Chicago's Most Gruesome Mob Murder: The Sickening Torture and Murder of William "Action" Jackson

In August 1961, Outfit debt collector William "Action" Jackson was abducted, brutally tortured, and murdered by the organization that he worked for

Depiction of William “Action” Jackson

Background

Were it not for the horrific details of his torture and murder, the life and criminal career of low-level Chicago Outfit associate William “Action” Jackson would likely have been lost to history.

However, it is exactly because of the unbelievably cruel and savage method in which Jackson was tortured and killed that he is still remembered today.

Even within the treacherous and often violent world of organized crime, the merciless killing of “Action” Jackson stands apart from traditional mob “hits.” Those involved in Cosa Nostra understand that “The Life,” as it is often referred to, comes with inherent risks, including long prison sentences, or even the possibility of being murdered.

Mobsters can be killed for a variety of reasons. If your superiors think you may be stealing or holding back money. Or, they believe you might be an informant. There could also be an internal power struggle going on, and you just happen to become a casualty.

Thos…