The Italian Squad: Battling the Black Hand in New York and Beyond

The Black Hand terrorized the Italian immigrant community in pre-Prohibition New York. These mysterious extortionists demanded money or else they would blow up a business or kidnap a child. When people did not pay, the Black Hand often followed through on its threats. New York Police formed the Italian Squad, a team of Italian detectives, to go after the Black Hand. Author Paul Moses tells the triumphant and tragic story of the Italian Squad and its inspiring first leader, Lt. Joseph Petrosino.

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