The Criminal Career of Italian-American Mobster Paul DiCocco Sr. and His Alleged Crime Family

Paul DiCocco Sr., born on June 20, 1924, and passing away on July 30, 1989, was an Italian-American racketeer who hailed from Upstate New York. His life was marked by involvement in illegal activities, primarily in the realms of gambling and legitimate business ventures such as owning restaurants and construction companies. Understanding the complex web that enveloped DiCocco Sr.'s career is crucial to comprehending the dynamics of the Italian American mobsters of that era.

Background and Early Days

Paul DiCocco Sr. grew up in the close-knit Italian American communities of Upstate New York. His early years were a testament to the socio-economic conditions that often led young men to seek refuge in illegal activities. DiCocco's journey into the criminal underworld likely began with petty crimes and eventually evolved into more serious endeavors.

Connections in the Mob

One of the most prominent figures in DiCocco Sr.'s life was mobster Carmine Galante. Galante, known for his violent nature and his association with the Genovese crime family, played a significant role in shaping DiCocco's criminal career. This connection suggests that Paul DiCocco Sr. was likely involved in the Genovese crime family or a closely affiliated organization. Carmine Galante's influence in the New York mob was extensive, making it a plausible avenue for DiCocco's criminal activities.

Illicit Activities

DiCocco Sr. was notably involved in illegal gambling operations, a common avenue for money laundering and illicit financial transactions within the organized crime world. His gambling ventures were not just confined to the underground; he also owned legitimate businesses such as restaurants and construction companies. These legal fronts served as rackets to mask his illegal activities and provide a fa?ade of respectability.

Legal and Ethical Concerns

While DiCocco's illicit activities brought him financial success, the consequences of his actions were severe. The life of a mobster is fraught with danger, and DiCocco Sr. was no exception. The constant threat of federal investigations, witness intimidation, and internal feuds within the mob made his life a perpetual struggle. His close association with mobsters such as Carmine Galante only heightened these risks.

Legacy and Impact

The impact of Paul DiCocco Sr.'s criminal career on the Italian American mobsters of Upstate New York cannot be understated. His activities, both legal and illegal, contributed to the complex and often dangerous underworld that existed during that era. His connections to the Genovese crime family and other similarly influenced organizations left a lasting legacy on Italian American organized crime.

Conclusion

Paul DiCocco Sr. was a significant figure in the world of Italian American organized crime, with his alleged involvement in the Genovese crime family or a closely related organization. His life serves as a stark reminder of the darker aspects of the Italian American community during that time. Understanding the relationships and associations within these criminal organizations is essential to grasping the full picture of this complex period in American history.