Frank Nitti’s indictment in the Hollywood Extortion Case proved a fatal blow to his leadership; his claustrophobia and reluctance to face another prison term drove him to suicide. By nudging Nitti into taking responsibility, Paul “The Waiter” Ricca not only avoided the harshest penalties but also positioned himself to become the Outfit’s undisputed boss. Despite legal setbacks from the Hollywood prosecutions, Ricca maintained control of the Chicago Outfit in tandem with Tony “Joe Batters” Accardo, ensuring the crime family’s continued power for decades to come.
↓ Transcript
Comic Panel 1:
[Scene: Frank Nitti's home, Chicago. Nitti, Ricca, and other mobsters discuss the Hollywood Extortion Case.]
Nitti: "We're in deep trouble, boys. We need a plan."
Ricca (smirking): "I have an idea, Frank..."
Comic Panel 2:
[Scene: Nitti confronts Ricca after the meeting. Tension fills the air.]
Nitti: "You think you're smarter than me, Ricca?"
Ricca (coldly): "I know I am. Take the fall, Frank. It's your only way out."
Nitti (angered): "Get out of my sight!"
Comic Panel 3:
[Scene: Outside Nitti's house, a solemn atmosphere prevails as Nitti walks away alone.]
Narrator (caption): And so, on March 19, 1943, Frank Nitti's reign came to a tragic end, leaving Paul "The Waiter" Ricca in charge of the Chicago Outfit.
[Scene: Frank Nitti's home, Chicago. Nitti, Ricca, and other mobsters discuss the Hollywood Extortion Case.]
Nitti: "We're in deep trouble, boys. We need a plan."
Ricca (smirking): "I have an idea, Frank..."
Comic Panel 2:
[Scene: Nitti confronts Ricca after the meeting. Tension fills the air.]
Nitti: "You think you're smarter than me, Ricca?"
Ricca (coldly): "I know I am. Take the fall, Frank. It's your only way out."
Nitti (angered): "Get out of my sight!"
Comic Panel 3:
[Scene: Outside Nitti's house, a solemn atmosphere prevails as Nitti walks away alone.]
Narrator (caption): And so, on March 19, 1943, Frank Nitti's reign came to a tragic end, leaving Paul "The Waiter" Ricca in charge of the Chicago Outfit.
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