Dugan Arnett

Almost every drug investigation in America is based on a confidential informant. People with their own troubles who see a path forward by telling on someone else. The CI system is based on blind trust and can have deadly consequences. It is shadowy. Things just had gotten to the point of no control. It is underground. The corruption level was just off the hook. It really was.

Almost every drug investigation in America is based on a confidential informant. People with their own troubles who see a path forward by telling on someone else. The CI system is based on blind trust and can have deadly consequences. It is shadowy. Things just had gotten to the point of no control. It is underground. The corruption level was just off the hook. It really was.

I'm Dugan Arnett, an investigative reporter with the Boston Globe Spotlight team. And I'm gonna bring you inside this secret world through the story of one city at the forefront of America's drug war, where the CI system has gone off the rails. Cops think they can get away with anything, okay? Basically, they'll let this disappear if I do something for them. They lie.

I'm Dugan Arnett, an investigative reporter with the Boston Globe Spotlight team. And I'm gonna bring you inside this secret world through the story of one city at the forefront of America's drug war, where the CI system has gone off the rails. Cops think they can get away with anything, okay? Basically, they'll let this disappear if I do something for them. They lie.

They just lie, lie, lie, lie, lie. You look like a drug rep. Like something out of a fucking movie. They're onto you. You better smarten up. I don't want to go to jail. You didn't want to be labeled a rat. Not around here. You're going to hear from an informant betrayed by a police force that promised to keep him safe. We heard you was working with the police. You're going to get stabbed.

They just lie, lie, lie, lie, lie. You look like a drug rep. Like something out of a fucking movie. They're onto you. You better smarten up. I don't want to go to jail. You didn't want to be labeled a rat. Not around here. You're going to hear from an informant betrayed by a police force that promised to keep him safe. We heard you was working with the police. You're going to get stabbed.

A drug dealer who got squeezed by the FBI and asked to snitch on police. So he come over thinking I was going to rap. A cop with mixed loyalties who passed information onto a gang member. You see how that could look like you're just trying to help a friend again? And a veteran officer still on the job, ready to name names. Who else do I have to tell? I call the FBI and they don't follow me back.

A drug dealer who got squeezed by the FBI and asked to snitch on police. So he come over thinking I was going to rap. A cop with mixed loyalties who passed information onto a gang member. You see how that could look like you're just trying to help a friend again? And a veteran officer still on the job, ready to name names. Who else do I have to tell? I call the FBI and they don't follow me back.

And that's just a start. You motherfuckers don't rat on each other. So don't start telling my client what the hell he or she should do. This is Spotlight. Snitch City. An investigative series from the Boston Globe. Coming March 11th.

And that's just a start. You motherfuckers don't rat on each other. So don't start telling my client what the hell he or she should do. This is Spotlight. Snitch City. An investigative series from the Boston Globe. Coming March 11th.

That's when Bob Richards came walking to his car with a bag of meat.

That's when Bob Richards came walking to his car with a bag of meat.

He wasn't bad. I didn't really have much complaints about him. I think he was more of a pawn for Paul than anything. And then that's when I asked, you know, I said, look, can we talk? You know, I showed, I lifted up my shirt, everything, showed him I wasn't wearing a wire.

He wasn't bad. I didn't really have much complaints about him. I think he was more of a pawn for Paul than anything. And then that's when I asked, you know, I said, look, can we talk? You know, I showed, I lifted up my shirt, everything, showed him I wasn't wearing a wire.

And then, I mean, I want to say it was three to five days later, if that, is when my lawyer called me and said they offered me a plea bargain. Mm-hmm.

And then, I mean, I want to say it was three to five days later, if that, is when my lawyer called me and said they offered me a plea bargain. Mm-hmm.

So is this the station three right here? Oh, okay. This is Paul's old stomping grounds. This is where they worked out of.

So is this the station three right here? Oh, okay. This is Paul's old stomping grounds. This is where they worked out of.

I used to walk by that collar every day, and the guy one day was like, hey kid, you want a job? And I was like, hell yeah, and he's like...

I used to walk by that collar every day, and the guy one day was like, hey kid, you want a job? And I was like, hell yeah, and he's like...

They were wicked strict. Everybody in the neighborhood's parents were strict. Like, you know what I mean?

They were wicked strict. Everybody in the neighborhood's parents were strict. Like, you know what I mean?

You know, mostly all Portuguese families in this neighborhood. You know, Spanish and Cape Verdeans.

You know, mostly all Portuguese families in this neighborhood. You know, Spanish and Cape Verdeans.

I could run back then. I seen headlights, I was gone. I was always afraid to get arrested because my grandfather was in law enforcement and he always used to tell me, you get arrested, don't call. Don't call me, you're staying there.

I could run back then. I seen headlights, I was gone. I was always afraid to get arrested because my grandfather was in law enforcement and he always used to tell me, you get arrested, don't call. Don't call me, you're staying there.

That was going forward until I got in trouble.

That was going forward until I got in trouble.

Before we begin, this story includes strong language. Please take care when listening.

Before we begin, this story includes strong language. Please take care when listening.

Bobby Richard says he saw it firsthand, admits to taking part in some of it himself. But he says that Paul Oliveira took it to the extreme. He was reinventing the wheel, so to speak. From his perspective, the raid on the high-level Colombian dealer changed things.

Bobby Richard says he saw it firsthand, admits to taking part in some of it himself. But he says that Paul Oliveira took it to the extreme. He was reinventing the wheel, so to speak. From his perspective, the raid on the high-level Colombian dealer changed things.

You're prone to do it again, right? Richard and other sources told me that's essentially what happened. And soon, Oliveira became known for a particular tactic, something called a setup case. He got into doing these cases where he was controlling both ends of the process. Setup cases were allegedly Olivera's specialty. And here's how they work.

You're prone to do it again, right? Richard and other sources told me that's essentially what happened. And soon, Oliveira became known for a particular tactic, something called a setup case. He got into doing these cases where he was controlling both ends of the process. Setup cases were allegedly Olivera's specialty. And here's how they work.

They require a cop to essentially partner with a drug dealer. The dealer brings the drugs to the house.

They require a cop to essentially partner with a drug dealer. The dealer brings the drugs to the house.

What you're saying is he was arranging to have the drugs put in the target location that he would then execute the raid at. Over and over and over, yeah. Richard isn't my only source on this. Another former drug detective said the same thing. I was even able to speak with one of Oliveira's former informants.

What you're saying is he was arranging to have the drugs put in the target location that he would then execute the raid at. Over and over and over, yeah. Richard isn't my only source on this. Another former drug detective said the same thing. I was even able to speak with one of Oliveira's former informants.

And they all said that the secret to Oliveira's success was forming alliances with mid-level dealers and allowing them to stay in business in exchange for giving up lower-level guys.

And they all said that the secret to Oliveira's success was forming alliances with mid-level dealers and allowing them to stay in business in exchange for giving up lower-level guys.

Then that mid-level dealer acts as an informant and offers up a handful of names.

Then that mid-level dealer acts as an informant and offers up a handful of names.

I even talked to one of his former informants. When it comes to speaking on the record into a microphone with their names out there, most of them stop short. But not Bobby Richard.

I even talked to one of his former informants. When it comes to speaking on the record into a microphone with their names out there, most of them stop short. But not Bobby Richard.

It turns the standard police playbook on its head. In drug cases, police want to go up the chain. Flip a user for a dealer, then a dealer for a supplier. Get the biggest fish. But what Richard and others are saying is that Oliveira did it the other way around. He was content to let the bigger fish stay in business so long as he could get the smaller ones and keep making headline-grabbing busts.

It turns the standard police playbook on its head. In drug cases, police want to go up the chain. Flip a user for a dealer, then a dealer for a supplier. Get the biggest fish. But what Richard and others are saying is that Oliveira did it the other way around. He was content to let the bigger fish stay in business so long as he could get the smaller ones and keep making headline-grabbing busts.

Whenever you can dictate the circumstances behind how something's going to come out, it's usually going to come out in your favor. It was all getting to be too much for Richard. And he was beginning to worry about his own exposure.

Whenever you can dictate the circumstances behind how something's going to come out, it's usually going to come out in your favor. It was all getting to be too much for Richard. And he was beginning to worry about his own exposure.

It really was. Around this time, corruption within the city's police force was becoming impossible to ignore. An outside audit found that 20% of New Bedford officers believed their colleagues were stealing drugs or money from local dealers. Meanwhile, agents from the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration reported that the informant situation in New Bedford had grown dire.

It really was. Around this time, corruption within the city's police force was becoming impossible to ignore. An outside audit found that 20% of New Bedford officers believed their colleagues were stealing drugs or money from local dealers. Meanwhile, agents from the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration reported that the informant situation in New Bedford had grown dire.

One DEA agent said the city was on the doorstep of another, quote, Whitey Bulger incident, referencing the South Boston mobster who committed heinous crimes with the protection of his FBI handler. Richard decided he didn't want to be part of this anymore. He wanted to distance himself from Oliveira.

One DEA agent said the city was on the doorstep of another, quote, Whitey Bulger incident, referencing the South Boston mobster who committed heinous crimes with the protection of his FBI handler. Richard decided he didn't want to be part of this anymore. He wanted to distance himself from Oliveira.

Eventually, both men left the drug unit and went their separate ways. But years later, their paths crossed again. In 2010, Richard was charged with assault and battery. And by this point, Oliveira was part of the department's internal affairs unit. IA investigated Richard. And he says Oliveira led the probe.

Eventually, both men left the drug unit and went their separate ways. But years later, their paths crossed again. In 2010, Richard was charged with assault and battery. And by this point, Oliveira was part of the department's internal affairs unit. IA investigated Richard. And he says Oliveira led the probe.

And I was one of those people. Richard says he's willing to talk because he's off the force and no longer fears retaliation.

And I was one of those people. Richard says he's willing to talk because he's off the force and no longer fears retaliation.

