The Life and Times of Carmen ‘The Cheeseman’ DiNunzio
Carmen DiNunzio, the rotund Boston mobster who earned the nickname ‘The Cheeseman’ for running a cheese shop in Boston’s North End, passed away peacefully on Sunday at the age of 68. DiNunzio’s life was a complex tapestry of contrasts, marked by his involvement in organized crime and his reputation for kindness.
Early Life and Career
DiNunzio’s journey into the world of organized crime began in the late 1990s when he became a member of the Rhode Island-based New England Mafia. He quickly rose through the ranks, earning the respect of his peers and law enforcement alike. In 2004, he was appointed underboss, solidifying his position as a key figure in the organization.
A Legacy of Kindness
Despite his involvement in illicit activities, DiNunzio was known for his kindness and charisma. Retired Massachusetts State Police Major Pasquale Russolillo, who ran the organized crime unit, described DiNunzio as ‘very charismatic, very respectful not only to his own people in the neighborhood but to law enforcement.’ Russolillo’s sentiments were echoed by DiNunzio’s lawyer, Anthony Cardinale, who portrayed his client as ‘a low-key, well-liked neighborhood guy who happens to be Italian.’
A Life Marked by Health Issues
DiNunzio’s life was also marked by a series of health issues, including diabetes, heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, coronary artery disease, and sleep apnea. These health struggles ultimately took their toll, and DiNunzio passed away at the age of 68.
Run-Ins with the Law
DiNunzio’s involvement in organized crime inevitably led to run-ins with the law. In 2006, he pleaded guilty to bribing an undercover cop posing as a state official and was sentenced to five years in prison. As part of his plea deal, DiNunzio admitted to extorting $500 per month from a North End bookmaker and conspiring with others to operate a gaming enterprise.
A Complex Legacy
DiNunzio’s legacy is a complex one, marked by both his involvement in organized crime and his reputation for kindness. As Russolillo noted, ‘You’re not going to replace somebody like Carmen. Carmen’s from the old school. Carmen was taught the old way. Carmen was one that would want people to sit down and talk things out instead of turning to violence.’
In the end, DiNunzio’s life serves as a reminder that people are multifaceted and cannot be reduced to simple labels or categorizations. His story is a testament to the complexities of human nature and the enduring power of kindness and charisma.
Internal Linking Opportunities
For more information on organized crime and its impact on society, please visit our organized crime page. Additionally, for insights into the world of law enforcement and its efforts to combat organized crime, please visit our law enforcement page.