the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Englishtown NJ, standing in a sharp navy suit and red tie, John Alite took the oath of office last Wednesday, officially becoming a councilman in the small borough of Englishtown, Monmouth County. Once known as a feared mafia enforcer, Alite’s past ties to organized crime landed him in prison, but now he’s stepping into politics with a mission of redemption and community service.
From Mafia Life to Public Office
Alite, 62, was appointed by local Republican leaders to fill a vacant council seat, citing his active volunteer work and commitment to the town. The former Gambino crime family associate, who once worked under John A. Gotti Jr., has since transformed his life into one of public service, mentorship, and law enforcement advocacy.
His appointment stirred conversation, as he openly acknowledges his past involvement in homicides and over 40 shootings. However, New Jersey law does not prohibit individuals with criminal convictions from holding office—unless the crimes were tied to a public service position, according to the Restoration of Rights Project.
A Second Chance & A Message of Redemption
Alite hopes his new role inspires young people who have struggled with crime or made poor choices.
“I would say to them, you’re going to teach every kid that did something wrong that you’re never given another opportunity? You’re going to lose all these kids to the streets—to crime,” Alite told NJ Advance Media.
A Personal Mission: Fighting the Fentanyl Crisis
Beyond his political aspirations, Alite has become a motivational speaker, addressing youths across New Jersey about the dangers of crime. His advocacy deepened after a personal tragedy—the loss of his daughter to fentanyl and drug addiction nearly three years ago.
“I lost my daughter to drugs and fentanyl … and I wanted to make a difference,” Alite said.
Political Ambitions Beyond Englishtown?
With his strong stance on crime prevention and law enforcement support, Alite has hinted at larger political aspirations, suggesting he would not shy away from opportunities in Trenton or Washington.
“It’s not about me. It’s about helping others and making an impact,” he said.
What’s Next?
As Alite settles into his new role, residents and political analysts alike will be watching his transition from former enforcer to elected official. His appointment raises questions about second chances, criminal justice reform, and the evolving landscape of local politics.
Stay tuned for updates on John Alite’s journey in public service and how his controversial past shapes his leadership in Englishtown.
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only in new jerkey
Let’s see he might do a good job.
If it was a legit election, I blame the voters.
Yes, lemme clutch my pearls about some low level mafia enforcer running for a “respectable” job while ignoring my own full-throated support for politicians who rubber stamp death and destruction on entire populations of people.
The man paid his debt to society by serving prison time. The slate has been wiped clean as far as I’m concerned. I wish him the best in this role.
How is voting for this guy who has served time for his misdeeds worse that voting for Murphy who needs to serve time for the destruction of this state! I’d vote for him in a heartbeat before I would for the bee man or the gyro merchant.