American Desperado: My Life–From Mafia Soldier to Cocaine Cowboy to Secret Government Asset by Jon Roberts, Evan Wright

In American Desperado: My Life--From Mafia Soldier to Cocaine Cowboy to Secret Government Asset, Jon Roberts tells his story of life as a Mafia hitman, drug-runner, and government informant. Roberts recounts his journey from a young hoodlum to a powerful criminal organization kingpin, then to a hunted fugitive and finally to a law-abiding citizen. Roberts' riveting story takes readers on a ride through some of the most wild and violent underworlds of the United States and abroad, and offers a unique glimpse into the criminal lifestyle and workings of an organized crime syndicate.

The product of a crime and drug-infested environment, Roberts grew up in Brooklyn and Queens, New York and quickly established himself as a thief and truant. After being sent to reform school, Roberts joined the notorious Gambino crime family and quickly moved up the ranks. As a trusted Mafia soldier, Roberts was given the task of drug trafficking and loan-sharking, in addition to providing muscle work for the organization. As Roberts became more successful, he was eventually trusted with bigger jobs, and in 1976 was sent to Miami to join a major drug-trafficking operation involving the Colombians and Cubans.

While in Miami, Roberts became an invaluable asset to the drug ring, and was eventually dubbed 'Cocaine Cowboy'. Roberts' daring and resourcefulness enabled him to succeed in an industry that is still rife with violence and bloodshed. He also made valuable connections with local law enforcement who, through Roberts' help, eventually brought down powerful Colombian drug kingpins.

Despite his importance to the drug ring, Roberts eventually became the target of a major drug bust by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). In order to avoid going to prison and make a deal with the government, Roberts agreed to turn informant and testify against his Mafia cohorts. Roberts eventually helped build solid cases against over 50 Mafia dons, including the head of the Gambino crime family.

In exchange for his cooperation, Roberts was granted an early release from prison, placed in the Federal Witness Protection Program and eventually found himself living and working in Colombia. Roberts describes these years as a time of personal enlightenment and growth, as he was able to take solace from an otherwise dangerous world. After living in Colombia for a few years, Roberts eventually made the decision to return to the United States and lead an honest, law-abiding life.

American Desperado is not only a remarkable story of a life-long criminal but also an uplifting tale of redemption and courage. Roberts' powerful story of violence, crime, and ultimately recovery serves as an inspiration to those who feel they have no way out of their current situations. With his gritty and bold account of life on the run and a fresh start, Roberts takes readers on a wild and thrilling journey that sensationally reads more like fiction than a biography. American Desperado is an essential read for anyone interested in the world of organized crime and an invaluable testament to the power of human resilience.