The DeCavalcante family is an Italian-American organized crime group based in New Jersey. They are part of the Genovese crime family, one of the Five Families of the American Mafia. The family was founded in the 1950s and became known for its involvement in various illegal activities, including extortion, racketeering, and loan sharking. The DeCavalcante family gained notoriety in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly due to its connections with legitimate businesses and political figures. Their operations extended beyond New Jersey, impacting organized crime activities in the broader Northeast United States. The family's influence has waned in recent years due to law enforcement efforts and internal conflicts.