New York’s ‘Mafia Cops’ faked arrests, leaked information to aid Mob killings
In March 2005, two retired New York City detectives were arrested without much fanfare outside of Piero’s, a restaurant near the Las…
Author: James Riter
Benny Binion’s colorful life story slated for television series
Years ago in Las Vegas, a friend of professional poker player Doyle Brunson relayed an alarming message: If Brunson didn’t…
Virginia Hill, reputed ‘Queen of the Mob,’ died in Austria 60 years ago
On March 24, 1966, Virginia Hill died far from the life that made her famous. Sixty years later, she has…
New memoir ‘The Bookie’ highlights the mobsters and characters in Las Vegas sportsbooks
Early in his career at Las Vegas casino sportsbooks, when mobsters were an intimidating presence around town, Art Manteris confronted…
Killing of cartel boss ‘El Mencho’ triggers violent backlash across Mexico
One by one, Mexico’s most notorious drug lords are being brought to justice. In each case, Mexican and U.S. law…
Los Angeles kingpin Jack Dragna was no ‘Mickey Mouse’ boss
In 1984, when Los Angeles Mob boss Peter Milano was arrested along with 19 others, LAPD Chief Daryl Gates announced…
Planned Netflix drama series to focus on ‘dangerous version’ of modern Las Vegas
A Las Vegas-centered drama series is in production for Netflix, focusing on “a dangerous version” of the city and an…
Recent NBA, NCAA point-shaving scandals follow the Mob’s playbook
When Antonio Blakeney ventured into international basketball, he became a star. He had been Louisiana State University’s top scorer in…
Eighty years ago, Lucky Luciano traded prison for exile
When New York Governor Thomas Dewey commuted the sentence of imprisoned Mafia boss Charles “Lucky” Luciano 80 years ago, it was widely…
Manhunt underway for Ryan Wedding, former Olympian turned accused drug kingpin
A Canadian former Olympic snowboarder accused of cocaine trafficking and murder has landed on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives…