Shadows of the Garden State: Crime and Murder in New Jersey

By Staci Perfetto-Tyson

"Shadows of the Garden State: Crime and Murder in New Jersey" is a gripping crime thriller that unravels the dark and enigmatic world of murders and unsolved cases in the heart of New Jersey. Set against the backdrop of the state's diverse landscapes and the juxtaposition of serene suburbs with urban sprawl, this book delves into the chilling and often perplexing mysteries that have haunted the Garden State for decades.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Staci Perfetto-Tyson
• Release date: Oct 24, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223848974

Book preview

Chapter 1:  Prohibition and Organized Crime

The Prohibition era in the United States, from 1920 to 1933, was marked by the nationwide ban on the production, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages. While intended to curb social ills associated with excessive drinking, Prohibition unintentionally gave rise to a flourishing underground economy and rampant criminal activities. New Jersey, like many other states, witnessed a surge in crime during this period, including bootlegging, speakeasies, and organized crime, often accompanied by murder.

One of the most noticeable outcomes of Prohibition in New Jersey was the emergence of bootlegging and speakeasies. Bootlegging referred to the illegal production and distribution of alcoholic beverages, while speakeasies were secret bars or clubs where alcohol was served. In New Jersey, numerous individuals saw the opportunity to profit from the alcohol ban, leading to the widespread operation of clandestine distilleries and distribution networks. These activities often took place in hidden locations throughout the state, such as remote farms and basements of suburban homes. Bootleggers and speakeasy owners frequently found themselves embroiled in turf wars and violent disputes over control of this lucrative trade.

Prohibition played a significant role in the growth and consolidation of organized crime in New Jersey. Criminal syndicates like the Italian-American Mafia and Jewish mobsters expanded their influence and power during this time. These criminal organizations saw an opportunity to control the illegal alcohol trade, and they were more than willing to use violence to protect their interests. As a result, organized crime became increasingly entrenched in New Jersey, and its influence extended far beyond the alcohol trade. These groups diversified their activities to include extortion, gambling, and drug trafficking, further contributing to the overall increase in crime.

Murder became a common occurrence in New Jersey during Prohibition, often as a byproduct of the illegal alcohol trade and the territorial battles between rival criminal groups. Shootouts, bombings, and assassinations were frequently reported, and innocent bystanders sometimes fell victim to the violence. Notable figures like Enoch Nucky Johnson, the political boss of Atlantic City, were rumored to have ties to organized crime, and their actions and connections raised questions about the role of local authorities in curbing the criminal activities associated with