Michael Franzese: The Life And Legacy Of A Notorious Mobster

Michael Franzese's journey is a fascinating tale of power, crime, and redemption. Born into a prominent mob family, he rose through the ranks of the Colombo crime family, becoming a notorious figure in the underworld. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he chose to leave that life behind, leading to a successful career as a motivational speaker and author. This article will delve into his complex life, exploring both his criminal exploits and his remarkable transformation.

Franzese's story is not just about his time as a mobster; it is also about the lessons learned and the wisdom gained from a life filled with both triumphs and challenges. He is a testament to the idea that it is never too late to change one's path. His experiences offer valuable insights into the world of organized crime and the potential for personal growth after a turbulent past.

In this article, we will cover Michael Franzese's biography, including key moments from his life, his rise to power within the Colombo family, and his transition to a life of motivation and speaking engagements. By examining his life, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of crime, loyalty, and the possibility of redemption.

Biography of Michael Franzese

Michael Franzese is an American former mobster and captain of the Colombo crime family with a net worth of $1 million. Born in Brooklyn, New York, in May 1951, he is the son of reputed Colombo underboss John "Sonny" Franzese. Michael made the bold decision to drop out of college to dive into the world of organized crime, quickly rising to the position of capo regime (captain) within the Colombo family.

Throughout his career, Franzese was heavily involved in the gasoline bootlegging rackets, selling millions of gallons of gas in partnership with the Russian Mafia. His prominence in the mob world peaked in 1986 when he was ranked #18 on Fortune Magazine's list of the Fifty Most Wealthy and Powerful Mafia Bosses. Notably, he was known for earning more money for his crime family than anyone since Al Capone.

Franzese's criminal activities eventually caught up with him. In 1986, he faced 14 counts of racketeering, counterfeiting, and extortion related to his gas bootlegging operations. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison and ordered to pay $14 million in restitution. Following his release in 1989, he decided to leave the Colombo family behind, paving the way for a new chapter in his life.

[The photo of Michael Franzese on this page was taken by Jens Astrup/Play the Game and licensed through Flickr creative commons]