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John Gotti

Gangster John Gotti

Profession: Gangster

Nationality:
United States of America
American

Biography: John Gotti was the boss of the Gambino crime family in New York City. He was known for his flamboyant style and frequent media appearances, which earned him the nicknames "The Dapper Don" and "The Teflon Don."

Gotti rose through the ranks of the Gambino family, starting as an errand boy for a capo named Carmine Fatico. He later became a capo himself, reporting directly to underboss Aniello Dellacroce. In 1985, Gotti orchestrated the murder of the family's boss, Paul Castellano, and took over as the new leader.

Throughout the 1980s, Gotti faced multiple trials on various charges but was acquitted each time, leading to his "Teflon Don" nickname. Later, however, it was revealed that these trials were influenced by jury tampering and witness intimidation.

Gotti's downfall came in 1991 when his underboss, Sammy "The Bull" Gravano, turned state's evidence and testified against him. In 1992, Gotti was convicted of multiple charges, including murder and racketeering, and sentenced to life in prison without parole.

While incarcerated, Gotti was diagnosed with throat cancer in 1998. He died of the disease in 2002 at the age of 61.

Born: October 27, 1940
Birthplace: The Bronx, New York, USA

Generation: Silent Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Dragon
Star Sign: Scorpio

Died: June 10, 2002 (aged 61)
Cause of Death: Throat cancer

Historical Events

  • 1985-12-16 John Gotti assumes leadership of New York's Gambino crime family after ordering the executions of Paul Castellano and Thomas Bilotti
  • 1987-03-13 John Gotti, boss of the Gambino crime family, is acquitted of racketeering
  • 1992-04-02 Mafia boss John Gotti is found guilty of 5 murders (Paul Castellano, Thomas Bilotti, Robert DiBernardo, Liborio Milito and Louis Dibono), plus conspiracy to murder, loansharking, illegal gambling, obstruction of justice, bribery and tax evasion
  • 1992-06-24 Mafia boss John Gotti begins life sentence in jail for murder and other crimes

Biographies and Sources


Famous Gangsters