Definition Phil Leonetti is an American former mobster who served as the underboss of the Philadelphia crime family, also known as the Bruno-Scarfo crime family, during the leadership of his uncle Nicodemo "Little Nicky" Scarfo. He later became a government witness, providing testimony that led to the convictions of numerous organized crime figures.
Overview Born on January 27, 1953, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Phil Leonetti rose to prominence within the Philadelphia crime family, largely due to his familial connection to Nicodemo Scarfo, who became the boss in 1981. Leonetti became Scarfo's underboss, a position that placed him second in command of the criminal organization. During his time as underboss, Leonetti was involved in various criminal activities, including racketeering, extortion, and several murders.
In 1987, Leonetti, along with Scarfo and other associates, was indicted on federal racketeering charges. Following his conviction, and facing a lengthy prison sentence, Leonetti made the decision in 1989 to cooperate with the U.S. government. His extensive knowledge of the crime family's operations and his testimony proved instrumental in securing convictions against Scarfo and many other high-ranking members of the organization. After his cooperation, Leonetti entered the federal Witness Protection Program. He has since been released from the program and has authored a book, Mafia Prince, detailing his life in the mob and his decision to cooperate. He has also appeared in various documentaries and media interviews discussing organized crime.
Etymology/Origin "Phil Leonetti" is a proper noun referring to an individual. The name "Phil" is a common diminutive of "Philip," which is of Greek origin meaning "lover of horses." "Leonetti" is an Italian surname.
Characteristics
- Underboss of the Philadelphia Crime Family: Held the second-highest position in a major American Mafia family.
- Government Witness: Became a key informant for federal authorities, testifying against former associates.
- Author and Public Figure: Post-incarceration, he has shared his experiences through a book and media appearances.
- Key Figure in the Scarfo Era: Associated with a particularly violent period in the history of the Philadelphia crime family.
Related Topics
- Philadelphia crime family (Bruno-Scarfo crime family)
- Nicodemo "Little Nicky" Scarfo
- American Mafia
- Organized crime
- Witness Protection Program
- Racketeering