Organized Crime: Benjamin "Lefty Two Guns" Ruggiero (9/9/24)

The Epstein Chronicles

Benjamin "Lefty" Ruggiero was a soldier in the Bonanno crime family who became infamously entangled in one of the most significant undercover operations in FBI history. Born and raised in Manhattan's Little Italy, Ruggiero was drawn into the Mafia's world from an early age, quickly rising through the ranks due to his loyalty, proficiency in violence, and adherence to the Mafia code of omertà. He was heavily involved in loansharking and illegal gambling, becoming a trusted associate of Dominick "Sonny Black" Napolitano. Ruggiero's close relationship with undercover FBI agent Joseph D. Pistone, who infiltrated the Mafia under the alias "Donnie Brasco," ultimately led to his downfall. Unaware of Brasco's true identity, Ruggiero vouched for him and introduced him to the family's inner workings, unwittingly providing the FBI with invaluable intelligence. When Brasco's true identity was revealed, Ruggiero faced severe repercussions from the Mafia, was arrested, and sentenced to 20 years in prison. He remained loyal to the Mafia code until his death from lung cancer in 1994, symbolizing a tragic adherence to a life that ultimately betrayed him.
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