Best Lara Chicofsky Podcasts (2025)

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Rico's Return: Alcee Hastings' Demise 24:04

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3d ago24:04

24:04

In this episode, Nina and Lara delve into the impeachment case brought against judge Alcee Hastings after FBI Special Agent H. Paul Rico cut his retirement short to go undercover as Frank Romano. The Romano brothers were associates of Tony Pro Provenzano who was rumored to be involved in the disappearance of Teamster boss, Jimmy Hoffa. Here about t…

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The Hit Parade 1981 - Who's Crying Now? 22:24

29d ago22:24

22:24

Lara is still waging her Pizza War against Nina, but they're both serving up another slice of Mafia history in today's episode. There's a recap of the Raymond "Baby" Curcio hit and Nicky Palmigiano's testimony against Raymond Patriarca and Rudy Sciarra. The discussion moves onto the murder victims of 1981 including Ronnie and Debra Davis, Angelo Pa…

1
Let's Make a Deal - Stolen Art and Bank Heists 21:37

1M ago21:37

21:37

Nina and Lara discuss art theft as a negotiating tool including the master of such deals, Myles Connor. The Rossettis including Mark, Stephen and Ralph and two of their heists are on the list of topics along with Richard Megna, Louis Royce and Richie "Nine Lives" Devlin. And Nina makes a confession!

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Heartache Tonight - The Hit Parade of 1980 33:36

2M ago33:36

33:36

Nina and Lara discuss the gangland slayings that took place in the Boston area in 1980. Sal Sperlinga, Stevie Hughes Jr., Louis Litif, Robert Lamonica and others are profiled. They also delve into the wrongful imprisonment of Fred Weichel, Whitey Bulgers involvement and Nina's obsession with beach pizza!…

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At Your Service - The Lancaster Street Garage 18:19

2M ago18:19

18:19

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The Hit Parade of 1979 - Tragedy 22:04

3M ago22:04

22:04

Lara and Nina delve into the homicides in Boston and the surrounding area during 1979, exploring various unsolved murders and the connections between some of the victims and organized crime. They discuss notable cases, including Joseph "Chris" D'Amelio and Anthony "Dapper" Corlito's slaying on the same street in the North End of Boston.…

1
Operation Lobster 19:49

3M ago19:49

19:49

Lara and Nina discuss Operation Lobster, a joint undercover FBI/Mass State Police operation targeting the Winter Hill Gang. They also delve into the background of infamous former FBI agent John Zip Connolly and his connections with notorious and illustrious figures like Whitey Bulger and Billy Bulger. And of course the truck hijacking case that res…

1
Is it Safe to go in the Water? The Loan Sharks 16:10

4M ago16:10

16:10

The girls delve into loan sharking in Massachusetts in the 1970s, focusing on key figures like Jimmy Martorano and the various legal challenges they faced. They discuss the timeline of the arrests, the run up to Operation Lobster, the ongoing legal battles and the connection of some of the men to Lara's father, Richie. Chapters 00:00 Introduction a…

1
A Day at the Races - Howie Winter and the Boys 28:50

4M ago28:50

28:50

The girls delve into the criminal activities surrounding Howie Winter in the 1970s, focusing on the pinball case and the subsequent race fixing scandal. They discuss the key players involved and the legal proceedings that followed exploring the testimonies of witnesses and the eventual verdicts. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Schedule Changes 00:4…

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The Hit Parade of 1978 - Stayin' Alive 22:25

5M ago22:25

22:25

Thanks to technical difficulties and Nina being on strike in protest of said tech issues, Lara is flying solo today. She talks about the gangland slayings of 1978 in the Boston area and Rhode Island. Some of the men profiled in this episode are Joseph "Joe Onions" Scanlon, Joseph DiFronzo, Joseph Patrizzi and George Basmajian.…

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The Blackfriars Massacre 37:47

5M ago37:47

37:47

Lara and Nina delve into the infamous Blackfriars Massacre that occurred in Boston in June of 1978, exploring the profiles of the victims, the details of the crime scene, the investigation that followed, and the various theories surrounding the suspects involved. The girls discuss the complexities of the case, including the connections between the …

