United States Organized Crime Strike Force
The United States Organized Crime Strike Force was created in the late 1960s for the purpose of finding and prosecuting illegal racketeering. It was formed in a congressional effort led by Senator Robert Kennedy.
Specifically, the Strike Forces were directed toward the identification and investigation of taxpayers and labor officials who derived substantial income from organized criminal activities. The coordination of enforcement efforts and close cooperation and liaison with other federal, state, and local enforcement agencies are necessary for effective Strike Force operations.[1]
In 1990, "There were 14 strike forces around the country, composed of Justice Department lawyers and agents from Federal investigative agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, the Postal Service and the Labor Department. Since 1980, their efforts have led to the convictions of Mafia leaders in Boston, Brooklyn, Cleveland, Chicago, Denver, Kansas City, Los Angeles, New Haven, New Orleans, Philadelphia and Rochester." [2]
By 2000, the federal Strike Forces were disbanded in favor of state or local efforts. However, during its time, the organizations were jointly responsible for the successful investigation and conviction of high-ranking Mafiosos such as Joseph Aiuppa of the Chicago Outfit, Anthony Salerno of the Genovese Family of New York and Paul Castellano of the Gambino Family, in addition to removing large amounts of corruption from The Teamsters.[1]
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