The criminal case against Richard was dismissed. But the department's inquiry resulted in discipline, and Richard was demoted. But things truly came to a head five years later. The final straw came, this whole issue with smoking. Despite everything he saw, everything he took part in, the thing that ended Richard's decades-long career with the New Bedford Police Department was a cigar.

The criminal case against Richard was dismissed. But the department's inquiry resulted in discipline, and Richard was demoted. But things truly came to a head five years later. The final straw came, this whole issue with smoking. Despite everything he saw, everything he took part in, the thing that ended Richard's decades-long career with the New Bedford Police Department was a cigar.

The rule was you could not smoke whatsoever. The rule is still on the books today.

The rule was you could not smoke whatsoever. The rule is still on the books today.

According to Richard, when Oliveira found a video of him with a cigar on duty, he had enough to get him fired.

According to Richard, when Oliveira found a video of him with a cigar on duty, he had enough to get him fired.

This major shift in local law enforcement took place one afternoon in the spring of 2021.

This major shift in local law enforcement took place one afternoon in the spring of 2021.

I asked if Paul Oliveira had ever investigated or disciplined another officer for smoking, but he didn't respond, other than to note that he was not chief when Richard was fired, and thus the ultimate decision to terminate Richard wasn't his.

I asked if Paul Oliveira had ever investigated or disciplined another officer for smoking, but he didn't respond, other than to note that he was not chief when Richard was fired, and thus the ultimate decision to terminate Richard wasn't his.

The city of New Bedford said Richard was fired for a number of violations and matters, including the cigar, and it noted that the case went to an arbitrator who agreed with the decision. Either way, a cigar was part of Bobby's ultimate undoing. And yet, I found that Oliveira, as chief or deputy chief, oversaw officers accused of much more serious misdeeds.

The city of New Bedford said Richard was fired for a number of violations and matters, including the cigar, and it noted that the case went to an arbitrator who agreed with the decision. Either way, a cigar was part of Bobby's ultimate undoing. And yet, I found that Oliveira, as chief or deputy chief, oversaw officers accused of much more serious misdeeds.

In many of those cases, the officers either received minimal discipline or were allowed to resign before discipline was handed down.

In many of those cases, the officers either received minimal discipline or were allowed to resign before discipline was handed down.

Oliveira isn't talking to me, but he's been asked by others about police misconduct. In this interview, he's responding to a question about officers in his department making mistakes.

Oliveira isn't talking to me, but he's been asked by others about police misconduct. In this interview, he's responding to a question about officers in his department making mistakes.

Much of the information that police gather from CIs is used in court as evidence. But if the underlying evidence is bad or false, how many cases could be tainted? How deep does the rot go? Pretty deep, according to Richard, in another source I spoke with. There's another member of the same drug unit who saw the same things and feels the same way.

Much of the information that police gather from CIs is used in court as evidence. But if the underlying evidence is bad or false, how many cases could be tainted? How deep does the rot go? Pretty deep, according to Richard, in another source I spoke with. There's another member of the same drug unit who saw the same things and feels the same way.

My producer Max and I met this man late one night in an isolated parking lot underneath a bridge, a town over from New Bedford. It was dark out, foggy. It felt like the perfect setting for a clandestine meeting with an off-the-record source, which is what this was. We talked to him about setup cases, about the manipulation of informants, and the practice of collaborating with drug dealers.

My producer Max and I met this man late one night in an isolated parking lot underneath a bridge, a town over from New Bedford. It was dark out, foggy. It felt like the perfect setting for a clandestine meeting with an off-the-record source, which is what this was. We talked to him about setup cases, about the manipulation of informants, and the practice of collaborating with drug dealers.

Yeah. But he refused to go on the record. He believes members of the police department, under Oliveira's command, will target his family.

Yeah. But he refused to go on the record. He believes members of the police department, under Oliveira's command, will target his family.

Oliveira first made a name for himself as a headline-generating drug cop. From there, he became a supervisor, then ran internal affairs. He was made deputy chief, then chief. But behind Oliveira's rise to the top, there's a dark backstory.

Oliveira first made a name for himself as a headline-generating drug cop. From there, he became a supervisor, then ran internal affairs. He was made deputy chief, then chief. But behind Oliveira's rise to the top, there's a dark backstory.

Right. And you want to be like, that's crazy. That's insane. But then it's the thing that if I was in his shoes that I would be worried about is how could this come back on my family? And there's something else I haven't told you. Something that ties this source and Richard together. Both have been contacted by the FBI and asked about Oliveira.

Right. And you want to be like, that's crazy. That's insane. But then it's the thing that if I was in his shoes that I would be worried about is how could this come back on my family? And there's something else I haven't told you. Something that ties this source and Richard together. Both have been contacted by the FBI and asked about Oliveira.

Richard said the phone call came out of the blue around 2017.

Richard said the phone call came out of the blue around 2017.

He was FBI all day long, you know what I mean? The agent is from the FBI's Public Corruption Unit. Did they ask about Paul? Specifically, yeah. And Richard says he tells him everything he knows.

He was FBI all day long, you know what I mean? The agent is from the FBI's Public Corruption Unit. Did they ask about Paul? Specifically, yeah. And Richard says he tells him everything he knows.

Did you walk away from that?

Did you walk away from that?

But after those initial conversations, he didn't hear another word. And that really pisses him off.

But after those initial conversations, he didn't hear another word. And that really pisses him off.

After The Globe published this story online, the city issued a statement saying Paul Oliveira, quote, has no knowledge of a formal request by either the FBI or the Department of Justice in this regard. Whatever the FBI was investigating, it appears to have gone nowhere, which is odd considering something else I've uncovered.

After The Globe published this story online, the city issued a statement saying Paul Oliveira, quote, has no knowledge of a formal request by either the FBI or the Department of Justice in this regard. Whatever the FBI was investigating, it appears to have gone nowhere, which is odd considering something else I've uncovered.

The FBI actually started asking questions about the New Bedford police and Paul Oliveira 25 years ago.

The FBI actually started asking questions about the New Bedford police and Paul Oliveira 25 years ago.

That's next time on Spotlight, Snitch City. Spotlight Snitch City is reported and hosted by me, Dugan Arnett. Additional reporting by Andrew Ryan and Brendan McCarthy. The podcast is written by Max Green and Kristen Nelson, along with me and Brendan McCarthy. Max Green is senior producer. Executive producers are Spotlight editor Brendan McCarthy and Kristen Nelson, the Globe's head of audio.

That's next time on Spotlight, Snitch City. Spotlight Snitch City is reported and hosted by me, Dugan Arnett. Additional reporting by Andrew Ryan and Brendan McCarthy. The podcast is written by Max Green and Kristen Nelson, along with me and Brendan McCarthy. Max Green is senior producer. Executive producers are Spotlight editor Brendan McCarthy and Kristen Nelson, the Globe's head of audio.

Additional editing and support from Gordon Russell and Kathleen Goldhar. Nancy Barnes is the Boston Globe's executive editor. Sound design and mix by Stephen Jackson. Episode artwork by Julian D. Paulson. Art direction by Ryan Huddle. Podcast visualization by Olivia Yarvis and Anoush Elbakian. Heather Cyrus is the audience editor. Tim Rasmussen is visuals editor. Legal Review by John Albano.

Additional editing and support from Gordon Russell and Kathleen Goldhar. Nancy Barnes is the Boston Globe's executive editor. Sound design and mix by Stephen Jackson. Episode artwork by Julian D. Paulson. Art direction by Ryan Huddle. Podcast visualization by Olivia Yarvis and Anoush Elbakian. Heather Cyrus is the audience editor. Tim Rasmussen is visuals editor. Legal Review by John Albano.

Fact Checking by Matt Mahoney. Marketing support for this podcast comes from The Podglomerate.

Fact Checking by Matt Mahoney. Marketing support for this podcast comes from The Podglomerate.

Who? Richard and I are talking in the same ornate library where the mayor promoted Oliveira. The chief. Really? Of this car? Richard points out the window.

Who? Richard and I are talking in the same ornate library where the mayor promoted Oliveira. The chief. Really? Of this car? Richard points out the window.

Yeah, so... It's a little eerie. We're talking about Oliveira, and he suddenly appears, as if on command, like he's everywhere. According to Richard, the key to Oliveira's early success was his manipulation of CIs. You live and die in this business on informants, essentially, and information.

Yeah, so... It's a little eerie. We're talking about Oliveira, and he suddenly appears, as if on command, like he's everywhere. According to Richard, the key to Oliveira's early success was his manipulation of CIs. You live and die in this business on informants, essentially, and information.

And my investigation has found that Oliveira misused the CI system and, according to his colleagues, broke the law, paving the way for others to do the same. It changed the informant playbook in terms of what was allowed in terms of controlling an informant. And in the 90s, New Bedford's drug unit was going sideways. Things just had gotten to the point of no control, really.

And my investigation has found that Oliveira misused the CI system and, according to his colleagues, broke the law, paving the way for others to do the same. It changed the informant playbook in terms of what was allowed in terms of controlling an informant. And in the 90s, New Bedford's drug unit was going sideways. Things just had gotten to the point of no control, really.

We could see that the corruption level was just fucking off the hook. It really was. I'm Dugan Arnett, and from the Boston Globe Spotlight team, this is Snitch City. Episode 3, The Chief. Bobby Richard works in private security today, but he was with the New Bedford police for almost 25 years. He's not the big bruiser type I pictured in my mind. He's kind of quiet, thoughtful.

We could see that the corruption level was just fucking off the hook. It really was. I'm Dugan Arnett, and from the Boston Globe Spotlight team, this is Snitch City. Episode 3, The Chief. Bobby Richard works in private security today, but he was with the New Bedford police for almost 25 years. He's not the big bruiser type I pictured in my mind. He's kind of quiet, thoughtful.

In a portrait-lined room at the New Bedford Public Library, Mayor John Mitchell stepped forward to address the gathered crowd.

In a portrait-lined room at the New Bedford Public Library, Mayor John Mitchell stepped forward to address the gathered crowd.

Richard and Oliveira met in 1992.

Richard and Oliveira met in 1992.

