TRENTON, NJ — New Jersey authorities say they arrested two men this week in an extortion investigation that centers on loansharking allegations, including a former organized-crime associate who later became an Englishtown councilman.
The arrests of John Alite, 63, of Englishtown, and Stephen Locrotondo, 67, of Bridgewater, were announced by state officials on June 19.
What charges did prosecutors announce?
Alite faces multiple counts, including theft by extortion, corporate misconduct, usury and terroristic threats. Locrotondo was charged with usury and conspiracy.
Officials have described the case as a loansharking operation built around lending money at extremely high interest rates and then using threats to force repayment.
How do investigators say the scheme worked?
According to state officials, Alite and Locrotondo worked together to issue loans with steep interest rates. Prosecutors say Alite was the one who pursued repayment and threatened violent acts when borrowers did not comply.
Authorities also allege that Alite used his company, Straightened-Out Entertainment, Inc., as part of the criminal conduct described in the case.
Who is John Alite and why is he notable?
Alite was appointed to the Englishtown town council in 2025. Before entering local government, he had been known as an enforcer for the Gambino crime family and as an associate of John Gotti Jr., according to reporting cited by the source.
His attorney, Douglas Santon, told the New York Post that Alite has lived lawfully since leaving that world nearly two decades ago and is outspoken about his views.
What are state officials saying about the arrests?
New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport said the arrests followed what she called rigorous investigative work. She said the office aims to make sure businesses operate fairly and within the law.
Davenport said the conduct alleged in the case was not lawful and that her office would work to hold accountable anyone who cheats or steals.
Bronxville News keeps New York and the region covered, day and night.