan Committee wearing dark sunglasses and mocking authority.The episode examines the Gallo crew’s role in the assassination of Mafia boss Albert Anastasia inside the Park Sheraton barber shop, including insider accounts from Pete “The Greek” Diapoulas and theories involving Carmine Persico and the Patriarca family. Gary and Cam break down how the Gallos evolved into a rogue faction willing to kidnap capos, challenge Joe Profaci, and wage war against the Colombo family itself.The conversation also explores Joey Gallo’s prison years, his relationship with Harlem heroin kingpin Nicky Barnes, and the intellectual awakening that shaped his later persona. The hosts discuss Gallo’s ties to New York celebrities, including Jerry Orbach, Pete Falk, Ben Gazzara, and Neil Simon, along with the cultural impact that inspired Bob Dylan’s famous song “Joey.”Gary and Cam revisit the unsolved shooting of Joe Colombo at the Italian-American Civil Rights League rally and examine competing theories involving Jerome Johnson, the Gambino family, and the Gallos themselves.They also unpack the dramatic final hours of Joey Gallo’s life at Umberto’s Clam House in Little Italy, where Colombo gunmen allegedly tracked him down during his birthday celebration and opened fire in one of the Mafia’s most legendary assassinations.Using firsthand accounts, old newspaper reports, and mob insider testimony, this episode paints a vivid portrait of Joey Gallo’s rise, wars, betrayals, and enduring legend in organized crime history.Buy Cam's book Chicago Swan Song: A Mob Wife's Story the story of Frank Calbrese's wife and living in a Chicago Outfit familyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"To go to the store or make a donation click here.  To rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click hereTo rent
• The Joe Colombo Assassination Attempt: Mafia Conspiracy, Italian Unity Day Shooting & The Unsolved 1971 Mob Mystery 15.06.2026 24min

  In this episode of Gangland Wire, retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective Gary Jenkins examines one of the most puzzling events in organized crime history—the 1971 shooting of Joe Colombo.At the height of his influence, Colombo stood before a crowd of nearly 50,000 at Italian Unity Day in New York City when he was gunned down by Jerome A. Johnson, a man posing as a journalist with a camera. The brazen daylight attack shocked both the public and law enforcement, immediately raising questions about motive, planning, and whether larger forces were at work.Drawing on insights from Chief by Albert A. Seedman, Jenkins breaks down the NYPD's investigation. Despite intense scrutiny, detectives found no clear ties between Johnson and organized crime, a fact that complicated the case from the outset.The episode explores:The chaotic scene at Italian Unity Day and Colombo’s shootingJohnson’s background, including his strange attempts to break into filmmakingThe investigative work of Detective John Weber and the efforts to link Johnson to militant or political groupsThe difficulty in determining whether Johnson acted alone or as part of a larger conspiracyAlthough authorities ultimately concluded Johnson was a lone gunman, lingering questions remain. Was he truly acting independently, or was he manipulated or used as a disposable asset?Jenkins also examines the broader consequences of the shooting. Colombo’s incapacitation triggered instability within the Colombo crime family, leading to internal conflict and a significant shift in New York’s organized crime landscape.This episode provides a detailed look at an unresolved mystery that continues to spark debate among historians, law enforcement, and mob insiders alike.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"To go to the store or make a donation click here.  To rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click hereTo rent Brothers against Brothers, click here.To rent Gangland Wire, click here.
• Mob Fences, Cocaine, and Prison Ministry | Bill Corum Interview 08.06.2026 1h

  Retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective Gary Jenkins sits down with former criminal and prison minister Bill Corum for one of the most unusual conversations ever featured on Gangland Wire.Bill Corum recounts his journey from car theft and prison escapes in the early 1960s to his deep involvement in Kansas City’s criminal underworld in the 1970s and early 1980s. He describes his work around pornography, prostitution, stolen property, cocaine trafficking, and his connections to notorious Kansas City underworld figures.Gary and Bill discuss legendary Kansas City mob fence Sol Landi and his murder by assassins sent by the mob, the River Quay era, Junior Bradley, corrupt influences in local politics and the courts, and the explosive cocaine culture that swept through Kansas City during the 1980s. Bill also shares stories involving Weld Wheels founder Kenny Weld, cocaine trafficking operations, and the dangerous atmosphere surrounding organized crime in Kansas City.The conversation dives into:Bill’s prison escape and stolen car careerThe prostitution business in Independence, MissouriMob-connected fences and stolen property ringsCocaine trafficking in Kansas City during the early 1980sThe murder of Saul LandyRiver Quay nightlife and mob influenceCorrupt officials and criminal networksKansas City organized crime personalitiesPrison life and criminal cultureBill Corum’s dramatic religious conversion in 1983His decades-long prison ministry work across AmericaBill also explains how he transformed his life after addiction, violence, and years in the criminal world, eventually dedicating his life to prison outreach and ministry programs throughout the United States.You can learn more about Bill Corum and his book at either The Ultimate Pardon or Bill Corum Official WebsiteBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"To go to the store or make a donation click here.  To rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click hereTo rent
• Hoffa’s Connections: Mob, Unions, and Sylvia Pagano 01.06.2026 49min

  In this episode of Gangland Wire, retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective Gary Jenkins sits down with author Frank Hayde to explore his latest book, Hoffa’s Connection. Hayde, a Kansas City native and noted mob historian, brings forward a largely overlooked figure in organized crime history—Sylvia Pagano.The conversation centers on Pagano’s rise from Kansas City to Detroit, where she operated at the intersection of organized crime and labor unions under Jimmy Hoffa. Known for her effectiveness as a union organizer, Pagano infiltrated workplaces, signed up members, and quietly maintained ties to powerful mob figures. Her ability to navigate both worlds made her a key behind-the-scenes operator during a volatile era in American labor history.Hayde details Pagano’s role in helping broker alliances between the Mafia and the Teamsters during a turbulent strike, marking a turning point in the relationship between organized crime and labor. Drawing from FBI wiretaps, he reveals candid conversations that shed light on her relationships with influential mob leaders like Tony Giacalone and Moe Dalitz, emphasizing her strategic importance across multiple crime families.The episode also explores the life of Chucky O'Brien, who grew up surrounded by Hoffa and organized crime figures. Through Hayde’s research and interviews, listeners gain insight into the generational impact of mob ties, as well as the strict code of silence that governed both mother and son.Beyond individual stories, the discussion expands to the broader national network connecting crime families and labor unions. Pagano’s reach extended well beyond regional boundaries, illustrating how organized crime leveraged union influence across the country.This episode offers a fresh perspective on the enduring mystery surrounding Hoffa’s disappearance by examining the deeper historical context—and the overlooked players like Sylvia Pagano who helped shape it. It’s a detailed look at power, loyalty, and survival within the American Mafia.The book is Hoffa's Connection: The Story of Sylvia Pagano: the Kansas City Girl at the Center of the Mafia's Alliance with the Teamsters Union Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"To go to the store or make a donation click here.  To rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click hereTo rent
• From Black Liberation Army Cop Killers to the Mafia: An NYPD Detective's Prison Ministry 25.05.2026 44min

  Retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective Gary Jenkins sits down with former NYPD officer Jimmy Dennedy and NYC Brooklyn prosecutor Michael Vecchione for a gripping discussion on violent crime, justice, and redemption.  Jimmy recounts the shocking murder of NYPD officers Rocco Laurie and Gregory Foster by the Black Liberation Army, while Michael reveals the challenges of prosecuting those responsible. The conversation then shifts to something unexpected—redemption. After retiring, Jimmy began working in prison ministry, where he witnessed firsthand how even hardened criminals, including mobsters, can change their lives.This episode dives deep into:The reality of cop killings in New York CityThe struggle to prosecute violent offendersInside stories from mob casesRedemption and transformation inside prisonsIf you’re interested in true crime, mafia history, and real law enforcement stories, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Subscribe for more mafia history and true crime stories every week.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"To go to the store or make a donation click here.  To rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click hereTo rent Brothers against Brothers, click here.To rent Gangland Wire, click here.
• Louis “Streaky” Gatto: New Jersey and the Genovese Mob 22.05.2026 20min

  Retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective Gary Jenkins examines the rise and influence of Louis “Streaky” Gatto and the Genovese crime family’s powerful New Jersey faction. Drawing from a 2004 New Jersey Crime Commission report, this episode explores how Genovese crews operated across multiple counties while controlling illegal gambling, loan sharking, and waterfront rackets through intimidation and organized violence.  Gary breaks down the structure of Gatto’s Bergen County crew, including the involvement of his son Joseph Gatto and son-in-law Alan “Little Al” Greco. The discussion details how the crew maintained control over bookmaking and gambling operations and how prosecutors later tied key members to murders connected to their criminal enterprises.  The episode also dives into the federal RICO prosecution and the dramatic courtroom testimony of witness Robert Belli. Gary explains allegations that associates of the Gatto crew attempted to pressure and intimidate witnesses before testimony, including claims involving the infamous “evil eye” or malocchio. Prosecutors argued that subtle intimidation tactics, courtroom stares, and indirect threats were all part of an effort to influence testimony.  Another major focus is Moe Brown, a reputed associate connected to the Gatto organization. The episode explores how prosecutors used recordings and testimony to connect Brown to the defendants and how his conduct in court became part of the government’s intimidation narrative.  Finally, Gary examines the subsequent criminal cases involving Joseph Gatto, including offshore sports-betting operations, convictions, prison sentences, and the eventual decline of the family’s gambling empire. The episode concludes with the deaths of both Joseph Gatto and Louis “Streaky” Gatto, marking the end of an era for one of New Jersey’s most feared Genovese crews.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"To go to the store or make a donation click here.  To rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click hereTo rent Brothers against Brothers, click here.To rent Gangland Wire, click here.
• Jerry Catena and the New Jersey Genovese Empire 18.05.2026 29min

  Retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit Detective Gary Jenkins sits down with returning guest Scott Deitch for a detailed exploration of one of the more understated yet influential figures in organized crime—Jerry Catena.Deitch, known for his deep research and engaging storytelling, brings insight from his books Cigar City Mafia, Garden State Gangland, and his upcoming release Jersey Boss. The conversation moves from Tampa’s mob history to the inner workings of the Genovese crime family, with a focus on Catena’s calculated rise through the ranks.  🔍 Episode Highlights    Scott Deitch’s Mafia Journey Deitch outlines how he became one of the more respected voices in mafia history, driven by a fascination with overlooked mob figures and untold regional stories.     Who Was Jerry Catena? A key but often underreported power broker, Catena rose during Prohibition-era influences and mentorship, eventually becoming a major figure within the Genovese hierarchy.    Mob Influence in New Jersey & TampaThe discussion connects Catena’s operations to broader organized crime networks stretching from Florida to the Northeast.    Hollywood vs RealityA look at how The Sopranos drew inspiration from real mob figures, including possible parallels to Catena and New Jersey crime families.    Las Vegas & Gambling OperationsCatena’s involvement in early Las Vegas casino ventures reveals the mob’s hybrid model of legitimate business and illicit skimming operations.    The Businessman MobsterUnlike many of his contemporaries, Catena relied more on relationships and financial acumen than violence, aligning himself with figures like Frank Costello and Longy Zwillman.   A Different EndingCatena’s relatively peaceful retirement contrasts sharply with the violent ends typical of organized crime figures.    Personal Side of a Mob FigureStories of Catena’s love for golf and generous personality add nuance to an otherwise complex criminal life.    Tampa Mafia Tours Deitch shares details about his immersive mafia history tours in Tampa, offering listeners a chance to experience this world firsthand.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"To go to the store or make a donation click here.  To rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click hereTo rent Brothers against Brothers, click here.To rent Gangland Wire, click...
• Boston's Pinball Rackets, IRS Wars, and Mob Secrets 11.05.2026 28min

