A notorious American boxer-turned-mobster who led the Genovese crime family, notorious for feigning mental illness to avoid prosecution. He was known for his clever tactics and evasive maneuvers.
Vincent Gigante, also known as "The Chin," was a notorious American mobster who ruled the Genovese crime family in New York City from 1981 to 2005. During his reign, he became one of the most powerful crime bosses in the United States, earning the nickname "The Oddfather" for his cunning and elusive nature.
Vincent Louis Gigante was born on March 29, 1928, in New York City to Italian immigrant parents. Before entering the world of organized crime, Gigante had a brief career as a professional boxer, fighting in 25 matches between 1944 and 1947. He then began working as a Mafia enforcer for the Luciano crime family, which would later become the Genovese family.
Gigante's rise to power was marked by his involvement in several high-profile crimes, including the failed assassination of Frank Costello in 1957. In 1959, he was sentenced to seven years in prison for drug trafficking, where he shared a cell with Vito Genovese and became a caporegime overseeing his own crew of Genovese soldiers and associates based in Greenwich Village.
One of Gigante's most notable tactics was feigning insanity to avoid prosecution. For over 30 years, he would often wander the streets of Greenwich Village in his bathrobe and slippers, mumbling incoherently to himself. This ruse earned him the nickname "The Enigma in the Bathrobe" and successfully kept law enforcement at bay.
In 1990, Gigante was indicted on federal racketeering charges, but was deemed mentally unfit to stand trial. However, in 1997, he was tried and convicted of racketeering and conspiracy, and sentenced to 12 years in prison. In 2003, he pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice charges and was sentenced to an additional three years in prison.
Gigante came from a family with a strong Catholic background. One of his brothers, Louis, became a Catholic priest, while three others – Mario, Pasquale, and Ralph – followed him into the Mafia. Despite his criminal activities, Gigante was known to be devoted to his family and was a regular attendee at his children's school events.
Vincent Gigante's legacy is marked by his cunning and elusive nature, which allowed him to evade prosecution for decades. He will be remembered as one of the most powerful crime bosses in American history, whose tactics and strategies continue to fascinate and intrigue the public.
Born in 1902
Notorious head of the Gambino crime family, known for his cunning and ruthless tactics in organized crime, particularly in New York City during the 1960s and 1970s.
Born in 1915
Notorious head of the Gambino crime family, known for his ruthless tactics and lavish lifestyle. He played a significant role in shaping the American Mafia's modern era.
85 Years Old
Notorious head of the Gambino crime family, known for his flamboyant style and ruthless tactics, earning him the nickname "The Teflon Don".
95 Years Old
Notorious Italian Mafia leader who orchestrated bombings, assassinations, and corruption, earning the nickname "The Beast" for his ruthless tactics.
Born in 1902
Notorious organized crime figure and one of the most important figures in the history of American organized crime, known for his involvement in bootlegging, gambling, and murder.
