Original Gangsters Podcast

Former FBI Agent Donald Brutnell joins Scott to lay out his career as a field agent in Detroit and New Haven, Connecticut in the 1970s and 80s. In the episode, Brutnell gives details on some of the biggest LCN figures in New Haven and Bridgeport at the time, including Billy Grasso, Midge Renault, the Cursio brothers, and more.

Gary Jenkins is a former police officer and Kansas City mafia historian. He joins Scott to discuss notorious figures in the Kansas City Underworld and Civella Crime Family, including former K.C. Black Mafia Leader Eddie Cox, Mark Sorrentino, and more.

Eddie Cox is the former leader of the Kansas City Black Mafia and a notorious jailhouse attorney who served 32 years in prison. He, his paralegal partner Rusty Marks, and Attorney Tom Norrid join Scott to discuss Cox's past on the street and their mission at the Law Offices of Tom Norrid in Springfield, Missouri, to help prisoners who were wrongly convicted and reduce sentences for those with non-violent offenses.

Former union leader and whistleblower Ken Pereira joins Scott Burnstein to discuss the current landscape of Canadian organized crime and battle for control between the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club and the Rizzuto Crime Family.

Former FBI Agent Giovanni Rocco sits down with Scott to tell his story of being undercover in the DeCavalcante Crime Family for several years, his close relationships with capo's and made men within the family, and how he was almost made.

Sean Patrick Griffin, author of "Black Brothers, Inc. : The Violent Rise and Fall of Philadelphia's Black Mafia", joins Scott to discuss Philly street legend Eugene "Bo" Baynes, the Black Mafia's influence in music, its close ties to past celebrities, and how the government busted the powerful organization in September 1974.

Janet Uhlar was a juror in the 2013 Whitey Bulger racketeering trial and communicated with the famous Boston mobster through letters while he was in prison. She joins Scott to explain in detail why she believes Bulger was set up by members of the U.S. government to be murdered in prison.

Paul Manning, a former Hamilton (Ontario, Canada) Police Service officer, sits down with Scott to detail his life as an undercover cop and explain how he successfully infiltrated the Musitano Crime Family and Hamilton chapter of the Hells Angels.

We sat down with Deborah Bonello to discuss the capture of Sinaloa cartel leaders Joaquin Guzman Lopez and El Mayo Zambada. Deborah is the author of "Narcas: The Secret Rise of Women in Latin American's Cartels."

We sat down with Montreal underworld insider Ken Pereira. Ken was a whistleblower regarding Canadian labor racketeering and corruption in the construction industry. During his time as a labor organizer he interacted with Montreal underworld heavyweights like Raymond Desjardins and members of the Hells Angels and Rizzuto crime family.

We're discussing the life and crimes of iconic Los Angles crime boss Mickey Cohen. We discuss his connections to Bugsy Siegal, his war with the Italian Mafia, and his prison sentence at Alcatraz, among other details of his fascinating life.

Scott sits down with retired FBI agent Greg Stejskal to discuss the disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa. Greg also shares his experiences investigated the Tocco-Zerilli crime family in Detroit.

We evaluate and discuss the claims of former Sicilian hitman Maurizo Avola. He claims John Gotti sent a bomb maker to Sicily to help with the assassination of Judge Giovanni Falcone.

We discussed Chinese drug lord Tse Chi Lop with author and journalist Stephen Marche. Tse Chi Lop is known as the "El Chapo of Asia." He was networked in with the Rizzuto crime family in Montreal, the 'Ndrangheta in Italy, the Yakuza in Japan, the Triads in Hong Kong, and Hells Angels in Australia. *We apologize for audio difficulties on this episode.

We examine the life and crimes of Hollywood crime boss Eddie Nash. Nash was connected to the infamous Wonderland Murders.

We examine the current state of today's American Mafia families.

Scott sat down with author Sean Nam to discuss the Philadelphia Black Mafia and its connection to pro boxing. Sean is the author of "Murder on Federal Street: Tyrone Everett, the Black Mafia, Fixed Fights, and the Last Golden Age of Philadelphia Boxing."

Scott sits down with former prosecutor Robert Silbering. Robert is the author of "Law and Disorder: How a Kid from the Bronx Became America's Top Drug Prosecutor."

Scott sits down with retired FBI special agent James Lawton to discuss organized crime in Connecticut.

Scott sits down with author, professor, and former undercover detective Stephen Metelsky. Stephen investigated the Canadian underworld in Ontario, Canada.

Scott sits down with author and Greek mob expert Nick Christopher.

Scott sits down with author and scholar Sean Patrick Griffin to discuss his outstanding book "Black Brothers Inc." His book documents the violent history of Philadelphia's violent black mafia.

Scott and Benny discuss point shaving scandals and the mob.

