By Frank Lucasale 
Introduction: Women in the Underworld
When we think of crime rings, the image of male mob bosses often dominates. However, throughout history, some women have defied societal norms and ascended to powerful positions within these criminal empires. These stories reveal that crime knows no gender, and these women often led with both cruelty and cunning.
1. Griselda Blanco: The Cocaine Godmother
Griselda Blanco, one of the most feared figures of the 1980s, earned her title as the “Cocaine Godmother.” Rising to power in Miami’s drug scene, she ruled her empire with terror, even continuing to control operations from prison.
2. Maria Mejia: The Bloodettes Leader
In the Bronx, Maria Mejia led the all-female gang, the Bloodettes, which was notorious for its brutal enforcement of drug territories. Her leadership saw a string of murders and other violent acts before she was eventually arrested.
3. Xie Caiping: The Triad Queen
Xie Caiping, known as the “godmother” of a Chinese Triad, ran a vast network of illegal gambling and human smuggling in Chongqing. Despite her eventual downfall, she controlled her criminal empire through connections and ruthlessness.
4. Maria Leon: The Queen Spider
Maria Leon managed to control a notorious drug gang in Los Angeles, all while raising 13 children. Her sons became enforcers, and together they ran their neighborhood through violence and drugs, with Maria at the helm until her arrest.
The Rise of Women in Crime
Historically, the criminal underworld was male-dominated, but necessity and intelligence pushed these women to the top. As law enforcement cracked down, women like Raffaella D’Alterio and Giusy Vitale took over operations, often leading their empires with the same, if not greater, brutality than their male counterparts.
Conclusion: Breaking the Stereotypes
These stories of women leaders in crime rings challenge traditional views. Whether through drug smuggling, gang leadership, or organized crime, these women shaped criminal histories across the globe, leaving legacies that continue to fascinate and horrify.