New Jersey council member, who previously admitted to several murders, arrested for extortion
June 20, 2026 / 11:09 AM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- John Alite, a councilman in Englishtown, NJ, was arrested for extortion, corporate misconduct, and other charges.
- Alite is a former mob enforcer who previously admitted to committing 15 murders.
- Prosecutors allege Alite made illegal loans and threatened debtors with violence.
- He used his business, Straightened-Out Entertainment, Inc., to promote the alleged scheme.
- Alite served over 14 years in prison before repudiating his mob ties and entering public service.
- He was appointed to the council in May 2025, stating a desire to help the community after his daughter's death.