Who Was Jimmy Burke? The Life & Crimes Of "The Gent"

Joanne Fahey 25 May 2025

Who is Jimmy Burke?

Was Jimmy Burke a criminal mastermind or a product of his brutal environment? He was, without question, a force of nature in the underworld, a man whose name is synonymous with the audacious Lufthansa heist and the ruthless realities of organized crime. James "Jimmy the Gent" Burke (May 5, 1931 April 13, 1996) remains a figure of fascination and fear, an Irish-American Lucchese crime family associate whose actions reverberated through the annals of criminal history.

Born into hardship and rising through the ranks of the Mafia, Burke embodied the allure and the terror of the mob life. From petty theft to orchestrating one of the most significant cash robberies in American history, his trajectory was as meteoric as it was destructive. But beyond the headlines and the Hollywood portrayals, who was the man behind the moniker "Jimmy the Gent?"

Full Name	James "Jimmy the Gent" Burke
Date of Birth	May 5, 1931
Place of Birth	The Bronx, New York City, USA
Date of Death	April 13, 1996
Cause of Death	Cancer (in prison)
Nationality	Irish-American
Occupation	Lucchese Crime Family Associate
Criminal Activities	Racketeering, robbery, murder, extortion, loansharking
Known For	Masterminding the Lufthansa Heist
Associated Gang/Family	Lucchese Crime Family
Significant Accomplices	Henry Hill, Tommy DeSimone
Spouse(s)	Unknown
Children	Unknown
Portrayed By	Robert De Niro (as Jimmy Conway) in "Goodfellas"
Reference	Biography.com

Burke was born in the Bronx, New York City, to Irish immigrants, a backdrop that hardly foreshadowed his notorious future. He began his criminal career as a teenager, honing his skills as a stickup man and a car thief, learning the harsh lessons of the streets. In the early 1960s, he crossed paths with the Lucchese crime family, one of the infamous "Five Families" that exerted an iron grip on organized crime in New York City. This association proved to be a turning point, propelling him into a world of power, wealth, and unimaginable violence. Burke quickly ascended within the Lucchese hierarchy, demonstrating a unique blend of cunning, charisma, and brutality that earned him the rank of caporegime, or captain, in the early 1970s.

The year 1978 marked the pinnacle of Burke's criminal career, when he masterminded and executed the Lufthansa heist at John F. Kennedy International Airport. The audacious robbery, which targeted the airline's cargo terminal, netted the thieves over $5 million in cash and jewelry an astronomical sum at the time. Burke's meticulous planning and ruthless efficiency were on full display, but the heist's aftermath proved to be his undoing. His role was to provide the getaway cars and to oversee the distribution of the stolen money. The Lufthansa heist went awry, triggering a chain of events that exposed the inner workings of Burke's criminal empire. Several of the robbers were arrested, and suspicion and paranoia quickly spread among the crew. Burke's brutal response to the breach of trust further implicated him in a web of violence and deceit. Burke was eventually convicted of racketeering and murder and sentenced to life in prison, ensuring that he would spend the remainder of his days behind bars. He died in prison in 1996, bringing an end to the life of a man who had become a legend in the criminal underworld.

Burke's life and career have been immortalized in books and films, most notably in Nicholas Pileggi's "Wiseguy" (1986), which served as the basis for Martin Scorsese's iconic film "Goodfellas" (1990). Robert De Niro's portrayal of Jimmy Conway, a character inspired by Burke, cemented his place in popular culture as a symbol of the seductive and destructive power of the Mafia. But what is the reality behind the cinematic portrayal? How does the life of Jimmy Burke reflect the broader history of organized crime in America? The answers are complex and disturbing, offering a glimpse into a dark chapter of American history.

A central figure in the Lufthansa heist, Jimmy Burke was an Irish-American Lucchese crime family associate known for his involvement in one of the largest cash robberies in American history. Born into modest circumstances in the Bronx, he quickly embraced a life of crime, eventually becoming a key player in one of New York City's most powerful Mafia families.

Born: May 5, 1931
Died: April 13, 1996
Occupation: Lucchese crime family associate
Known for: Lufthansa heist
Accomplice: Henry Hill

Burke's criminal career began as a teenager when he worked as a stickup man and a car thief, honing his skills and building a reputation on the streets. His early experiences instilled in him a sense of ruthlessness and a willingness to take risks, traits that would serve him well as he climbed the ranks of the Lucchese crime family. He quickly rose through the ranks of the Lucchese crime family, becoming a caporegime, or captain, in the early 1970s, a testament to his ability to command respect and loyalty within the organization.

