Victor Spilotro: The Life And Crimes Of A Chicago Mobster

Victor "Spilky" Spilotro was a notorious figure in the Chicago Outfit, the city's infamous organized crime syndicate. His brutal methods and ruthless ambition made him a feared enforcer and a key player in the Outfit's operations, particularly in Las Vegas.

Early Life and Career

Born in Chicago in 1938, Spilotro came from a family with deep ties to organized crime. His father owned a restaurant frequented by mobsters, and his brothers also became involved in criminal activities. Victor quickly rose through the ranks of the Outfit, known for his violent temper and willingness to carry out any order.

Rise to Power

Spilotro's reputation for violence earned him the nickname "The Hammer." He was involved in numerous murders, robberies, and other crimes. His ruthless efficiency caught the attention of Outfit leaders, who saw him as a valuable asset. In the 1970s, he was sent to Las Vegas to oversee the Outfit's gambling operations and protect their interests.

Las Vegas and "The Hole in the Wall Gang"

In Las Vegas, Spilotro assembled a crew of criminals known as "The Hole in the Wall Gang." They specialized in burglaries, jewelry heists, and other lucrative crimes. Spilotro's presence in Las Vegas brought increased attention from law enforcement, but he continued to operate with impunity for years.

Downfall

As Spilotro's power grew, so did his arrogance and recklessness. He became involved in extramarital affairs and flaunted his wealth, drawing unwanted attention from the FBI. His increasingly erratic behavior and disregard for Outfit rules angered his superiors, who began to see him as a liability.

Death

In 1986, Spilotro and his brother Michael were lured to a meeting in a Bensenville, Illinois, where they were brutally murdered. Their bodies were discovered buried in a cornfield in Indiana. The murders were allegedly ordered by Outfit leaders who believed Spilotro had become too uncontrollable and was attracting too much heat.

Legacy

Victor Spilotro's life and death have been the subject of numerous books, movies, and documentaries. He remains a symbol of the brutality and ruthlessness of organized crime. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of a life of violence.

Further Reading:

• Casino (film based on Spilotro's life in Las Vegas)
• Chicago Outfit (History of the Chicago Mafia)