Question about Hunter and the mafia ... for everyone

I have been wondering, there's an underlining theme of Hunter being the son of a mobster and his whole family and upbringing was centered around the mob, but he chose to be a cop. Now, here's my question: If he was from a mafia family, how did he end up with the name Rick Hunter? Definitely not an Italian name at all.

Theories:
1. He changed his last name to Hunter, more of an all american sounding name, to help his career in the police and try to shed the Italian name/mafia link?
2. His was an adopted son?
3. The writers of Hunter simply overlooked the whole last name thing and it was never really discussed or made an issue in the show?

I have no idea if any of these theories are true, or if there's another answer for my question. I'm sure some of you guys and girls on the board know a ton more about Hunter than I do. Hopefully you can answer this question for me.