They start on the lowest rung, working street patrol. Oliveira with a college degree in criminal justice, a rarity that sets him apart. And almost immediately, he makes an impact.

They start on the lowest rung, working street patrol. Oliveira with a college degree in criminal justice, a rarity that sets him apart. And almost immediately, he makes an impact.

As patrol officers, Richard and Oliveira learned to cultivate informants. Typically, it's drug users or sex workers. But Richard didn't want to be a street cop forever.

As patrol officers, Richard and Oliveira learned to cultivate informants. Typically, it's drug users or sex workers. But Richard didn't want to be a street cop forever.

And so was Oliveira. They both wanted more, more action, more responsibility, more prestige. They wanted to be in narcotics.

And so was Oliveira. They both wanted more, more action, more responsibility, more prestige. They wanted to be in narcotics.

Bobby Richard and Paul Oliveira were promoted to the drug unit on the same day in 1996. And then thus began the journey. This was the 1990s, the height of America's war on drugs. And there was a lot of work to do.

Bobby Richard and Paul Oliveira were promoted to the drug unit on the same day in 1996. And then thus began the journey. This was the 1990s, the height of America's war on drugs. And there was a lot of work to do.

Then-President Bill Clinton was throwing billions at the problem.

Then-President Bill Clinton was throwing billions at the problem.

The money and the mission trickled down to New Bedford, a major trafficking port. At the docks, so-called dirty boats were offloading huge shipments after dark. Cocaine and heroin coursed through the motorcycle clubs and seedy waterfront bars. For New Bedford's narcotics unit, the objective was simple. Make cases, get drugs. And they were given lots of leeway to do that.

The money and the mission trickled down to New Bedford, a major trafficking port. At the docks, so-called dirty boats were offloading huge shipments after dark. Cocaine and heroin coursed through the motorcycle clubs and seedy waterfront bars. For New Bedford's narcotics unit, the objective was simple. Make cases, get drugs. And they were given lots of leeway to do that.

They came and went as they pleased, dressed in plain clothes, and drove flashy cars seized from local dealers. It was exciting.

They came and went as they pleased, dressed in plain clothes, and drove flashy cars seized from local dealers. It was exciting.

Without informants, none of their work would have been possible. Richard says working a drug case without a CI is like walking into a casino and betting solely on a hunch.

Without informants, none of their work would have been possible. Richard says working a drug case without a CI is like walking into a casino and betting solely on a hunch.

The more Richard worked with CIs, the more he realized how shady it was. So much of it was off the books, and everything hinged on the word and integrity of police.

The more Richard worked with CIs, the more he realized how shady it was. So much of it was off the books, and everything hinged on the word and integrity of police.

Beside him stood Paul Oliveira.

Beside him stood Paul Oliveira.

And when it came to informants, Paul Oliveira was a superstar.

And when it came to informants, Paul Oliveira was a superstar.

Oliveira's former supervisor told me he was, quote, the cock of the walk. Others call him genius or a god. Paul had an infallible luck streak. Big cases, huge numbers. He made the department and himself look good.

Oliveira's former supervisor told me he was, quote, the cock of the walk. Others call him genius or a god. Paul had an infallible luck streak. Big cases, huge numbers. He made the department and himself look good.

Everyone benefited, including Richard.

Everyone benefited, including Richard.

But there was a moment when Richard did start to wonder, how was Oliveira doing all this? To stick with the baseball analogy?

But there was a moment when Richard did start to wonder, how was Oliveira doing all this? To stick with the baseball analogy?

The secret behind Paul Oliveira's unprecedented success comes into focus for Bobby Richard in the winter of 1997.

The secret behind Paul Oliveira's unprecedented success comes into focus for Bobby Richard in the winter of 1997.

Chief Oliveira is handsome. A heftier Matt Damon could play him in a movie. He's in his 50s, but he still looks like he could lead a team of detectives through a drug house door.

Chief Oliveira is handsome. A heftier Matt Damon could play him in a movie. He's in his 50s, but he still looks like he could lead a team of detectives through a drug house door.

The house is notorious, not far from the regional airport and the home base of a high-level Colombian drug dealer. Nobody, not even federal agents, have been able to penetrate this drug operation. But Oliveira, less than 18 months into his narcotics gig, has something no one else does. An informant with direct intel about the place, which Oliveira parlays into a search warrant.

The house is notorious, not far from the regional airport and the home base of a high-level Colombian drug dealer. Nobody, not even federal agents, have been able to penetrate this drug operation. But Oliveira, less than 18 months into his narcotics gig, has something no one else does. An informant with direct intel about the place, which Oliveira parlays into a search warrant.

The raid goes down on a brisk December day, a week before Christmas. We did it in the afternoon. I remember it was like noontime, one o'clock and all that stuff. The plan was to wait for the guy to leave the house. Oliveira's informant says the drugs are hidden in the kitchen, in the range hood above the stove. And lo and behold, we pulled it down. It was a half a kilo back there.

The raid goes down on a brisk December day, a week before Christmas. We did it in the afternoon. I remember it was like noontime, one o'clock and all that stuff. The plan was to wait for the guy to leave the house. Oliveira's informant says the drugs are hidden in the kitchen, in the range hood above the stove. And lo and behold, we pulled it down. It was a half a kilo back there.

We're talking 500 grams, half a kilo. Already a great hit, right? Yeah. News reports said the cocaine they found was extremely pure. A half a kilo of it could have been worth upwards of $100,000. We ended up wrapping up the raid and go back to the station. Everybody gets booked. Richard and his whole team feel good about how things worked out.

We're talking 500 grams, half a kilo. Already a great hit, right? Yeah. News reports said the cocaine they found was extremely pure. A half a kilo of it could have been worth upwards of $100,000. We ended up wrapping up the raid and go back to the station. Everybody gets booked. Richard and his whole team feel good about how things worked out.

They'd taken half a kilo of coke off the street and put a major dealer behind bars. I come in the next day and there's news media trucks out in front of the station. It was a good bust, but Richard is surprised by so much attention.

They'd taken half a kilo of coke off the street and put a major dealer behind bars. I come in the next day and there's news media trucks out in front of the station. It was a good bust, but Richard is surprised by so much attention.

So I go up to the office and the bosses are up there, the chief's up there. And in another room, bricks of cocaine are arranged on a large table, along with a nest of microphones.

So I go up to the office and the bosses are up there, the chief's up there. And in another room, bricks of cocaine are arranged on a large table, along with a nest of microphones.

I'm like, are you in here? Paul got four kilos in a case last night. He thinks, four kilos? When the raid ended, they'd only found half a kilo. He was there. He took part. Richard pulls Oliveira aside. I asked my sister, you know, so what happened? Oliveira tells him that after everyone left the scene that night, he got another call from his informant. There was more cocaine in the house.

I'm like, are you in here? Paul got four kilos in a case last night. He thinks, four kilos? When the raid ended, they'd only found half a kilo. He was there. He took part. Richard pulls Oliveira aside. I asked my sister, you know, so what happened? Oliveira tells him that after everyone left the scene that night, he got another call from his informant. There was more cocaine in the house.

The detectives had missed it. He said, well, it ended up that the kilos were up in the attic. The informant told Oliveira that he went up there to get the rest. And they bundled him up, put him in a garbage bag, and brought him down the end of the dead-end street and threw him in the woods. Oliveira then drove back to the house and found the drugs.

The detectives had missed it. He said, well, it ended up that the kilos were up in the attic. The informant told Oliveira that he went up there to get the rest. And they bundled him up, put him in a garbage bag, and brought him down the end of the dead-end street and threw him in the woods. Oliveira then drove back to the house and found the drugs.

And that's how this bust went from good to historic. Oliveira's informant delivered big time. The bust was a record haul for New Bedford police. But Richard says what most people didn't know is that Oliveira cut his informant in on the deal. In exchange for his help finding those extra kilos of coke, Oliveira let the informant keep a kilo for himself. Got a kilo.

And that's how this bust went from good to historic. Oliveira's informant delivered big time. The bust was a record haul for New Bedford police. But Richard says what most people didn't know is that Oliveira cut his informant in on the deal. In exchange for his help finding those extra kilos of coke, Oliveira let the informant keep a kilo for himself. Got a kilo.

What Richard is saying is that Oliveira let his CI keep and sell a kilo of cocaine. I know this is a serious accusation, but I've dug into this and I found two other people with direct knowledge of this investigation. And independently, they told the same story. To be clear, Oliveira has never been charged with a crime or disciplined by the department.

What Richard is saying is that Oliveira let his CI keep and sell a kilo of cocaine. I know this is a serious accusation, but I've dug into this and I found two other people with direct knowledge of this investigation. And independently, they told the same story. To be clear, Oliveira has never been charged with a crime or disciplined by the department.

I wanted to speak to him directly, but he denied my interview requests. I asked specific questions about this raid, but they were ignored. Some might argue that the ends justify the means, that Oliveira could be justified in letting a kilo or so slip to a dealer in exchange for getting more kilos off the street.

I wanted to speak to him directly, but he denied my interview requests. I asked specific questions about this raid, but they were ignored. Some might argue that the ends justify the means, that Oliveira could be justified in letting a kilo or so slip to a dealer in exchange for getting more kilos off the street.

But not only does it run counter to the objective of drug enforcement, it's also illegal to According to Richard and these other sources, Oliveira lied in police reports, pushed a false story, and let a known dealer keep a lot of drugs. And he was able to do this because he used the words confidential informant. Doing so allowed all of this alleged misconduct to go unquestioned.

But not only does it run counter to the objective of drug enforcement, it's also illegal to According to Richard and these other sources, Oliveira lied in police reports, pushed a false story, and let a known dealer keep a lot of drugs. And he was able to do this because he used the words confidential informant. Doing so allowed all of this alleged misconduct to go unquestioned.

For Richard, this case marked a major turning point. Richard certainly didn't consider himself a saint. Like any successful drug cop, he often navigated policing's gray areas. But he says there was no gray area in this case.

For Richard, this case marked a major turning point. Richard certainly didn't consider himself a saint. Like any successful drug cop, he often navigated policing's gray areas. But he says there was no gray area in this case.