The Lufthansa heist in 1978 became Burke's signature achievement, a testament to his meticulous planning and organizational skills. He was involved in the planning and execution of the Lufthansa heist, which netted the robbers over $5 million, a staggering sum that underscored the scale of his ambition. Burke's role in the heist was to provide the getaway cars and to oversee the distribution of the stolen money, demonstrating his central position in the operation. However, the heist went awry, and several of the robbers were arrested, a series of events that ultimately led to Burke's downfall. Burke was eventually convicted of racketeering and murder and sentenced to life in prison, a stark reminder of the consequences of his criminal lifestyle. He died in prison in 1996, leaving behind a legacy of violence and notoriety.

Burke's life and career have been the subject of several books and films, including "Wiseguy" (1986) and "Goodfellas" (1990), which have cemented his place in popular culture as a symbol of organized crime. But beyond the silver screen, the real story of Jimmy Burke is a complex and cautionary tale of ambition, violence, and the ultimate consequences of a life lived outside the law.

James "Jimmy the Gent" Burke was born on May 5, 1931, in the Bronx, New York City, a place that shaped his worldview and set him on a path toward a life of crime. He was born into a working-class Irish-American family, struggling to make ends meet in the face of economic hardship. His father was a longshoreman, and his mother was a homemaker, both working tirelessly to provide for their children. Burke had two older sisters, creating a family dynamic that was both supportive and challenging.

Burke's childhood was marked by poverty and violence, experiences that would profoundly influence his future. His father was an alcoholic who often beat his wife and children, creating a home environment filled with fear and uncertainty. Burke dropped out of school in the eighth grade and began working as a runner for a local bookmaker, exposing him to the world of gambling and organized crime at a young age.

In his late teens, Burke joined the Army, seeking an escape from his troubled past and a chance to make a fresh start. He served in the Korean War and was awarded a Purple Heart, demonstrating his courage and commitment to his fellow soldiers. After his discharge from the Army, Burke returned to New York City and began working as a loanshark and a small-time criminal, unable to shake off the lure of the streets.

Burke's criminal career escalated in the early 1960s when he became associated with the Lucchese crime family, a pivotal moment that changed the course of his life. He quickly rose through the ranks of the family, becoming a caporegime, or captain, in the early 1970s, solidifying his position as a powerful and influential figure in the Mafia.

In 1978, Burke was involved in the planning and execution of the Lufthansa heist, which netted the robbers over $5 million, a daring feat that cemented his reputation as a criminal mastermind. Burke's role in the heist was to provide the getaway cars and to oversee the distribution of the stolen money, highlighting his crucial involvement in the operation. However, the heist went awry, and several of the robbers were arrested, setting in motion a series of events that would ultimately lead to Burke's downfall.

Burke was eventually convicted of racketeering and murder and sentenced to life in prison, a harsh sentence that reflected the severity of his crimes. He died in prison in 1996, bringing an end to a life marked by violence, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of power.

Burke's life and career have been the subject of several books and films, including "Wiseguy" (1986) and "Goodfellas" (1990), ensuring that his story continues to captivate and intrigue audiences around the world.

Jimmy Burke died in prison on April 13, 1996, at the age of 64, a lonely end for a man who had once commanded fear and respect in the criminal underworld. He had been serving a life sentence for racketeering and murder, a just punishment for his heinous crimes. Burke's death marked the end of an era in New York City crime, signaling the decline of the old-school mobsters who had once ruled the streets with impunity. He was one of the last of the old-school mobsters, a man who had risen through the ranks of the Lucchese crime family to become one of its most powerful members, a testament to his ambition and ruthlessness.

Legacy
Burke's legacy is one of violence and brutality, forever tarnished by his involvement in countless crimes and the suffering he inflicted on others. He was a ruthless criminal who was responsible for the deaths of many people, a dark stain on his character that cannot be erased. However, he was also a charismatic and intelligent man who was able to rise to the top of the criminal underworld, showcasing his cunning and strategic mind. Burke's life and career have been the subject of several books and films, including "Wiseguy" (1986) and "Goodfellas" (1990), solidifying his place in popular culture as a symbol of organized crime.
Impact on the Lucchese crime family
Burke's death was a major blow to the Lucchese crime family, weakening its power and influence in the New York City underworld. He was one of the family's most powerful members, and his death created a power vacuum that led to a period of instability, undermining the family's leadership. The Lucchese crime family has never fully recovered from Burke's death, and it is now one of the weakest of the Five Families that control organized crime in New York City, a testament to the void he left behind.
End of an era
Burke's death marked the end of an era in New York City crime, signaling the decline of the old-school mobsters and the rise of a new generation of criminals. He was one of the last of the old-school mobsters, a man who had risen through the ranks of the criminal underworld to become one of its most powerful members, a living relic of a bygone era. Burke's death signaled the end of the era of the powerful mob boss, and the beginning of a new era in which organized crime would be more decentralized and less violent, reflecting the changing landscape of crime in America.

