South Boston residents react to Bulger's arrest

BOSTON -- South Boston was the epicenter of much of James Bulger’s criminal activity, and Whitey’s presence is still very much felt in the Boston neighborhood.

As the headlines hit newsstands in Southie, the reaction was flying. But not everyone was happy to see the notorious gangster arrested, including a man who claims to have known Whitey.

“I’ll tell you the truth I’m kind of sad,” one woman said. “Like, I was hoping he was getting away with it, you know?”

“That kind of stinks…cause he’s like a legend around here,” said a man.

Others expressed both surprise and happiness over the arrest.

“I guess it’s amazing after all this time,” said a woman. “It’s just been a really long time.”

“Good. Let’s put it behind and let’s go on with our lives,” said a man.

Whitey grew up in Southie, and it was the epicenter of his criminal activity.

Many now want to know how he got away with it all those years.

“I’m just shocked that it took so long,” one woman said. “That’s kind of an embarrassment to the FBI, don’t you think?”

“He gave up a good run, but hey they caught him,” another said. “’Bout time.”

Catherine Greig’s sister told 7NEWS she is happy her sister is coming home.

(Copyright (c) 2011 Sunbeam Television Corp. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)