Ep 130 Roger Wheeler pt 3

In the complex landscape of organized crime, the murder of Roger Wheeler was orchestrated primarily by Johnny Martorano and involved significant players from the Winter Hill Gang, including Whitey Bulger. Martorano, known for his violent reputation and loyalty to the gang, ultimately accepted the contract. The motivations for his murders were often rooted in loyalty rather than financial gain; betrayal was met with lethal consequences. Meanwhile, the gang's connections to law enforcement, particularly through former FBI agent H. Paul Rico, complicated the investigation, as Rico had a history with Bulger and was suspected of corruption.

Tulsa Detective Michael Huff faced numerous challenges in the investigation, encountering resistance from the Boston FBI while pursuing leads on Wheeler's murder and its ties to World Jai Alai. Despite initial setbacks, including the suspicious death of John Callahan, Huff's persistence paid off over the years. Eventually, evidence accumulated against Bulger and his associates led to racketeering charges. This culminated in Johnny Martorano's decision to testify against Bulger, Flemmi, and corrupt FBI agents, revealing the intricate web of crime and betrayal. Martorano's confession highlighted Callahan's pivotal role in targeting Wheeler, ultimately shedding light on the motivations and dynamics within the criminal enterprise that led to Wheeler's assassination.

Organized crime...am I right? It’s time for Part 3 of Roger Wheeler’s tumultuous case! 

Sources: 

• Oklahoma's Most Notorious Cases Vol. 2 - Kent Frates 

• Voices of Oklahoma Podcast

• Fox23News

• Gangland Wire.com

• Wikipedia - Roger Wheeler - Background Info

• Wikipedia - Winter Hill Gang 

• News Channel 6

• News Channel 8

• Golf Digest.com