DOB 12-26-37. One-time prizefighter from Everett (his ring opponents included Joe DeNucci, the future state auditor who has been known to hire people with ties to organized crime). In October 1965, out on parole, Rico was working as a bodyguard for Buddy McLean, the boss of the Winter Hill Gang. As Buddy exited the Peppermint Lounge, Charlestown hitman Steve Hughes let go with an automatic carbine from the other side of Broadway. Buddy died of his wounds, and Rico survived his to be sent back to prison. He was murdered by parties unknown in 1976.
 

Lessons of the Underworld:
Mamas, Don’t Let Your Boxers Grow Up to Be Gangsters (because they always end up shot in the head)
 

In this photo from the late 1950’s is Americo “Rico” Sacramone, left, and on the right, Joe DeNucci, who is now the state auditor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and a candidate for reelection next year. Sacramone went on to become a gangster. He was working as a bodyguard for James “Buddy” McLean the night Steve Hughes killed the Winter Hill gang boss in October 1965. Sacramone was wounded, but survived and was sent back to prison for a parole violation. Once out, he was soon back in trouble.
 

Rico under arrest in Charlestown 1973. Three years later he would finally be rubbed out. By then, his pal DeNuch was running for his first term in the state legislature.

Rico on his way back to Walpole after being released from the hospital after being wounded in the hit on Buddy McLean, 1965. Eleven years later, the next time he was shot, Rico wouldn’t walk away.”