Podcast Summary: "Should’ve Had Him Killed" - John Gotti Jr. Finally OPENS Up On His Father, Gravano & Gambino Family
Introduction In the December 11, 2024, episode of the PBD Podcast titled “Should’ve Had Him Killed,” host Patrick Bet-David engages in an in-depth conversation with John Gotti Jr., the son of the infamous mob boss John Gotti. This episode delves into the complexities of the Gambino family, the betrayal by Sammy Gravano, and John Gotti Jr.'s personal experiences with the U.S. legal system. The discussion offers listeners a rare glimpse into the inner workings of organized crime, familial loyalty, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
Background: John Gotti Jr. and His Father John Gotti Jr. provides a detailed account of his upbringing in the shadow of his father, John Gotti, a prominent figure in the Gambino crime family. From an early age, Gotti Jr. was exposed to the realities of mob life, including frequent incarcerations of his father. He recounts how his father was a charismatic leader, respected and feared within the community.
Notable Quote:
"If you hurt anybody close to John that he loved, there was no way he wasn't going to hurt you just the way he was." [00:39]
The Influence and Betrayal of Sammy Gravano A significant portion of the conversation centers around Sammy Gravano, once the underboss of the Gambino family, who turned state's witness. Gotti Jr. vehemently criticizes Gravano, labeling him a coward for betraying the family. He recounts how Gravano's defection led to the indictment of over 100 individuals, significantly weakening the Gambino family's influence.
Notable Quote:
"Sammy was a guy that was green eyes he was a monster... He took the easy way out. He doesn't have the right." [66:41]
Government Tactics and the RICO Law Gotti Jr. discusses the impact of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) on organized crime. He explains how RICO was initially intended as a civil law but evolved into a powerful tool for prosecuting criminal enterprises. Gotti Jr. shares his personal battles with multiple indictments and trials, highlighting the adversarial nature of his interactions with law enforcement.
Notable Quote:
"RICO was a law that was basically constructed sort of in the beginning as a civil law... By 1979, they made two criminal indictments." [07:49]
Personal Experiences and Legal Battles Throughout the episode, Gotti Jr. recounts his numerous legal struggles, including five federal indictments within 37 months—a record he claims surpasses even that of Donald Trump. He details the psychological and financial toll these battles have taken on him and his family, emphasizing his resilience and determination to defend his legacy.
Notable Quote:
"Five federal indictments. 37 months. I'm here talking to you. I'm not bitter, I'm excited." [57:27]
Anecdotes from Prison and Interactions with His Father Gotti Jr. shares poignant stories from his time in prison, including the death of his younger brother Frankie. He describes his father's stoic demeanor during such tragedies and their rare, emotionally charged visits. These anecdotes illustrate the deep bonds and unspoken understandings within the family amidst adversity.
Notable Quote:
"When we had Frankie's wake for three days... I couldn't keep it together." [45:05]
Loyalty and the Legacy of John Gotti A recurring theme is loyalty—both within the family and towards the mob's code of silence, Omertà. Gotti Jr. defends his father's actions and intentions, portraying him as a man of unwavering loyalty and honor. He contrasts this with his view of Gravano's betrayal, underscoring the importance of honor within organized crime.
Notable Quote:
"I have no excuse. I have no excuse." [108:20]
Conclusion: Reflections on Power, Loyalty, and Justice In the concluding segments, Gotti Jr. reflects on the changes in New York City, the decline of traditional mob influence, and his own transformation from a mafia heir to a civilian fighting against perceived governmental overreach. He emphasizes his commitment to his family's legacy while expressing frustration over governmental actions that he believes have unjustly targeted him and his kin.
Notable Quote:
"The United States government is the most powerful entity in the world... Will you agree?" [17:10]
Final Thoughts This episode of the PBD Podcast offers a compelling narrative from John Gotti Jr., blending personal history with broader discussions on organized crime and the legal system. Listeners gain insight into the complexities of mob loyalty, the ramifications of betrayal, and the ongoing struggle between power and justice.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
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On His Father's Nature:
"If you hurt anybody close to John that he loved, there was no way he wasn't going to hurt you just the way he was." [00:39]
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Critique of Sammy Gravano:
"Sammy was a guy that was green eyes he was a monster... He took the easy way out. He doesn't have the right." [66:41]
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On RICO Law:
"RICO was a law that was basically constructed sort of in the beginning as a civil law... By 1979, they made two criminal indictments." [07:49]
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On Multiple Indictments:
"Five federal indictments. 37 months. I'm here talking to you. I'm not bitter, I'm excited." [57:27]
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On Loyalty:
"I have no excuse. I have no excuse." [108:20]
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Reflections on Power and Government:
"The United States government is the most powerful entity in the world... Will you agree?" [17:10]
End of Summary