My Cousin Augie

On June 30, 1978, a blast shook downtown Milwaukee. To this day, the car bombing of Augie Palmisano remains unsolved. Many suspected Milwaukee crime boss Frank Balistrieri was behind his death. In the podcast “My Cousin Augie,” debuting July 10, investigative reporter Mary Spicuzza brings you along on her quest to investigate her cousin’s murder.

45 years after her cousin is killed in a car bombing, a reporter goes searching for the truth — and unlocks Milwaukee’s forgotten organized crime history.

After Augie is murdered, many quickly assume he is an informant or member of organized crime — a rumor that persists to this day. The truth, it turns out, is far more complex.

Frank Balistrieri ruled Milwaukee’s organized crime world with violence and fear. But fear isn’t the same thing as respect.

The investigation turns up more evidence from the past: This time, a car bombing attempt against Augie's best friend Vince Maniaci.

After Augie's bombing, Milwaukee police crisscross the city tracking down friends and enemies alike, until a meeting with the FBI brings them closer to a suspect.

The FBI sends in undercover agents to infiltrate Frank Balistrieri’s network, including Joe Pistone — aka Donnie Brasco. Augie’s high-profile death creates a new sense of urgency.

In the final episode, hidden microphones and undercover agents give the FBI the evidence they need to move in on the Balistrieris. The resulting trials deal a crippling blow to organized crime in Milwaukee.