Episode 82 retired U.S. Customs Special Agent Chris Hastings

Life on the Front Lines: Chris Hastings' Journey Through Drug Wars and Personal Battles

Years of Service: 1980-2013

In this compelling episode, we sit down with Chris Hastings, a former customs patrol officer turned USCS Special Agent who shares his gripping experiences from the cocaine wars in South Florida, his role in high-stakes undercover operations, and the personal challenges that shaped his career. From surviving near-fatal encounters to navigating deep-rooted corruption, Chris opens up about the realities of law enforcement and his journey of rediscovery.

Chris is also the author of "Cocaine Cowboys Uncensored A True Crime Story".

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
03:11 Chris Hastings' Early Career in Customs
03:36 Cross-Designation as a DEA Agent
05:44 The Cocaine Wars in South Florida
06:30 Recruiting Crew Members for Controlled Deliveries
06:49 Transition to Title 21 Cases
08:25 Life in Miami During the Cocaine Wars
09:50 Chris Hastings' Background and Family Life
11:26 Martial Arts and Life Lessons from Dad
17:51 College and Path to Law Enforcement
20:57 Personal Tragedies and Overcoming Adversity
25:06 Starting a Career in Customs
26:06 Learning Spanish and Undercover Work
37:43 Operation Greenback and Money Laundering
42:36 Corruption in Miami PD and Raul Diaz's Role
48:29 Corruption in Miami PD
49:55 Personal Integrity and Temptation
51:15 Brotherhood and Loyalty
52:47 Griselda Blanco's Reign of Terror
54:39 Identifying Federal Agents
56:12 The Infiltrator Case
58:31 Operation Against Alpha 66
01:01:03 Felix Rodriguez and CIA Connections
01:11:38 The Stabbing Incident
01:19:02 Impact on Family Life
01:23:00 Disillusionment with the Government
01:26:40 Finding Purpose in the Philippines
01:28:12 Meeting My Wife and New Family
01:31:22 Raising My Sons
01:32:35 Final Thoughts