Nicky Scarfo's Targets: Who Did He Plan To Kill?

Who was the target of Nicodemo "Nicky" Scarfo's wrath when that chilling glare settled upon his face? The answer, lost in the shadows of Philadelphia's underworld, is a testament to the paranoia and ruthlessness that defined his reign.

Nicky Scarfo, a name whispered with a mixture of fear and respect throughout the annals of organized crime, was born in Brooklyn, New York, on March 8, 1929. His early life saw a move to South Philadelphia during his teenage years, laying the foundation for his eventual rise within the city's notorious crime family. It wasn't until his adult years that he would make Atlantic City his base of operations.

The echoes of Scarfo's time reverberate, a testament to his influence and the climate of fear he cultivated. His journey through the ranks, punctuated by violence and betrayal, remains a dark chapter in the history of the Philadelphia underworld. Scarfo's ruthlessness was legendary. He wasn't afraid to eliminate anyone who posed a threat or crossed him. This approach, though effective in solidifying his power, ultimately sowed the seeds of his downfall.

Scarfo's alignment with the Genovese family, a powerful force in New York, further amplified his influence. This backing from the West Side and the Yardville 9 Days solidified allegiances and gave him the leverage to challenge even the most established figures within the Cosa Nostra. This led to his infamous remarks about John Gotti, a move that showcased Scarfo's confidence and his disregard for traditional hierarchies. Scarfo's ability to navigate the complex political landscape of the mafia, understanding the unwritten rules and the crucial role of New York, was instrumental in his ascent. However, as the saying goes, power corrupts, and Scarfo's reign was marked by a descent into paranoia and brutality.

The brutal realities of his position were not lost on Scarfo. The fates of his predecessors, Angelo Bruno and Phil Testa, both murdered by their own underlings, served as a constant reminder of the precariousness of his power. This fear, rooted in the very structure of the organization, fueled his paranoia, making him distrustful of everyone around him. This atmosphere of fear, where allegiances shifted and betrayal was always a possibility, defined the Scarfo era.

The shadow of Scarfo's decisions extended beyond the immediate scope of his power. The younger brother of his underboss, Salvatore "Chuckie" Merlino, and the uncle of Joseph "Skinny Joey" Merlino, were all involved in the family. Scarfo's influence permeated the family dynamic. The family's ties to both the underworld and legitimate businesses provided a complex environment of opportunity and danger, as they became entwined within the city's fabric.

The question of whom Scarfo plotted to eliminate when he made that face is a chilling testament to the atmosphere he cultivated. Nicodemo Scarfo's time as the boss of the Philadelphia crime family was marked by violence and a profound sense of paranoia. He would later serve a lengthy prison sentence for racketeering and murder. The question remains: who was next?

Category Details
Full Name Nicodemo Scarfo
Also Known As "Little Nicky"
Date of Birth March 8, 1929
Place of Birth Brooklyn, New York
Date of Death January 13, 2017
Place of Death Federal Medical Center, Butner, North Carolina
Crime Family Philadelphia Crime Family
Position Boss (1981-1990)
Key Associates Philip "Crazy Phil" Leonetti, Salvatore "Chuckie" Merlino
Criminal Charges Murder, Racketeering, Conspiracy, Extortion
Known For Violent Temper, War with Harry Riccobene
Imprisonment Spent over 30 years in prison
Source Wikipedia

The world of organized crime, as depicted in popular culture like "The Sopranos," often provides a glimpse into the lives of figures like Scarfo. The reference to "The Cleaver" film and the connection to Atlantic City is not merely a detail, but a subtle nod to the real-life brutality and influence of individuals like Scarfo. He was old school, unwilling to compromise, and he remained true to his principles. This, however, did not shield him from the darkness that he embraced.

His history is a complex one, filled with contradictions. Scarfo was, by all accounts, a ruthless leader. The murders and betrayals that punctuated his tenure serve as a testament to his willingness to use violence to maintain control. His paranoia, while understandable given the dangers of his profession, ultimately consumed him. The question of what drove him to make that face, what triggered the violence, underscores the darkness of Scarfo's world.

The story of Scarfo's life highlights the cyclical nature of violence. Those who live by the sword often die by the sword, and in Scarfo's case, the cycle was evident throughout his career. Scarfo's family, his underlings, and even those he allied with, suffered from the repercussions of his actions. The phrase "you wonder if you believe in karma" and the book "Gotti's Rules" are testament to the impact of a life lived in the underworld.

Before becoming a made man, Scarfo's early life included experiences that were completely separate from the mafia. Working with newsboys and boxing revealed a side of him that was far removed from the brutality he would later embrace. His introduction to the mafia by his uncles paved the way for his descent into violence and the pursuit of power.

The fact that Scarfo was in the family in 1980, after the murder of a mobster, reveals a lot about the mob lifestyle. Scarfo was acquitted of the murder, a circumstance that reflects the corrupt system in which he operated. The question of where he was headed and who was sending him is a clear demonstration of the paranoia that defined his life and his leadership.

Scarfo's life story serves as a warning of the dangers of organized crime, highlighting the destructive nature of power and the human cost of living a life steeped in violence and deceit. The remnants of his empire and the shadows he cast continue to haunt the city of Philadelphia.

Nicky Scarfo, The Bloodthirsty Mob Boss Of 1980s Philadelphia
Nicky Scarfo, The Bloodthirsty Mob Boss Of 1980s Philadelphia
Violent Philly Mafia don 'Little Nicky' Scarfo dies in prison at 87
Violent Philly Mafia don 'Little Nicky' Scarfo dies in prison at 87
Nicky Scarfo, Jr., son of convicted Philadelphia organized crime
Nicky Scarfo, Jr., son of convicted Philadelphia organized crime

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