To understand New Bedford's policing problem and why federal authorities have had their eyes on the department for years, you need to understand Paul Oliveira. To some degree, it started with him. And it only grew from there. At least according to three of Oliveira's former colleagues in the drug unit. I talked to more than a dozen other cops who worked for Oliveira.

To understand New Bedford's policing problem and why federal authorities have had their eyes on the department for years, you need to understand Paul Oliveira. To some degree, it started with him. And it only grew from there. At least according to three of Oliveira's former colleagues in the drug unit. I talked to more than a dozen other cops who worked for Oliveira.

The official story was that, quote, good, hard police work was behind it all.

The official story was that, quote, good, hard police work was behind it all.

Lance Block is a Florida-based attorney who's fought to change the way police are allowed to use confidential informants. He says the kind of alleged misconduct I've been telling you about isn't unique to New Bedford.

Lance Block is a Florida-based attorney who's fought to change the way police are allowed to use confidential informants. He says the kind of alleged misconduct I've been telling you about isn't unique to New Bedford.

so he steals your pills and then when you go to get them back tries to basically turn you into an informant for him yeah that's kind of what he wanted bro he tried to have me sign an informant sheep shit's getting real shit's getting real right now everybody's gonna get shaken down in a drug case

so he steals your pills and then when you go to get them back tries to basically turn you into an informant for him yeah that's kind of what he wanted bro he tried to have me sign an informant sheep shit's getting real shit's getting real right now everybody's gonna get shaken down in a drug case

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Before I knew it, I had a couple thousand dollars in a little nest egg account. Sign up now and join the over 14 million all-time customers who have already saved and invested over $25 billion with Acorns. Head to acorns.com slash affirmations or download the Acorns app to get started. Paid non-client endorsement. Compensation provides incentive to positively promote Acorns.

Before I knew it, I had a couple thousand dollars in a little nest egg account. Sign up now and join the over 14 million all-time customers who have already saved and invested over $25 billion with Acorns. Head to acorns.com slash affirmations or download the Acorns app to get started. Paid non-client endorsement. Compensation provides incentive to positively promote Acorns.

Tier one compensation provided. Investing involves risk. Acorns Advisors LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor. View important disclosures at acorns.com slash affirmations.

Tier one compensation provided. Investing involves risk. Acorns Advisors LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor. View important disclosures at acorns.com slash affirmations.

The best piece of financial advice I've ever received And I'll see you next time. The best piece of financial advice I've ever received Before I knew it, I had a couple thousand dollars in a little nest egg account. Sign up now and join the over 14 million all-time customers who have already saved and invested over $25 billion with Acorns.

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It is shadowy. It is underground. And it's a game to a lot of these police officers. And to win, they have to think like the criminal. And they start acting like the criminal.

It is shadowy. It is underground. And it's a game to a lot of these police officers. And to win, they have to think like the criminal. And they start acting like the criminal.

Epidemic.

Epidemic.

Before we begin, this episode may not be appropriate for younger audiences.

Before we begin, this episode may not be appropriate for younger audiences.

I think I asked you this earlier, but are part of you a little disappointed you weren't able to sort of do your thing?

I think I asked you this earlier, but are part of you a little disappointed you weren't able to sort of do your thing?

In a way, the dismissal of Ortiz's case should be a relief. The system worked like it was supposed to. Tainted evidence came to light, prosecutors and defense attorneys sparred, and in the end, a problematic case was dismissed. But still, it's hard not to look at the case and wonder. After eight years, more than 30 hearings, and countless taxpayer dollars, what do we really have to show for it?

In a way, the dismissal of Ortiz's case should be a relief. The system worked like it was supposed to. Tainted evidence came to light, prosecutors and defense attorneys sparred, and in the end, a problematic case was dismissed. But still, it's hard not to look at the case and wonder. After eight years, more than 30 hearings, and countless taxpayer dollars, what do we really have to show for it?

To date, not a single person has been held to account for the disaster that was the Commonwealth of Massachusetts versus Stephen Ortiz. Not the individuals at the heart of the alleged heroin trafficking ring. Not the detective whose transgressions torpedoed the case. He's retired now, by the way, collecting a healthy pension.

To date, not a single person has been held to account for the disaster that was the Commonwealth of Massachusetts versus Stephen Ortiz. Not the individuals at the heart of the alleged heroin trafficking ring. Not the detective whose transgressions torpedoed the case. He's retired now, by the way, collecting a healthy pension.

And certainly not the DA's office, which would rather dismiss a compromised case than confront the abuse in a system it so deeply relies on. Meanwhile, every day, judges keep signing search warrants. Cops keep kicking down doors. And prosecutors keep bringing charges. In Snitch City, the beat goes on. This episode of Spotlight Snitch City was reported and hosted by me, Dugan Arnett.

And certainly not the DA's office, which would rather dismiss a compromised case than confront the abuse in a system it so deeply relies on. Meanwhile, every day, judges keep signing search warrants. Cops keep kicking down doors. And prosecutors keep bringing charges. In Snitch City, the beat goes on. This episode of Spotlight Snitch City was reported and hosted by me, Dugan Arnett.

She's been told to stay close by, but out of court. Today there's several New Bedford police officers. Detectives have been subpoenaed and are expected to show up. I've also heard that Paul Oliveira, the current police chief, has also been subpoenaed and is expected to be here. So we'll see what happens. Yeah. Ortiz and his co-defendants are clustered in the hallway outside the courtroom.

She's been told to stay close by, but out of court. Today there's several New Bedford police officers. Detectives have been subpoenaed and are expected to show up. I've also heard that Paul Oliveira, the current police chief, has also been subpoenaed and is expected to be here. So we'll see what happens. Yeah. Ortiz and his co-defendants are clustered in the hallway outside the courtroom.

Additional reporting and producing by Andrew Ryan. This episode was produced and sound designed by Jasmine Aguilera. Executive producers are Spotlight editor Brendan McCarthy and Kristen Nelson, the Globe's head of audio. Additional editing and support from Gordon Russell. Engineering by Uzair Ahmed. Episode artwork by Julian D. Paulson. Art direction by Ryan Huddle.

Additional reporting and producing by Andrew Ryan. This episode was produced and sound designed by Jasmine Aguilera. Executive producers are Spotlight editor Brendan McCarthy and Kristen Nelson, the Globe's head of audio. Additional editing and support from Gordon Russell. Engineering by Uzair Ahmed. Episode artwork by Julian D. Paulson. Art direction by Ryan Huddle.

Podcast visualization by Olivia Yarvis and Anoush Elbakian. Heather Cyrus is the audience editor. Tim Rasmussen is visuals editor. Marketing support for this podcast comes from The Podglomerate.

Podcast visualization by Olivia Yarvis and Anoush Elbakian. Heather Cyrus is the audience editor. Tim Rasmussen is visuals editor. Marketing support for this podcast comes from The Podglomerate.

They're waiting for the proceeding to begin. Lawyers hustle in and out, including Ortiz's attorney, Rosemary Scappiccio.

They're waiting for the proceeding to begin. Lawyers hustle in and out, including Ortiz's attorney, Rosemary Scappiccio.

We'll wait. Scappiccio took on Ortiz's case two years ago, after he called her office over and over. She's a big deal in Boston legal circles. She did not seem happy that the officers she'd subpoenaed are not here.

We'll wait. Scappiccio took on Ortiz's case two years ago, after he called her office over and over. She's a big deal in Boston legal circles. She did not seem happy that the officers she'd subpoenaed are not here.

It's only been a month since we started publishing Snitch City, and already my colleague Andrew Ryan and I are back in court. just outside courtroom seven, it's almost nine o'clock, here for a hearing in the Stephen Ortiz case. You heard about Stephen Ortiz in the last episode. Back in 2017, he was arrested in an epic bust. His fiancee, Carly Medeiros, was there that night too.

It's only been a month since we started publishing Snitch City, and already my colleague Andrew Ryan and I are back in court. just outside courtroom seven, it's almost nine o'clock, here for a hearing in the Stephen Ortiz case. You heard about Stephen Ortiz in the last episode. Back in 2017, he was arrested in an epic bust. His fiancee, Carly Medeiros, was there that night too.

And some sarcastic language was asking where they might be hiding, so. And now, discreetly, she's giving us a heads up.

And some sarcastic language was asking where they might be hiding, so. And now, discreetly, she's giving us a heads up.

You're not going to want to miss this, she says. Scappiccio walks over to her client. He and his three co-defendants start to smile.

You're not going to want to miss this, she says. Scappiccio walks over to her client. He and his three co-defendants start to smile.

This story, this case, is what first led me to New Bedford. And what I discovered was that Operation High Stakes wasn't the heroic feat of detective work that police hailed it as. The case was tainted from the start. You see, Carly figured out that the cop, Jared Lucas, used her, not just for sex, but for information. Information that made its way from the bedroom to the courtroom.

This story, this case, is what first led me to New Bedford. And what I discovered was that Operation High Stakes wasn't the heroic feat of detective work that police hailed it as. The case was tainted from the start. You see, Carly figured out that the cop, Jared Lucas, used her, not just for sex, but for information. Information that made its way from the bedroom to the courtroom.

And in police reports and official documents, Lucas said the intel came not from his lover, but from a confidential informant. More than two years after I broke this story, one drug trafficking case has already been tossed. Now, an even bigger case hangs in the balance, and it could all lead to a reckoning for New Bedford police and the way that they use confidential informants.

And in police reports and official documents, Lucas said the intel came not from his lover, but from a confidential informant. More than two years after I broke this story, one drug trafficking case has already been tossed. Now, an even bigger case hangs in the balance, and it could all lead to a reckoning for New Bedford police and the way that they use confidential informants.

I'm Dugan Arnett, and this is Spotlight, Snitch City. Episode 6, Case Dismissed.

I'm Dugan Arnett, and this is Spotlight, Snitch City. Episode 6, Case Dismissed.

The first order of business this morning is the Ortiz case, and Scappiccio wants it thrown out.