Burke's death is a reminder of the dangers of a life of crime, a cautionary tale about the consequences of choosing a path of violence and greed. He was a powerful and successful criminal, but he ultimately paid the price for his crimes, spending his final years behind bars. Burke's death is a warning to others who may be tempted to follow in his footsteps, a stark reminder of the destructive nature of a life of crime.

James "Jimmy the Gent" Burke was a Lucchese crime family associate, a position that granted him access to a world of power, wealth, and criminal activity. This meant that he was not a full member of the family, but he was close to the family and worked with them on a regular basis, a relationship that blurred the lines between associate and full-fledged member. Burke was involved in a variety of criminal activities, including racketeering, murder, and robbery, a portfolio of crimes that defined his life and career.

Racketeering
Racketeering is a crime that involves using violence or threats to force someone to do something they do not want to do, a method that Burke employed with ruthless efficiency. Burke was involved in a number of racketeering schemes, including extortion and loansharking, preying on vulnerable individuals and businesses for his own gain.
Murder
Burke was also involved in several murders, a dark aspect of his criminal career that underscored his willingness to resort to violence. He was convicted of one murder, but he is believed to have been responsible for many more, a chilling testament to his capacity for cruelty. Burke was a violent man who did not hesitate to use violence to get what he wanted, solidifying his reputation as a dangerous and unpredictable figure.
Robbery
Burke was also involved in several robberies, demonstrating his versatility as a criminal and his ability to plan and execute complex operations. He was part of the crew that robbed the Lufthansa cargo terminal at Kennedy Airport in 1978, a daring heist that made headlines around the world. This robbery was one of the largest cash robberies in American history, cementing Burke's place in criminal lore.

Burke's criminal career came to an end in 1982 when he was arrested and convicted of racketeering and murder, a turning point that marked the beginning of his downfall. He was sentenced to life in prison and died in prison in 1996, a final chapter that underscored the consequences of his choices.

James "Jimmy the Gent" Burke is best known for his involvement in the Lufthansa heist, one of the largest cash robberies in American history, a crime that continues to fascinate and intrigue people to this day. Burke was a central figure in the planning and execution of the heist, which netted the robbers over $5 million, a staggering sum that underscored the audacity of the operation.

Planning and Execution
Burke was responsible for planning the heist and overseeing its execution, demonstrating his organizational skills and his ability to manage a complex operation. He recruited the robbers, obtained the necessary equipment, and planned the escape route, showcasing his meticulous attention to detail. Burke also played a key role in distributing the stolen money after the heist, solidifying his central position in the operation.
Role in the Heist
Burke's specific role in the heist was to provide the getaway cars and to oversee the distribution of the stolen money, highlighting his crucial involvement in the operation. He also acted as a lookout during the robbery, ensuring that the heist went according to plan.
Aftermath of the Heist
The Lufthansa heist was a major success for Burke and his crew, but it also proved to be their undoing, leading to suspicion, paranoia, and ultimately, their downfall. However, the heist also led to Burke's downfall. He was eventually arrested and convicted of racketeering and murder, and he died in prison in 1996, paying the price for his crimes.
Legacy of the Heist
The Lufthansa heist remains one of the most famous crimes in American history, a testament to its audacious nature and the scale of its ambition. It is a reminder of the power and reach of organized crime, and it continues to fascinate people to this day, inspiring books, films, and countless articles.

Burke's involvement in the Lufthansa heist is a significant part of his legacy, forever linking his name to this infamous crime. It is a reminder of his status as a major figure in the world of organized crime, and it continues to fascinate people to this day, ensuring that his story will continue to be told for generations to come.

Henry Hill was a close associate of Jimmy Burke and played a significant role in the Lufthansa heist, a partnership that would ultimately define their lives and careers. Hill was a small-time criminal who became involved with Burke's crew in the early 1970s, seeking to climb the ranks of the criminal underworld. He quickly rose through the ranks of the crew, becoming one of Burke's most trusted lieutenants, a testament to his loyalty and his willingness to take risks.

