Underworld Justice: Former Genovese Capo Sentenced for Illegal Gambling Empire and Extortion Tactics
Carmelo “Carmine” Polito, a 64-year-old former acting capo of the Genovese crime family, has been sentenced to 30 months in prison for racketeering charges related to an illegal gambling operation in Lynbrook, Long Island. The ruling was delivered on Friday as part of a broader crackdown on organized crime activities.
Details of the Case
Polito pleaded guilty on April 5 of this year to charges stemming from his operation of an illegal gambling parlor situated in the Gran Caffé, a gelato and coffee shop located in Lynbrook. This establishment was reported to be one part of a larger network of illicit gambling venues in Nassau County, managed collaboratively by the Genovese and Bonanno crime families.
Prosecutors have asserted that these locations operated ‘illegal joker poker-type gambling machines’ and various poker games, reportedly generating over $2,000 daily for mob operations. The partnership between the two crime families was marked by negotiations over profit-sharing arrangements, ensuring that both factions benefited from the gambling endeavors.
Threats and Intimidation
The charges against Polito were not merely related to gambling operations; they also included intimidation tactics. He admitted to engaging in extortion against individuals who owed debts from gambling activities. In court documents, prosecutors highlighted instances where Polito threatened physical harm to those who failed to pay, including a disturbing directive to “put him under the fing bridge” if debts were not settled.
FBI Assistant Director in Charge James Dennehy commented on the case, stating, “The cards did not favor Carmelo Polito’s illicit gambling parlor or his extortionate methods. His illegitimate business and death threats financed the operations of two crime families.”
Co-Defendants and Further Investigations
Polito’s conviction comes as part of a larger federal investigation that resulted in the indictment of five individuals, including co-defendant Joseph Macario, also known as “Joe Fish.” Both men faced multiple charges, including racketeering and attempted extortion. The list of co-defendants also includes Joseph Rutigliano, 65, known as “Joe Box,” Salvatore Rubino, 61, referred to as “Sal the Shoemaker,” and Mark Feuer, 61.
In an additional twist to the investigation, Nassau County Police Detective Hector Rosario has been indicted. Authorities allege that Rosario orchestrated police raids on rival underground gambling shops in exchange for kickbacks from the mob. He faces charges of obstructing a grand jury investigation and making false statements to federal agents and has pleaded not guilty.
Conclusion
Carmelo Polito’s sentencing marks a significant step in the fight against organized crime and illegal gambling in New York. As law enforcement continues to dismantle these illicit networks, Polito’s case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by organized crime in the region. The investigation and subsequent indictments underscore a commitment to rooting out corruption both within law enforcement and in the ranks of organized crime families.