PHILLY BLACK MAFIA

Rap Sheet
Reign: 1960s to 1980s
Business: murder, extortion, terror
Region: Philadelphia, PA
Claim to Fame: They killed children in the name of religion.
Downfall:  An investigative reporter revealed their organization.
Sentences: long prison terms all around
Status: Some are out. Some are dead.
Lesson: Scare tactics don’t work forever.

Case File
Black Mafia was the most feared force in Philadelphia’s criminal Black underworld. One of the most ambitious criminal enterprises in the history of Black America, the group extorted, hustled, plundered and murdered with impunity. It also maneuvered skillfully through many worlds, shielding itself inside the Nation of Islam, conning politicians and other leaders, and devising multiple layers of protection and cover. The Philly Black Mafia played the race and religion cards so effectively that authorities were hesitant to go after them. Most of all, the group terrorized ordinary citizens, raining violence and murder on any who dared resist its demands. Headless bodies, public assassinations, the killing of innocent bystanders including children provided continuous reminders of Black Mafia ruthlessness and rule.