Thomas DeSimone, also known as "Two-Gun Tommy," was born on May 24, 1950, in Massachusetts. He was of Sicilian descent and would later become a notorious figure in the New York criminal underworld. DeSimone's early life was marked by a fascination with crime, and he quickly found his way into the world of organized crime.
By 1965, DeSimone had joined the "Vario Crew," a criminal group associated with the Lucchese crime family. He wasted no time getting involved in various criminal activities, including vehicle theft and extortion. DeSimone's reputation for violence and ruthlessness quickly grew, earning him the nickname "Two-Gun Tommy."
One of the most infamous crimes linked to Thomas DeSimone is the 1978 Lufthansa heist, which at the time was the largest robbery in U.S. history. DeSimone is believed to have been one of the perpetrators of this audacious crime, which netted the criminals over $5 million in cash and jewelry. The heist was meticulously planned and executed, but eventually, law enforcement caught up with the perpetrators.
Despite his criminal activities, Thomas DeSimone led a complex personal life. He married Angelica "Cookie" Spione but also had numerous affairs with other women, including Theresa Ferrara. Notably, Ferrara would later become an informant for the FBI, ultimately contributing to DeSimone's downfall.
DeSimone was known for his violent temper and erratic behavior. He would often lash out at those around him, including throwing darts at fellow players during games if he started losing. His unpredictable nature and propensity for violence made him a feared figure within the criminal underworld.
Thomas DeSimone's life and criminal activities have been immortalized in popular culture. He served as the inspiration for Joe Pesci's character in the classic gangster film "Goodfellas." Pesci's portrayal captured DeSimone's volatile personality and his penchant for violence, cementing his status as a notorious figure in mob history.
Despite his criminal exploits, Thomas DeSimone remains a compelling and enigmatic figure in the annals of organized crime. His legacy continues to fascinate and intrigue, serving as a reminder of the darker side of the criminal underworld.