The Inside Story of How the FBI Took Down a Real-Life Mafia Family

The FBI's pursuit of the DeCavalcante crime family, the real-life inspiration behind The Sopranos, was a long and arduous journey.

A Breakthrough in 1999

For years, the FBI struggled to make significant progress against this powerful mafia group. However, everything changed in 1999 when a violent mob soldier named Anthony Capo decided to cooperate with the authorities.

The Key Informant

Capo was a key figure in the DeCavalcante family, known for his violent tendencies and deep involvement in the family's criminal activities. He had been involved in several high-profile murders, including the 1989 murder of Fred Weiss, which was ordered by Gambino boss John Gotti.

Capo's cooperation was a major breakthrough for the FBI, as he provided valuable information that led to the arrest of many other members of the family.

The Complex Investigation

The investigation into the DeCavalcante family was a complex and dangerous operation. The FBI had to be very careful to protect their informant and ensure that the investigation remained secret. They used a variety of tactics, including wiretapping and surveillance, to gather evidence against the family.

The investigation eventually led to the arrest of 71 members of the family and the solving of 11 murders.

Broader Efforts Against Organized Crime

The DeCavalcante family was not the only mafia group that the FBI was investigating at the time. The Bureau was also looking into the Bonanno and Colombo crime families, which were also based in New York and New Jersey. The FBI's investigations into these groups were part of a broader effort to dismantle organized crime in the United States.

A Major Victory

The FBI's success in taking down the DeCavalcante family was a major victory in the fight against organized crime. However, it is important to note that the mafia is still a significant threat to society. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies must remain vigilant in their efforts to combat this criminal organization.

A Tale of Crime and Justice

The story of the FBI's investigation into the DeCavalcante family is a fascinating and complex tale of crime, betrayal, and justice. It is a reminder of the importance of law enforcement in protecting society from the dangers of organized crime.