Alphonse Attardi facts for kids
Alphonse "The Peacemaker" Attardi (born April 1, 1892 – died July 17, 1970) was an American man who was involved in organized crime. Later in his life, he decided to help the United States government. He owned an olive oil importing business, which was his public job.
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Alphonse Attardi's Early Life and Challenges
In the early 1950s, Alphonse Attardi was arrested in Houston, Texas. While he was in prison, his wife passed away. Also, his olive oil business was taken by the bank because he could not pay his debts. After he was released from prison, Attardi moved to a small, run-down apartment. This apartment was on Delancey Street in New York City's Lower East Side.
How Attardi Helped the Government
In 1952, special agents from the U.S. Treasury Department asked Attardi for his help. They wanted him to become an informant, which means someone who gives secret information to the government. At first, Attardi was afraid for his safety and said no.
The Secret Investigation
However, about six months later, Attardi changed his mind. He agreed to help the agents with a special secret investigation, also known as a sting operation. This operation began when Attardi introduced an undercover agent named Joe Tremoglie to some of his old associates.
Over the next ten months, Agent Tremoglie became close to important people involved in organized crime, like Benny Bellanca and Pietro Beddia. Attardi's help allowed Tremoglie to secretly join the group and learn about their illegal activities. Attardi also helped the police watch these people, which made the secret investigation a success.
Life After Helping the Government
After helping the government, Attardi received $5,000 for his efforts. He quickly left the country with his girlfriend. In 1968, Attardi gave an interview to Parade Magazine. He talked about his experiences, but he used a different name, "Jim Carra," to keep his identity a secret.
Alphonse Attardi passed away on July 17, 1970.
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