Dominick Napolitano, also known as "Sonny Black," was born on June 16, 1930, in the neighborhood of Greenpoint, Brooklyn. He was the son of Italian immigrants from Naples, Italy, who came to the United States in search of a better life.
Napolitano's involvement in the criminal underworld began at a young age. He quickly rose through the ranks of the Bonanno crime family, one of the infamous Five Families that dominated organized crime in New York City. Known for his intelligence and ruthlessness, Napolitano earned the respect of his peers and soon became a trusted lieutenant within the organization.
In the 1970s, Napolitano's criminal empire was infiltrated by FBI agent Joseph D. Pistone, who operated undercover as the infamous mobster 'Donnie Brasco.' Despite the risks involved, Napolitano developed a close relationship with Pistone and trusted him with sensitive operations within the mafia.
It was only a matter of time before Pistone's true identity was revealed, leading to Napolitano's downfall. Despite knowing that his actions would cost him his life, Napolitano harbored no ill will towards Pistone, understanding that the agent was simply doing his job.
Napolitano's story has been immortalized in the 1997 film 'Donnie Brasco,' where he was portrayed by actor Michael Madsen. His life serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of the criminal underworld and the consequences of trusting the wrong people.
Dominick Napolitano's life was a complex and turbulent journey through the world of organized crime. Despite his eventual downfall, he will always be remembered as a formidable figure within the Bonanno crime family and a key player in the mafia's dark history.