New Jersey council member and former mob boss arrested for extortion

A New Jersey council member with a past as a mob enforcer has been arrested on charges of extortion, corporate misconduct, and other offenses. John Alite, 63, who serves on the Englishtown Borough Council, is accused by state officials of operating an illegal loan sharking scheme.

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These arrests are the result of rigorous investigative work and the strong cooperation between the Division of Criminal Justice and New Jersey State Police, who work tirelessly every day in the pursuit of justice. Our office is dedicated to ensuring that all businesses conduct themselves fairly and lawfully. The conduct alleged in this case was anything but, and we will work to hold those who cheat and steal accountable.

Prosecutors allege that Alite made loans at exorbitant interest rates and then used threats of violence to compel debtors to surrender money and property. His business, Straightened-Out Entertainment, Inc., was reportedly used to facilitate this alleged scheme. The Attorney General's office emphasized the rigorous investigation and inter-agency cooperation leading to the arrests.

Alite, an Albanian-American from Queens, has a well-documented history with organized crime. He previously served as a top enforcer for the Gotti crime family and was a member of the Gambino family. In past interviews, Alite claimed to have committed 15 murders and been involved in numerous other violent acts. He served over 14 years in prison in the U.S. and Brazil before repudiating his mob ties.

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While we were in the conversation, I shot him two or three times in the head, then spit on him. It was nothing, like going to a baseball game, I went out (afterward) for a cheeseburger, double cheese, Coke and fries.

Appointed to the council in May 2025, Alite had stated his intention to serve the community, partly motivated by the fentanyl overdose death of his daughter. He had expressed a desire to live a righteous life, telling The Guardian, "I'm not a criminal any more. I'm on a mission to do things the right way."

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Plus, I'm not a criminal any more. I'm on a mission to do things the right way.