Is the Pittsburgh Crime Family Still Active?

As of the most recent updates in August 2023, the Pittsburgh crime family, also known as the LaRocca crime family, has experienced a significant decline in its activities. This decline has been attributed to a combination of law enforcement actions and internal strife within the organization. Despite some residual activities and individuals associated with organized crime in the area, the family's influence and operational capacity have markedly diminished since its peak in the mid-20th century.

Decline of the Pittsburgh Crime Family

Over the years, intense law enforcement efforts targeting organized crime in Pittsburgh and other cities have made it increasingly difficult for any remnants of the crime family to operate openly. The quelling of key figures, such as Michael Genovese and the destruction of the Youngstown mob in the late 1990s, have significantly impacted the family's operations. Michael Genovese's death in 2006 further exacerbated this decline, leaving few high-ranking members alive.

Current State and Residual Activities

While the full network of the Pittsburgh crime family may no longer be active, independent bookmakers and loansharks can still be found in areas that were traditionally within the family's purview, such as Pittsburgh, Youngstown, Wheeling, and Steubenville. However, the presence of 'made mafiosi' (full members of the organization) is now minimal, if not entirely absent. The continued existence of these independent operators underscores the persistence of organized criminal networks but not the organized crime family itself.

Key Figures and Their Current Status

The remnants of the Pittsburgh crime family are primarily represented by a few key figures. Notably, Sonny Ciancutti is known to be one of the last surviving made members. Independent of the family's influence, other prominent figures, such as Lenine Strollo, who was the boss of the Youngstown mob and a made man with the Pittsburgh crime family, have also been involved in the ebb and flow of organized crime. Strollo, now living openly in Canfield, Ohio, has maintained a peaceful existence, suggesting a shift from the violent past associated with the family.

Law Enforcement Efforts and Their Impact

Ongoing law enforcement efforts continue to target organized crime in Pittsburgh and other cities. This persistent pressure has effectively dismantled much of the family's infrastructure and reduced its operational capacities. The involvement of organized crime in these cities remains a concern, but the disappearance of the high-profile leadership and the changing landscape of criminal activity have diluted the family's power and influence.

Conclusion

The Pittsburgh crime family has certainly seen a significant decline in its activities since its heyday in the mid-20th century. While remnants of organized crime persist in the city and surrounding areas, the family itself has been considerably weakened. Future developments in law enforcement and the criminal underworld will continue to shape the landscape of organized crime in Pittsburgh. For the most current status, it is advisable to consult recent news sources and law enforcement reports.