Pay or Die

Petrosino embarks on a perilous journey to combat organized crime. Securing the endorsement of the Police Commissioner of New York City, he initiates a special task force designed to dismantle The Black Hand's stranglehold on the community.

Leveraging his proficiency in Italian, Petrosino builds rapport with the city's tenement residents. He convinces them to reject the reverence often afforded to gangsters, setting a foundation for his fight against organized crime.

Petrosino squares off against the notorious extortionist Lupo Miano. Through their interactions, he realizes that The Black Hand's operations are much more complex than mere racketeering, indicating a greater threat to the community.

Despite his socially awkward demeanor, Petrosino finds unexpected solace in a budding romance with Adelina Saulino. Their relationship blossoms as Adelina appreciates Petrosino's commitment to their community, marking a significant emotional milestone in his life.

As tensions rise, The Black Hand targets opera singer Enrico Caruso for extortion. Petrosino takes on the role of Caruso's personal bodyguard, showcasing his commitment to protecting not just individuals but the cultural heritage of the city.

After a performance, a bomb is planted in Caruso's vehicle by a Black Hand operative, but fate intervenes as a forgotten hat prevents a catastrophic explosion. Tragically, Caruso's chauffeur loses his life in the blast, highlighting the gang's ruthless tactics.

The Black Hand sends a threatening note to a jeweler, who informs Petrosino. However, this warning alerts the gangsters, culminating in a hidden explosive in a vegetable cart that results in a devastating blast, claiming innocent lives.

Following the deadly blast, Petrosino receives crucial information from a devoted nun that aids in sketching the bomber's likeness. Using this lead, he tracks down the suspect to a concealed hideout, prepared for confrontation.

Petrosino cleverly disguises himself to infiltrate the bomber's hideout. A fierce struggle ensues, resulting in the bomber's death as he attempts to resist arrest, showing the lengths Petrosino will go to uphold justice.

The aftermath of the bombing leaves Di Sarno, a Black Hand associate, stricken with grief after losing his daughter in the tragedy. Wracked by sorrow, he takes his own life, illustrating the devastating impact of the gang's violence.

In a daring move, Petrosino plans a trip to Italy to identify criminals wanted for extradition. His efforts yield fruitful results as he discovers the extent of organized crime's influence across borders, escalating the stakes.

During his investigations, Petrosino uncovers Vito Zarillo, a fugitive involved in a double homicide in Sicily. Recognizing the danger of his findings, he prepares rookie officer Johnny Viscardi to continue the fight against this escalating crime syndicate.

As Petrosino prepares to leave Sicily, he is lured into a secret meeting with an informant who turns out to be a mafia leader. Before he can escape the dangerous situation, he is tragically assassinated on the treacherous streets.

Back in New York City following Petrosino's funeral, rookie cop Johnny Viscardi witnesses a disrespectful act from Zarillo, who spits into Petrosino's coffin. This ignites a fierce determination in Viscardi to pursue justice for his fallen mentor.