36 Facts About Paul Vario

Early Life and Background

Paul Vario, a notorious figure in organized crime, has a life filled with intriguing details. Let's dive into some lesser-known facts about his early years and background.

1. Born on July 10, 1914, in New York City, Paul Vario grew up in a tough Brooklyn neighborhood.
2. Vario's parents were Italian immigrants, which influenced his early life and connections.
3. He dropped out of school in the eighth grade, choosing the streets over education.
4. By his teenage years, Vario was already involved in petty crimes, setting the stage for his future.
5. He had a large family, with four brothers who also dabbled in criminal activities.

Rise in the Mafia

Vario's ascent in the world of organized crime is both fascinating and complex. Here are some key points about his rise.

6. Vario joined the Lucchese crime family, one of the "Five Families" of the New York Mafia.
7. He quickly climbed the ranks, becoming a caporegime, or captain, in the family.
8. His crew operated out of a Brooklyn-based social club called the "Bamboo Lounge."
9. Vario was known for his involvement in various illegal activities, including loan sharking and extortion.
10. He maintained a low profile, which helped him avoid law enforcement scrutiny for many years.

Criminal Activities

Paul Vario's criminal career was marked by numerous illegal ventures. Here are some notable aspects of his activities.

11. Vario was heavily involved in the trucking industry, using it as a front for his criminal operations.
12. He orchestrated numerous hijackings, stealing valuable cargo from trucks.
13. Vario's crew was also involved in gambling operations, running illegal casinos and betting rings.
14. He had connections with corrupt union officials, which helped him control labor racketeering.
15. Vario was known for his violent enforcement tactics, ensuring loyalty and compliance from his associates.

Notable Associates

Throughout his criminal career, Vario worked with several infamous figures. Here are some of his most notable associates.

16. Henry Hill, a mobster turned informant, was one of Vario's closest associates.
17. Jimmy Burke, another notorious criminal, was a key member of Vario's crew.
18. Vario had connections with other Mafia families, including the Gambino and Colombo families.
19. He maintained relationships with corrupt politicians and law enforcement officials.
20. Vario's influence extended beyond New York, with connections in other major cities.

Legal Troubles and Convictions

Despite his efforts to stay under the radar, Vario eventually faced legal troubles. Here are some key points about his run-ins with the law.

21. In 1970, Vario was convicted of tax evasion and sentenced to two years in prison.
22. He was later implicated in the infamous Lufthansa heist, one of the largest cash thefts in American history.
23. Vario was convicted of fraud and extortion in the early 1980s, leading to a lengthy prison sentence.
24. His criminal activities were exposed by Henry Hill, who became a government witness.
25. Vario's legal troubles marked the decline of his influence in the Mafia.

Personal Life

Beyond his criminal career, Vario had a personal life filled with interesting details. Here are some facts about his personal life.

26. Vario was married to Phyllis Vario, with whom he had three sons.
27. His sons, Paul Jr., Peter, and Leonard, were also involved in criminal activities.
28. Vario was known for his love of fine dining and often frequented upscale restaurants.
29. He had a passion for horse racing and owned several racehorses.
30. Despite his criminal activities, Vario was known to be a family man, often spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Legacy and Impact

Paul Vario's life left a lasting impact on organized crime and popular culture. Here are some aspects of his legacy.

31. Vario's life was immortalized in the book "Wiseguy" by Nicholas Pileggi, which was later adapted into the film "Goodfellas."
32. In "Goodfellas," Vario was portrayed by actor Paul Sorvino, bringing his character to a wider audience.
33. His criminal activities and connections have been the subject of numerous documentaries and books.
34. Vario's influence on the Mafia is still studied by criminologists and historians.
35. Despite his criminal legacy, Vario is remembered by some as a complex figure with both ruthless and compassionate sides.
36. Vario's life serves as a cautionary tale about the allure and dangers of organized crime.

Final Glimpse at Paul Vario's Life

Paul Vario's life was a whirlwind of crime, influence, and mystery. As a key figure in the Lucchese crime family, his actions left a lasting mark on organized crime history. From his early days in Brooklyn to his notorious involvement in the Lufthansa heist, Vario's story is both fascinating and cautionary. His ability to navigate the criminal underworld with such skill made him a legend, but it also led to his downfall. Vario's life serves as a reminder of the thin line between power and peril. Understanding his story gives us a deeper insight into the complexities of organized crime and its impact on society. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about the mob, Paul Vario's life offers a compelling look into a world few truly understand.