Sammy “The Bull” Gravano

Sammy “The Bull” Gravano is a name synonymous with the American Mafia and organized crime. Born on March 12, 1945, in Brooklyn, New York, Salvatore Gravano, later known as Sammy “The Bull,” would go on to become one of the most notorious figures in the history of the mafia.

Gravano’s early life was marked by the streets of Brooklyn, where he grew up in a neighborhood deeply influenced by organized crime. He entered the world of criminality at a young age, engaging in various illegal activities that eventually led him to the doorstep of the Gambino crime family, one of the five major mafia families in New York City.

It was within the Gambino family that Gravano rose through the ranks, becoming a trusted member of the organization. His ruthlessness and willingness to commit violence earned him respect and fear in equal measure. He was involved in various criminal activities, including drug trafficking, loan sharking, and, most notably, murder. Gravano’s reputation as a hitman solidified his position within the mafia hierarchy.

However, Gravano’s life took a dramatic turn when he became a central figure in the prosecution of John Gotti, the infamous boss of the Gambino family. In a shocking move, Gravano decided to cooperate with the government as a witness, providing crucial testimony that led to Gotti’s conviction in 1992. This decision to “flip” and become an informant sent shockwaves through the criminal underworld and led to a significant reduction in his prison sentence.

After testifying against Gotti and other mob figures, Gravano entered the federal Witness Protection Program, adopting a new identity and relocating to an undisclosed location. He would later be involved in further legal troubles, including his involvement in an Arizona drug ring, which resulted in his return to prison.

Sammy “The Bull” Gravano’s life is a complex and controversial one, marked by a ruthless criminal career, a dramatic turncoat role in bringing down the mafia’s most powerful boss, and subsequent legal battles. His story remains a captivating and cautionary tale of the allure and consequences of a life in organized crime.