Retired Intelligence Detective Gary Jenkins brings you the best in mob history with his unique perception of the mafia. In this gripping episode of Gangland Wire, we are joined by author Ray Franze, who shares fascinating insights into the history of the Chicago Heights mob. The conversation starts with an intriguing discussion about a photo featuring Al Capone and Frank LaPorte, among others, hinting at their possible involvement in the infamous St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. Ray delves into the connections between the Chicago Heights crew and the massacre, highlighting how Fred Burke, a member of the crew, possessed one of the machine guns used in the event. Ray provides a geographical overview of Chicago Heights, located southwest of the Loop and close to the Indiana border. He explains how the crew controlled their territory and extended their influence into Northwest Indiana, specifically Gary. Initially operating independently from the Chicago outfit, the Heights crew eventually allied with Capone due to their common enemy, the Union Siciliana. Prohibition was crucial in bringing them together, as Capone aimed to unite all bootlegging operations for maximum profits. Ray sheds light on Torrio and Capone’s presence in the Heights territory during the early days of Prohibition and the frequent meetings between Dominic Roberto, Frank LaPorte, and Capone. The conversation takes a deeper dive into the Beer Wars, during which the Chicago and the Heights crews fought battles for supremacy. Although the exact extent of their collaboration remains uncertain, the Calabrian-led crew eventually gained control of Chicago Heights. However, their success was partially owed to a powerful Sicilian crew that controlled the confectionery industry, granting them control over sugar. Laporte and Roberto managed to secure their support by offering better protection. As the late 1920s arrived, the Calabrian-led crew persuaded a Sicilian family to join forces, making Chicago Heights a part of the Chicago outfit. With Prohibition and World War II looming, the crew shifted their focus to legitimate businesses, engaging with influential figures like Ocardo. Ray emphasizes the significance of the jukebox business as a tool for controlling the music and vending industry. To maintain a low profile, mob boss Frank LaPorte relied on trusted family members and individuals who wouldn’t betray him, much like Al Capone did. While LaPorte’s story remains relatively obscure, Ray chose to fictionalize it in his book, “The Heights,” to offer a captivating narrative without stepping on too many toes. The aim is to humanize the crew, unveil their hidden history, and engage readers through a first-person narrative that resembles a memoir.
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