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History
Colorado Experience

The Smaldones: Family of Crime

Rocky Mountain PBS’ flagship history series, explores the people, places, and events that have shaped Colorado’s rich heritage. Each episode aims to bring history to life, offering fresh perspectives that foster a deeper sense of connection and community among Coloradans.

The Smaldones: Family of Crime

Season 2 Episode 209 | 28m 19s | CC

The Smaldone brothers took control of Denver’s underworld in 1933, after then-crime boss Joe Roma’s body was found riddled with bullets in his home. They specialized in bootlegging, bookmaking, and gambling. To some, they were saints who took care of their community and provided food for poor families; to others, they were ruthless criminals.

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