The Lufthansa Heist
Hill played a key role in the planning and execution of the Lufthansa heist, providing valuable intelligence and logistical support. He was responsible for scouting the Lufthansa cargo terminal at Kennedy Airport and for providing Burke with information about the security measures at the terminal, crucial details that helped to ensure the success of the heist. Hill also participated in the robbery itself, driving one of the getaway cars, directly contributing to the execution of the crime.
Betrayal
After the Lufthansa heist, Hill became increasingly disillusioned with Burke and his crew, fearing for his life and the safety of his family. He began to fear for his life and for the safety of his family, realizing the dangerous nature of his association with Burke. In 1980, Hill decided to become an informant for the FBI, a decision that would forever alter the course of his life and the lives of those around him. He provided the FBI with information about Burke's criminal activities, which led to Burke's arrest and conviction, a turning point in the fight against organized crime.
Witness Protection
After testifying against Burke, Hill entered the Witness Protection Program, seeking to escape the dangers of his past and build a new life for himself and his family. He and his family were given new identities and relocated to a new location, a drastic step taken to ensure their safety. Hill remained in the Witness Protection Program for the rest of his life, dying in 2012, forever living under the shadow of his past.
Legacy
Henry Hill's story is a fascinating one that provides a glimpse into the world of organized crime, a world of violence, betrayal, and the constant threat of danger. Hill's betrayal of Burke was a major turning point in the case, and it led to the downfall of one of New York City's most powerful crime families, a pivotal moment in the fight against organized crime. Hill's story has been told in several books and films, including "Wiseguy" (1986) and "Goodfellas" (1990), solidifying his place in popular culture as a symbol of the allure and the dangers of the Mafia.

Henry Hill was a complex and contradictory figure, a criminal who committed violent crimes but also a family man who loved his wife and children. He was a criminal who committed violent crimes, but he was also a family man who loved his wife and children, showcasing the internal conflict that plagued his life. Hill's story is a reminder that even the most hardened criminals can have a change of heart, a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness of the criminal underworld.

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Jimmy Burke, his life, and his criminal career, offering insights into the man behind the legend.

Question 1: Who was Jimmy Burke?

James "Jimmy the Gent" Burke was an Irish-American Lucchese crime family associate known for his involvement in the Lufthansa heist, one of the largest cash robberies in American history, a crime that solidified his place in criminal lore.

Question 2: What was Jimmy Burke's role in the Lufthansa heist?

Burke was a central figure in the planning and execution of the Lufthansa heist, responsible for recruiting the robbers, obtaining the necessary equipment, and planning the escape route, showcasing his organizational skills and his ability to manage a complex operation. Burke also played a key role in distributing the stolen money after the heist, solidifying his central position in the operation.

Question 3: Was Jimmy Burke ever caught and convicted?

Yes, Burke was arrested and convicted of racketeering and murder in 1982, facing the consequences of his criminal actions. He was sentenced to life in prison and died in prison in 1996, bringing an end to his life of crime.

Question 4: Who was Henry Hill and what was his relationship to Jimmy Burke?

Henry Hill was a close associate of Jimmy Burke and played a significant role in the Lufthansa heist, becoming one of Burke's most trusted lieutenants. Hill was a small-time criminal who became involved with Burke's crew in the early 1970s, seeking to climb the ranks of the criminal underworld. He quickly rose through the ranks of the crew, becoming one of Burke's most trusted lieutenants, a testament to his loyalty and his willingness to take risks.

Question 5: What happened to Henry Hill after the Lufthansa heist?

After the Lufthansa heist, Hill became increasingly disillusioned with Burke and his crew, fearing for his life and the safety of his family. In 1980, Hill decided to become an informant for the FBI, a decision that would forever alter the course of his life and the lives of those around him. He provided the FBI with information about Burke's criminal activities, which led to Burke's arrest and conviction, a turning point in the fight against organized crime.

Question 6: What is Jimmy Burke's legacy?

Jimmy Burke is remembered as one of the most powerful and ruthless criminals in New York City history, a figure of both fear and fascination. He was a major figure in the Lufthansa heist, one of the largest cash robberies in American history, a crime that continues to captivate and intrigue people to this day. Burke's life and career have been the subject of several books and films, including "Wiseguy" (1986) and "Goodfellas" (1990), solidifying his place in popular culture as a symbol of organized crime.

Jimmy Burke was a complex and contradictory figure, a violent criminal who committed many heinous crimes, but also a charismatic and intelligent man who was able to rise to the top of the criminal underworld. Burke's life and career are a reminder of the dangers of a life of crime and the importance of law enforcement's efforts to combat organized crime, a constant battle against the forces of greed and violence.

'Goodfellas' The Real Jimmy 'The Gent' Was Even More Vicious Than

Jimmy Burke

Jimmy Burke Crime family, Goodfellas, Mafia

Global Stardom Reports

Who Was Jimmy Burke? The Life & Crimes Of "The Gent"

Detail Author:

Socials

facebook:

tiktok: