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The Rise and Fall of Mr. Untouchable |
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Dubbed as Mr. Untouchable due to his complex network of operations, Leroy “Nicky” Barnes was a notorious drug kingpin based in Harlem. In the article featured in this historic issue, Barnes brags about sending the police on “wild goose chases” across the city. He even extended the reach of his heroin trafficking organization across New York, Pennsylvania, and Canada.
However, these schemes wouldn’t last forever. After years of undercover work and courageous operations, DEA and the US Attorney’s Office in New York infiltrated his organization and captured Mr. Untouchable. On January 19, 1978, he was sentenced to life in prison.
The original New York Times 1977 issue, and other fascinating artifacts, are available to explore as part of Stories from the Collection. Come visit the DEA Museum to find the curated exhibition of captivating items that hold unique moments of DEA’s story. At the Museum, you can further explore the complex and dynamic history of America’s connections to drugs, laws, and misuse prevention.
 You can also view the Museum’s video archive for more episodes and artifacts featured in Stories from the Collection.
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