CIA Plots to Assassinate Fidel Castro (1960–1963)

Gambling Syndicate. The first seriously-pursued CIA plan to assassinate Castro had its inception in August 1960. It involved the use of members of the criminal underworld with contacts inside Cuba. The operation had two phases: the first ran from August 1960 until late April or early May 1961, when it was called off following the Bay of Pigs; the second ran from April 1962 until February 1963 and was merely a revival of the first phase which had been inactive since about May 1961. Richard Bissell, Deputy Director for Plans, asked Sheffield Edwards, Director of Security, if Edwards could establish contact with the U.S. gambling syndicate that was active in Cuba. The objective clearly was the assassination of Castro. Edwards consulted Robert A. Maheu, a private investigator. Maheu identified his contact as one Johnny Roselli. Maheu was authorized to tell Roselli that his clients were willing to pay $150,000 for Castro's removal. Shef Edwards named James P. O'Connell as case officer. O'Connell and Maheu met Roselli in New York City on 14 September 1960. Roselli introduced them to Sam Gold (Giancana). The operation involved attempts to poison Castro using pills. The plan involved Juan Orta, a Cuban official. Later, the operation involved Dr. Manuel Antonio de Varona. The second phase involved Harvey and Maceo.