The Medellin Cartel: Conversations with Roger Reeves, One of the Most Prolific Drug Smugglers in History

💰Reeves was motivated by money, but the thrill and power also played a role in his involvement in drug smuggling.

🌍Reeves transported drugs across six continents, evading the law and prison multiple times.

❌Reeves regrets his choices and the years he spent in prison, realizing that the money and power were not worth the consequences.

🏛️The Medellin Cartel had a unique organizational structure and ethical code, including an insurance program that ensured honesty and integrity among its members.

🔒Reeves highlights the dangers and risks involved in drug smuggling, including the constant need for surveillance and secrecy.

Were Reeves' encounters with Pablo Escobar and Jorge Ochoa intimidating?

—No, Reeves describes meeting both Escobar and Ochoa as pleasant experiences. They appeared friendly and even spoke English.

What made the Medellin Cartel different from other drug trafficking organizations?

—The Medellin Cartel emphasized honesty, integrity, and professionalism. They had an insurance program to replace any lost drugs, creating a sense of trust among members.

Did Reeves enjoy the thrill of drug smuggling?

—Initially, yes, but looking back, Reeves realizes that the thrill was not worth the years he spent in prison and the negative impact on his life and family.

Why did Reeves decide to share his story?

—Reeves hopes to shed light on the dangers and consequences of drug smuggling, and to discourage others from getting involved in criminal activities.

What impact did the war on drugs have on Reeves' life?

—The war on drugs led to the deaths of many people, including innocent individuals caught in the crossfire. It also resulted in lengthy prison sentences for drug smugglers like Reeves.

00:00Introduction to Roger Reeves, one of the most prolific drug smugglers in history, who worked for the Medellin Cartel.

06:39Meeting and working with Pablo Escobar and Jorge Ochoa, the leaders of the Medellin Cartel.

11:19The ethical code and organizational structure of the Medellin Cartel, including an insurance program for drug smuggling.

05:36Motivations behind drug smuggling: money, power, and thrill.

09:09The impact of Drug smuggling on Reeves' life: regrets, prison time, and the toll on his family.

08:22The risks and dangers of drug smuggling, including constant surveillance and secrecy.

08:02Different perspectives on Pablo Escobar: a brutal murderer versus a Robin Hood-like figure.

10:49The war on drugs and its social and economic impact, including the loss of lives and lengthy prison sentences for drug smugglers.