Episodes

  • THE MOST BRUTAL BOSS OF THE LUCCHESE MAFIA FAMILY - Biography of Anthony “Gaspipe” Casso

    THE MOST BRUTAL BOSS OF THE LUCCHESE MAFIA FAMILY - Biography of Anthony “Gaspipe” Casso
    Nov 22 2024
    Step into the dark and treacherous world of Anthony "The Gaspipe" Casso, one of the most infamous underbosses in the history of organized crime. This in-depth episode unravels the life of a man who rose to power in the Lucchese crime family with unparalleled cunning and ruthlessness. From his early days as a mob enforcer to orchestrating multimillion-dollar rackets, Gaspipe's legacy is a chilling tale of violence, betrayal, and survival. Explore how Casso’s mastery of bribes and alliances infiltrated law enforcement, including the NYPD’s "Mafia Cops." Learn about his shocking betrayals, including turning state’s evidence, only to face even darker consequences. Discover the paranoia, brutality, and ultimate downfall of a man whose life defined the deadly allure of the mob. This is the gripping story of Anthony Casso—a life of crime like no other.
    • Early Life and Influences
      • Born May 21, 1942, in Brooklyn to Michael Casso, a dock worker with mafia connections.
      • Nicknamed "Gaspipe" after his father, who carried a lead gas pipe for protection.
      • Grew up in a family influenced by the mafia, with Sal Calabro, a Genovese family capo, as his godfather.
    • Entry into Crime
      • Became a member of the South Brooklyn Boys gang as a teenager.
      • Worked at docks and festivals through mafia connections, earning his first income.
      • Dropped out of school at 16 and started working in organized crime under Christopher “Christy Tick” Furnari of the Lucchese family.
    • Criminal Operations
      • Involved in diverse criminal activities, including drug trafficking (marijuana, cocaine, heroin), robbery, extortion, and murder.
      • Operated sophisticated schemes like truck heists, jewelry store robberies, and safe-cracking, earning over $100 million.
    • Key Partnerships and Strategies
      • Worked closely with law enforcement insiders, including corrupt NYPD detectives and an FBI agent, to stay ahead of investigations.
      • Partnered with Gregory Scarpa for hits and leveraging law enforcement contacts.
    • Drug Trafficking
      • Imported drugs through innovative routes using shrimp trawlers, warehouses, and even a rumored Boeing 707.
      • Expanded operations to include cocaine imports via planes landing in Florida.
    • Notable Incidents
      • Shot Bobby "B-Bop" in 1961, leading to a high-stakes negotiation to resolve the conflict.
      • Oversaw the murder of Paul Bennett, a rat, and others involved in a failed drug shipment.
    • Rise in the Lucchese Family
      • Officially inducted into the Lucchese family in 1974 alongside longtime partner Vic Amuso.
      • Declined the position of capo but recommended Vic Amuso, solidifying their influence.
    • Collaborations with Other Mafia Families
      • Worked with Gerard Papa and Peter Savino on a city window replacement project that generated profits for multiple mafia families.
      • Assisted Marat Balagula, a Soviet immigrant, in resolving conflicts with the Colombo family over the gasoline racket.
    • Legacy and Infamy
      • Known for his brutality and cunning, Casso combined violence with business acumen.
      • Left a trail of high-profile crimes and a reputation as one of the most feared figures in the mafia world.
    • Connections to Pop Culture
    • Inspired details in films like The Godfather and Thief through his criminal techniques and associates.
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    44 mins
  • "Secrets of La Cosa Nostra MegaCast: Omerta To Joe Valachi's Mafia Confessions"

    "Secrets of La Cosa Nostra MegaCast: Omerta To Joe Valachi's Mafia Confessions"
    Nov 19 2024
    Step into the dark, clandestine world of organized crime with this gripping episode of our True Crime Mafia Mega Show. Uncover the groundbreaking revelations of Joe Valachi, the first insider to shatter the Mafia's sacred code of silence—omertà. In this exclusive deep dive, we explore Valachi’s unprecedented confession that exposed the secretive empire of La Cosa Nostra, a criminal organization worth billions. From his harrowing kiss of death by Mafia boss Vito Genovese to the chilling blood-and-fire rituals of initiation, Valachi’s story pulls back the curtain on the rituals, power plays, and betrayals that defined the mob. Discover how his testimony before a nationwide audience in 1963 unraveled decades of secrecy, naming names and dismantling the mafia’s unassailable aura of mystery.
