In March 1960, Tony Biase, a major narcotics supplier in the Midwest, was indicted on multiple narcotics violations based on evidence provided by an undercover agent and Kenneth Bruce Sheetz, a former associate who turned informant. Sheetz’s cooperation led to a contract being put on his life, allegedly at Biase’s behest. On June 20, 1960, Sheetz was ambushed and shot by Felix “Little Phil” Ferina and Tony “Tiger” Cardarella, associates of the Civella crime family. Despite his injuries, Sheetz survived and identified his attackers.
In December 1960, Biase was convicted of narcotics violations and conspiring to kill Sheetz, receiving a 15-year prison sentence. Ferina and Cardarella were also convicted in connection with the conspiracy and received 10-year sentences each. However, Biase’s conspiracy conviction was later reversed on appeal. He was paroled in 1970 and lived a relatively quiet life until his death in 1991.
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