Throughline The Tax Collector
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May 15, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Paul Camacho, a retired IRS special agent and board member at the Mob Museum, dives into the fascinating history of tax enforcement and organized crime. He illuminates how the IRS transformed from a financial agency into a powerful crime-fighting force during Prohibition, particularly in the pursuit of Al Capone. Camacho also reveals the unique roles played by government officials in law enforcement and explores the evolving relationship between taxation and public trust, all set against the backdrop of America's tumultuous history.
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Valentine's Day Massacre Story
- Four men disguised as police executed seven North Side gang members in the infamous Valentine's Day Massacre.
- One survivor initially claimed no one shot him but died three hours later questioning the perpetrators' identity.
IRS: More Than Tax Collector
- The IRS, usually seen as a tax collector, is also a law enforcement agency.
- Taxes fund various government functions including infrastructure, social services, and the military.
Elmer Irie: Capone Hunter
- Elmer Irie, a humble postal inspector, was tasked with hunting down Al Capone.
- His folksy charm and dedication made him a trustworthy figure in government service.