    What led a seasoned hitman and soldier of the Genovese family to risk everything, including his life, to expose the underworld he once served? What were the ripple effects of his revelations, and how did they reshape the FBI's war against organized crime? This episode blends suspense, historical depth, and human drama, making it an unmissable journey into the dark heart of America’s most infamous criminal empire.
    Tune in now to hear the inside story that rocked the Mafia to its core and changed the face of law enforcement forever.
    • Joe Valachi's Revelations (00:00–02:07):
      • First Mafia insider to break "omertà," exposing La Cosa Nostra's structure, rituals, and operations.
      • Revealed the Mafia's $40 billion-a-year empire, impacting the FBI's battle against organized crime.
    • Prison Dynamics and the Kiss of Death (02:07–04:09):
      • Valachi, serving time with Mafia boss Vito Genovese, receives the Mafia’s kiss of death.
      • Genovese believed Valachi betrayed him, leading to a series of events where Valachi kills the wrong man out of paranoia.
    • Valachi Becomes an Informant (05:22–07:30):
      • Facing execution, Valachi offers to cooperate with the Justice Department.
      • Provides Attorney General Robert Kennedy and the FBI with unprecedented insights into organized crime.
    • Unveiling Mafia Structure (08:30–10:15):
      • Valachi describes the Mafia’s hierarchy: families led by bosses, underbosses, and soldiers.
      • He explains their rituals, including the blood-and-fire initiation ceremony, and the significance of loyalty.
    • Detailed Testimony Validated (10:15–15:23):
      • FBI corroborates Valachi’s accounts using police records and unsolved cases.
      • Valachi’s credibility is confirmed, making him a key witness against organized crime.
    • Historic Senate Testimony (16:30–19:27):
      • Valachi testifies before a Senate committee in 1963, detailing his life as a Mafia hitman and the organization’s operations.
      • Broadcasted testimony captivates the nation, providing a rare look into the Mafia’s inner workings.
    • Key Historical Mafia Events (21:09–24:15):
      • Valachi recounts joining the Mafia in 1930 and his initiation under Salvatore Maranzano.
      • Explains Maranzano’s plan to divide New York into five families, later replaced by Lucky Luciano’s commission.
    • Exposing Mafia Leadership (30:51–33:04):
      • Names prominent Mafia bosses, including Vito Genovese, Carlo Gambino, and Joseph Bonanno.
      • Details the Mafia’s criminal enterprises and their infiltration into legitimate businesses.
    • Unveiling Mafia Members (33:04–34:47):
      • Identifies 130 members of the Genovese family and 289 mafiosi overall, enabling law enforcement to expand their understanding of Mafia operations.
    • Impact and Skepticism (34:47–35:30):
      • Valachi’s testimony remains pivotal but faced criticism, with skeptics questioning the depth of his knowledge as a foot soldier.
      • Nonetheless, his revelations provided foundational knowledge for law enforcement’s approach to combating organized crime.
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    3 hrs and 19 mins
  • "Underworld Exposed: Secrets of Mafia Power and Betrayal"

    "Underworld Exposed: Secrets of Mafia Power and Betrayal"
    Nov 16 2024
    Dive into the shadowy world of organized crime with "Underworld Exposed: Secrets of Mafia Power and Betrayal"—a gripping breakdown of the documentary Mob Bosses & Hitmen: Trevor Conradical Investigates The Mafia. This episode uncovers the dark truths behind notorious mob hits, ruthless power struggles, and the unbreakable grip of omertà, the mafia’s code of silence. From the chilling assassination of Joe Colombo to the shocking betrayal that brought down John Gotti, we explore the pivotal events that shaped the underworld.
