Mickey Cohen, the infamous Los Angeles gangster, once resided in a modest home at 513 Moreno Avenue in Brentwood. This unassuming residence became a focal point during his reign in the city’s underworld. If you’re interested in learning about Joseph Canizaro House, be sure to check out this article.
Who Was Mickey Cohen?
Meyer Harris “Mickey” Cohen was born on September 4, 1913, in Brooklyn, New York. He moved to Los Angeles during his youth and initially pursued a career in boxing. However, he soon became involved in organized crime, working closely with notorious figures like Bugsy Siegel. After Siegel’s assassination in 1947, Cohen assumed control of the West Coast’s criminal activities, establishing himself as a prominent crime boss.
| Full Name | Meyer Harris “Mickey” Cohen |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | September 4, 1913 |
| Birth Place | Brooklyn, New York |
| Death Date | July 29, 1976 |
| Death Place | Los Angeles, California |
| Occupation | Crime Boss |
| Associates | Bugsy Siegel, Meyer Lansky |
| Criminal Activities | Gambling, Loan Sharking, Bootlegging |
| Notable Residences | Brentwood, Los Angeles |
| Marital Status | Married to Lavonne Weaver (1940–1951) |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (165 cm) |
Where Did Mickey Cohen Live?
During his criminal career, Cohen resided in several locations across Los Angeles. One of his notable residences was at 513 Moreno Avenue in Brentwood. This home, though modest in appearance, was significant due to events that transpired during Cohen’s occupancy.
Mickey Cohen’s Brentwood House
1. Where Was Mickey Cohen House?
Cohen’s Brentwood residence was situated at 513 Moreno Avenue. The neighborhood, known for its quiet streets and suburban charm, was an unlikely setting for a gangster’s abode. The home’s modest facade concealed the tumultuous events associated with Cohen’s criminal endeavors.
2. Features of Mickey Cohen House
The house at 513 Moreno Avenue was a typical mid-20th-century suburban home. It featured a simple architectural design, characteristic of the era’s residential structures. The property included a landscaped lot, adding to its suburban appeal.
3. Personal Touches
Cohen made several modifications to his Brentwood home to enhance security and reflect his personal tastes:
- Security Enhancements: Following attempts on his life, Cohen fortified the residence with floodlights and alarm systems.
- Interior Decor: The interior was adorned with lavish furnishings, showcasing Cohen’s affinity for luxury.
- Landscaping: The property featured well-maintained gardens, reflecting a serene suburban lifestyle.
- Entertainment Spaces: Areas were designated for hosting guests, aligning with Cohen’s social lifestyle.
- Garage Modifications: The garage was adapted to accommodate Cohen’s armored vehicles, essential for his protection.
4. House Amenities
- Spacious Living Room
- Modern Kitchen
- Multiple Bedrooms
- Private Office
- Landscaped Backyard
- Secure Garage
5. Neighborhood Area
Brentwood, located in West Los Angeles, is known for its affluent community and tranquil environment. During Cohen’s time, the area was predominantly residential, offering privacy and seclusion. The neighborhood’s quiet streets contrasted sharply with Cohen’s notorious lifestyle, providing an inconspicuous hideaway amidst suburban normalcy.
Market Value
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Build Year | Early 1940s |
| Purchase Year | 1940s |
| Purchase Value | Approximately $29,000 |
| Most Recent Estimated Value | Data not available |
Mickey Cohen’s Real Estate Portfolio
Beyond his Brentwood residence, Cohen occupied several properties:
- Childhood Home: Boyle Heights, Los Angeles – A modest dwelling reflecting his early years.
- Previous Residences: Various locations in Los Angeles, each selected for strategic reasons related to his criminal activities.
- Van Nuys Rental: In the late 1950s, Cohen rented a home in Van Nuys, a neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley.
Conclusion
Mickey Cohen’s residence at 513 Moreno Avenue in Brentwood offers a glimpse into the life of one of Los Angeles’s most notorious figures. The modest facade of the home belied the turbulent events and high-profile lifestyle associated with its infamous occupant. Today, the house stands as a testament to a bygone era, reflecting the complex interplay between organized crime and suburban life in mid-20th-century Los Angeles.
FAQs about Mickey Cohen
Who was Mickey Cohen?
Mickey Cohen, born Meyer Harris Cohen on September 4, 1913, was a notorious American gangster based in Los Angeles. He became the boss of the Cohen crime family and was heavily involved in organized crime during the mid-20th century.
What was Mickey Cohen known for?
Cohen was known for his role as a mob boss in Los Angeles, particularly after the assassination of his mentor, Bugsy Siegel, in 1947. He was involved in various criminal activities, including racketeering, gambling, and extortion.
Where did Mickey Cohen grow up?
Cohen was born in Brooklyn, New York, but he moved to Los Angeles with his family at a young age. He grew up in the Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles.
How did Mickey Cohen get involved in organized crime?
Cohen’s involvement in organized crime began during his teenage years when he worked as an enforcer for local mobsters while boxing professionally. He later moved to Chicago and became associated with the Chicago Outfit led by Al Capone.
What happened to Mickey Cohen in prison?
Cohen was convicted of tax evasion twice—first in 1951 and again in 1961. He served time in Alcatraz and later at a federal prison in Atlanta, where he suffered a brutal attack that left him partially paralyzed.
Did Mickey Cohen have any famous friends?
Yes, Cohen had connections with many Hollywood stars and influential figures, including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. He often mingled with celebrities and used these relationships to bolster his status.
When did Mickey Cohen die?
Mickey Cohen died on July 29, 1976, from stomach cancer at the age of 62.
What is the legacy of Mickey Cohen?
Cohen’s legacy is that of a quintessential gangster who embodied the glamorous yet dangerous lifestyle of organized crime in mid-20th century America. His life has been depicted in various films and documentaries, contributing to his status as a cultural icon.
Was Mickey Cohen involved in any major criminal events?
Cohen was involved in several high-profile incidents, including the infamous kidnapping of Patty Hearst (though he was never officially tied to it) and various violent conflicts with rival mobsters.
Where is Mickey Cohen buried?
Mickey Cohen is interred at Hillside Memorial Park Cemetery in Culver City, California.
