In one of the largest Mafia crackdowns in FBI history, authorities arrested 127 suspected mobsters Thursday in New York, New Jersey and other parts of the Northeast.
According to federal prosecutors, the suspects belong to the Big Apple's five mafia crime families. Charges against the suspects include murder, extortion, and drug trafficking.
Among those arrested:
- Luigi Manocchio, 83, alleged former boss of the New England La Cosa Nostra (LCN).
- Andrew Russo, 76, alleged street boss of the Colombo family.
- Benjamin Castellazzo, 73, alleged acting underboss of the Colombo family.
- Richard Fusco, 74, alleged consigliere of the Colombo family.
- Joseph Corozzo, 69, alleged consigliere of the Gambino family.
- Bartolomeo Vernace, 61, alleged member of the Gambino family administration.
"Today's arrests and charges mark an important step forward in disrupting La Cosa Nostra's illegal activities," U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder said at a news conference Thursday in New York City.
Thursday's takedown was the culmination of multiple investigations over several years.
"This largest single-day operation …sends the message that our fight against traditional organized crime is strong and our commitment is unwavering," Holder said.