  In this episode of Gangland Wire, retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective Gary Jenkins interviews Eddie Inserra,  author of Confidence of the Mob: The IRS Agent Who Took down the Mob - Then Advised Them, a deeply researched account of his grandfather, Fred G. Pastore, a key figure in early IRS efforts to dismantle organized crime.  Fred Pastore was part of the IRS’s early “racket squad,” targeting illegal enterprises that fueled the American Mafia’s power. His work paralleled the groundbreaking financial investigations that helped bring down figures like Al Capone, demonstrating how financial crimes could succeed where traditional policing struggled.  Eddie recounts how he uncovered his grandfather’s story through a remarkable archive of family documents, photos, and recordings. These materials revealed a complicated dual life: Fred was both a relentless investigator and, later, a trusted confidant to certain mob figures. This paradox sits at the center of the book and this conversation.  A major focus of the discussion is the “pinball racket”—a widespread illegal gambling operation hidden in plain sight within bars and storefronts. Fred’s investigations exposed how these machines generated significant underground revenue streams for organized crime, particularly in Boston. Eddie details the innovative and often risky techniques the IRS used to infiltrate these operations, including undercover work within corporations like Raytheon, where illegal gambling rings had taken root among employees.  The episode also explores the institutional challenges Fred faced. His aggressive tactics and unconventional relationships eventually brought him into conflict with IRS leadership and political figures, forcing his resignation.In a striking turn, Fred leveraged his deep knowledge of organized crime to advise former mob associates—highlighting the blurred moral boundaries that often exist in this world.   Eddie adds a personal dimension, sharing memories of growing up around his grandfather and describing the cultural landscape of Boston’s North End, where family, community, and organized crime often intersected.These stories provide insight into how relationships between law enforcement and mob figures could be shaped by proximity, respect, and shared environments.   The conversation concludes with a look ahead at Eddie’s upcoming podcast, which will expand on these themes through interviews with former IRS agents, mob associates, and others connected to Fred Pastore’s extraordinary life.   This episode offers a rare look at the gray areas of justice—where the line between hunter and ally becomes increasingly difficult to define.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"To go to the store or make a donation click here.  To rent 
• Before Whitey Bulger: The Hidden Power of Joe Mac in Boston’s Underworld 04.05.2026 35min

  In this episode, host Gary Jenkins, a retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective, sits down with author and mob expert Springs Toledo and discusses the Boston Winter Hill Gang and its notorious members. Springs’ book, "Don't Talk About Joe Mac: The Life, Wars, and Secret History of the Man Behind the Winter Hill Gang"Springs Toledo provides an exhaustive look at Joe McDonald aka Mac, a pivotal yet often overlooked figure in the Boston criminal landscape, especially during the 1960s-1990s. Springs, a Boston native, brings a unique perspective and personal anecdotes that enrich our understanding of the intersections of crime, family, and community within the city.  They explore Joe Mac's early life and how his background shaped his role in organized crime. Springs shares how Mac was an elder statesman in the underworld, feared and respected for his ability to organize the rackets in Somerville and maintain a significant network of relationships across various neighborhoods.Joe Mac’s methods of operation were emblematic of a time when the Irish underworld was gaining ground in a city dominated by Italian crime families. Springs discusses the stark differences in these organizations, from their cultural practices to their hierarchies.  Springs also highlights the complexities of Joe Mac’s personal life, discussing his relationships with his family, especially his daughter Jacqueline. Their conversations reveal a side of Mac rarely seen in crime stories — a devoted father struggling with his dual identity as a loving parent and a cold-blooded criminal. Throughout the episode, Springs captures the essence of Mac’s character, noting that while he was involved in heinous acts, he also exhibited genuine love for his family, a contradiction that adds depth to his narrative.  As the conversation unfolds, we examine the dynamics within the Winter Hill Gang, particularly the relationships among Joe Mac, prominent figures like Whitey Bulger, and Howie Carr. Springs shares fascinating insights into Mac’s cautious nature and strategic approach to power. He articulates how Mac operated in the shadows, steering clear of public scrutiny while effectively managing the group’s criminal enterprises. The episode paints a vivid portrait of a gang operating amid violence, betrayal, and survival.  In addition to discussing the various criminal exploits, Springs shares some gripping anecdotes that illustrate the real-life implications of this lifestyle. His stories about Joe's attempts to balance family life while dodging law enforcement showcase the constant threat that loomed over their lives, encapsulating the dangerous allure and traumatizing consequences of organized crime.  We also touch upon the significant events that defined the gang wars in Boston, including Joe Mac's suspected involvement in notorious hits and how the landscape of crime shifted in response to law enforcement’s increased focus on organized crime. Springs dives into the enigmatic character of Joe Mac, unraveling his military background, his unyielding commitment to the underworld, and how he managed to stay a step ahead of rivals and authorities alike.  In closing, Springs reflects on the motivations behind his book—his desire to portray the human side of a man branded a monster while exploring the broader themes of morality, family, and the haunting legacy of crime. As we wrap up, it becomes clear that "Don't Talk About Joe Mac" is not just a biography of an infamous crime figure, but a complex narrative that invites readers to ponder the true cost of a life steeped in organized crime.  This episode is a riveting exploration of character, culture, and crime, offering audiences an engaging glimpse into the storied history of organized crime...
• Joe Massino's Silence: The Missing Truth Behind the Carmine Galante Assassination 01.05.2026 15min

  Retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective Gary Jenkins reports his previous contributor, Matt, who he interviewed on a new theory on the Carmine Glante hit, answers questions we have seen on various social media outlets. Matt claims the U.S. attorney and the FBI got it wrong when they alleged and convicted Bruno Indelicato for this murder. Challenging the official story, Matt reveals new theories, missing evidence, and the role of younger mobsters in one of the Mafia’s most infamous assassinations.In this bonus episode, I had Matt record his answers to the doubters of his theory. Click the title to purchase.Made In Long Island: Boss of All Bosses Carmine Galante Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"To go to the store or make a donation click here.  To rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click hereTo rent Brothers against Brothers, click here.To rent Gangland Wire, click here.
• John Gotti, Sonny Red, Bonanno Family, and the Truth Behind the Galante Murder 27.04.2026 1h 11min

  In this episode of Gangland Wire, retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective Gary Jenkins takes a deep dive with his guest Matt into the assassination of Carmine Galante—one of the most infamous mob hits in American history.  Matt co-authored a book about the men he beleives really killed Carmine Galante titled Made In Long Island. Matt begins by analyzing the controversial footage captured at the Ravenite Social Club shortly after the murder. While federal investigators interpreted the scene as a celebration by those responsible, Matt challenges that narrative. He breaks down the body language and behavior of key figures, including Bruno Indelicato, suggesting the footage actually reflects anger and exclusion—not guilt.  The episode introduces guest Matt, author of Made on Long Island, who provides an insider’s perspective on the inner workings of organized crime. Matt prefers to not give his last name. Together, they explore how the Galante hit fit into a broader power struggle within the Bonanno crime family and beyond. Matt cowrote this book with Bartley Scarbrough.Matt tells a little-known story about Mob dealings with Fireworks around the 4th of July. One story is about a closed store and how they made up for the closed store and gave a fireworks show on the 5th and most of the kids never knew.  The conversation expands to include major mob figures such as John Gotti and Sonny Red Indelicato, examining the shifting alliances and rivalries that shaped the events leading up to the assassination.Matt shares firsthand stories of mob life, detailing how communication relied on coded language and payphones—tools that kept operations hidden in plain sight.  Gary and Matt dissect the planning behind the hit, revealing a calculated operation involving surveillance, weapon disposal, and carefully constructed alibis. They also address the aftermath, focusing on law enforcement’s inability to definitively link the crime to certain suspects—raising questions about whether individuals like Indelicato were wrongly accused.   A central theme emerges: the gap between official narratives and the complex realities of organized crime. Matt argues that investigative misinterpretations—particularly by federal authorities—led to flawed conclusions and, potentially, unjust prosecutions.  This episode challenges long-held assumptions about the Galante murder, offering listeners a more nuanced view of Mafia politics, loyalty, and betrayal. It’s a detailed reexamination of a landmark mob hit—and a reminder that the truth is often far more complicated than the headlines.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"To go to the store or make a donation click here.  To rent 
• Jimmy Hoffa, Russell Bufalino, and the Mob's Biggest Unsolved Mystery 20.04.2026 46min