The first order of business this morning is the Ortiz case, and Scappiccio wants it thrown out.

With prejudice is important. It means the case can never be brought to court again.

With prejudice is important. It means the case can never be brought to court again.

I don't object to a dismissal with prejudice. For eight years, prosecutors have pursued this case. in court filings and intense courtroom hearings. And they've been unwilling to fold. Even as the list of problems in the case kept growing, Now, though, prosecutor Patrick Jiskell tells the judge he's reviewed the case and the evidence.

I don't object to a dismissal with prejudice. For eight years, prosecutors have pursued this case. in court filings and intense courtroom hearings. And they've been unwilling to fold. Even as the list of problems in the case kept growing, Now, though, prosecutor Patrick Jiskell tells the judge he's reviewed the case and the evidence.

And just like that, the prosecutor throws in the towel.

And just like that, the prosecutor throws in the towel.

But even as Driscoll agrees to dismiss the case, to give in, he's still disparaging Carly. And Scappiccio isn't having it.

But even as Driscoll agrees to dismiss the case, to give in, he's still disparaging Carly. And Scappiccio isn't having it.

Carly's always maintained that Detective Jared Lucas wasn't the only New Bedford police officer who broke the rules. She swears other cops knew about her relationship with Lucas and helped keep it secret. Now, Scappuccio is telling the judge that she can prove at least one police officer, Kevin Barbosa, perjured himself in this very courtroom.

Carly's always maintained that Detective Jared Lucas wasn't the only New Bedford police officer who broke the rules. She swears other cops knew about her relationship with Lucas and helped keep it secret. Now, Scappuccio is telling the judge that she can prove at least one police officer, Kevin Barbosa, perjured himself in this very courtroom.

And one of the cops who was part of the arrest was her secret lover, a New Bedford police officer, Jared Lucas.

And one of the cops who was part of the arrest was her secret lover, a New Bedford police officer, Jared Lucas.

Driscoll, the prosecutor, doesn't want to open that door. But he resents her suggestion that the state was aware of any perjury.

Driscoll, the prosecutor, doesn't want to open that door. But he resents her suggestion that the state was aware of any perjury.

Scappuccio has already gotten the case tossed. But she wants more. She wants the court to hear from the eight officers that were subpoenaed.

Scappuccio has already gotten the case tossed. But she wants more. She wants the court to hear from the eight officers that were subpoenaed.

Perjury is a crime for anyone, but it's especially bad for a police officer because it can tarnish their credibility in other cases. We reached out to the police department and to Kevin Barbosa directly for his response to Scabiccio's perjury claim. We didn't hear back.

Perjury is a crime for anyone, but it's especially bad for a police officer because it can tarnish their credibility in other cases. We reached out to the police department and to Kevin Barbosa directly for his response to Scabiccio's perjury claim. We didn't hear back.

But the judge isn't swayed. She's ready to move on.

But the judge isn't swayed. She's ready to move on.

Case dismissed. Charges dropped. After eight long years, Ortiz and his co-defendants are off the hook. But there's a downside. The dismissal means there won't be a hearing. And those eight officers won't have to take the stand or face hard questions. One of those officers would have caused quite a stir. New Bedford Police Chief Paul Oliveira.

Case dismissed. Charges dropped. After eight long years, Ortiz and his co-defendants are off the hook. But there's a downside. The dismissal means there won't be a hearing. And those eight officers won't have to take the stand or face hard questions. One of those officers would have caused quite a stir. New Bedford Police Chief Paul Oliveira.

I thought this might finally be the moment, the chance to hear from the former drug cop who allegedly misused CIs and then went on to run the department. Instead, the court, and most importantly, the public, will never know the truth. The police won't have to explain themselves.

I thought this might finally be the moment, the chance to hear from the former drug cop who allegedly misused CIs and then went on to run the department. Instead, the court, and most importantly, the public, will never know the truth. The police won't have to explain themselves.

And defense attorneys will tell you, this is an example of how police and prosecutors can bury things that are uncomfortable. There's no incentive to turn over more rocks or dig deeper. Here, prosecutors had a decision to make. If they drop the case, they take a loss, but limit the fallout and stop the bleeding.

And defense attorneys will tell you, this is an example of how police and prosecutors can bury things that are uncomfortable. There's no incentive to turn over more rocks or dig deeper. Here, prosecutors had a decision to make. If they drop the case, they take a loss, but limit the fallout and stop the bleeding.

The bust was the result of a year-long investigation involving numerous local, state, and federal agencies. It was a massive effort. So big, police gave it an official title, Operation High Stakes. And at the center of it all was Ortiz, who police said ran a sprawling heroin trafficking ring.

The bust was the result of a year-long investigation involving numerous local, state, and federal agencies. It was a massive effort. So big, police gave it an official title, Operation High Stakes. And at the center of it all was Ortiz, who police said ran a sprawling heroin trafficking ring.

We follow prosecutor Patrick Driscoll out the door. He's hustling, walking quickly with a woman who handles press for the Bristol DA's office.

We follow prosecutor Patrick Driscoll out the door. He's hustling, walking quickly with a woman who handles press for the Bristol DA's office.

Got nothing to say? We want to hear from Driscoll because it's prosecutors who could push for real accountability. They actually have some power to check the police. Prosecutors like Driscoll could be key to stopping misconduct by demanding more from cops. But in this case, they chose to punt instead. And Driscoll had zero interest in talking to us.

Got nothing to say? We want to hear from Driscoll because it's prosecutors who could push for real accountability. They actually have some power to check the police. Prosecutors like Driscoll could be key to stopping misconduct by demanding more from cops. But in this case, they chose to punt instead. And Driscoll had zero interest in talking to us.

Andrew and I take the elevator back upstairs and find a quiet place to debrief. As we're sitting there, my phone rings. It's Carly. Hey Carly, how's it going? So you heard, you heard what happened?

Andrew and I take the elevator back upstairs and find a quiet place to debrief. As we're sitting there, my phone rings. It's Carly. Hey Carly, how's it going? So you heard, you heard what happened?

We wanted to interview Carly's fiance about his newfound freedom, but he slipped out of the courthouse before we could catch him. He was on his way to celebrate. What's going through your head right now? What's going through Steven's head?

We wanted to interview Carly's fiance about his newfound freedom, but he slipped out of the courthouse before we could catch him. He was on his way to celebrate. What's going through your head right now? What's going through Steven's head?

Carly doesn't really talk about herself as a victim. But Ortiz's lawyer, Rosemary Scappiccio, doesn't mince words.

Carly doesn't really talk about herself as a victim. But Ortiz's lawyer, Rosemary Scappiccio, doesn't mince words.

Capiccio's blunt and fierce, especially when she suspects police wrongdoing. Her work has led to several convictions being overturned, which makes her somewhat of a local legend.

Capiccio's blunt and fierce, especially when she suspects police wrongdoing. Her work has led to several convictions being overturned, which makes her somewhat of a local legend.

We caught up with her outside of the courthouse. Obviously, Scapiccio's pleased with what just happened.

We caught up with her outside of the courthouse. Obviously, Scapiccio's pleased with what just happened.

Yeah. Yeah, yeah. This case has gone on for nearly eight years, and I've been following it closely for several of them. Conservative estimate is probably about the 20th hearing I've been to as part of this case since 2021. At most of these hearings, not much happens. But Carly told me that today might be different. She and Steven Ortiz have had their ups and downs, but they're together again.

Yeah. Yeah, yeah. This case has gone on for nearly eight years, and I've been following it closely for several of them. Conservative estimate is probably about the 20th hearing I've been to as part of this case since 2021. At most of these hearings, not much happens. But Carly told me that today might be different. She and Steven Ortiz have had their ups and downs, but they're together again.

And you would argue, I think, that this case getting thrown out is a good thing?

And you would argue, I think, that this case getting thrown out is a good thing?

Because of the misconduct?

Because of the misconduct?

In the last few months, we've reached out to every public official we could think of. New Bedford's police chief and mayor, members of the city council, the Bristol County DA's office, even the FBI. The most we've gotten back is a short statement, and some have ignored us altogether. Scapicchio underlines the vulnerability of informants, especially women like Carly.

In the last few months, we've reached out to every public official we could think of. New Bedford's police chief and mayor, members of the city council, the Bristol County DA's office, even the FBI. The most we've gotten back is a short statement, and some have ignored us altogether. Scapicchio underlines the vulnerability of informants, especially women like Carly.

And I've talked to others in my reporting for this series who have stories similar to Carly's, some we weren't able to include.

And I've talked to others in my reporting for this series who have stories similar to Carly's, some we weren't able to include.

Before we begin, this story includes strong language and descriptions of violence. Please take care when listening.

Before we begin, this story includes strong language and descriptions of violence. Please take care when listening.

As a dealer and an informant, Russ had the ultimate vantage point into the war on drugs. He operated on the front lines, and he saw how it worked, or didn't.

As a dealer and an informant, Russ had the ultimate vantage point into the war on drugs. He operated on the front lines, and he saw how it worked, or didn't.

Russ's take on the drug war doesn't sound too different from a Harvard law professor I spoke with.

Russ's take on the drug war doesn't sound too different from a Harvard law professor I spoke with.

Alexandra Natapoff literally wrote the book on informants. It's called Snitching, Criminal Informants and the Erosion of American Justice.

Alexandra Natapoff literally wrote the book on informants. It's called Snitching, Criminal Informants and the Erosion of American Justice.

She was right. And even though she was engaged at the time, Carly and Lucas, who was a New Bedford detective, started sleeping together.

She was right. And even though she was engaged at the time, Carly and Lucas, who was a New Bedford detective, started sleeping together.

The stories we've uncovered in New Bedford and across Massachusetts are clearly pretty disturbing. But they're not all that different from ones Natapoff has been examining for years.

The stories we've uncovered in New Bedford and across Massachusetts are clearly pretty disturbing. But they're not all that different from ones Natapoff has been examining for years.

She says the confidential informant system is a pocket of criminal justice where the typical rules just don't seem to apply.

