From Organized Crime to Illegal Gambling: Mafia Boss Ralph DeLeo Charged in Murder Plot Linked to Criminal Rackets

They say wisdom comes with age, but one aging wise guy—who has spent roughly 44% of his 82 years behind bars navigating the dangerous underground world of organized crime—is still learning the hard lessons that come with running an illegal gambling ring.

Ralph DeLeo, a former high-ranking street boss in the Colombo crime family, was arrested earlier this month for allegedly plotting to murder federal officials involved in his 2012 racketeering conviction.

DeLeo was released from prison last year and was living under supervised release. Prosecutors say he was preparing to assassinate two current and one former federal official who played key roles in putting him behind bars.

According to prosecutors, DeLeo has a long and violent criminal history that began in the 1970s when he was an associate of the Patriarca crime family in Providence, R.I.

Prison Escape, Murder

Also known as the New England Mafia, the Patriarcas at the time controlled illegal gambling, loansharking, and extortion operations across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.

In 1977, DeLeo was imprisoned in Massachusetts for armed robbery and kidnapping. He escaped custody and fled to Ohio, where he carried out the contract killing of Dr. Walter Bond.

In 1980, DeLeo was convicted of Bond’s murder and sentenced to life in prison. However, the sentence was later commuted in exchange for his testimony against Dr. David Ucker, the man who ordered the hit.

While still incarcerated in the 1990s, DeLeo formed a close bond with Alphonse “Allie Boy” Persico, the acting boss of the Colombo family. Their relationship led to DeLeo’s induction into the family. By 2008, he had risen to the role of street boss, overseeing a crew involved in drug trafficking, weapons distribution, and extortion.

In May 2012, DeLeo pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy and being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. He was sentenced to 235 months by U.S. District Judge Douglas P. Woodlock, with credit for 36 months already served.

‘Retribution’

Following his release in 2024, DeLeo allegedly resumed contact with criminal associates and began plotting revenge. Prosecutors claim he actively gathered sensitive details about the three federal targets, including their home addresses and the identities of their close relatives. In intercepted messages, he reportedly described the planned killings as acts of “retribution.”

Authorities say a search of DeLeo’s residence turned up printed dossiers on the targets, a “burglary kit” with tools used for forced entry, marijuana, anabolic steroids, and a note referencing silicone masks. This evidence supports the claim that he was serious about carrying out his threats.

“DeLeo’s criminal history, which includes a conviction for murder, proves that he is capable of acting on his threats,” prosecutors wrote. “DeLeo has been fixated on seeking revenge for years.”

Key Facts about Ralph DeLeo:

• Age: 82 years
• Time spent in prison: Approximately 44% of his life.
• Prior affiliations: Notable member of the Colombo crime family and the Patriarca crime family.
• Convicted murder: Commuted sentence in exchange for testimony.
• Recent activities: Allegedly plotting revenge against federal officials.

Conclusion

Ralph DeLeo’s case highlights the continuing influence of organized crime and the lengths some individuals will go to seek revenge. As investigations continue, DeLeo’s story serves as a reminder of the complexities and dangers associated with mob affiliations and the legal system.