36 Facts About Tommy Desimone

Early Life of Tommy DeSimone

Tommy DeSimone, a notorious mobster, had a life filled with intrigue and danger. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his early years.

1. Born on May 24, 1950, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Tommy grew up in a family with deep ties to organized crime.
2. His father, Rosario DeSimone, was a well-known mobster, which influenced Tommy's path from a young age.
3. Tommy had two brothers, Robert and Anthony, who were also involved in criminal activities.
4. His sister, Phyllis, married mobster Salvatore "Sally Bugs" Briguglio, further entrenching the family's mafia connections.
5. Tommy's uncle, Frank DeSimone, was a boss of the Los Angeles crime family, showing the extensive reach of his family's influence.

Rise in the Mafia

Tommy's rise in the mafia was swift and ruthless. Here are some key moments that marked his ascent.

6. At the age of 15, Tommy committed his first murder, showcasing his early propensity for violence.
7. He joined the Lucchese crime family, one of the "Five Families" that dominated organized crime in New York City.
8. Tommy became an associate of the infamous Jimmy Burke, who mentored him in the ways of the mob.
9. Known for his violent temper, Tommy earned the nickname "Two-Gun Tommy" due to his habit of carrying two pistols.
10. He played a significant role in the Lufthansa heist of 1978, one of the largest cash thefts in American history.

Infamous Crimes

Tommy DeSimone's criminal record is filled with notorious acts. Let's look at some of his most infamous crimes.

11. He was involved in the murder of William "Billy Batts" Bentvena, a made man in the Gambino crime family.
12. Tommy participated in the brutal killing of Michael "Spider" Gianco, a young bartender, over a trivial argument.
13. He was suspected in the disappearance and presumed murder of Dominick "Remo" Cersani, a fellow mobster.
14. Tommy's violent nature made him a feared enforcer within the Lucchese family.
15. He was known for his involvement in loan sharking, extortion, and drug trafficking.

Personal Life and Relationships

Despite his criminal lifestyle, Tommy had a personal life that was equally complex. Here are some insights into his relationships.

16. Tommy married Angela DeSimone, with whom he had two children.
17. His marriage was tumultuous, marked by frequent arguments and infidelity.
18. Tommy had a close friendship with Henry Hill, another notorious mobster, which was later depicted in the movie "Goodfellas."
19. He was known for his charm and charisma, which he used to manipulate those around him.
20. Despite his violent tendencies, Tommy was described as a loving father by his children.

Downfall and Disappearance

Tommy DeSimone's life of crime eventually caught up with him. Here are some facts about his downfall and mysterious disappearance.

21. In 1979, Tommy was set to become a made man in the Gambino crime family.
22. However, his violent actions, particularly the murder of Billy Batts, led to his downfall.
23. On January 14, 1979, Tommy disappeared under mysterious circumstances.
24. It is widely believed that he was killed on orders from the Gambino family as retribution for his actions.
25. His body was never found, adding to the mystery surrounding his fate.

Legacy and Pop Culture

Tommy DeSimone's life has left a lasting impact on popular culture. Here are some ways his legacy lives on.

26. The character Tommy DeVito, played by Joe Pesci in "Goodfellas," was based on Tommy DeSimone.
27. Joe Pesci won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Tommy DeVito, bringing DeSimone's story to a wider audience.
28. The Lufthansa heist, in which Tommy played a key role, has been the subject of numerous books and documentaries.
29. Tommy's life has been referenced in various TV shows, movies, and songs, cementing his place in mob lore.
30. Despite his criminal actions, Tommy remains a fascinating figure in the history of organized crime.

Interesting Tidbits

Here are some lesser-known facts about Tommy DeSimone that add more color to his already vivid story.

31. Tommy was known for his love of flashy clothes and expensive cars, often flaunting his wealth.
32. He had a reputation for being unpredictable, making him both a valuable asset and a liability to the mob.
33. Tommy once robbed a bank with a toy gun, showcasing his audacity and recklessness.
34. He was a heavy drinker and drug user, which often fueled his violent outbursts.
35. Despite his criminal lifestyle, Tommy was an avid reader and enjoyed classic literature.
36. His life story continues to captivate true crime enthusiasts, making him a subject of ongoing fascination and study.

The Legacy of Tommy DeSimone

Tommy DeSimone, a name synonymous with organized crime, left an indelible mark on the mafia world. Known for his ruthlessness and unpredictable nature, he became a key figure in the Lufthansa heist, one of the most infamous robberies in history. His life, filled with violence and betrayal, inspired characters in popular culture, notably in the film "Goodfellas." Despite his notoriety, many aspects of his life remain shrouded in mystery, adding to his legendary status. Whether viewed as a cold-blooded criminal or a fascinating figure, DeSimone's story continues to captivate those interested in the darker side of history. His legacy serves as a stark reminder of the brutality and intrigue that defined the mafia era.