Mooch is Back!! Justin "Mooch" Deloretto joins us again to discuss his life as an outlaw biker. Specifically, we talked with Mooch about his new memoir "The Ride of My Life." The Doctor Jimmy B even joined the conversation.

Scott sits down with investigative reporter Dan Herbeck to discuss organized crime in Buffalo. For example, they explain and analyze the state's case against members of the Outlaws MC and alleged members of the Italian Mafia.

Scott sits down with former heist man and Gambino Family associate Lou Ferrante. After serving time in prison, Lou is now an author and television producer.

Scott sits down with our friend and former DEA agent Frank Panessa to discuss his undercover work. Frank worked multiple undercover cases against Italian and Sicilian Cosa Nostra families.

Scott sits down with former Mob associate and bookie Chicky Cecchetelli. Chicky was associated with the Genovese Family's Springfield crew in Massachusetts.

Scott sits down with Jeff Nadu to discuss the current state of the Philadelphia Mafia.

Scott sat down with former Buffalo Mafia family associate Ron Fino.

Scott sits down with former mob fixer and attorney Paul Zyburski. They discuss the Detroit Mafia.

Scott sat down with former undercover FBI agent Herm Groman to discuss to the Cleveland Mob.

Scott sits down with former undercover FBI agent Herm Groman. Herm investigated the Dragna Mafia Family in Los Angeles, CA.

Scott sits down independent filmmaker Al Profit to examine the relationship between President John F. Kennedy and the Mob.

Scott sits down with Massachusetts reporter Stephanie Barry to discuss the life and crimes of Springfield, Mass crime boss Al Bruno. The Mafioso ran rackets in Western Mass for the Genovese crime family.

Scott sits down with New England reporter Tim White do discuss the current state of the Patriarca crime family.

Scott sits down with award winning journalist and author Dan Moldea to debate and discuss the latest on the search for Jimmy Hoffa.

We're examining the life and crimes of legendary Bonanno capo Vinnie Asaro.

We're examining the life and crimes of outlaw biker legend Harry "Taco" Bowman. Taco was a leader in in the Outlaws MC. We're discussing his life and legacy.

We're sitting down with former Chicago mobster Frank Calabrese Jr. Frank discusses his life growing up with his infamous father and Outfit mafioso Frank Calabrese Sr. Frank joined his father in the life but eventually worked with the federal government to take down the Outfit leadership.

We're examining the life and crimes of Mafia boss Joe Massino with former Bonanno associate Frank Fiordilino. Frank gives his unique insight into Massino's career with special emphasis on Massino's relationship with the Bonanno family's Sicilian faction.

We're discussing women cartel bosses and queenpins with reporter Deborah Bonello. Deborah is VICE editorial director for Latin America and the author of "Narcas: The Secret Rise of Women in Latin America's Cartels."

We examine the life and crimes of infamous Philadelphia Mafia boss Nicky Scarfo. Scott also draws on his experiences writing "Mafia Prince" with Scarfo's nephew Phil Leonetti.

We examine the life and crimes of professional wrestling legend Dino Bravo. The Canadian superstar was also Montreal Mafia leader Vic Cotroni's nephew. Cotroni was a member of the Bonanno crime family. Once his wrestling career was over Bravo became increasingly involved in organized criminal activities. He was murdered gangland style in 1993

We're discussing the past, present, and future of the Bandidos Motorcycle Club with Texas investigative reporter Brian Collister. Brian is an award winning journalist know for his unique access to the Bandidos MC. Among other topics, we examine the infamous 2015 Waco shootout and whether law enforcement has something to hide.

We're discussing the Irish Mob in New York, specifically the Westies from Hell's Kitchen. We examine their rise and fall and connections to New York's Italian Mafia families.

We're discussing the past, present, and future of the Pagans MC with author Dave Wedge. Dave is a NY Times best-selling writer and author of "Riding With Evil: Taking Down the Notorious Pagans Motorcycle Gang."

We start by discussing pro golfer Phil Mickelson's gambling issues and how these indirectly connect to the Tocco-Zerilli crime family in Detroit. We then connect that to larger discussion about other interactions between Detroit sports legends and the Detroit mob.

We examine some of the most infamous mob murders that occurred during the summer months.

We're having a conversation with esteemed true crime author Scott Deitche. We're discussing his recent book "Hitmen: the Mafia, Drugs, and East Harlem's Purple Gang." A large part of the conversation covers the rise of Bonanno boss Michael Mancuso.

We break down the latest developments in the Tupac Shakur murder investigation and how it connects to the murder of Biggie Smalls. We also examine the cultural significance of these crimes and the careers of these legendary artists.

Our friend and former undercover police officer Steve O'Donnell rejoins the podcast to discuss the Patriarca Mafia in New England. We're specifically examining former boss Frank Salemme and the murder of Steve DiSarro.