She says the confidential informant system is a pocket of criminal justice where the typical rules just don't seem to apply.

There's a vacuum of data about how police departments use informants. But my spotlight colleague, Andrew Ryan, is relentless.

There's a vacuum of data about how police departments use informants. But my spotlight colleague, Andrew Ryan, is relentless.

He pulled every single publicly available search warrant from a dozen courts, covering 16 municipalities across Massachusetts. He dug through hundreds of drug cases, reviewed appellate rulings, and spoke to dozens of attorneys.

He pulled every single publicly available search warrant from a dozen courts, covering 16 municipalities across Massachusetts. He dug through hundreds of drug cases, reviewed appellate rulings, and spoke to dozens of attorneys.

And even when police rely on a single, unnamed CI, a few questions are asked. Andrew found that almost every search warrant submitted in Massachusetts is approved.

And even when police rely on a single, unnamed CI, a few questions are asked. Andrew found that almost every search warrant submitted in Massachusetts is approved.

Prosecutors do have the power to push back on officers with problematic histories around search warrants or informants, but they almost never do.

Prosecutors do have the power to push back on officers with problematic histories around search warrants or informants, but they almost never do.

What we found was that when suspicions about the credibility of a cop or their informant arise, prosecutors circle the wagons. They fight inquiries from defense attorneys who say their clients' cases are tainted. They'll sooner drop charges or offer generous plea deals than dole out any information that could reveal misconduct.

What we found was that when suspicions about the credibility of a cop or their informant arise, prosecutors circle the wagons. They fight inquiries from defense attorneys who say their clients' cases are tainted. They'll sooner drop charges or offer generous plea deals than dole out any information that could reveal misconduct.

Carly says that Lucas would always steer the conversation toward her fiancé, Stephen Ortiz, an alleged drug dealer, who she was cheating on with a New Bedford police officer.

Carly says that Lucas would always steer the conversation toward her fiancé, Stephen Ortiz, an alleged drug dealer, who she was cheating on with a New Bedford police officer.

We've uncovered more than a dozen cops that records show have lied, broken rules, and even the law. But district attorneys continue to put faith in their work. All this secrecy and lack of accountability can have serious consequences.

We've uncovered more than a dozen cops that records show have lied, broken rules, and even the law. But district attorneys continue to put faith in their work. All this secrecy and lack of accountability can have serious consequences.

Just think about the 20 people, at least, that Russ says he helped the police set up. And Natapoff adds that police policies around the use of informants are flimsy.

Just think about the 20 people, at least, that Russ says he helped the police set up. And Natapoff adds that police policies around the use of informants are flimsy.

And then there are people like Carly Medeiros who don't even realize they've been pulled into this world.

And then there are people like Carly Medeiros who don't even realize they've been pulled into this world.

Cancer is sadly very common in America. It's rare that someone has not been impacted by the disease, whether they endured it themselves or witnessed a loved one. Which is why I want to tell you about my Boston Globe colleagues' brand new five-part series, The C-Word, Stories of Cancer, on the Say More podcast.

Cancer is sadly very common in America. It's rare that someone has not been impacted by the disease, whether they endured it themselves or witnessed a loved one. Which is why I want to tell you about my Boston Globe colleagues' brand new five-part series, The C-Word, Stories of Cancer, on the Say More podcast.

In the series, award-winning columnist and host Shirley Leung shares her own journey with breast cancer for the first time. While telling her story, Shirley explores the science, history, and real-life impact of the disease, bringing together experts, survivors, and groundbreaking research. Follow Say More from the Boston Globe wherever you get your podcasts.

In the series, award-winning columnist and host Shirley Leung shares her own journey with breast cancer for the first time. While telling her story, Shirley explores the science, history, and real-life impact of the disease, bringing together experts, survivors, and groundbreaking research. Follow Say More from the Boston Globe wherever you get your podcasts.

Let's get back to that night in the summer of 2017, when Carly Medeiros was expecting a night out for her fiancé's birthday, but instead wound up surrounded by police in an apartment building parking lot.

Let's get back to that night in the summer of 2017, when Carly Medeiros was expecting a night out for her fiancé's birthday, but instead wound up surrounded by police in an apartment building parking lot.

And there's a lot of cops.

And there's a lot of cops.

So Carly's fiancé, Stephen Ortiz, was facing serious drug trafficking charges. And the cop she'd been seeing behind his back, Jared Lucas, helped make the bust. Carly and Ortiz broke up not long after. And for a while, her relationship with Detective Jared Lucas tapered off too. And for the next couple years, Carly spiraled, falling deeper into heroin addiction.

So Carly's fiancé, Stephen Ortiz, was facing serious drug trafficking charges. And the cop she'd been seeing behind his back, Jared Lucas, helped make the bust. Carly and Ortiz broke up not long after. And for a while, her relationship with Detective Jared Lucas tapered off too. And for the next couple years, Carly spiraled, falling deeper into heroin addiction.

And it was during this period that she started dating another guy, another alleged drug dealer named Miguel Martinez.

And it was during this period that she started dating another guy, another alleged drug dealer named Miguel Martinez.

Carly Medeiros is the very first New Bedford informant I reported on.

Carly Medeiros is the very first New Bedford informant I reported on.

To Carly, it seemed like the cop was jealous of this new guy. He regularly made his disdain known. And when the relationship with Martinez started to deteriorate, when Carly says he became abusive, Detective Jared Lucas offered to help.

To Carly, it seemed like the cop was jealous of this new guy. He regularly made his disdain known. And when the relationship with Martinez started to deteriorate, when Carly says he became abusive, Detective Jared Lucas offered to help.

She says that Lucas and another New Bedford detective came up with a plan. With Carly's help, they'd set Martinez up. They'd give her cocaine and she'd plant it in Martinez's car. Then they'd bust him. And she says that's exactly what happened.

She says that Lucas and another New Bedford detective came up with a plan. With Carly's help, they'd set Martinez up. They'd give her cocaine and she'd plant it in Martinez's car. Then they'd bust him. And she says that's exactly what happened.

It got so intense that Carly started to feel like Lucas was obsessed with her fiancé.

It got so intense that Carly started to feel like Lucas was obsessed with her fiancé.

After Miguel Martinez was locked up, the whole situation kept nagging at Carly. She was sleeping with Jared Lucas, a detective, and he was very interested in her other romantic partners. First, her ex-fiance, Stephen Ortiz, who he helped bring down in a dramatic bust. Then, Miguel Martinez, who Lucas arrested after an alleged setup. She knows she helped with the arrest of Martinez.

After Miguel Martinez was locked up, the whole situation kept nagging at Carly. She was sleeping with Jared Lucas, a detective, and he was very interested in her other romantic partners. First, her ex-fiance, Stephen Ortiz, who he helped bring down in a dramatic bust. Then, Miguel Martinez, who Lucas arrested after an alleged setup. She knows she helped with the arrest of Martinez.

But now Carly's wondering, was she somehow part of what happened to her ex-fiance, Steven Ortiz?

But now Carly's wondering, was she somehow part of what happened to her ex-fiance, Steven Ortiz?

It all crystallized for Carly when she saw the paperwork in Ortiz's case. Lucas's name wasn't just in the file. It turns out he'd initiated the entire investigation.

It all crystallized for Carly when she saw the paperwork in Ortiz's case. Lucas's name wasn't just in the file. It turns out he'd initiated the entire investigation.

It dawns on her that informant, it's her.

It dawns on her that informant, it's her.

The alleged details that the police had used to build a case against Stephen Ortiz, they were Carly's words attributed to an anonymous C.I.,

The alleged details that the police had used to build a case against Stephen Ortiz, they were Carly's words attributed to an anonymous C.I.,

This whole sordid tale came to light in a lengthy story I wrote in March of 2023. In it, Carly admitted to working with Lucas to set up Martinez. When police searched his apartment afterwards, they found cocaine and fentanyl. But in the wake of the Globe's story, when Martinez was awaiting trial, his attorney pushed the issue in court.

This whole sordid tale came to light in a lengthy story I wrote in March of 2023. In it, Carly admitted to working with Lucas to set up Martinez. When police searched his apartment afterwards, they found cocaine and fentanyl. But in the wake of the Globe's story, when Martinez was awaiting trial, his attorney pushed the issue in court.

This affair went on in secret for years. Until one explosive night in 2017. It was Stephen's birthday. They were just about to set off for a night on the town. Carly was sitting in the car.

This affair went on in secret for years. Until one explosive night in 2017. It was Stephen's birthday. They were just about to set off for a night on the town. Carly was sitting in the car.

This recording is from a special hearing that was called after our story ran.

This recording is from a special hearing that was called after our story ran.

It's what's called a Franks hearing, a special court proceeding to determine if a police officer lied to get a search warrant.

It's what's called a Franks hearing, a special court proceeding to determine if a police officer lied to get a search warrant.

Under oath, Carly outlines how Lucas exploited her for information, without her knowledge.

Under oath, Carly outlines how Lucas exploited her for information, without her knowledge.

Yep.

Yep.

No. Carly also tells the court how Lucas used her to set up Martinez.

No. Carly also tells the court how Lucas used her to set up Martinez.

Prosecutor Patrick Bomberg accused Carly of being dishonest.

Prosecutor Patrick Bomberg accused Carly of being dishonest.

The prosecutor's trying to poke holes in the idea that Carly is an innocent victim in all of this. And to be honest, I've always wondered whether Carly was more aware of what she was doing than she let on. In terms of giving Officer Jared Lucas information about her partners, Stephen Ortiz, then Miguel Martinez,

The prosecutor's trying to poke holes in the idea that Carly is an innocent victim in all of this. And to be honest, I've always wondered whether Carly was more aware of what she was doing than she let on. In terms of giving Officer Jared Lucas information about her partners, Stephen Ortiz, then Miguel Martinez,

But the state trooper who led the investigation backed up her version of the story, that Carly was an unwitting source of information. Her testimony took three days, but Jared Lucas, the cop she carried on a secret affair with for years, never appeared.