1
The Hit Parade of 1977 - The Smugglers' Blues 14:56

5M ago14:56

14:56

Nina and Lara wrap up this three part series about the men who were killed in gangland slayings in Massachusetts and Rhode Island in 1977. The last 6 men who lost their lives were linked together not just geography and association but also by an international drug smuggling ring. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the 1977 Drug Smuggling Case 02:04 The…

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The Hit Parade of 1977 - The RI Edition - Part 1 20:54

5M ago20:54

20:54

The girls delve into two of the mob related homicide cases of 1977, focusing on the lives and deaths of Mike Ross and Dennis Lytwyn aka Danny Raimondi. They explore the circumstances surrounding Ross' murder, his connections to organized crime, and the man who killed him. They wrap up with Lytwyn's story, the events that leading up to his death and…

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The Hit Parade of 1977 - Massachusetts 15:51

6M ago15:51

15:51

Lara and Nina delve into the gangland slayings in Massachusetts in 1977, focusing on former Alcatraz inmate, Louis Arquilla, and others including Robert McFarland and Jackie DiFronzo.

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Making Book - The Gambling Case of 1977 22:11

6M ago22:11

22:11

In this episode, Lara and Nina delve into the 1977 gambling charges against several mob figures, including Larry Zannino, Abe Sarkis and Melvin Berger. They discuss the background of these individuals, the events leading up to the charges, the court proceedings, and the eventual sentencing. The conversation also touches on the life of Dominic Isabe…

1
War is a Racket - The Danvers Armory Heist of 1976 21:55

6M ago21:55

21:55

In this episode Lara and Nina discuss the Danvers Armory heist of 1976, where the weapons ended up, the attacks carried out by the IRA with some of the stolen M60s, their theories and more!

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Make It Or Break It - The Mafia Induction Ceremony of '77 30:45

6M ago30:45

30:45

Much attention has been given to the Mafia induction ceremony of 1989 in Medford, Massachusetts, but few remember the ceremony that took place on October 5, 1977 in Boston. Lara and Nina discuss the men that were made that day and the testimony about the induction ceremony itself. Links: La "Causa" Nostra - The Hill - Part 1 Family Feud - The Hill …

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No Happy Endings - From Maine to Massage Parlors 16:04

7M ago16:04

16:04

Lara and Nina delve answer questions about Sonny Mercurio and Little Joe Napolitano. They introduce Joe Puzzangara, discuss informants, connections between various Mafia figures., their counterfeiting operations and the massage parlor case that was the first RICO case in Massachusetts. Joseph Puzzangara family tree Russell Nicholson episodes 13 and…

1
The Mafia in Maine 24:52

7M ago24:52

24:52

This episode was inspired by a listener's email. Nina and Lara discuss Big Joe, Mickey and Little Joe Napolitano and their adventures in Maine including morphine, a still and a counterfeiting ring. 00:00Introduction to Organized Crime in Maine 01:55Intel Laundering: The Dark Side of Information 04:40The Napolitano Family 07:30Mickey Napolitano's Cr…

1
Nicky Bianco - The Taxman Cometh 13:16

7M ago13:16

13:16

In this episode, Lara and Nina revisit Nicky Bianco's early years including his time as a member of the Colombo Family and his return to Rhode Island, early legal troubles including income tax evasion, and his post prison career as a paralegal. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Question of the Week 02:02 Nicky D'Anco's Background and Rise 06:49 Nicky…

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The Hit Parade of 1976 36:16

7M ago36:16

36:16

Nina and Lara delve into the mob slayings of 1976 in Massachusetts and RI. The hosts explore key figures, events, and the implications of these crimes, including the tragic story of Richie Castucci. They highlight the intertwining lives of mobsters, law enforcement, and the consequences of greed and betrayal. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Episode…

1
Bonded Vault - Part 4 - The After Party 18:45

8M ago18:45

18:45

In this episode, Lara and Nina wrap up the Bonded Vault series, discussing the fates of various characters involved in the heist and subsequent events. They delve into the lives of Jacob Tarzian, Robert Dussault, Joe Danese, John Ouimette, Ralph Byrnes, and Charles Flynn, highlighting their criminal activities, legal troubles, and the impact of the…

