Aiello’s Downfall and Desperate Plea
After a protracted cycle of vengeance, covert plots, and retaliation, an “anonymous” tip-off led to police investigations into Aiello’s properties, resulting in the arrest of many of his chief lieutenants. Unlike Capone’s loyal associates, Aiello’s men did not demonstrate the same steadfast allegiance. One of Aiello’s gunmen succumbed to pressure during questioning, disclosing that Aiello had hired him to assassinate Capone. With the truth exposed, the police were now the least of Aiello’s concerns.
During Joe Aiello’s incarceration, he remained relatively safe as word had spread about his conspiracies to eliminate the formidable Capone. Capone’s men were strategically stationed outside the prison, making no effort to conceal their intentions. It was glaringly apparent what awaited Aiello in the future. As long as Aiello remained behind prison walls, he was secure. Two of Capone’s associates even attempted to breach the jail to carry out Aiello’s execution but were apprehended and imprisoned in cells adjacent to Aiello’s.
“You’re dead, friend. You won’t get up to the end of the street still walking,” Aiello was warned, prompting him to plead for his life. He offered to sell all his possessions and leave Chicago for good. Aiello’s plea was granted, and he swiftly departed from prison and Chicago, never to return.
