American Gangster: The Rise and Fall of a Street Legend

An in-depth look at the true story behind the notorious crime boss, Frank Lucas

From drug dealing to international cocaine trafficking, Lucas' story is a cautionary tale of power, greed, and redemption.

Frank Lucas was born in La Grange, North Carolina, in 1930. As a young man, he moved to New York City, where he quickly became involved in the drug trade. Lucas was a ruthless and ambitious entrepreneur, and he soon rose through the ranks of the city's criminal underworld.

In the 1970s, Lucas began importing heroin from Southeast Asia. He cut the heroin with baby laxatives and sold it in blue glassine envelopes, which he branded "Blue Magic." Lucas' heroin was so potent that it quickly became a favorite among drug users in New York City.

Lucas' drug empire was a vast and complex network. He had connections with drug lords in Southeast Asia, Europe, and South America. He also had a team of loyal henchmen who helped him run his operations.

Lucas' success was short-lived. In 1975, he was arrested by the New York City Police Department. He was convicted of heroin trafficking and sentenced to 70 years in prison.

Lucas served 12 years in prison. During that time, he became a born-again Christian. He also began to cooperate with law enforcement officials, providing information about his former associates.

Lucas was released from prison in 1989. He now lives in Puerto Rico, where he works as a community activist. He is also the author of a memoir, "American Gangster." Lucas' story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of power, greed, and crime.