Born back in 1905, Mike Spranza was an early member of what later became known as the Chicago Outfit. He reputedly started out under the auspices of Al Capone. Subsequently, during his long underworld career, the authorities say he associated with, and was a contemporary of, many top “Windy City” gangsters and racketeers such as Sam (Golf Bag) Hunt, Claude (Screwy) Maddox, Ralph Pierce, Daniel and John Lardino, and the man himself, boss Anthony (Big Tuna) Accardo.
Although Spranza only had a minor local arrest record, he became important enough that, over the years, the Chicago Police Department, Chicago Crime Commission, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Federal Bureau of Narcotics & Dangerous Drugs, and Internal Revenue Service all kept tabs on his movements and activities.
Law enforcement officials noted that “Mike Kelly” was known to be closely associated with the Lardino brothers, especially Johnny Lardino. The Lardino brothers were both identified as soldiers within the Chicago Family whose specialty was labor-union racketeering and strong-arm work.
In fact, Spranza and Lardino were so close that they became partners in legitimate business together. Authorities say the two mafiosi were known to share the ownership of the Gould Coal Company
Until next time…”The Other Guy”
