35 Facts About Murder Inc

The Origins of Murder Inc.

Murder Inc. was a notorious organized crime group in the 1930s and 1940s. Known for their brutal efficiency, they became infamous in the underworld.

1. Murder Inc. was established in the late 1920s by Louis "Lepke" Buchalter and Albert Anastasia. They aimed to create an enforcement arm for the National Crime Syndicate.
2. The group operated out of Brooklyn, New York, specifically from a candy store called Midnight Rose's. This unassuming location helped them stay under the radar.
3. Murder Inc. was responsible for over 1,000 contract killings. Their victims included rival gang members, informants, and anyone who crossed the Syndicate.
4. The group was known for its use of ice picks as a murder weapon. This method was silent and effective, making it a preferred choice for assassinations.
5. Members of Murder Inc. were paid per hit, with fees ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. This lucrative business attracted many ruthless individuals.

Key Figures in Murder Inc.

Several notorious criminals were part of Murder Inc., each playing a significant role in its operations.

6. Louis "Lepke" Buchalter was the leader and mastermind behind Murder Inc. He was one of the most powerful crime bosses of his time.
7. Albert Anastasia, known as the "Mad Hatter," was the group's enforcer. His brutal methods earned him a fearsome reputation.
8. Abe "Kid Twist" Reles was a top hitman for Murder Inc. He later became an informant, providing crucial information to law enforcement.
9. Harry "Pittsburgh Phil" Strauss was another prolific hitman. He was known for his sadistic methods and high body count.
10. Bugsy Siegel, a famous mobster, was also associated with Murder Inc. He later became a key figure in the development of Las Vegas.

The Downfall of Murder Inc.

Despite their fearsome reputation, Murder Inc. eventually faced justice. Their downfall was swift and dramatic.

11. Abe Reles' decision to become an informant was a turning point. His testimony led to numerous arrests and convictions.
12. Reles died under mysterious circumstances while under police protection. He fell from a hotel window, leading to speculation about foul play.
13. Louis "Lepke" Buchalter was the first major mob boss to be executed in the United States. He was sentenced to death in 1944.
14. The group's activities were exposed through extensive investigations by law enforcement. This included wiretaps, surveillance, and informants.
15. Many members of Murder Inc. were convicted and sentenced to long prison terms or execution. This effectively dismantled the organization.

The Legacy of Murder Inc.

Murder Inc.'s impact on organized crime and popular culture remains significant. Their story continues to fascinate and horrify.

16. The term "Murder Inc." has become synonymous with organized crime and contract killings. It is often used in media and literature.
17. Numerous books and movies have been made about Murder Inc., including the 1960 film "Murder, Inc." starring Peter Falk.
18. The group's methods influenced later criminal organizations. Their use of professional hitmen became a model for future crime syndicates.
19. Murder Inc.'s story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of organized crime. It highlights the brutal reality of life in the underworld.
20. The group's legacy lives on in popular culture, with references in TV shows, movies, and books. Their infamy ensures they will not be forgotten.

Notable Murders by Murder Inc.

Murder Inc. carried out many high-profile hits, each with its own story and impact.

21. The murder of Dutch Schultz was one of their most famous hits. Schultz was a powerful mobster who had crossed the Syndicate.
22. The assassination of Joe "The Boss" Masseria marked a turning point in the New York Mafia. It paved the way for new leadership.
23. The killing of informant Abe "Kid Twist" Reles was a significant event. His death under police protection raised many questions.
24. The murder of Irving "Big Gangi" Cohen was another high-profile hit. Cohen was a rival gangster who posed a threat to the Syndicate.
25. The assassination of Harry "Big Greenie" Greenberg was ordered by Bugsy Siegel. Greenberg had become a liability to the organization.

The Methods of Murder Inc.

Murder Inc. was known for its brutal and efficient methods. Their techniques were designed to ensure success and avoid detection.

26. The use of ice picks was a signature method. This weapon was silent and deadly, making it ideal for close-quarters assassinations.
27. Strangulation with piano wire was another favored technique. It was quick, quiet, and left little evidence.
28. Drive-by shootings were employed for more public hits. These attacks were fast and allowed for a quick getaway.
29. Disguises and false identities were used to avoid detection. Hitmen often posed as delivery men, repairmen, or other innocuous figures.
30. The disposal of bodies was handled with care. Victims were often buried in remote locations or dumped in rivers to avoid discovery.

The Impact on Law Enforcement

Murder Inc.'s activities had a profound impact on law enforcement practices and policies.

31. The group's operations led to increased surveillance and wiretapping by law enforcement. These techniques became standard practice in organized crime investigations.
32. The use of informants became more common. Law enforcement realized the value of insider information in dismantling criminal organizations.
33. The establishment of special task forces was a direct response to Murder Inc. These units focused exclusively on organized crime.
34. The development of witness protection programs was influenced by the need to protect informants like Abe Reles. These programs became crucial in securing testimony.
35. Murder Inc.'s activities highlighted the need for federal involvement in organized crime investigations. This led to the creation of agencies like the FBI's Organized Crime Division.

The Legacy of Murder Inc.

Murder Inc. left a chilling mark on history. This notorious group, active during the 1930s and 1940s, was responsible for hundreds of contract killings. Their operations were shrouded in secrecy, making them both feared and infamous. Key figures like Louis "Lepke" Buchalter and Abe "Kid Twist" Reles became household names, symbolizing the dark side of organized crime. Despite their reign of terror, law enforcement eventually dismantled the organization, bringing many members to justice. The tales of Murder Inc. serve as a stark reminder of the lengths to which criminal enterprises will go to maintain power and control. Their story continues to fascinate and horrify, a testament to the complex and often brutal history of organized crime in America. Understanding their impact helps us appreciate the ongoing efforts to combat such criminal activities today.