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Double Deal - True Stories of Criminals, Crimes and Lies

True Crime

My name is Lara Chicofsky, and my cohost is Nina Jobe. We created this podcast to shine a light on some of the lesser known characters and crimes in Boston and New England. We've spent the past two years researching the Boston crime scene primarily focusing on the 1960s. There are many podcasts and books available about organized crime in the Boston area, but ours is a bit different. I spent most of my life in my father’s world. Eavesdropping when I was a kid, listening intently when he was at the end of his life. I often took what he said with a grain of salt. He was, after all, a conman, an expert liar and an Academy Award worthy actor, but there was always a sliver of truth in his stories.

Location:

United States

Genres:

True Crime

Description:

My name is Lara Chicofsky, and my cohost is Nina Jobe. We created this podcast to shine a light on some of the lesser known characters and crimes in Boston and New England. We've spent the past two years researching the Boston crime scene primarily focusing on the 1960s. There are many podcasts and books available about organized crime in the Boston area, but ours is a bit different. I spent most of my life in my father’s world. Eavesdropping when I was a kid, listening intently when he was at the end of his life. I often took what he said with a grain of salt. He was, after all, a conman, an expert liar and an Academy Award worthy actor, but there was always a sliver of truth in his stories.

Language:

English

Contact:

617-830-2505


Episodes
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The Hit Parade of 1977 - The RI Edition - Part 1

7/1/2025
The girls delve into two of the mob related homicide cases of 1977, focusing on the lives and deaths of Mike Ross and Dennis Lytwyn aka Danny Raimondi. They explore the circumstances surrounding Ross' murder, his connections to organized crime, and the man who killed him. They wrap up with Lytwyn's story, the events that leading up to his death and the outcome of his murder trial.

Duration:00:20:54

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The Hit Parade of 1977 - Massachusetts

6/24/2025
Lara and Nina delve into the gangland slayings in Massachusetts in 1977, focusing on former Alcatraz inmate, Louis Arquilla, and others including Robert McFarland and Jackie DiFronzo.

Duration:00:15:51

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Making Book - The Gambling Case of 1977

6/17/2025
In this episode, Lara and Nina delve into the 1977 gambling charges against several mob figures, including Larry Zannino, Abe Sarkis and Melvin Berger. They discuss the background of these individuals, the events leading up to the charges, the court proceedings, and the eventual sentencing. The conversation also touches on the life of Dominic Isabella, a figure in Boston organized crime, and how he was connected to Lara's father, Richie Chicofsky. 00:00 Introduction and Milestones 00:59 The 1977 Gambling Charges 06:08 Larry Zannino's Early Days and Indictment 10:39 Sentencing and Consequences 15:57 Dominic Isabella's Arrest and Background

Duration:00:22:11

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War is a Racket - The Danvers Armory Heist of 1976

6/10/2025
In this episode Lara and Nina discuss the Danvers Armory heist of 1976, where the weapons ended up, the attacks carried out by the IRA with some of the stolen M60s, their theories and more!

Duration:00:21:55

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Make It Or Break It - The Mafia Induction Ceremony of '77

6/3/2025
Much attention has been given to the Mafia induction ceremony of 1989 in Medford, Massachusetts, but few remember the ceremony that took place on October 5, 1977 in Boston. Lara and Nina discuss the men that were made that day and the testimony about the induction ceremony itself. Links: La "Causa" Nostra - The Hill - Part 1 Family Feud - The Hill - Part 2 Jack's Justice - Part 1 - The First Round of Arrests Not Your Average Joe

Duration:00:30:45

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No Happy Endings - From Maine to Massage Parlors

5/27/2025
Lara and Nina delve answer questions about Sonny Mercurio and Little Joe Napolitano. They introduce Joe Puzzangara, discuss informants, connections between various Mafia figures., their counterfeiting operations and the massage parlor case that was the first RICO case in Massachusetts. Joseph Puzzangara family tree Russell Nicholson episodes 13 and 25 Chapters 00:00 Mailbag Questions and Informants 04:03 The Story of Joe Puzzangara 09:57 Counterfeiting and Connections 15:52 The Massage Parlor Case and RICO

Duration:00:16:04

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The Mafia in Maine

5/20/2025
This episode was inspired by a listener's email. Nina and Lara discuss Big Joe, Mickey and Little Joe Napolitano and their adventures in Maine including morphine, a still and a counterfeiting ring. 00:00Introduction to Organized Crime in Maine 01:55Intel Laundering: The Dark Side of Information 04:40The Napolitano Family 07:30Mickey Napolitano's Criminal Ventures 10:12Little Joe Napolitano's Counterfeiting Operations 13:09The Downfall of Little Joe Napolitano

Duration:00:24:52

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Nicky Bianco - The Taxman Cometh

5/13/2025
In this episode, Lara and Nina revisit Nicky Bianco's early years including his time as a member of the Colombo Family and his return to Rhode Island, early legal troubles including income tax evasion, and his post prison career as a paralegal. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Question of the Week 02:02 Nicky D'Anco's Background and Rise 06:49 Nicky's Leadership and Legal Troubles 12:43 Nicky's Post-Prison Life and Legal Issues

