Introduction:
Jimmy Fratianno, also known as the “Weasel,” was a notorious Italian-American mobster and member of the Mafia. He was born on November 14, 1913, in Ohio, and grew up surrounded by organized crime. Fratianno spent most of his life in the Mafia, serving under bosses such as Jack Dragna and Sam Giancana. Although he avoided jail time for most of his life, he eventually turned against the Mafia and became a government informant, leading to the arrests of several high-ranking members. In this blog post, we will explore the life and infamous deeds of Jimmy Fratianno and his time in the Mafia’s inner circle.
Section 1: Early Life and Mafia Involvement
Fratianno’s early life was filled with crime and violence. He was involved in various illegal activities such as extortion, gambling, and bootlegging. By the 1940s, Fratianno had established himself as a member of the Mafia and began working for Jack Dragna, the boss of the Los Angeles crime family. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming one of Dragna’s most trusted associates. In the late 1950s, Fratianno became involved with Sam Giancana, the boss of the Chicago Outfit, and quickly rose through the ranks of the organization.
Section 2: The Weasel
Fratianno was known for his cunning and treacherous nature. He was nicknamed the “Weasel” due to his ability to evade the law and betray his fellow mobsters. Fratianno was infamous for his involvement in various hit plots, including the murder of two Illinois crime figures and the attempted killing of a prominent Las Vegas businessman.
Section 3: The Mob’s Inner Circle
Fratianno was a member of the Mafia’s inner circle, meaning he had access to the organization’s highest levels of power. He was considered a close advisor to Sam Giancana, and his connections allowed him to carry out a variety of criminal activities across the country.
Section 4: Turning Against the Mafia
In the late 1970s, Fratianno turned against the Mafia and agreed to become a government informant. He provided information to the FBI which led to the arrest and conviction of several high-ranking members of organized crime, including Anthony Accardo and Joey Aiuppa.
Section 5: Witness Protection and Death
After testifying against the Mafia, Fratianno entered the witness protection program and was given a new identity. He lived quietly until his death on June 6, 1993, in California at the age of 79.
Section 6: FAQs
1. What was Jimmy Fratianno known for?
Jimmy Fratianno was known for his involvement in various criminal activities, cunning nature, and betrayal of the mafia.
2. Who did Jimmy Fratianno work for?
Fratianno worked for the Los Angeles crime family under Jack Dragna and later for the Chicago Outfit under Sam Giancana.
3. What is the witness protection program?
The witness protection program is a program created by the US government to provide protection and a new identity to individuals who have testified against criminal organizations.
4. How did Jimmy Fratianno become a government informant?
Fratianno agreed to become a government informant in the late 1970s after being arrested and convicted on fraud charges.
5. Who did Jimmy Fratianno provide information on?
Fratianno provided information to the FBI which led to the arrest and conviction of several high-ranking members of the mafia, including Anthony Accardo and Joey Aiuppa.
6. When did Jimmy Fratianno pass away?
Jimmy Fratianno passed away on June 6, 1993, in California.
7. What crimes was Jimmy Fratianno involved in?
Fratianno was involved in various illegal activities such as extortion, gambling, bootlegging, and murder plots.
Section 7: Quotes from Jimmy Fratianno
“I’d rather go out with a bang than die in some bed somewhere.” – Jimmy Fratianno
“I knew there was no way to get out of the Mafia. Once you’re in it, you’re in it for life.” – Jimmy Fratianno
“If they ever shoot me, don’t you come to my funeral. You’ll be next.” – Jimmy Fratianno, warning his enemies.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Jimmy Fratianno’s life was one of crime, violence, and betrayal. He was a member of the Mafia’s inner circle and involved in several illegal activities across the country. However, in the end, he turned against the Mafia and became a government informant, leading to the arrest and conviction of several high-ranking members. His life serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of getting involved in organized crime. Let us learn from his mistakes and make wiser choices in our own lives.