

#551: Inside the Gangsters' Code
Oct 14, 2019
Lou Ferrante, a former member of the Gambino crime family, shares his incredible journey from mobster to author and documentary host. He discusses his transformation in prison, emphasizing the profound impact of literature on his life. Ferrante delves into the gangsters' code and the concept of omertà, exploring how these codes shape loyalty and honor. He addresses the reasons young men are drawn to gangs, highlighting the community and security they offer, revealing the complex ties between gangs and the neighborhoods they inhabit.
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Early Criminal Life
- Lou Ferrante's criminal career began with stealing cars and supplying parts to a body shop.
- This escalated to running a chop shop before he transitioned to hijacking trucks.
Rise in the Mafia
- Ferrante rose within the Gambino family, working closely with Peter Gotti.
- He was on track to become a made man before being arrested.
Questioning the Code
- While in prison for hijacking, Ferrante began to question the mafia's code of honor after observing fellow inmates' motivations for murder.
- He realized many killings were driven by personal vendettas rather than the supposed greater good of the family.