Booknote: The Infiltrator

Robert Mazur, The Infiltrator: the True Story of One Man Against the Biggest Drug Cartel in History. New York: Back Bay Books, 2016. ISBN: 978-0-316-07752-1.

Genre: nonfiction
Subgenre: memoir, true crime, mobsters, organized crime
Format: paperback
Source: Berea branch of the Madison County (KY) Public Library

This is the story of Robert Mazur, a U.S. Customs undercover agent who spent years working to bring down some of the big bankers and money launderers of the big drug cartels. In his persona of Bob Musella, a wealthy mob connected investor, he befriended and worked his way up to do business with dirty bankers and high level business men who provided financial services for the Medellin Cartel and even at one point General Manuel Noriega.

Though the book's cover says "true story of one man against the biggest drug cartel in history," Mazur emphasizes this was truly a team effort. From his agent friend Emir to other agents to former criminals on his side, Mazur in his story shows this was a team effort. It was not easy as not everyone on the team was professional nor decent. When not risking his life doing undercover work, Mazur had to deal with bureaucrats and even other agents more interested in personal gain and fame than doing the right thing. At times I am amazed Mazur succeeded because, while the cartel was bad and dangerous, U.S. Government incompetence and greed for fame at times could be worse.

The book is a really interesting read. Mazur gives a lot of detail about how exactly undercover work happens. A lot of it really is about little details. It is also about who you know and learning from them such as Mazur learning how to look and act from an ex-mobster he befriended. Attention to detail is crucial. In addition, the book is a thrilling read, and I can see why it got made into a movie. It's one of those books you just keep on reading.

If you like works like Donnie Brasco,  you'll probably like this as well. It is definitely worth a look. I really liked it.

4 out of 5 stars.