  In this episode of Gangland Wire, retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective Gary Jenkins sits down with Charles Bufalino, a relative of notorious Mafia boss Russell Bufalino. What begins as a family history discussion quickly expands into one of the most enduring mysteries in organized crime—the disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa.  Charles recounts how, in 2011, he uncovered information that unexpectedly tied his own family to the Hoffa case. That discovery set him on a path of research that ultimately led to his upcoming book, Revelations of a Mafia Family, the Teamsters, and the Final Resting Place of Jimmy Hoffa, scheduled for release April 28. While he stops short of revealing his conclusions, he makes clear that his findings point toward new insights into Hoffa’s fate.  The conversation provides a detailed look at the Bufalino family’s Sicilian roots and their migration to Pennsylvania’s coal regions. Charles explains how these immigrant communities, bound by kinship and necessity, became intertwined with labor struggles, violence, and early organized crime. The discussion highlights the 1902 anthracite coal strike and the broader environment that allowed criminal networks to gain influence within unions and local industries.  Gary and Charles examine Russell Bufalino’s rise from these beginnings into a respected and highly effective Mafia figure. Known more for his discretion and organizational skill than overt violence, Bufalino developed a reputation as a trusted “utility man” across multiple crime families, including connections in Detroit and Buffalo. His ability to navigate alliances and maintain loyalty made him a quiet but powerful force within the national Mafia structure.  The episode also explores the transition from coal and labor rackets into the trucking industry and the Teamsters Union, a shift that significantly expanded organized crime’s reach and profitability. Charles offers personal reflections on his family, including his relationship with Bill Bufalino, and describes the dual nature of their lives—family men on one side, deeply connected to organized crime on the other.  As the discussion turns back to Jimmy Hoffa, Gary and Charles analyze longstanding theories and newer leads regarding his disappearance. Charles suggests that his forthcoming book will provide a more definitive perspective on Hoffa’s final resting place, adding another layer to a mystery that has persisted for decades.  This episode delivers both historical depth and personal insight, offering listeners a closer look at how family loyalty, organized crime, and American labor history intersect—along with a compelling preview of potential new answers in the Hoffa case.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"To go to the store or make a donation click here.  To rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click...
• How Ice Pick Willie Worked with Meyer Lansky, Bugsy Siegel, and Dave Berman 13.04.2026 49min

  In this episode of Gangland Wire, I sit down with Salt Lake City author Flats to discuss his book, Ice Pick Willie: The Life and Times of Israel Alderman. We take a deep dive into the shadowy world of Israel “Icepick Willie” Alderman—a largely forgotten but deeply embedded figure in early 20th-century organized crime.Willie’s criminal career traces back to Prohibition-era New York, where he began as a jewelry thief before evolving into something far more lethal. His nickname came from his preferred weapon: an ordinary household ice pick.In the 1920s, it was common, inconspicuous, and devastatingly effective. Flats explains how Willie’s method allowed him to carry out murders quietly and efficiently, often avoiding the attention that accompanied more public gangland shootings.We follow Willie’s movements from New York to Minneapolis and eventually into the orbit of Chicago’s violent underworld. Along the way, he intersected with major figures of organized crime, including Meyer Lansky, Charles Luciano, and Bugs Moran.Flats outlines the shifting alliances and rivalries that defined the era, placing Willie within the broader context of gang wars that culminated in events like the St. Valentine's Day Massacre. The conversation also examines Willie’s transition from violent enforcer to gambling operative as organized crime evolved and shifted westward. As Las Vegas rose with legalized gambling, figures like Willie adapted—moving from street-level brutality to more structured rackets under established mob leadership. Despite brushing against major historical events and powerful crime bosses, Icepick Willie faded into relative obscurity. Flats and I explore why certain gangsters become legends while others—equally dangerous and influential—slip into the margins of history. We also touch on Willie’s odd cultural afterlife, including regional pop-culture references that keep his name alive in unexpected ways.This episode provides both a character study of a cold, calculating killer and a broader examination of how organized crime adapted from Prohibition-era chaos to structured syndicates. It’s a detailed look at a man who operated in the shadows—lethal, efficient, and nearly forgotten.Flats’ book, Ice Pick Willie: The Life and Times of Israel Alderman, is available now on Amazon.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,...
• The War on Drugs: A Smuggler’s Inside Story 06.04.2026 50min