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Bonded Vault - Part 3 - Love, Lies & Alibis 30:29

8M ago30:29

30:29

In this episode, the hosts delve into the Bonded Vault heist trial, exploring more details of the robbery, the various players involved, and the courtroom dynamics that unfolded over the course of the trial. They discuss witness testimonies, the role of organized crime, and the eventual verdicts that led to life sentences for the convicted individu…

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Bonded Vault - Part 2 - Revenge by Robbery 2.0 27:22

8M ago27:22

27:22

The Bonded Vault Heist: Revenge by Robbery 2.0 In this episode, the hosts discuss unresolved technical and logistical issues before diving into a listener comment about notorious criminals Anthony "Ponytail" Parillo and Dennis Roach. They explore the 1975 Bonded Vault heist in Providence, including key players like Robert 'the Deuce' Dussault, Chuc…

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Bonded Vault - Part 1 - Meet the Suspects 28:19

8M ago28:19

28:19

Unraveling the Bonded Vault Heist: Background Stories and Intriguing Connections In this episode, the hosts discuss their nonstop technical difficulties before diving into listener questions about the Medford Mafia Induction Ceremony. The episode focuses on the backstories and criminal backgrounds of the heist participants, including Robert 'The De…

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The Hit Parade of 1975: Mob Activity, Conspiracies, and Murders of 1975 48:28

9M ago48:28

48:28

In their first full episode in two years, the hosts dive into a detailed recount of mob-related events and murders from 1975. The episode covers various crimes, including the deaths of Ben Tilley, Carmen "Gags" Gagliardi, Dickie Callei, Buffy Baccari, Eddie "Bulldog" Connors, and Tommy King. It also touches on notable incidents like the release of …

1
The Return: Reconnecting After Two Years 9:23

9M ago9:23

9:23

In this episode, the hosts return after a two-year hiatus and discuss the evolution of their podcast from its inception. They reminisce about their history, including how they met through Twitter in 2010, and the events that led them to start the podcast. The episode outlines their plans for the new season, including shorter, more relaxed episodes …

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The Hit Parade of 1974 22:13

3y ago22:13

22:13

Over 130 murders were committed in Boston in 1974 with one day in mid January seeing three slayings in less than 16 hours. The year didn’t end much differently with two men being shot five minutes apart. We're highlighting many of those hits and a few others outside of the state, including Joe Schiavone in Rhode Island. Next week's episode will be …

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A Tale of Two Thieves, Well Many Thieves 28:52

3y ago28:52

28:52

We're back this with our favorite topic: bank robberies, armored truck heists and colorful characters! There are a few familiar names from last season, some new ones, and we journey a little bit outside of Massachusetts. Linked episodes: Prison Break! Joe Meet Joe The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight Hit Parade: 1970-1973 For a transcript of this …

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Frank Salemme - A Tribute 17:58

3y ago17:58

17:58

Frank Salemme passed away on December 13, 2022. This week's episode is a short tribute to his life along with a few perhaps lesser known stories. There will be much more to come about Frankie and his activities later this season. Next week, we’ll be looking at the bank robberies of the 1970s. Linked Episodes: Dottie Barchard Bonus, The Boys of Wint…

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Not Your Average Joe: Joseph JR Russo & Some North End Tales 26:11

3y ago26:11

26:11

Mafia hitman JR Russo makes his debut as Jerry Angiulo returns for hijinks on the high seas. The Nite Lite They're After Me Like a F***ing Animal The Hit Parade of 1966 The Hit Parade; 1970-1973 The Defense Never Rests Joe Meet Joe For a transcript of this episode visit our website. Follow us on Twitter for sneak peeks of upcoming episodes. You can…

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Joe Meet Joe: Joseph Barboza - Part 3 - The Final Act 40:44

