Historical Events tagged with "organized crime"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Crime & Law

John Gotti Convicted of Murder and Racketeering

April 2nd, 1992 32 years ago

John Gotti, the infamous boss of the Gambino crime family, was convicted for multiple charges including murder and racketeering in a highly publicized trial. The jury found him guilty after compelling evidence and witness testimonies. Gotti, known for his flamboyant personality and media savvy, was sentenced to life in prison without parole, marking a significant victory for law enforcement in their long-standing battle against organized crime in New York.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Murder of Magistrate Antonino Scopelliti

August 9th, 1991 33 years ago

Antonino Scopelliti, an Italian prosecuting magistrate, was assassinated in 1991 by members of the 'Ndrangheta on behalf of the Sicilian Mafia. Scopelliti was preparing the government's case for the final appeal in the Maxi Trial, a major anti-mafia prosecution. His murder was a direct threat to the state's efforts to combat organized crime in Italy. The assassination took place in the context of a violent conflict between competing organized crime syndicates, highlighting the risks faced by law enforcement officials.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Execution-Style Shooting of Victoria Police Officers

October 12th, 1988 36 years ago

Two officers of the Victoria Police were shot execution-style in Walsh Street, South Melbourne. During a routine patrol, Senior Constable Jill O'Brien and Constable Gary Silk were ambushed and killed by armed assailants. The attackers were believed to be linked to organized crime. This shocking event highlighted the dangers faced by police officers and led to a renewed focus on law enforcement practices in Victoria.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Milperra Massacre: Bandidos vs. Comancheros Clash

September 2nd, 1984 40 years ago

A violent confrontation between rival motorcycle gangs Bandidos and Comancheros took place in Sydney, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals and injuries to twelve others. The skirmish erupted during a planned meet at a local venue, fueled by long-standing rivalries. This bloody event marked a significant escalation in the gang wars within Australia, drawing public and media attention to the dangers of organized crime in the region.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Heathrow's Brink's-Mat Gold Heist

November 26th, 1983 41 years ago

In a dramatic theft, an armed gang infiltrated the Brink's-Mat vault at Heathrow Airport, making off with 6,800 gold bars valued at almost £26 million. This audacious robbery took place amid the backdrop of the early 1980s, a decade marked by various criminal enterprises and increased security concerns. The gang's meticulous planning allowed them to overpower the security measures in place. As law enforcement engaged in a lengthy investigation, the missing gold began to recirculate, significantly impacting the gold market and igniting public interest in organized crime.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Massive Lufthansa Heist in New York City

December 11th, 1978 46 years ago

A group led by Jimmy Burke executed a heist at the Lufthansa cargo building in New York's JFK Airport, stealing approximately $5 million in cash and nearly $875,000 in jewelry, making it the largest cash robbery at the time. The operation was meticulously planned, involving inside information about the cargo scheduled for shipment and the precise timing of the theft. The robbery was executed without any shots fired and involved multiple accomplices who helped carry out the escape plan.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Hilton Hotel Bombing in Sydney

February 13th, 1978 47 years ago

A bomb exploded in a refuse truck outside the Hilton Hotel in Sydney, Australia, resulting in the deaths of two refuse collectors and a policeman. The explosion occurred during a period of rising tensions due to organized crime and escalating political violence in the region. Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, while investigations were launched to determine the perpetrators behind this violent act.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Jimmy Hoffa's Mysterious Disappearance

July 30th, 1975 49 years ago

Jimmy Hoffa disappears from the parking lot of the Machus Red Fox restaurant, located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. He was last seen around 2:30 p.m. by individuals connected with his plans to regain power within the Teamsters Union. Hoffa's sudden vanishing raised immediate concerns about foul play, as he had been embroiled in various disputes, including turf battles with organized crime figures. This incident led to significant media coverage and extensive investigations.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Kidnapping of John Paul Getty III

November 8th, 1973 51 years ago

John Paul Getty III, the grandson of billionaire J. Paul Getty, was kidnapped in Rome, Italy, by a group of Italian bandits. Following his abduction, the kidnappers sent a ransom note and severed his right ear as proof of their commitment to the demand, which totalled US$2.9 million. The shocking event received massive media attention, forcing Getty's father, J. Paul Getty Jr., to negotiate to secure his son's release. Eventually, after initially refusing to pay the ransom, Getty Jr. would acquiesce to the demands.

Continue Reading