Dennis Marsili will detail the Mannerino family’s mafia connections to the city during the 40s, 50s and 60s.
Dennis Marsili's book delves into
New Kensington's mafia side
“Little Chicago: A History of
Organized Crime in New Kensington, Pa.”
6 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 9, Forum Theatre
UPPER BURRELL, Pa. – Author Dennis Marsili provides a perspective of the duality of the Mannerino family’s ties to the city of New Kensington at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 9, in the Conference Center at Penn State New Kensington.
Marsili, a retired New Kensington police officer, will reference his new book, “Little Chicago: A History of Organized Crime in New Kensington, Pa.” to detail Kelly and Sam Mannerino’s mobster connections in the city during the 40s, 50s and 60s.
The Mannerinos “ran” New Kensington, while simultaneously running weapons to Fidel Castro in Cuba and running a casino in Havanna. Although they were involved in numerous illegal activities and a part of the New York City crime syndicate, the brothers were beloved by many city residents. Marsili proffers an understanding of the dichotomy.
A native of Vandergrift, Marsili earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in criminology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He served as program coordinator of the Criminal Justice Training Center at his alma mater.
“Little Chicago” is the second book by Marsili, who retired in 2011 after 29 years as a police office, including 26 years on the New Kensington police force. His first a novel, “Excessive Forces: A Pittsburgh Police Thriller,” came out in 2012.
Due to the expected large crowd at the New Kensington campus event, reservations are encouraged.
To reserves a spot, call the Continuing Education office at 724-334-6010. To order the book, see form below.
Book Order Form
Little Chicago: A History of Organized Crime in New Kensington, Pennsylvania
By Dennis L. Marsili
To receive a hardcopy of this book, printout the form, complete all required information, and attach check or money order in the amount required.
Make check payable to: Dennis L. Marsili and mail to:
Dennis L. Marsili
PO Box 1413
Indiana, PA 15701
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