How Mickey Cohen Died: Exploring the Final Days of a Los Angeles Crime Lord

Mickey Cohen was a notorious figure in the criminal underworld of Los Angeles during the mid-20th century. Known as a mobster and gangster, he ruled the city's organized crime scene for several years. However, his reign came to a sudden and unexpected end. In this article, we delve into the final days of Mickey Cohen's life, exploring how he died and shedding light on some of the unanswered questions surrounding his death.

Who was Mickey Cohen?

Mickey Cohen, born Meyer Harris Cohen in 1913, was a prominent figure in the Los Angeles crime world. He rose to prominence as an associate of the infamous mobster Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel, who played a major role in the formation of the mafia's presence in Las Vegas. After Siegel's murder, Cohen took over his operations in Los Angeles, expanding his empire to control gambling, drug trafficking, and illegal gambling dens.

What led to Mickey Cohen's downfall?

While Cohen was known for his criminal activities, his downfall came as a result of his involvement in a high-profile murder trial in 1949. Mickey Cohen and several of his associates were accused of conspiracy to murder Jack "The Enforcer" Whalen, a rival private eye. The trial received widespread attention, and although Cohen and others were acquitted, it marked the beginning of the decline of his criminal empire.

How did Mickey Cohen die?

Mickey Cohen died on July 29, 1976, at the age of 62, in Los Angeles. However, his death was not related to any criminal activities. Cohen succumbed to stomach cancer after battling the disease for several years. Despite his violent past and criminal reputation, his death was a result of natural causes.

Were there any suspicious circumstances surrounding Mickey Cohen's death?

While Cohen's death was primarily a result of cancer, some conspiracy theories suggest that foul play might have been involved. After all, Cohen had numerous enemies in the criminal underworld as well as in law enforcement. However, there is no substantial evidence to support these allegations. The official cause of death, as stated in his death certificate, was complications from stomach cancer.

What is Mickey Cohen's legacy?

Mickey Cohen's legacy is a subject of much debate. Some argue that he was a ruthless crime lord who wreaked havoc on the streets of Los Angeles. Others believe he should be regarded as a local legend, with his flashy lifestyle and charisma captivating the public's imagination. Regardless of how he is perceived, there's no denying his impact on the criminal landscape of Los Angeles during his reign. In conclusion, Mickey Cohen's death marked the end of an era for the Los Angeles crime scene. He died from complications related to stomach cancer, bringing an end to his reign as one of the city's most notorious crime lords. While theories about foul play remain, the official cause of death stands uncontested. Mickey Cohen's life and death serve as a reminder of the dark side of the city's history and the enduring fascination surrounding figures like him.