35 Facts About Frank Decicco

Early Life and Background

Frank DeCicco, also known as "Frankie D" or "Frankie Cheech," was a notable figure in the American Mafia. His life was filled with intriguing events and connections.

1. Born on November 5, 1935, in Brooklyn, New York, DeCicco grew up in a neighborhood known for its strong Mafia presence.
2. His father, Vincent DeCicco, was a soldier in the Gambino crime family, which influenced Frank's early involvement in organized crime.
3. Frank dropped out of high school to work in his father's business, which served as a front for illegal activities.
4. By his early twenties, DeCicco had already made a name for himself in the criminal underworld.

Rise in the Gambino Crime Family

DeCicco's rise within the Gambino crime family was marked by strategic alliances and ruthless actions.

5. He became a made man in the Gambino family in the late 1960s, solidifying his status in the Mafia.
6. DeCicco was known for his loyalty to Paul Castellano, the boss of the Gambino family during the 1970s and early 1980s.
7. He played a key role in the family's operations, including loan sharking, extortion, and labor racketeering.
8. Frank was instrumental in expanding the family's influence in New York's construction industry.

The Castellano Assassination

The assassination of Paul Castellano was a turning point in DeCicco's life and the history of the Gambino family.

9. On December 16, 1985, Castellano was murdered outside Sparks Steak House in Manhattan.
10. DeCicco was one of the conspirators in the plot to kill Castellano, aligning himself with John Gotti.
11. Following Castellano's death, Gotti became the new boss of the Gambino family, with DeCicco as his underboss.
12. This power shift marked a new era for the Gambino family, with DeCicco playing a crucial role in its operations.

Leadership and Influence

As underboss, DeCicco wielded significant power and influence within the Gambino family and beyond.

13. He was known for his diplomatic skills, often mediating disputes within the family and with other Mafia factions.
14. DeCicco maintained strong ties with other crime families, including the Lucchese and Genovese families.
15. His leadership style was a blend of old-school Mafia traditions and modern criminal strategies.
16. Frank was involved in numerous high-profile criminal activities, including drug trafficking and money laundering.

The Bombing Incident

DeCicco's life came to a tragic end in a violent and unexpected manner.

17. On April 13, 1986, DeCicco was killed in a car bombing outside a Brooklyn social club.
18. The bombing was orchestrated by rival factions within the Mafia, seeking revenge for Castellano's assassination.
19. DeCicco's death sent shockwaves through the criminal underworld, leading to a series of retaliatory attacks.
20. His murder marked the beginning of a violent power struggle within the Gambino family.

Legacy and Impact

Frank DeCicco's legacy continues to be a topic of interest for Mafia historians and enthusiasts.

21. He is remembered as a key figure in one of the most powerful crime families in American history.
22. DeCicco's involvement in the Castellano assassination remains one of the most significant events in Mafia history.
23. His leadership style and strategic thinking influenced future generations of Mafia leaders.
24. Frank's life and death have been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and films.

Personal Life

Beyond his criminal activities, DeCicco had a personal life that was equally complex and intriguing.

25. He was married and had three children, who were kept largely out of his criminal dealings.
26. DeCicco was known for his generosity, often helping friends and family in need.
27. Despite his violent lifestyle, he maintained a close-knit family and was a devoted father.
28. Frank had a passion for classic cars, owning a collection of vintage vehicles.

Connections and Relationships

DeCicco's network of connections extended beyond the Mafia, influencing various aspects of his life and career.

29. He had close ties with politicians and law enforcement officials, which helped protect his criminal activities.
30. DeCicco's relationships with other Mafia families were crucial in maintaining peace and cooperation.
31. He was known for his ability to forge alliances and navigate the complex world of organized crime.
32. Frank's charisma and charm made him a respected figure among his peers.

Final Years

The final years of DeCicco's life were marked by increasing tension and danger.

33. He became increasingly paranoid, aware that his life was constantly under threat.
34. DeCicco's involvement in the Castellano assassination made him a target for rival factions.
35. Despite the dangers, he remained active in the Gambino family's operations until his untimely death.

Frank DeCicco's Legacy

Frank DeCicco's life left a lasting mark on organized crime history. Known for his role in the Gambino crime family, he played a pivotal part in the power struggles of the 1980s. His involvement in the assassination of Paul Castellano and subsequent rise to underboss showcased his influence and ambition. However, his own assassination in 1986 highlighted the constant danger and betrayal within the mob world.

DeCicco's story serves as a reminder of the volatile nature of organized crime. His life was marked by loyalty, power, and ultimately, a violent end. Understanding his journey provides insight into the inner workings of the Mafia and the risks faced by those involved. Frank DeCicco remains a significant figure in mob history, illustrating the complexities and perils of a life lived on the edge.