politics
G. Robert Blakey, drafter of RICO and investigator of JFK assassination, dies at 90
G. Robert Blakey has died at the age of 90. He drafted the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act and led a government investigation into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Blakey later criticized the CIA in connection with that inquiry.
May 16, 7:00 AM·1m read1 source
washingtonpost.comAudio version
Tap play to generate a narrated version.
Developing·Limited corroboration so far. This page will refresh as more sources emerge.
G. Robert Blakey has died at 90. Kennedy. Blakey later criticized the CIA regarding aspects of that probe. Blakey was known for his work in legal and investigative roles over several decades. The law has been applied in cases involving mob figures, corrupt officials and other racketeering activities.
Its final report concluded that Kennedy was likely killed as the result of a conspiracy. Blakey later expressed criticism of the CIA's handling of information related to the Kennedy investigation. He stated that the agency had not been fully forthcoming with the committee during its work.
His contributions to anti-racketeering law and the Kennedy inquiry formed major elements of his professional legacy. Blakey taught law and continued to comment on organized crime and assassination-related matters into his later years.
The RICO statute Blakey drafted has been credited with providing prosecutors tools to target entire criminal enterprises rather than isolated acts. It allows for broader charges and harsher penalties in qualifying cases. The law remains in active use by federal authorities.
The committee's work drew on acoustic evidence and other materials that were later disputed by some experts. Blakey's death was announced on Saturday. He was 90 years old.