But the state trooper who led the investigation backed up her version of the story, that Carly was an unwitting source of information. Her testimony took three days, but Jared Lucas, the cop she carried on a secret affair with for years, never appeared.

In 2021, before my story came to light, Jared Lucas retired from the New Bedford Police Department. He was only in his 30s at the time. Lucas didn't respond to the allegations put forth in our reporting. He currently collects a pension of about $60,000 a year. Carly says she spoke out because she wanted accountability. And since she went public with her story, there have been consequences.

In 2021, before my story came to light, Jared Lucas retired from the New Bedford Police Department. He was only in his 30s at the time. Lucas didn't respond to the allegations put forth in our reporting. He currently collects a pension of about $60,000 a year. Carly says she spoke out because she wanted accountability. And since she went public with her story, there have been consequences.

Suddenly, the car was surrounded by cops.

Suddenly, the car was surrounded by cops.

After that Franks hearing, a superior court judge excoriated Lucas for gross misconduct. The judge ruled that much of the evidence in the case against Martinez was essentially tainted and couldn't be used against him. Last summer, after almost three years in jail, Miguel Martinez walked free. But his case might just be the first domino to fall.

After that Franks hearing, a superior court judge excoriated Lucas for gross misconduct. The judge ruled that much of the evidence in the case against Martinez was essentially tainted and couldn't be used against him. Last summer, after almost three years in jail, Miguel Martinez walked free. But his case might just be the first domino to fall.

Today, Carly and her original partner, Stephen Ortiz, are back together, engaged again. And Stephen's lawyers are heading to court in a few weeks to argue that the evidence against him should also be dismissed. Of course, prosecutors don't want to drop the case against a man they say is at the center of a major drug trafficking ring. But if it does go forward, it could reveal even more misconduct.

Today, Carly and her original partner, Stephen Ortiz, are back together, engaged again. And Stephen's lawyers are heading to court in a few weeks to argue that the evidence against him should also be dismissed. Of course, prosecutors don't want to drop the case against a man they say is at the center of a major drug trafficking ring. But if it does go forward, it could reveal even more misconduct.

When Stephen Ortiz's next court date comes up, the Globe will be there. The man in charge when Jared Lucas retired was Police Chief Paul Oliveira. Oliveira condemned Lucas' behavior as disappointing and unethical.

When Stephen Ortiz's next court date comes up, the Globe will be there. The man in charge when Jared Lucas retired was Police Chief Paul Oliveira. Oliveira condemned Lucas' behavior as disappointing and unethical.

In a statement back in 2023, he said, quote, Lucas's egregious behavior while in our employment is an anomaly and does not reflect the true caliber of the men and women of the New Bedford Police Department. But Oliveira said then that his hands were tied, that disciplining Lucas was impossible because he'd already left the department.

In a statement back in 2023, he said, quote, Lucas's egregious behavior while in our employment is an anomaly and does not reflect the true caliber of the men and women of the New Bedford Police Department. But Oliveira said then that his hands were tied, that disciplining Lucas was impossible because he'd already left the department.

I've been trying for nearly three years to get an interview with Paul Oliveira. Yeah, my name is Dugan Arnett. I'm a writer at the Boston Globe. Sent him an email yesterday about a story that we're preparing to publish. Before this podcast dropped, I tried multiple times to reach the police chief. All right, Westport, Massachusetts, home of Paul Oliveira.

I've been trying for nearly three years to get an interview with Paul Oliveira. Yeah, my name is Dugan Arnett. I'm a writer at the Boston Globe. Sent him an email yesterday about a story that we're preparing to publish. Before this podcast dropped, I tried multiple times to reach the police chief. All right, Westport, Massachusetts, home of Paul Oliveira.

What seemed like an army of cops descended on them.

What seemed like an army of cops descended on them.

It's the fifth day that we've tried to reach out. Haven't heard anything. Sent a detailed list of questions the other day. Oliveira lives a few miles outside New Bedford in a sprawling house at the end of a dead-end street. So obviously just giving him the chance to respond, we're stopping by his house to see if he wants to talk.

It's the fifth day that we've tried to reach out. Haven't heard anything. Sent a detailed list of questions the other day. Oliveira lives a few miles outside New Bedford in a sprawling house at the end of a dead-end street. So obviously just giving him the chance to respond, we're stopping by his house to see if he wants to talk.

After all the official channels failed, my colleague Andrew Ryan and I went straight to the source.

After all the official channels failed, my colleague Andrew Ryan and I went straight to the source.

No one answered. Andrew's been a huge part of this investigation. He's been especially focused on documents.

No one answered. Andrew's been a huge part of this investigation. He's been especially focused on documents.

Andrew tried like hell to get records about Paul Oliveira.

Andrew tried like hell to get records about Paul Oliveira.

In fact, almost all of Oliveira's internal affairs files have been destroyed.

In fact, almost all of Oliveira's internal affairs files have been destroyed.

It was an incredible scene. She and her fiancé in cuffs, and the police officer she'd been sleeping with, standing off to the side, watching it all go down.

It was an incredible scene. She and her fiancé in cuffs, and the police officer she'd been sleeping with, standing off to the side, watching it all go down.

The piece of paper sought permission to destroy five file cabinets worth of documents, which included 25 years worth of internal affairs records.

The piece of paper sought permission to destroy five file cabinets worth of documents, which included 25 years worth of internal affairs records.

Since then, a state regulation has been put in place that prevents police departments from purging records for active duty officers. But in 2021, there was nothing to stop Oliveira.

Since then, a state regulation has been put in place that prevents police departments from purging records for active duty officers. But in 2021, there was nothing to stop Oliveira.

Last summer, New Bedford Mayor John Mitchell took to local radio to make this announcement.

Last summer, New Bedford Mayor John Mitchell took to local radio to make this announcement.

This contract extension was a show of confidence in the chief and would keep him in place through 2027.

This contract extension was a show of confidence in the chief and would keep him in place through 2027.

But shortly after we started promoting this investigative podcast, things changed, and there was another surprise announcement. Chief Oliveira is retiring early. He didn't say why he's leaving two years before his contract expires, but my police sources are pretty confident it's because of this investigation.

But shortly after we started promoting this investigative podcast, things changed, and there was another surprise announcement. Chief Oliveira is retiring early. He didn't say why he's leaving two years before his contract expires, but my police sources are pretty confident it's because of this investigation.

And while neither the chief nor the mayor will talk to me directly, they have responded publicly to the reporting.

And while neither the chief nor the mayor will talk to me directly, they have responded publicly to the reporting.

Mayor Mitchell appeared on South Coast now.

Mayor Mitchell appeared on South Coast now.

The police took them in. Carly was charged with a minor offense, being present where heroin is kept. But Stephen faced much more serious charges. Police accused him of heading up a sprawling heroin trafficking ring. But to Carly, it all seemed like too much of a coincidence. Her fiancé, busted by the cop she was having a secret affair with. Carly doesn't know it yet, but this moment, this bust...

The police took them in. Carly was charged with a minor offense, being present where heroin is kept. But Stephen faced much more serious charges. Police accused him of heading up a sprawling heroin trafficking ring. But to Carly, it all seemed like too much of a coincidence. Her fiancé, busted by the cop she was having a secret affair with. Carly doesn't know it yet, but this moment, this bust...

Mitchell spoke in defense of Oliveira, who he knew from the old days, when the mayor was a federal prosecutor, and Oliveira was a rising star in the department.

Mitchell spoke in defense of Oliveira, who he knew from the old days, when the mayor was a federal prosecutor, and Oliveira was a rising star in the department.

While Mitchell claimed the Globe's reporting was based on a false narrative, he also said the city would refer the Globe's work to the FBI for review.

While Mitchell claimed the Globe's reporting was based on a false narrative, he also said the city would refer the Globe's work to the FBI for review.

I want to give the last word of this podcast to the informants, the ones who risk their lives by talking. There's Daniel, who's still in prison, worried about the wrong person finding out he was an informant.

I want to give the last word of this podcast to the informants, the ones who risk their lives by talking. There's Daniel, who's still in prison, worried about the wrong person finding out he was an informant.

And Carly Medeiros, who wants other informants to hear her story.

And Carly Medeiros, who wants other informants to hear her story.

Over the course of my reporting, I've learned how easy it can be to get swept into this shadowy, dangerous corner of policing in America, and how hard it can be to get out. And as Russ, Oliveira's former informant, told me, even if you do get out, you never truly leave it behind.

Over the course of my reporting, I've learned how easy it can be to get swept into this shadowy, dangerous corner of policing in America, and how hard it can be to get out. And as Russ, Oliveira's former informant, told me, even if you do get out, you never truly leave it behind.

Spotlight Snitch City is reported and hosted by me, Dugan Arnett. Additional reporting by Andrew Ryan and Brendan McCarthy. The podcast is written by Max Green and Kristen Nelson, along with me and Brendan McCarthy. Max Green is senior producer. Executive producers are Spotlight editor Brendan McCarthy and Kristen Nelson, the Globe's head of audio.

Spotlight Snitch City is reported and hosted by me, Dugan Arnett. Additional reporting by Andrew Ryan and Brendan McCarthy. The podcast is written by Max Green and Kristen Nelson, along with me and Brendan McCarthy. Max Green is senior producer. Executive producers are Spotlight editor Brendan McCarthy and Kristen Nelson, the Globe's head of audio.

Additional editing and support from Gordon Russell and Kathleen Goldar. Nancy Barnes is the Boston Globe's executive editor. Special thanks to the Boston Globe's editor-at-large, Mark Morrow, for everything he added to this project. Sound design and mix by Stephen Jackson. Thank you to our colleague, Travis Anderson, for voicing Russ's words in this episode.

Additional editing and support from Gordon Russell and Kathleen Goldar. Nancy Barnes is the Boston Globe's executive editor. Special thanks to the Boston Globe's editor-at-large, Mark Morrow, for everything he added to this project. Sound design and mix by Stephen Jackson. Thank you to our colleague, Travis Anderson, for voicing Russ's words in this episode.

