Miami Mafia: How FBI Politics Nearly Destroyed a Case

Retired Intelligence Detective Gary Jenkins brings you the best in mob history with his unique perception of the mafia. Gary and retired FBI agent Jerry Hester discuss his book “Mafia Miami: FBI Politics and How an Investigation Was Nearly Sabotaged.” The investigation involved tracking a high-priority Italian mafioso in South Florida. Hester details his career beginnings in the FBI, and his work in Miami focuses on organized crime and public corruption. He tells how politics almost derailed a case against a Sicilian mafioso named Robert Settineri. This investigation came from intelligence shared by the Italian National Police. The investigation linked Settineri to the Sicilian mafia and his ties with the Gambino family in the US, showcasing a unique interconnection between different crime families.   Hester explains the challenges of starting the investigation without a reliable informant and the meticulous process of gathering evidence through phone searches, surveillance, and developing informants like Leo. He delves into the complexities of navigating undercover operations to gather incriminating evidence, especially in the face of a savvy criminal like Settineri. The investigation’s international scope also involved coordination with Italian authorities, adding complexity to the case.   As the investigation progresses, Hester shares the setbacks, including a failed attempt to gather evidence through a money laundering operation due to Centinari’s suspicions. Despite these challenges, the case escalates to involve high-level CIA operatives, parallel investigations in New York and Italy, and the intricate dynamics within the Sicilian mafia. Hester also touches on the cultural shifts and policy changes within the FBI post-9/11 that impacted investigations and highlights the book’s broader examination of law enforcement practices and challenges.   The conversation with the host meanders through various aspects of the investigation, including the role of FBI undercover agents, the connection with prominent Gambino figures like Joseph “Jo Jo” Corozzo, Sr. and Jackie D’Amico, and the pursuit of criminal charges against critical players like Antonio Tricamo. Hester’s book not only delves into the gritty details of mafia investigations but also provides insights into law enforcement agencies’ internal workings and challenges. Find this book,”Mafia Miami: FBI Politics and How an Investigation Was Nearly Sabotaged,” by clicking here. Support the Podcast Subscribe to get new gangster stories every week. Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer @ganglandwire Click here to “buy me a cup of coffee” To go to the store or make a donation or rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click here To rent Brothers against Brothers, the documentary, click here.  To rent Gangland Wire, the documentary, click here To buy my Kindle book, Leaving Vegas: The True Story of How FBI Wiretaps Ended Mob Domination of Las Vegas Casinos. To subscribe on iTunes click here.