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Joe Barboza, known as “The Animal” and “The Gorilla,” became one of the most feared hitmen in New England’s criminal history. Born in 1932 to Portuguese immigrants in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Barboza’s violent tendencies emerged early. His nickname came from his powerful build and brutal fighting style.
Unlike traditional mafia members, Barboza wasn’t Italian. He worked primarily for the Patriarca crime family despite his Portuguese heritage. His reputation for violence made him too valuable to ignore. He started his criminal career as a boxer, but his savage nature soon led him to more violent pursuits.
Barboza claimed he earned his first mob money working in protection rackets. His willingness to carry out violent acts quickly caught the attention of New England crime families.
As a hitman, Barboza allegedly killed 26 people between 1961 and 1966. His methods proved particularly brutal. He often used a .38 Special revolver but wasn’t above using his bare hands. Fellow criminals feared his unpredictable nature and explosive temper.
One of his most notorious murders involved beating a man to death for ignoring him at a bar. This incident demonstrated his hair-trigger temper and excessive violence. Even hardened criminals considered his reactions extreme.
Barboza’s work for the Patriarca family included everything from intimidation to murder. He controlled nightclubs and loan sharking operations across Boston. His reputation grew so fearsome that mere mention of his name often settled disputes.
In 1966, Barboza’s loyalty to the mob ended when several associates tried to kill him. This attempt on his life led him to make a unprecedented decision that would shake the criminal underworld.
After the failed hit, Barboza became one of the first major mafia informants. His testimony helped convict several New England crime figures, including Patriarca family members. He became the first person entered into the Witness Protection Program.
His testimony proved controversial. Later investigations revealed that Barboza likely committed perjury to convict his enemies. Several convictions based on his evidence were eventually overturned, highlighting the risks of relying on criminal informants.
Witness protection moved Barboza to California under a new identity. However, his violent nature persisted. In 1971, he pleaded guilty to a murder in Santa Rosa, California, and received a five-year sentence.
Before he could serve his full sentence, mob assassins caught up with him. They shot him in San Francisco in 1976. His death marked the end of one of the most violent chapters in American mob history.
Our Gorilla blend reflects Barboza’s powerful presence with beans from Uganda. This medium to dark roast delivers a strong, unforgettable impact worthy of its namesake.
The coffee presents bold spice notes followed by bright citrus, creating a complex and powerful profile. Woody undertones add depth, reminiscent of the complexity in Barboza’s own story as both killer and informant.
Each cup provides a robust experience that commands attention. Like Barboza himself, this blend makes its presence known with unmistakable strength and character.