    Through first-hand accounts from figures like John Alite, the fearsome enforcer of Queens, and Michael "Mikey Scars" DeLeonardo, a high-ranking Gambino defector, listeners gain unparalleled insights into the mafia’s brutal operations, rituals, and the ultimate price of loyalty. The episode vividly recounts the harrowing consequences of crossing the mob, including relentless vendettas and the ceaseless fear of retribution
    Whether it's Alite's chilling description of his first hit or DeLeonardo’s haunting reflections on a life he can never truly escape, this episode paints a vivid portrait of lives consumed by power, betrayal, and regret. Perfect for true crime enthusiasts and history buffs, this is a raw and unfiltered look at the mafia's sinister allure and its devastating legacy. Tune in for a captivating journey into the darkest corners of organized crime and the human stories behind the headlines.
    • Joe Colombo and Carmine Galente Assassinations (00:04-00:47):
      • Joe Colombo’s death and Carmine Galente’s murder are emblematic of mafia violence.
      • Hitmen used coordinated attacks with trench coats and firearms to execute targets.
    • Life of a Mafia Hitman (00:47-01:27):
      • A former hitman recalls joking with his young son about being present during a hit.
      • The mafia’s core rule is loyalty; betrayal results in death.
    • John Alite’s Criminal Career (02:26-06:38):
      • Known as "The Sheriff" in Queens, John enforced mafia rules through violence.
      • He recounts his first hit, luring a victim near Shea Stadium and shooting him in the head.
      • The body was discarded publicly to send a message of control and obedience.
    • The Rise and Fall of John Gotti (07:18-07:58):
      • John Gotti, "The Teflon Don," maintained his reign over the Gambino family until his closest lieutenant betrayed him.
      • This betrayal led to Gotti's conviction and marked a shift in mafia dynamics.
    • Michael DeLeonardo ("Mikey Scars") and Witness Protection (08:40-13:21):
      • Former high-ranking Gambino member shares his ongoing fear of retaliation despite entering witness protection.
      • He grapples with guilt over past crimes and betrayal of his mafia ties.
    • Mafia Structure and Induction Rituals (14:12-15:05):
      • The mafia’s secrecy and initiation ceremonies were key to its survival.
      • Testimonies from insiders like Joe Valachi in 1963 revealed the organization’s inner workings for the first time.
    • Life and Wealth in the Mafia (19:39-23:57):
      • The Gambino family controlled lucrative ventures across industries, amassing immense wealth.
      • John Alite describes his extravagant lifestyle, complete with luxury estates, but laments losing it all.
    • Violent Encounters and Retaliation (23:24-24:33):
      • Alite recalls brutal incidents, including beating a construction worker and surviving a shootout on his property.
      • Despite the violence, he viewed this life as normal until testifying against others.
    • Mafia Betrayals and Decline (15:56-18:42):
      • Organized crime’s decline accelerated as insiders testified, leading to convictions and broken families.
      • Even years later, betrayers like Alite and DeLeonardo remain targets.
    • Legacy and Reflection (22:08-25:38):
      • Both John Alite and Mikey Scars reflect on their choices and the emotional toll of their actions.
      • They acknowledge that the mafia lifestyle is inescapable and fraught with consequences for themselves and their loved ones.
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    1 hr and 31 mins
  • Italian Mafia in America

    Italian Mafia in America
    Nov 15 2024
    Dive into the gripping narrative of how the Italian Mafia reshaped America in the 20th century in this electrifying podcast episode. From the clandestine Appalachian summit of 1957 to the globalization of organized crime, this episode unpacks the shocking rise and influence of the Mafia. You'll journey through Sicily, the birthplace of this shadowy empire, and uncover the roots of its culture, secrecy, and ironclad codes.
    Hear the incredible story of "Lucky" Luciano, the mastermind who merged traditional Sicilian loyalty with modern business practices, creating the infamous Commission—a governing body that united Mafia families under one banner. Discover how Joe Banano's involvement in global heroin trade discussions made his family a powerhouse in transatlantic crime. Witness the cultural impact of the Mafia through firsthand accounts from mobsters’ families, highlighting the allure, discipline, and ruthless power wielded by these men of honor.
    This episode doesn't shy away from the darker truths: how the Mafia infiltrated industries, controlled unions, and even influenced government decisions while law enforcement turned a blind eye. Relive the battles of the FBI against organized crime and uncover the ultimate unraveling of one of history’s most secretive and powerful criminal organizations.
    Whether you're a history buff, a true crime aficionado, or simply intrigued by tales of power, loyalty, and betrayal, this episode is packed with insights and revelations that will leave you wanting more. Don’t miss your chance to explore the untold stories of the Mafia’s rise and its lasting impact on America and beyond.
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    47 mins
  • "From Gentleman Gangster to Bloodthirsty Westies: The Violent Evolution of Hell's Kitchen’s Mob"

    "From Gentleman Gangster to Bloodthirsty Westies: The Violent Evolution of Hell's Kitchen’s Mob"
    Nov 12 2024
    Dive into the gritty history of New York City’s Hell’s Kitchen, where the reign of “gentleman gangster” Mickey Spillane gave way to the ruthless terror of the Westies gang. This episode traces the power struggle that erupted between Spillane, a charismatic leader with a vision of organized crime rooted in local respect, and the next generation of gangsters who would redefine brutality in the underworld. Born into the immigrant neighborhoods of Hell’s Kitchen, Spillane was known for his sharp style and the calculated grace with which he ruled. Even as he kept rivals like the Italian Mafia at bay, Spillane maintained a stronghold on his neighborhood, carefully balancing politics and crime—a balance that shattered with the arrival of Jimmy Coonan and Mickey Featherstone, two vengeful upstarts.
    Featherstone and Coonan, fueled by deep resentment for Spillane’s treatment of Coonans father, sought to challenge Spillane’s dominance. This episode unravels Featherstone and Coonan’s rise from a young enforcers with a vendetta to the notorious heads of the Westies, a gang that replaced Spillane’s “gentleman” approach with ruthless violence and a booming drug trade. With his trusted, grimly skilled ally Eddie Kaminsky—a former butcher adept at making bodies disappear—Known as the Houdini; Featherstone and Coonan unleashed a campaign of terror that left a bloody mark on Hell’s Kitchen. Listeners will explore how the assassinations, betrayals, and deadly alliances surrounding the Jacob Javits Convention Center project would forever alter New York’s criminal landscape, leading to the reign of the Westies, whose violent influence dominated the West Side through the 1980s. Coonan betrayed Mickey by going with the rival italians most of the time and setting Mickey up for murder because he knew his Westies were upset with him and he had to feed his wife Edna who under Hell's Kitchen terms was living in a mansion in Keasburg New Jersey. Mickey wanted a nice house in the much better county Bergen in the town of Teaneck as the Coonans could'nt see the forest beyond the trees deciding want is known to many as Carney (carnival) Keansburg. They dreamed big but didn't know how.
    This episode captures the pulse of a neighborhood in transformation, from the days of loyalty and respect to the era of extreme violence. True crime fans and mafia history buffs alike will be captivated by this raw, inside look into the rise and fall of Hell’s Kitchen’s Irish mob—an era gone but not forgotten.
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    45 mins
  • "Empire of Vice: The Rise of Chicago's Outfit Through Rackets, Prohibition, and Power"

    "Empire of Vice: The Rise of Chicago's Outfit Through Rackets, Prohibition, and Power"
    Nov 12 2024
    Step into the gritty streets of early 20th-century Chicago, where power, vice, and ruthless ambition carved out one of America's most infamous criminal empires: the Chicago Outfit. In this episode, we unravel the fascinating origins of the Outfit’s rise to power, from its domination of the policy gambling racket—a multimillion-dollar numbers game spearheaded by savvy figures like John “Mushmouth” Johnson and the Jones Brothers—to its iron grip on Chicago’s South and West Sides. We follow the Outfit's brutal expansion as it clawed control of policy gambling from the community to create a profitable enterprise fueled by greed, corruption, and a network of local protection.
    The story intensifies with the dawn of Prohibition in 1920, a lucrative period that turned the Outfit into a criminal juggernaut. Spearheaded by legends like Johnny Torrio and Al Capone, the Outfit established a sprawling bootlegging network that brought unprecedented violence and corruption to Chicago’s streets. Al Capone’s calculated ruthlessness, epitomized by notorious hits like the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, established him as the era's ultimate kingpin, paving his path to power through bloody turf wars and government bribes. As law enforcement closed in on these operations, Capone's arrest for tax evasion underscored a new chapter in Chicago’s underworld, one where the Outfit's surviving members pivoted to racetrack betting, public corruption, and legal loopholes to secure their revenue streams.
