Frank Costello: The Criminal Mastermind Behind the Luciano Crime Family
A Life of Crime and Betrayal
Frank Costello, born Francesco Castiglia, was an Italian-American crime boss who rose to infamy as the acting boss of the Luciano crime family during the 1930s to 1950s. He was known for his cunning and ruthless tactics, earning him the nickname "The Prime Minister of the Underworld."
Early Life and Criminal Beginnings
Born on January 26, 1891, in Lauropoli, Italy, Costello immigrated to the United States with his family at the age of four. Growing up in New York City's East Harlem, he was introduced to gang activities by his brother and soon became a member of a local gang. By 13, he had adopted the alias "Frankie" and committed petty crimes, eventually serving time in jail for assault and robbery.
The Rise to Power: Alliance with Charlie "Lucky" Luciano
Costello's criminal career took a turning point when he met Charlie "Lucky" Luciano, a Sicilian leader of Manhattan's Lower East Side gang. The two formed an alliance, which was met with disapproval from older members of Luciano's mob family. Despite this, they continued to work together, participating in bootlegging operations during Prohibition and eventually joining the National Crime Syndicate in 1929.
Acting Boss of the Luciano Crime Family
In 1937, Costello became the acting boss of the Luciano crime family, solidifying his position as a powerful figure in organized crime. During this time, he expanded the family's illegal operations, including gambling, extortion, and narcotics trafficking.
Downfall and Assassination Attempt
Costello's reign was marked by controversy and betrayal. In the 1950s, he spent several years in prison for tax evasion, and in 1957, he survived an assassination attempt ordered by Vito Genovese. This event prompted Costello to retire from organized crime, marking the end of his reign as the boss of the Luciano crime family.
Legacy and Impact on Organized Crime
Frank Costello's criminal career spanned over four decades, leaving an indelible mark on organized crime in the United States. His alliance with Charlie "Lucky" Luciano and his role as acting boss of the Luciano crime family cemented his place as one of the most notorious crime bosses in American history.
Personal Life and Controversies
Costello's personal life was marred by controversy, including his marriage to Lauretta Geigerman, a Jewish woman, which was met with disapproval from his Italian-American associates. He was also known for his lavish lifestyle, which was funded by his illegal activities.
- Net Worth: Estimated to be over $10 million (approx. $100 million in today's value)
- Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs: Costello was known for his cunning and ruthless tactics, earning him the nickname "The Prime Minister of the Underworld."
- Personal Milestones and Key Life Events:
- 1918: Married Lauretta Geigerman
- 1929: Joined the National Crime Syndicate
- 1937: Became acting boss of the Luciano crime family
- 1950s: Spent several years in prison for tax evasion
- 1957: Survived an assassination attempt and retired from organized crime
Conclusion
Frank Costello's life was a testament to the darker side of human nature, marked by a ruthless pursuit of power and wealth. Despite his controversial legacy, he remains one of the most fascinating figures in American organized crime history.
FAQ
What was Frank Costellos role in organized crime?
Frank Costello was an Italian-American mob boss who played a key role in organized crime, serving as the leader of the Lucchese crime family and a powerful figure in the American Mafia.
What was Frank Costellos involvement in bootlegging?
Frank Costello was involved in bootlegging during the Prohibition era, smuggling liquor into the United States and amassing a significant fortune.
What was Frank Costellos relationship with other mob bosses?
Frank Costello had close relationships with other prominent mob bosses, including Lucky Luciano and Meyer Lansky, and was involved in several high-profile organized crime alliances.
What was Frank Costellos role in the Kefauver hearings?
Frank Costello was called to testify before the Kefauver Committee, a congressional investigation into organized crime, where he invoked the Fifth Amendment and refused to answer questions.
What was Frank Costellos legacy in organized crime?
Frank Costellos legacy in organized crime is that of a powerful and influential mob boss who helped to shape the American Mafia into its modern form.