Duration:00:13:16

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The Hit Parade of 1976

5/6/2025
Nina and Lara delve into the mob slayings of 1976 in Massachusetts and RI. The hosts explore key figures, events, and the implications of these crimes, including the tragic story of Richie Castucci. They highlight the intertwining lives of mobsters, law enforcement, and the consequences of greed and betrayal. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:07 Exploring the Winter Hill Murders 05:04 The Power of the Lam 08:24 The Death of Frank "ChiChi" Cucchiara 09:33 The Murder of Patrick J. Fabiano 12:19 James F. Kearney 15:05 Inmate Violence at Walpole 20:07 The Downfall of John Eugene Rossi 25:32 The Aftermath of Rossi's Death 27:12 The Murder of Richie Castucci 30:22 The Financial Motives Behind Castucci's Death 36:21 Looking Ahead: Upcoming Trials and Stories

Duration:00:36:16

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Bonded Vault - Part 4 - The After Party

4/24/2025
In this episode, Lara and Nina wrap up the Bonded Vault series, discussing the fates of various characters involved in the heist and subsequent events. They delve into the lives of Jacob Tarzian, Robert Dussault, Joe Danese, John Ouimette, Ralph Byrnes, and Charles Flynn, highlighting their criminal activities, legal troubles, and the impact of their choices.

Duration:00:18:45

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Bonded Vault - Part 3 - Love, Lies & Alibis

4/22/2025
In this episode, the hosts delve into the Bonded Vault heist trial, exploring more details of the robbery, the various players involved, and the courtroom dynamics that unfolded over the course of the trial. They discuss witness testimonies, the role of organized crime, and the eventual verdicts that led to life sentences for the convicted individuals. The conversation highlights the drama and intrigue surrounding one of the largest heists in U.S. history, providing insights into the motivations and actions of those involved.

Duration:00:30:29

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Bonded Vault - Part 2 - Revenge by Robbery 2.0

4/9/2025
The Bonded Vault Heist: Revenge by Robbery 2.0 In this episode, the hosts discuss unresolved technical and logistical issues before diving into a listener comment about notorious criminals Anthony "Ponytail" Parillo and Dennis Roach. They explore the 1975 Bonded Vault heist in Providence, including key players like Robert 'the Deuce' Dussault, Chucky Flynn, and Jerry Tillinghast. The conversation covers personal anecdotes, Raymond Patriarca's parole, and the significant impact of the heist, highlighting how the theft of millions in cash, coins, and precious items was executed and its aftermath. Discussions also explore speculative connections, and mob dynamics in of one of history's most infamous heists.

Duration:00:27:22

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Bonded Vault - Part 1 - Meet the Suspects

4/1/2025
Unraveling the Bonded Vault Heist: Background Stories and Intriguing Connections In this episode, the hosts discuss their nonstop technical difficulties before diving into listener questions about the Medford Mafia Induction Ceremony. The episode focuses on the backstories and criminal backgrounds of the heist participants, including Robert 'The Deuce' Dussault, Charles 'Chucky' Flynn, John and Walter Ouimette, Jerry Tillinghast, Joe 'The Dancer' Danese, Ralph 'Skippy' Byrnes, and Jacob Tarzian. The hosts also touch on related incidents and connections among the criminals, setting the stage for the subsequent episodes on the planning, execution, and aftermath of the heist. 00:00 Internet Woes and New Camera Excitement 00:54 Non-Mailbag Question: Shotgun Shells 01:48 Listener Question: Medford Mafia Induction Ceremony 03:22 Introducing the Bonded Vault Heist Series 04:13 Profiles of the Bonded Vault Participants 04:58 Robert 'The Deuce' Dussault's Criminal History 08:54 Charles 'Chucky' Flynn's Early Life and Crimes 12:40 John and Walter Ouimette: From Chauffeur's Sons to Criminals 15:13 Gerald 'Jerry' Tillinghast: From Pool Dives to Prison 16:45 Joe 'The Dancer' Danese: From Teen Delinquent to Heist Participant 24:06 Ralph 'Skippy' Byrnes: The Mysterious Member 24:46 Jacob Tarzian: The Armenian Connection

Duration:00:28:19

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The Hit Parade of 1975: Mob Activity, Conspiracies, and Murders of 1975