    This episode offers a rare insight into the unique alliances and betrayals that defined Chicago’s gangland era, where high-profile figures clashed and criminal fiefdoms fell. From policy kingpins who were ousted by the Outfit’s sheer force to Al Capone’s audacious ambition that reshaped the city, "Empire of Vice" reveals the little-known stories of those who dared to play in Chicago’s underworld and paid the price. Tune in for a gripping chronicle of a world where crime became big business, and the Outfit ruled with an iron fist.
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    1 hr
  • "Breaking Omertà: Joe Valachi's Revelations of La Cosa Nostra"

    "Breaking Omertà: Joe Valachi's Revelations of La Cosa Nostra"
    Nov 12 2024
    Delve deep into the clandestine world of the American Mafia with the unprecedented story of Joe Valachi—the first insider to shatter the sacred code of silence known as Omertà. Once a ruthless hitman embedded within the shadows of La Cosa Nostra, Valachi's life took a dramatic turn when he received the dreaded "kiss of death" from his own boss, Vito Genovese, while imprisoned. Consumed by fear and paranoia, Valachi mistakenly killed a fellow inmate he believed was sent to assassinate him, a move that left him facing a potential death sentence.
    In a desperate bid for survival, Valachi chose to break the Mafia's most sacred vow and became an informant for the FBI. His decision unleashed a torrent of secrets that law enforcement had long struggled to uncover. Valachi decoded the inner workings of the Mafia's hierarchy, divulged the meanings behind secret rituals—including the blood oath initiation—and introduced the world to terms like "La Cosa Nostra," meaning "our thing." His testimony before a Senate committee in 1963 was a groundbreaking moment broadcasted nationwide, exposing the identities of powerful mob bosses like Carlo Gambino and Joseph Bonanno, and revealing the Mafia's extensive reach across America.
    Join us as we unravel Valachi's perilous journey from loyal soldier to the Mafia's most notorious informant. Explore the psychological turmoil of living under constant threat, the moral complexities of his choices, and the monumental impact his revelations had on the fight against organized crime. This episode offers an intimate glimpse into a hidden empire of crime, power, and betrayal, making it an essential listen for true crime enthusiasts eager to explore one of history's most significant blows against the Mafia's iron curtain of silence.
    • Breaking the Code of Silence: Joe Valachi, the first mafia insider to break the "omertà" or Code of Silence, provided the FBI with unprecedented insights into La Cosa Nostra's structure, operations, and rituals.
    • Threat from Vito Genovese: While serving time with mafia boss Vito Genovese, Valachi feared for his life after receiving the mafia's "kiss of death" from Genovese, leading him to mistakenly kill a fellow inmate he thought was sent to kill him.
    • Turning Informant: To escape execution, Valachi offered to cooperate with the FBI and revealed mafia secrets to Attorney General Robert Kennedy’s team, who eagerly accepted his offer.
    • Defining La Cosa Nostra: Valachi clarified the term "La Cosa Nostra," meaning "our thing," and provided details on the mafia's hierarchy, including bosses, underbosses, lieutenants, and soldiers.
    • Nationwide Scope: His information exposed the mafia’s vast influence across America, from Boston to San Francisco, and its $40 billion empire in gambling, narcotics, and other illegal activities.
    • Public Testimony and Media Frenzy: Valachi’s testimony before a Senate committee in 1963 was broadcast nationally, captivating the public with his descriptions of mafia life and the initiation rituals.
    • Structure of Mafia Families: He outlined how New York’s five mafia families operated, naming prominent leaders like Vito Genovese, Carlo Gambino, and Joseph Bonanno, and revealing over 130 associates.
    • Initiation Rituals: Valachi described blood rituals and oaths to enforce loyalty, where initiates vowed to live and die by the "gun and knife."
    • Lasting Impact: His revelations led to intensified federal efforts against organized crime, with Valachi’s insider knowledge proving largely accurate over time.
    • Skepticism: Some critics doubted the full accuracy of Valachi’s testimony, given his lower rank, but his insights laid the groundwork for modern understanding of the mafia.
