Investigation into CIA and Crack Cocaine

Overview

• In 1996, Gary Webb, an investigative journalist, exposed the connection between the CIA and crack cocaine sold in South Central Los Angeles during the 1980s.
• Webb’s series, "Dark Alliance," revealed that cocaine dealers were linked to the CIA-backed Contras in Nicaragua.
• Despite initial backlash and denial from the government and media, later evidence confirmed Webb’s findings.

Gary Webb's Background

• Born August 31, 1955, in Corona, California.
• Father was a Marine Corps sergeant, leading to frequent family moves.
• Attended Northern Kentucky State University, worked on the school newspaper.
• Pursued investigative journalism over entertainment writing.

Career Highlights

• Worked at major newspapers in Kentucky and Ohio, focusing on local corruption.
• Moved to California, joined Mercury News in San Jose as an investigative journalist.
• Covered America’s war on drugs and government corruption.

Discovery of CIA-Drug Connection

• While investigating a controversial California law, Webb stumbled upon Danilo Blandón.
• Blandón, a major cocaine dealer in LA, had connections to the Nicaraguan Contras.
• The CIA used the Contras to overthrow Nicaragua’s socialist government.
• Funding for the Contras was insufficient, leading to drug trafficking to raise funds.

Key Findings

• Blandón testified that cocaine sold in LA funded the Contras in Nicaragua.
• Webb’s investigation revealed a drug ring led by Contra leaders sold tons of cocaine to LA street gangs.
• Money from cocaine sales funneled to Nicaragua for weapons and training.
• Blandón sold cocaine to freeway Rick Ross, who distributed it in LA ghettos.

Publication of "Dark Alliance"

• Webb’s series was published in 1996, causing public outrage.
• Articles included government documents and testimonies linking drug trafficking to the CIA.
• Faced criticism for lack of evidence directly connecting the CIA to drug sales.

Repercussions and Criticism

• Many misinterpreted Webb’s findings, believing he accused the CIA of masterminding the crack epidemic.
• Critics argued Webb oversimplified the causes of the crack epidemic.
• Major news outlets attempted to discredit his work.

Aftermath

• Despite initial backlash, later CIA admissions confirmed some of Webb’s allegations.
• CIA report acknowledged association with drug traffickers but denied direct involvement.
• Webb continued to defend his work through a book, "Dark Alliance."
• Webb faced financial and personal struggles, leading to his suicide in 2004.

Legacy

• "Dark Alliance" led to increased scrutiny of the CIA’s actions during the 1980s.
• Rick Ross, unwittingly part of the drug trade linked to the CIA, served 20 years in prison.
• Blandón became a government informant after his arrest.
• Webb’s investigation remains a significant piece of journalism uncovering governmental misconduct.