We're discussing Mafia corruption in Connecticut with former undercover police officer Vito Colucci. The Gambino and Genovese crime families had the local police department on the take---until Vito Colucci went undercover and exposed the corruption. He co-wrote a best-selling book about the operation called "Rogue Town."

We're discussing the latest on the Providence, Rhode Island faction of the New England Mafia. We especially focus on some of large scale investigations by law enforcement into alleged narcotics trafficking in the area.

We interview Hollywood producer (The Joker) Anjay Nagpal about his new podcast "Brokers, Bagmen, and Moles." The pod examines the Chicago Outfit's involvement in the Chicago Mercantile Exchange during the 1980s.

We deep dive the infamous Black Mafia from Philadelphia. The African American organized crime group terrorized the Philly metro area for decades. We also discuss their connections to Italian American Mafia families in Philly and NY.

We debate and discuss who is in today's Bruno/Scarfo crime family administration.

We examine latest news on the Buffalo Mafia, including recent legal cases involving alleged members of the Magaddino crime family.

Veteran Las Vegas reporter Larry Henry joins us to break down latest on "the body in the barrel" mystery. Speculation is hot and heavy that one of the bodies found in Lake Mead is Johnny Papas. He was a former Outfit associate and missing person. Naturally, mob observers wonder if Tony Spilotro's crew was responsible for Papas' disappearance and presumed murder.

We break down some recent legal cases involving prominent members of the Hells Angels MC. We also discuss the violent conflict between Hells Angels MC and Pagans MC in New England.

We're looking at members of the Bonanno and Gambino families for the Mafia Class of 2023 Part II.

A handful of NY veteran Mafiosi were released from prison recently. Scott Burnstein breaks it down.

We're examining the unsolved murder of Frank Lagano. He was a member of the Lucchese crime family. It's a compelling story involving murder, the Mafia, the Bloods street gang, and allegations of police corruption.

Paul Hodos, author of "Steel City Mafia" joins us to discuss the mob in Pittsburgh.

Our friend Michael Franzese joins us again! We're discussing the Cleveland Mafia, Goodfellas, Irish gangsters, criminal justice reform and more!!

We're taking with Canadian crime reporter and best-selling author Peter Edwards. We start by discussing the recent assassination attempt on alleged Montreal Mafia boss Leonardo Rizzuto. Peter also updates us on the Hells Angels MC, the Wolf Pack, and other Canadian underworld players.

Scott Burnstein sits down with our friend and Sit Down Podcast host Jeff Nadu. They discuss unsolved gangland homicides in Philadelphia and whether they're connected to the Bruno/Scarfo crime family.

NY mafia updates! We break down recent developments in the Genovese, Lucchese, and Buffalo crime families.

Our friend Leo Silva returns to discuss cartel violence on the US and Mexico border. Leo was DEA Special Agent in Charge in Monterrey, Mexico.

Scott addresses rumors surrounding Outlaws MC and Hells Angels holding diplomatic meetings. We also discuss the life and legacy of Detroit chapter Outlaws MC legend Lenny Braund.

We discuss the life and legacy of Philly street legend Joseph Ciancaglini. "Chickie" was a capo in the Bruno/Scarfo crime family.

Our friend Jeff Nadu sits down with Scott Burnstein to discuss the Basciano and Mancuso feud in the Bonanno crime family. They also discuss latest on cartel violence in border towns.

We examine the life and legacy of the recently deceased Chicago Mafia underboss Jimmy Inendino. For example, we debate and discuss the significance of recently declassified documents that indicate Jimmy I cooperated with the FBI in the 1960s and 1970s.

Big interview with former Mongols leader Justin DeLoretto, aka "Mooch!" Justin rode with 1% clubs like the Vagos and eventually became a regional leader in the Mongols. Today he's an author, scholar, and public health professional.

We discuss some of the latest news surrounding the five families in NY.

Our friend Michael Franzese called in to promote his appearance in Detroit this weekend. We also discussed his thoughts on Jimmy Hoffa and the passing of his legendary father Sonny Franzese.

Author and healer Rita Gigante joins us for this episode! Rita is the daughter of iconic Mafia boss Vincent "the Chin" Gigante. He was boss of the Genovese crime family for decades. She shares her journey and we discuss her book "The Godfather's Daughter." We also discuss her father's interactions with underworld legends such as Vito Genovese, Frank Costello. and John Gotti.

Our friend Gary Jenkins joins us to discuss the Mafia in Kansas City. Gary was an intelligence unit detective in KC. He also hosts the great podcast "Gangland Wire."

Former Mafioso John Pennisi joins us to discuss recent Mafia news. For example, we discuss the recent arrest of powerful Cosa Nostra boss Matteo Messina Denaro in Sicily. We also examine the current status of John's former organization: the Lucchese crime family in NY.