3/25/2025
In their first full episode in two years, the hosts dive into a detailed recount of mob-related events and murders from 1975. The episode covers various crimes, including the deaths of Ben Tilley, Carmen "Gags" Gagliardi, Dickie Callei, Buffy Baccari, Eddie "Bulldog" Connors, and Tommy King. It also touches on notable incidents like the release of Raymond Patriarca, the failed car bombing of Mike Manfredi, and a house arson involving Andrew Manocchio. The hosts promise to follow up on unanswered questions and upcoming episodes, including a deep dive into the Bonded Vault heist next week. 00:00 Introduction and Comeback 00:55 Listener Questions and Conspiracy Theories 03:38 Pronunciation Woes and Personal Anecdotes 06:25 Technical Updates and 1975 Overview 07:08 Raymond Patriarca's Parole and Mob Activities 10:29 Carmen Gagliardi's Death and Historical Mob Hits 16:33 Rico Sacrimone's Murder and Boxing Connections 18:35 Rhode Island Murders and Informant Gossip 24:45 Federal Hill Neighborhood Corporation Scandal 25:38 The Abbey's Tap Gang and Italian Civil Rights League 29:05 The Murder of Callei 31:24 Buffy Baccari's Murder 37:22 Eddie Bulldog Connors Murder and the Heist 40:16 Andrew Manocchio's House Bombing 41:42 Unsolved Murders in Rhode Island 43:49 The Gold Dust Twins 45:43 Tommy King's Disappearance and Aftermath 47:37 Closing Remarks and Future Episodes

Duration:00:48:28

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The Return: Reconnecting After Two Years

3/18/2025
In this episode, the hosts return after a two-year hiatus and discuss the evolution of their podcast from its inception. They reminisce about their history, including how they met through Twitter in 2010, and the events that led them to start the podcast. The episode outlines their plans for the new season, including shorter, more relaxed episodes and incorporating a new mailbag segment. The hosts share their plans to cover organized crime history, and tease future topics such as mob activities leading up to the Gardner Museum heist. Wikitree Catalog Patriarca Crime Family Massachusetts Murder Victims Rhode Island Murder Victims

Duration:00:09:23

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The Hit Parade of 1974

3/6/2023
Over 130 murders were committed in Boston in 1974 with one day in mid January seeing three slayings in less than 16 hours. The year didn’t end much differently with two men being shot five minutes apart. We're highlighting many of those hits and a few others outside of the state, including Joe Schiavone in Rhode Island. Next week's episode will be dedicated to the Lady of the Dunes, and the following week will be The Hit Parade of 1975. For a transcript of this episode visit our website. Follow us on Twitter for sneak peeks of upcoming episodes. You can also find us on Instagram and Facebook. Questions or comments, email lara@doubledealpodcast.com or nina@doubledealpodcast.com Donate to Lara and Nina

Duration:00:22:13

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A Tale of Two Thieves, Well Many Thieves

1/30/2023
We're back this with our favorite topic: bank robberies, armored truck heists and colorful characters! There are a few familiar names from last season, some new ones, and we journey a little bit outside of Massachusetts. Linked episodes: Prison Break! Joe Meet Joe The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight Hit Parade: 1970-1973 For a transcript of this episode visit our website. Follow us on Twitter for sneak peeks of upcoming episodes. You can also find us on Instagram and Facebook. Questions or comments, email lara@doubledealpodcast.com or nina@doubledealpodcast.com Donate to Lara and Nina

Duration:00:28:52

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Frank Salemme - A Tribute

1/16/2023
Frank Salemme passed away on December 13, 2022. This week's episode is a short tribute to his life along with a few perhaps lesser known stories. There will be much more to come about Frankie and his activities later this season. Next week, we’ll be looking at the bank robberies of the 1970s. Linked Episodes: Dottie Barchard Bonus, The Boys of Winter Hill The Defense Never Rests Dying to be Made Finding Frankie Salemme's Congressional testimony. For a transcript of this episode visit our website. Follow us on Twitter for sneak peeks of upcoming episodes. You can also find us on Instagram and Facebook. Questions or comments, email lara@doubledealpodcast.com or nina@doubledealpodcast.com Donate to Lara and Nina

Duration:00:17:12

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Not Your Average Joe: Joseph JR Russo & Some North End Tales

11/28/2022
Mafia hitman JR Russo makes his debut as Jerry Angiulo returns for hijinks on the high seas. The Nite Lite They're After Me Like a F***ing Animal The Hit Parade of 1966 The Hit Parade; 1970-1973 The Defense Never Rests Joe Meet Joe For a transcript of this episode visit our website. Follow us on Twitter for sneak peeks of upcoming episodes. You can also find us on Instagram and Facebook. Questions or comments, email lara@doubledealpodcast.com or nina@doubledealpodcast.com Donate to Lara and Nina

Duration:00:26:08

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Joe Meet Joe: Joseph Barboza - Part 3 - The Final Act

11/21/2022
"Here he was, with all kinds of evidence against him in a death penalty case, and he acted like he was in small claims court. He wasn't concerned at all." Joe Barboza goes on trial for the murder of Clay Wilson. But his three favorite Feds -- Harrington, Rico and Condon -- come to Barboza's rescue once again, saving him from death row. Dying to be Made Teddy Deegan 1 Teddy Deegan 2 Teddy Deegan 3 As the Coin-O-Matic Turns The Hit Parade of 1965 The Hit Parade of 1966 They're After Me Jack's Justice - Part 3 For a transcript of this episode visit our website. Follow us on Twitter for sneak peeks of upcoming episodes. You can also find us on Instagram and Facebook. Questions or comments, email lara@doubledealpodcast.com or nina@doubledealpodcast.com Donate to Lara and Nina

Duration:00:40:40