  In this episode of Gangland Wire, retired Kansas City Police Intelligence detective Gary Jenkins sits down with former drug trafficker Carlos Perez for a direct, unfiltered discussion about the evolution of the drug trade in America. Carlos has a new book out titled Pedro Pan: The Product of a Revolution Gone Bad   The conversation opens with recent controversy surrounding the reported death of **Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader El Mencho, and what that development signals for the balance of power among modern Mexican cartels. From there, Gary and Carlos trace the arc of the drug trade from the Caribbean smuggling routes of the 1970s and 1980s to the dominance of today’s cartel-controlled corridors.  Carlos reflects on the era of Ronald Reagan and the early “War on Drugs,” describing a time when enforcement was uneven and smugglers routinely exploited weak regulatory environments in places like the Bahamas. He explains how traffickers adapted faster than policymakers, using maritime routes, small aircraft, and coordinated pickup operations to move multi-ton quantities of narcotics.   Gary and Carlos contrast those earlier days with modern interdiction efforts—advanced Coast Guard surveillance, satellite tracking, military-grade radar, and cross-border intelligence sharing. What was once opportunistic smuggling has evolved into highly structured cartel logistics supported by corrupt officials and narco-state dynamics.  Carlos provides a candid account of his own rise in the trade. Starting as a construction laborer, he moved into pickup crews retrieving floating bales of drugs in open water. Over time, he became involved in larger-scale operations involving aircraft and organized distribution networks. He details the operational mechanics, the risks, and the constant calculation between profit and prison—or worse.  The discussion also explores the blurred lines between political authority and cartel influence. Carlos explains how governments in certain regions became intertwined with trafficking operations, illustrating how power, money, and violence intersect across borders.  In the second half of the episode, Carlos shifts to a personal reckoning. He discusses the moral compromises required in the drug trade and the toll it takes on family and identity. Ultimately, he chose to step away, prioritizing stability and long-term survival over fast money.  Now living a legitimate life, Carlos has documented his journey in his book Pedro Pan, offering readers a firsthand account of smuggling culture, Cuban heritage, revolution-era influences, and the psychological weight of that world. His story reflects both personal accountability and a broader commentary on the human side of organized crime.  This episode blends law enforcement perspective with insider testimony, giving listeners a rare dual lens: the cop who chased traffickers and the man who once outran them.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,...
• The Russian Mob in Los Angeles 23.03.2026 39min

  In this episode, Gary Jenkins, retired intelligence detective sits down with veteran true crime authors Frank Gerardot and Burl Barer to examine their book Where Murder Lies, a case that intersects Russian organized crime, Italian mob connections, and a troubling claim of wrongful conviction.At the center of the story is Jimmy Kitlas, a young man who struggled with learning disabilities and instability after aging out of a rehabilitation facility in Los Angeles. Facing homelessness and limited options, he gravitated toward individuals connected to the Russian mob, seeking protection and belonging. Instead, he was drawn into criminal schemes—including check fraud and drug trafficking—engineered by experienced mob figures who exploited his vulnerabilities. Frank and Burl provide historical context on the rise of Russian organized crime in the United States, particularly in neighborhoods like Brighton Beach.Unlike the rigid hierarchy of traditional Mafia families, these groups often operated through looser networks, engaging in lucrative scams such as gas tax fraud alongside Italian crime figures. The authors explain how these alliances blurred lines between ethnic crime groups and created new power structures within the American underworld.The discussion then shifts to the murder that reshaped Jimmy’s life. What began as manipulation and grooming evolved into betrayal, jealousy, and ultimately violence. The authors detail how Jimmy’s arrest followed a carefully orchestrated narrative that shifted blame onto him while shielding more powerful figures. Through examination of court records and transcripts, Gerardot and Barer argue that investigative failures and prosecutorial decisions compounded the injustice.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gangland-wire--5504357/support.Subscribe to Gangland Wire wherever you get your podcasts, and join us each week as we uncover the stories buried beneath the headlines—and the bodies.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer use @ganglandwireClick here to "buy me a cup of coffee"To go to the store or make a donation click here.  To rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click hereTo rent Brothers against Brothers, click here.To rent Gangland Wire, click here.