Best selling author Doug Century joins us to discuss his book "Hunting El Chapo." We also examine the cartel violence in Mexico surrounding the recent arrest of Otivio Guzman (El Chapo's son).

We discuss the Sicilian wing of the Gambino Crime Family in NY and NJ. For example, we look at the Cherry Hill Gambinos, Frank Cali, and Lorenzo Mannino.

We discuss the latest news regarding bodies found in Lake Mead. For example, we look at the case of Tony Albanese, former Bonanno associate. Back in the early 80s investigators found his decapitated head in the California desert. That situation was immortalized in the film Casino. Is the rest of his body located in Lake Mead? We also discuss some Outfit activities in Las Vegas.

Legendary criminal defense attorney Steve Fishman joined us in studio. "Fish" represented some of Detroit's most epic street legends and drug lords, including Terry Flenory from BMF, Demetrius Holloway, and Frank "Nitti" Usher among others. He also advocated on behalf of White Boy Rick's release.

We break down the latest news on 1% biker clubs. For example, we discuss conflict between the Outlaws MC and Mongols in Chicago, biker violence in Tennessee, and legal problems for the Pagans in Providence, RI.

Another Original Gangsters Podcast and Sitdown crossover special, as Scott Burnstein and Jeff Nadu break down the latest organized crime news.

We discuss the latest news regarding the Chicago Outfit. Part of the episode includes a discussion regarding the state execution of Murray Hooper. He was an Outfit associate and given the death penalty for a 1980 double homicide.

We're talking to former Rhode Island undercover police investigator Steve O'Donnell. Steve had infiltrated the Patriarca Crime Family as an undercover agent and eventually served as superintendent for Rhode Island state police. We discuss his investigations and get his insight regarding the latest news on alleged Patriarca underboss Eddie Lato.

We're talking with investigative journalist Frank Owen about the 20th anniversary of Jam Master Jay's murder. Jay was a member of the legendary group RUN DMC. Frank reports the murder was indirectly connected to a drug deal gone bad involving BMF (Black Mafia Family).

We examine the Merlino-Stanfa Mafia war in Philadelphia during the 1990s. We also discuss the ramifications of this war throughout the Philly underworld in the 2000s.

We interviewed Hollywood director Matthew Gentile for this episode! Gentile wrote and directed "American Murderer," a film in theaters now. The film is based on the true story of Jason Derek Brown. JDB was a conman, armed robber, and murderer. Brown was also on the FBI's Top Ten Most Wanted list.

We examine Detroit's Italian Mafia and the global narcotics trade. It's an intriguing web that involves Jimmy Hoffa and infamous drug networks like the French Connection and Pizza Connection. We also discuss poll results from our You Tube channel.

We're talking with legendary Tulsa Police Detective Mike Huff. Mike investigated the murder of Roger Wheeler in Oklahoma. The investigation led to Whitey Bulger and Boston's infamous Winter Hill Gang. Once Mike started his investigation, bodies started falling. Meanwhile, it became obvious to Mike that corrupt elements within Boston's FBI were protecting Bulger.

We're talking with retired federal agent and prolific author Ignacio J. Esteban. Ignacio was an undercover agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. He investigated and made cases against international drug cartels and outlaw biker clubs. Now he's an author and writes books about gangs and organized crime.

We're evaluating the current state of the Bonanno crime family in light of the Sally Daz murder trial.

This is our first episode dedicated to the Russian Mafia. We're talking with best-selling author Douglas Century about his new book "The Last Boss of Brighton: Boris Nayfeld and the Rise of the Russian Mob in America." We trace Boris's criminal career from Soviet era prison camps to mob boss of Brighton Beach, Brooklyn. Boris also worked closely with the Italian Mafia.

We're examining the past, present, and future of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club. For example, we discuss the recent skirmishes Outlaws have had with other clubs, notably the Pagans. We also speculate on the influence shows like Sons of Anarchy have on local law enforcement.

Former Genovese capo Anthony Arillotta joins us on this episode. Anthony ran the Genovese Family's operations in Western Massachusetts. Members of his crew have been accused of killing Boston's notorious Irish crime boss Whitey Bulger. Anthony provides exclusive insight regarding this ongoing story.

We're sitting down with former Bonanno associate Frank Fiordilino. Frank was born into a Sicilian Mafia family and became active in the Bonanno crime family in Brooklyn. We cover a lot of ground as Frank provides his insights regarding legendary Bonanno members including Joe Massino, Carmine Galante, Sal Montagna, and more!

More bodies are emerging as Lake Mead dries up. Police investigators suspect some of these bodies are unsolved mob murders related to Chicago Mafioso Tony Spilotro. We break the down the investigation as well as Tony Spilotro's murderous reign in Las Vegas