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This audacious move paid off—Gambino rewarded his loyalty by appointing him as the head of a rebranded crime family, now known as the Columbo family. With this newfound power, Columbo enjoyed the spoils that came with organized crime, amassing wealth through illegal gambling, loan sharking, extortion, and various other rackets.
Shining a Spotlight on Criminal Activities
As Columbo ascended to the top, the wealth and power which enveloped him began to attract unwanted attention from law enforcement. He orchestrated illegal enterprises with increasing flamboyance, becoming a conspicuous figure in Manhattan—decked in expensive suits and bling, juxtaposing the Mafia's traditional preference for secrecy and shadowy operations.