3y ago40:44

40:44

"Here he was, with all kinds of evidence against him in a death penalty case, and he acted like he was in small claims court. He wasn't concerned at all." Joe Barboza goes on trial for the murder of Clay Wilson. But his three favorite Feds -- Harrington, Rico and Condon -- come to Barboza's rescue once again, saving him from death row. Dying to be …

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California Dreaming - Joseph Barboza - Part 2 34:47

3y ago34:47

34:47

"Tell Denny [Condon] I still love him.... if Rico was here, he'd help me." --August 1970 letter from Joe Barboza to Walter Barnes. Joe Barboza is back. After perjuring himself at the FBI's behest, Barboza is shipped off to California. But he just can't stay away from Massachusetts and makes multiple trips back home until he's finally arrested in Ne…

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The Hit Parade: 1970 to 1973 42:26

3y ago42:26

42:26

The first part of the 1970s saw the beginnings of a new gang war in Boston as Winter Hill began to cement their position in the underworld hierarchy. This week we take you from the 1970 murder of Tommy Ballou to the demise of Spike O'Toole and ending with the execution of Indian Al Notarangeli in February of 1974. For a transcript of this episode v…

1
Finding Frankie Salemme - The 1972 Arrest 34:32

3y ago34:32

34:32

Frank Salemme, Stephen Flemmi and Peter Poulos take off on SA Rico's instructions. Back home in Boston, Detective Billy Stuart & Hugh Shields go on trial for the 1967 murder of Billy Bennett. Three years later, Salemme is apprehended in NYC, goes on trial for the 1968 Fitzgerald car bombing and is convicted. But Flemmi is free to go. For a transcri…

1
Piranha: Vinnie Teresa's Tales 32:11

3y ago32:11

32:11

Vinnie Teresa followed Jack Kelley into the Witness Protection Program. But Vinnie had a secret: he'd already been an FBI informant for over a decade. For a transcript of this episode visit our website. Follow us on Twitter for sneak peeks of upcoming episodes. You can also find us on Instagram and Facebook. Questions or comments, email lara@double…

1
Jack's Justice - Part 3: The Trials Continue 37:01

3y ago37:01

37:01

Jack Kelley’s justice didn’t end with the first Marfeo Melei murder trial. This week Jack testifies for the government at the VA Robbery trial, and the 1968 Brinks trial. Richie takes the stand and helps to save Jerry Angiulo from a prison sentence. And Raymond Patriarca’s defense introduces a new witness who dishes out some revenge of his own. Jac…

1
The Gaslight - Part 2: The Marfeo/Melei Murder Trial 32:33

3y ago32:33

32:33

The Marfeo-Melei murder trial finally begins, and Jack Kelley takes the stand. Raymond Patriarca has his chance to confront Jack! We finally reveal what happened to SA Gerard Comen. And Nina has a big announcement! Disorganized Crime - Raymond Patriarca the Early Days Jack's Justice - Part 1 Jack's Justice - Part 2 For a transcript of this episode …

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Jack's Justice - Part 2: Richie's Disinformation Campaign 26:28

3y ago26:28

26:28

With Jack Kelley tucked away under Federal protection, Richie's disinformation campaign begins in earnest. Former FBI Agent turned defense attorney, John B. Green interviews the FBI's informants about Jack, as the defense tries to build their case in the Marfeo/Melei double homicide case with the trial date set to start in January 1970. Disorganize…

1
Where in the world is Louis Manocchio? 27:16

3y ago27:16

27:16

Where in the world is Louis Manocchio? We travel from Rhode Island to Martha's Vineyard to Venezuela to the ski slopes of Idaho and France along with the FBI searching for Louis. Jack's Justice - Part 1 New York State of Mind - Part 2 As the Coin-O-Matic Turns For a transcript of this episode visit our website. Follow us on Twitter for sneak peeks …

1
Taking it on the Lam 20:05

3y ago20:05

20:05

Mello Merlino, Stevie Flemmi, Peter Poulos, Frankie Salemme and Frank Vendi all go on the lam. A new FBI Top Echelon Informant is placed on the books. And SA Rico recruits Robert Daddieco to further his case to Hoover and Tolson for a job transfer to the sunny beaches of Miami. Jack Goes Bad - Part 1 The Bennett Brothers Murders Family Feud the Hil…