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    48 mins
  • Arnold Rothstein: The Mastermind Who Invented the American Mafia

    Arnold Rothstein: The Mastermind Who Invented the American Mafia
    Nov 12 2024
    Dive deep into the shadowy world of Arnold Rothstein, the man who transformed organized crime in America. Known as "The Brain," Rothstein was more than just a gambler; he was a visionary who saw opportunity where others saw risk. From manipulating odds and fixing games to amassing a fortune before the age of 30, his brilliance lay in always staying one step ahead.
    In this episode, we unravel the infamous 1919 World Series scandal, where Rothstein orchestrated the biggest fix in sports history by bribing Chicago White Sox players to throw the series. Despite national outrage and a government investigation, he walked away unscathed, showcasing his uncanny ability to manipulate not just games but the justice system itself.
    But Rothstein's influence didn't stop there. He became the mentor to a new generation of gangsters—names like Meyer Lansky, Lucky Luciano, and Dutch Schultz—teaching them to run crime like a business. Under his guidance, these proteges learned to blend into high society, emphasizing intelligence and sophistication over brute force, laying the groundwork for modern organized crime.
    As Prohibition gripped the nation, Rothstein saw another golden opportunity. He established a bootlegging empire, importing high-quality Scottish whiskey and distributing it nationwide. His operation was meticulous, turning the chaos of illegal liquor trade into a well-oiled machine catering to the wealthy and powerful.
    Not one to rest on his laurels, Rothstein diversified into labor racketeering, collaborating with ruthless figures like Louis "Lepke" Buchalter to control unions and exert pressure on businesses. He also foresaw the lucrative potential of the narcotics trade, leveraging his smuggling networks to pioneer organized drug trafficking in the United States.
    However, ambition breeds conflict. Rothstein's relationships with volatile associates like Dutch Schultz highlighted the risks of his high-stakes game. As he aimed to expand his empire globally, seeking partnerships to create an international drug cartel, Rothstein's story became a tale of ambition without bounds.
    Join us as we delve into the life of Arnold Rothstein—a man whose intellect and audacity not only shook the foundations of America's favorite pastime but also redefined the underworld. His story is one of brilliance, corruption, and the relentless pursuit of power, offering unparalleled insights into the making of the American Mafia.
    • Early Success in Gambling (00:07-02:54): Rothstein, a brilliant gambler and self-made millionaire, manipulated odds by fixing games, always ensuring a winning edge. He became known as "The Brain" for his cunning approach and ability to rig the system.
    • 1919 World Series Scandal (06:26-11:57): Rothstein bribed Chicago White Sox players to throw the series, profiting massively from his bets. Although the scheme eventually unraveled, he evaded conviction by manipulating the legal system.
    • Rise in Organized Crime (12:49-16:10): Rothstein’s success in fixing games and evading justice inspired New York’s gangsters, turning him into a mentor for future crime figures like Meyer Lansky, Lucky Luciano, and Dutch Schultz. He structured crime like a business, laying the foundation for modern organized crime.
    • Bootlegging Empire (14:26-18:47): During Prohibition, Rothstein imported high-quality alcohol and established a national bootlegging operation. He hired top mobsters to manage distribution, transforming crime into a well-organized enterprise.
    • Mentorship and Influence (17:06-19:50): Rothstein shaped his proteges, teaching them refined tastes and how to blend in with high society. His approach emphasized intelligence and sophistication over brute force.
    • Labor Racketeering (26:02-27:46): Rothstein diversified into labor racketeering, collaborating with gangsters like Louis "Lepke" Buchalter to control unions and pressure businesses.
    • Conflict with Dutch Schultz (27:46-28:31): Rothstein faced challenges from proteges like Schultz, who became uncontrollable and sought larger control of the bootlegging empire, showcasing the risks of employing violent gangsters.
    • Entry into Drug Trade (29:34-31:13): Rothstein expanded into narcotics, leveraging his smuggling network from Prohibition to distribute heroin, setting the stage for organized drug trafficking in the U.S.
    • Global Ambitions (31:13-31:59): Near the end of his career, Rothstein aimed to expand internationally, seeking partnerships to create a global drug cartel, pushing organized crime to new heights.
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    43 mins