A disciple of Bufalino capo Anthony (Gov) Guarnieri, Benjamin Musso was originally from the Upstate New York-Pennsylvania area where he was active as an “associate” of Guarnieri’s regime. At one time Musso was a card-carrying Teamster member who later collected a monthly pension check after he retired. He was reputed to be engaged in bookmaking rackets, thefts, and the sale of counterfeit designer goods such as handbags and watches.
He was eventually indicted along with Guarnieri and several other family members in 1987 in an undercover sting code-named Operation Cherokee conducted by the Organized Crime Squad in Florida. Eleven mob figures were arrested and charged with buying stolen liquor and possessing stolen property, selling counterfeit watches, marijuana, and other illegal merchandise.
Musso was specifically charged with buying stolen vodka and scotch. He received five years probation. Musso was also known to operate high-stakes poker games. When Buffalo boss Joe Todaro visited Florida, Musso was videotaped chauffeuring him around town. Musso passed away in April 2008.
Until next time…”The Other Guy”
