1976 Harlem Godfather Crime Boss Gangster Nicky Barnes Arrested Original TYPE I Photo

Leroy “Nicky” Barnes, known as “Mr. Untouchable,” was one of New York City’s most powerful drug kingpins of the 1970s. In 1972, he organized The Council, a seven-man syndicate modeled after the Mafia that controlled much of Harlem’s heroin trade and developed connections with Italian organized crime figures. At his peak, Barnes reportedly amassed a fortune exceeding $50 million.

After repeatedly avoiding conviction, Barnes became so notorious that President Jimmy Carter directed federal authorities to intensify efforts against him. Convicted of drug trafficking in 1978, he received a life sentence. Barnes later became a federal informant, providing testimony that helped dismantle The Council and convict numerous traffickers. His cooperation eventually earned him a reduced sentence, and he was released into witness protection in 1998. Barnes died in 2012, although his death remained undisclosed publicly until 2019.

Offered is the first Original photo of Barnes that we’ve ever come across as he routinely refused to be photographed. This photo taken by Vincent Riehl of the New York Daily News measures 10” x 7” in size and features the original paper caption on the back that reads:

“Photographer: Vincent Riehl
Date: 10 25 76

Subject: Booking — Nicky Barnes

Location: 40th Pct. Bx. N.Y.

Roll: VR A 16

Photo shows... Nicky Barnes (center) wearing hat with hand to brim of hat, walking with Dets at right.....

Prisoner on left handcuffed to Barnes.”

FRESH DISCOVERY! – of note, the man on the far right is the arresting officer is Sgt. Patrick Skelly of the Bronx Area Narcotics Squad.