Ep 14. Target: Mafia: The Kennedys and the Mob

American Justice season 2 episode 14, titled "Target: Mafia: The Kennedys and the Mob," explores the complex and often controversial relationships between the Kennedy family and organized crime. Throughout their political careers, the Kennedy brothers - John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy - frequently found themselves at odds with the mafia, whether it was through their efforts to dismantle organized crime or their own personal dealings with powerful mob figures.

The episode delves into the history of the Kennedy family's ties to the mob, starting with patriarch Joseph P. Kennedy's involvement with bootlegging during Prohibition and his connections to notorious mobsters such as Frank Costello. It also examines how John F. Kennedy's administration worked to dismantle the mafia, with Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy leading the charge with aggressive tactics such as wiretapping and prosecuting top mob bosses like Sam Giancana.

However, the episode also sheds light on the more covert relationships between the Kennedys and the mob, including rumors of John F. Kennedy's affairs with women connected to mafia leaders and allegations that the mob helped secure his election in 1960. The episode also explores conspiracy theories surrounding the assassination of John F. Kennedy, with some suggesting that the mafia was involved in the plot.

Through interviews with historians, law enforcement officials, and Kennedy family associates, "Target: Mafia: The Kennedys and the Mob" provides a deep dive into the complex interplay between political power and organized crime in mid-20th century America.