Sammy "The Bull" Gravano

Salvatore "Sammy the Bull" Gravano, born on March 12, 1945, is a former American mobster who attained the rank of underboss within New York City's Gambino crime family before turning government witness. Gravano's criminal career began as an associate of the Colombo crime family, eventually transitioning to the Gambino family. He played a pivotal role in the 1985 assassination of Gambino boss Paul Castellano, collaborating with notorious figures like John Gotti and Frank DeCicco to orchestrate the hit.

Following Castellano's death, Gravano was promoted to captain and later to consigliere in 1987, ultimately becoming the underboss in 1988. His loyalty to Gotti faltered when he overheard disparaging remarks made by the boss about him on a wiretap. In 1991, Gravano made the monumental decision to testify against Gotti, revealing his involvement in at least 19 murders and numerous other crimes. His cooperation led to significant outcomes, including the life sentences of Gotti and Frank LoCascio in 1992 and a total of 37 convictions stemming from his testimony.

In 1994, Gravano received a five-year prison sentence but was released early after serving four years. He joined the federal Witness Protection Program but left after eight months. His legal troubles resurfaced in 2000 when he and several family members were arrested on drug charges. In 2002, he was sentenced to a total of 39 years in prison across multiple jurisdictions. Gravano was released in September 2017, leaving behind a complex legacy intertwined with organized crime and government cooperation.