The Colombo crime family is one of the Five Families that dominate organized crime in New York City. Founded in the early 20th century, it was originally led by Joseph Colombo. The family is known for its involvement in various illegal activities, including extortion, loan sharking, and racketeering. Throughout its history, the Colombo family has experienced internal conflicts and power struggles, particularly during the 1970s. This led to a violent war within the family, resulting in numerous deaths. Despite these challenges, the Colombo crime family remains active and continues to be a significant player in organized crime today.