Richie Roberts Net Worth
Who is Richie Roberts?
Richard "Richie" Roberts is a former American detective and lawyer who is best known for his role in bringing down drug kingpin Frank Lucas and his accomplices in the 1970s. Roberts' story was immortalized in the 2007 film "American Gangster," where he was portrayed by actor Russell Crowe.
Early Life and Career
Richie Roberts was born on July 28, 1937, in East Harlem, New York City. He grew up in a low-income household and was raised by his mother, a factory worker. Roberts dropped out of high school in the 10th grade and joined the United States Army, where he served for three years.
After his military service, Roberts became a police officer in the New York City Police Department (NYPD). He worked his way up the ranks, becoming a detective and eventually earning a law degree from New York Law School.
The Takedown of Frank Lucas
In the early 1970s, Roberts was assigned to a task force that was investigating drug trafficking in the city. He became obsessed with taking down Frank Lucas, a notorious drug kingpin who was smuggling heroin into the country using the coffins of deceased American servicemen.
Roberts' investigation led to a major breakthrough in 1975, when he and his team seized a shipment of heroin worth millions of dollars. The bust led to the indictment and eventual conviction of Lucas and his accomplices.
Net Worth
Richie Roberts' net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. His wealth comes from his work as a lawyer, as well as from book royalties and speaking fees. Roberts has written a memoir about his experiences, titled "American Gangster: And Other Tales of New York," which was published in 2007.
Personal Life
Roberts has been married three times and has six children. He currently resides in New Jersey and continues to work as a lawyer and consultant.
Conclusion
Richie Roberts is a true American hero who has made a significant impact on the war on drugs. His bravery and determination in taking down Frank Lucas and his accomplices have inspired countless people, and his story continues to fascinate audiences to this day. Despite his tough exterior, Roberts is a complex and multifaceted individual who is deeply committed to justice and fairness.