On Monday, 90-year-old John M. Riggi, who was the inspiration for James Gandolfini’s character in “Sopranos”, died at his home in Edison. The reason of his death was not revealed.
He worked as a business agent for Local 394 of the Laborers International Union of North America for many years; he retired in the year 1987. According to law enforcement officials, he was also a leader of the DeCavalcante crime family for more than 20 years.
He spent time in jail on multiple charges including extortion and murder.
DeCavalcante crime family was also accused of promoting loan-sharking and was involved in gambling related crimes.
He pleaded guilty to extortion in the year 1992 and was sentenced to 12 years in jail; he was sentenced for more years for other crimes but was released in the year 2012.
Prosecutors told that Riggi controlled matters of his family even when he was in jail for the other offences he committed. He murdered many by ordering those who were involved with him. He gained regular tribute payments and he also told his crime partners how they could use their power over labor unions.
He supported many community groups and gave charities to organizations which the officials know about.
Riggi accepted his part in the murder of a Staten Island businessman that took place in the year 1989. It is told that the murder was done for John Gotti, who is the former head of the Gambino crime family.
Proofs given at trials revealed that Riggi thought that the killing will improve Decavalcante’s position among the families that are involved in crimes.
News Source: www.GO.com
