ABSTRACT

Organized crime was found to have great influence in the operation of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and many shipping companies. Some shipping firms, because of fear or a willingness to participate in highly profitable schemes, have learned how to prosper in the corrupt waterfront environment. Much of the corruption on the waterfront stemmed from the control organized crime exercises over the ILA, a condition that has existed for at least 30 years. Longshore and other waterfront workers should be protected fully against the cost of job-related injuries. From 1959 to 1961, the waterfront commission held hearings on criminal activity on the New York docks. The waterfront corruption that was found to be prevalent in Miami and other Gulf Coast ports was also revealed to be widespread along the waterfront in New York City and New Jersey. Organized crime figures were found to be playing a significant role in controlling and influencing business activities on the waterfront.