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Jack's Justice - Part 1 - The First Round of Arrests 29:13

3y ago29:13

29:13

Welcome back to the first episode of Season Two. Pro Lerner, Bobby Fairbrothers, John E Rossi and Rudy Sciarra are all arrested on charges stemming from the 1968 double homicide of Rudy Marfeo and Anthony Melei. Richie and SA Rico implement their plan to get Rico transferred to the sunny beaches of Florida. We need more YouTube subscribers! Subscri…

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Jack Goes Bad - Part 2 - Words are Weapons 34:40

3+ y ago34:40

34:40

After his first arrest & conviction in 1954, Jack Kelley vowed he'd never go back to prison. When the walls started closing in a little over a decade later, he implemented his escape plan. In our final episode of the season, Jack uses Richie's FBI connection to H. Paul Rico to begin exacting his revenge on the men who burned him. Episode 43 Episode…

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Jack Goes Bad - Part 1 - Revenge by Robbery 30:21

3+ y ago30:21

30:21

Jack Kelley's criminal career begins to fall apart and he's forced to make a decision that will change his life, and those of his companions, forever. But Jack wasn't a victim. If he was being forced into retirement, he'd go out on his own terms and exact his own justice on the way. Episode 39 Episode 12 For a transcript of this episode visit our w…

1
It's A Fugazi! The Bond Scheme 17:56

3+ y ago17:56

17:56

fugazi · 1. Artificial, fake. Something that has no substance. · 2. A really bad knockoff, a copy. Mafia fiction writer extraordinaire Vinnie Teresa's testimony exposed the Boston mafia's participation in stolen and fake bond schemes up and down the Eastern seaboard. Episode 10 Episode 28 Episode 37 Episode 38 For a transcript of this episode visit…

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New York State of Mind - Part 2- Nicky Bianco & Butchie Miceli 31:51

3+ y ago31:51

31:51

Butchie Miceli and Nicky Bianco were both originally from New England, but ended up members of two New York families, the Colombos and the Gambinos. Bianco maintained his close relationship with Raymond Patriarca for decades, eventually taking over in the 1970s when Raymond was sent to prison. Butchie Miceli moved to New Jersey in the early 1960s a…

1
Gaslit - The Gangland Slayings of Rudy Marfeo & Anthony Melei 24:15

3+ y ago24:15

24:15

Was it all really over a dice game? On April 20, 1968, Rudy Marfeo and Anthony Melei where gunned down by two masked men while grocery shopping. A well-known story in the New England area, but many don’t remember that there was more than one murder trial and more than one set of convictions. Episode 42 Wikitree Gangsters For a transcript of this ep…

1
As the Coin-O-Matic Turns - Federal Hill 1966 - Willie Marfeo & Angelo Di Palma Hits - Plus a Little Louis Manocchio 26:54

3+ y ago26:54

26:54

On July 13, 1966, Willie Marfeo was murdered in a telephone booth in the Federal Hill section of Providence. His murder has never been solved. We discuss the events leading up to his murder and its aftermath. Happy Birthday to Louis Manocchio who turns 95 this week! For a transcript of this episode visit our website. Follow us on Twitter for sneak …

1
The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight 27:22

3+ y ago27:22

27:22

The 1960s were wild times in Boston. With a gang war playing out in the background, there must have been a bit of a wild west feel in the air between the amazing bank and armored car heists pulled off by Jack Kelley and his crew and the equally amazing failures that others attempted to pull off. 1968 was especially busy and many of the suspects fro…

1
The Bennett Brothers Murders - Edward, Walter & William 27:43

3+ y ago27:43

27:43

In 1967 all three Bennett brothers were murdered. Only Billy Bennett's body was ever found. Frank Salemme and Stevie Flemmi claim responsibility for the slayings of all three, but have never been able to provide the location of Wimpy and Walter's bodies. They are still missing to this day. Episode 3 Episode 7 Follow us on Twitter for sneak peeks of…