Eunice Carter, Black Lawyer Who Took Down Mob Boss “Lucky” Luciano

Eunice Carter Getty Images

In 1935, Special Prosecutor Thomas E. Dewey appointed Eunice Carter as his assistant in what became the largest prosecution of organized crime in U.S. history. Carter devised the pivotal legal strategy to convict Charles "Lucky" Luciano, New York's most notorious Mafia crime boss. She was the sole Black woman on an all-white male prosecution team that launched a groundbreaking crackdown on organized prostitution in New York City. Without her meticulous work, Luciano’s conviction would not have been possible.

Carter's contributions were fundamental. She uncovered critical facts and built a solid case against Luciano, leading to his conviction on 62 charges of compulsory prostitution in June 1936. Luciano was sentenced to 30-50 years in prison, marking a significant victory for justice. His reign as a crime boss spanned the 1930s, and he continued to wield influence even from prison until his deportation to Italy in 1945.

Eunice Carter’s achievements were groundbreaking. Her story is chronicled in Invisible, a book by her grandson, Professor Stephen L. Carter, a bestselling author. The book's cover depicts Carter as a poised, determined, and formidable figure ready to take on the Mafia.

Born Eunice Roberta Carter on July 16, 1899, her early life was steeped in family values and education. Her parents, prominent educators and activists, were forced to move to New York after the devastating 1906 Atlanta race riots. These riots, triggered by false allegations against Black men, resulted in the destruction of hundreds of Black-owned businesses and homes.

The Carters relocated to Brooklyn in 1907, continuing their activism. Her father, William Carter, was the international secretary of the YMCA, and her mother worked tirelessly to support Black soldiers during World War I and to assist Black mothers in seeking better opportunities.

Eunice Carter excelled in law, becoming the first African American female prosecutor in New York. She joined Dewey’s team in 1938 to lead the Abandonment Bureau of Women’s Courts. In 1945, she transitioned to private practice while maintaining her commitment to social issues. She worked closely with the National Council of Negro Women, addressing international concerns, and served as a consultant to the United Nations.

Carter's dedication extended to the NAACP, the National Urban League, and the YWCA. Her legal expertise and activism significantly impacted women’s rights and racial equality.

Despite facing barriers as a woman of color in a predominantly white, male-dominated field, Carter left an indelible mark on history. She briefly ventured into politics, running as a Republican for New York’s 19th District Assembly but lost by 1,600 votes. Undeterred, she continued to champion justice and equality.

On October 20, 2020, her legacy was honored by the Historical Society of the New York State Courts, the Franklin H. Williams Judicial Commission, and the Unified Court System’s Office of Diversity. A plaque was rededicated to commemorate her life and career.

Eunice Roberta Carter passed away on January 25, 1970. Her pioneering role as New York’s first African American female prosecutor and her unwavering commitment to justice continue to inspire future generations. She will forever be remembered as a trailblazer who made a profound difference.