And to Jasmine Aguilera for helping us throughout and jumping in at key moments. Episode artwork by Julian D. Paulson. Art Direction by Ryan Huddle. Podcast Visualization by Olivia Yarvis and Anoush Elbakian. Heather Cyrus is the audience editor. Tim Rasmussen is visuals editor. Legal Review by John Albano. Fact Checking by Matt Mahoney.

And to Jasmine Aguilera for helping us throughout and jumping in at key moments. Episode artwork by Julian D. Paulson. Art Direction by Ryan Huddle. Podcast Visualization by Olivia Yarvis and Anoush Elbakian. Heather Cyrus is the audience editor. Tim Rasmussen is visuals editor. Legal Review by John Albano. Fact Checking by Matt Mahoney.

Marketing support for this podcast comes from The Podglomerate.

Marketing support for this podcast comes from The Podglomerate.

It's the start of a realization that she's now part of the undercover world of confidential informants. And when she does finally figure that out, it'll have major consequences for herself, the New Bedford Police Department, and criminal justice. But first, she'll need answers. I've been looking for answers, too, throughout this investigation, and it hasn't been easy.

It's the start of a realization that she's now part of the undercover world of confidential informants. And when she does finally figure that out, it'll have major consequences for herself, the New Bedford Police Department, and criminal justice. But first, she'll need answers. I've been looking for answers, too, throughout this investigation, and it hasn't been easy.

Carly's story came to my attention three years ago when an email she sent landed in my inbox. The subject line, written in all caps, was I NEED HELP.

Carly's story came to my attention three years ago when an email she sent landed in my inbox. The subject line, written in all caps, was I NEED HELP.

Our attempts to shine a light on misconduct within the informant system have been stymied by a cloak of secrecy, and accountability remains elusive, at least so far. I've been trying to track down New Bedford Police Chief Paul Oliveira, the former narcotics cop who misused informants and now runs a department rife with misconduct.

Our attempts to shine a light on misconduct within the informant system have been stymied by a cloak of secrecy, and accountability remains elusive, at least so far. I've been trying to track down New Bedford Police Chief Paul Oliveira, the former narcotics cop who misused informants and now runs a department rife with misconduct.

And my spotlight colleague, Andrew Ryan, has been doing his own digging. And there's a lot to share about what he's discovered and what's gone missing. Once she figures out the full picture, Carly Medeiros is going to search for her own accountability.

And my spotlight colleague, Andrew Ryan, has been doing his own digging. And there's a lot to share about what he's discovered and what's gone missing. Once she figures out the full picture, Carly Medeiros is going to search for her own accountability.

And another informant, who I wasn't sure even existed, tells me everything.

And another informant, who I wasn't sure even existed, tells me everything.

I'm Dugan Arnett, and this is Spotlight, Snitch City. Episode 5, All This for Nothing.

I'm Dugan Arnett, and this is Spotlight, Snitch City. Episode 5, All This for Nothing.

This has been a story full of flawed characters with complicated motivations. It's pretty much impossible to draw a simple line between the good guys and the bad ones. Either way, it's taken a lot of courage for everyone who's spoken to us to come forward. People who want to see reform, who want a light shown on this darkest corner of the criminal justice system.

This has been a story full of flawed characters with complicated motivations. It's pretty much impossible to draw a simple line between the good guys and the bad ones. Either way, it's taken a lot of courage for everyone who's spoken to us to come forward. People who want to see reform, who want a light shown on this darkest corner of the criminal justice system.

Police sources who violated the so-called blue wall of silence. Like Mark Raposo and Bobby Richard. And others I haven't even told you about. And maybe the most courageous of all are the people who've worked as police informants themselves. People like Carly, who knew that talking to me would mean they'd be shunned, or worse, for breaking street code.

Police sources who violated the so-called blue wall of silence. Like Mark Raposo and Bobby Richard. And others I haven't even told you about. And maybe the most courageous of all are the people who've worked as police informants themselves. People like Carly, who knew that talking to me would mean they'd be shunned, or worse, for breaking street code.

And others in law enforcement who don't want informants revealing the ugly truth. But I found yet another former informant who's seen it all because a long time ago, his handler was New Bedford Police Chief Paul Oliveira.

And others in law enforcement who don't want informants revealing the ugly truth. But I found yet another former informant who's seen it all because a long time ago, his handler was New Bedford Police Chief Paul Oliveira.

Carly grew up in New Bedford, and like so many others, her dad worked on the water. That's my dad. She points to a cherished photo of him, posing in front of a boat.

Carly grew up in New Bedford, and like so many others, her dad worked on the water. That's my dad. She points to a cherished photo of him, posing in front of a boat.

I heard whispers about this man for months. I'm going to call him Russ, but that's not his real name. And in fact, he says talking to me is so dangerous that we're using someone else to read his exact words.

I heard whispers about this man for months. I'm going to call him Russ, but that's not his real name. And in fact, he says talking to me is so dangerous that we're using someone else to read his exact words.

Russ has been out of the game for a long time. He left New Bedford decades ago, living in exile, in his words. A kind of self-imposed witness protection program.

Russ has been out of the game for a long time. He left New Bedford decades ago, living in exile, in his words. A kind of self-imposed witness protection program.

But once he got going, he unburdened himself.

But once he got going, he unburdened himself.

Russ lives his life looking over his shoulder.

Russ lives his life looking over his shoulder.

These days, Russ lives a quiet life. He's married, works a 9-to-5 job, talks about 401ks.

These days, Russ lives a quiet life. He's married, works a 9-to-5 job, talks about 401ks.

Russ got into the drug game early. He says, quote, I was raised in the gutter. And he turned to drug dealing when he was just 12.

Russ got into the drug game early. He says, quote, I was raised in the gutter. And he turned to drug dealing when he was just 12.

Russ was first convicted as a teenager for selling coke.

Russ was first convicted as a teenager for selling coke.

Russ started out low level, but he made his way to the top of the chain.

Russ started out low level, but he made his way to the top of the chain.

Russ got to know the now police chief back when Oliveira was a young narcotics detective. And he's still scared of his old handler.

Russ got to know the now police chief back when Oliveira was a young narcotics detective. And he's still scared of his old handler.

Paul Oliveira took notice of Russ when he was just a teenager, but already a serious drug dealer. His value as a potential drug informant was clear.

Paul Oliveira took notice of Russ when he was just a teenager, but already a serious drug dealer. His value as a potential drug informant was clear.

Like everyone else I talked to in the drug trade, Russ disdained snitching and snitches. But Oliveira made a convincing pitch.

Like everyone else I talked to in the drug trade, Russ disdained snitching and snitches. But Oliveira made a convincing pitch.

Russ says Oliveira was charming and took a personal interest in him. Seemed to care for him in a big brother kind of way. The relationship was totally off the books. just between the two of them. And Russ quickly learned there were advantages to cooperating with this older cop.

Russ says Oliveira was charming and took a personal interest in him. Seemed to care for him in a big brother kind of way. The relationship was totally off the books. just between the two of them. And Russ quickly learned there were advantages to cooperating with this older cop.

For the first time, he was being told he'd be able to deal, essentially free from fear of the police. To start, Russ threw Oliveira a few, what he called, small bullshit cases.

For the first time, he was being told he'd be able to deal, essentially free from fear of the police. To start, Russ threw Oliveira a few, what he called, small bullshit cases.

Carly and her dad were close. And when he died in his early 50s, she was devastated. To cope, she started using drugs. Eventually, she turned to heroin. By the summer of 2014, she was deep into addiction. And that's when she met a cop named Jared Lucas. He approached her one day while she was leaving the beach and started flirting.

Carly and her dad were close. And when he died in his early 50s, she was devastated. To cope, she started using drugs. Eventually, she turned to heroin. By the summer of 2014, she was deep into addiction. And that's when she met a cop named Jared Lucas. He approached her one day while she was leaving the beach and started flirting.

The bigger picture was that by forming an alliance with Russ, Oliveira could make a lot of cases. For Russ, it would mean sacrificing some smaller guys on the food chain. But in exchange, he'd be left alone. Remember those setup cases where a cop and dealer would work together and essentially entrap someone? Well, Russ was the key to a number of them.

The bigger picture was that by forming an alliance with Russ, Oliveira could make a lot of cases. For Russ, it would mean sacrificing some smaller guys on the food chain. But in exchange, he'd be left alone. Remember those setup cases where a cop and dealer would work together and essentially entrap someone? Well, Russ was the key to a number of them.

He says he worked with Oliveira on at least 20 setups. It didn't bother Russ then, but now he's full of regret. And there's one guy in particular he still thinks about.

He says he worked with Oliveira on at least 20 setups. It didn't bother Russ then, but now he's full of regret. And there's one guy in particular he still thinks about.

Russ arranged to have drugs put in this guy's house. And hours later, Oliveira busted him. He wound up spending years in prison.

Russ arranged to have drugs put in this guy's house. And hours later, Oliveira busted him. He wound up spending years in prison.

Yeah. There are other people he thinks about, too. Not hardened criminals deep in the drug world.

Yeah. There are other people he thinks about, too. Not hardened criminals deep in the drug world.

Cops want to hold on to their CIs. They're valuable and help with their careers. Getting out is not always in the cards. But it didn't take long before Russ started to want out.

Cops want to hold on to their CIs. They're valuable and help with their careers. Getting out is not always in the cards. But it didn't take long before Russ started to want out.

Oliveira told Russ he could help him make a clean break. But not before Russ helped him make one last bust. I can't get into the details because they might give away Russ's identity. But I know that Russ did help Oliveira pull off a big arrest. I found police files and court records to back up his story. And afterward, Russ waited for Oliveira to hold up his end of the bargain. But he didn't.

Oliveira told Russ he could help him make a clean break. But not before Russ helped him make one last bust. I can't get into the details because they might give away Russ's identity. But I know that Russ did help Oliveira pull off a big arrest. I found police files and court records to back up his story. And afterward, Russ waited for Oliveira to hold up his end of the bargain. But he didn't.

I wish I could tell you more of the specifics here, but just understand that Russ says he felt betrayed.

I wish I could tell you more of the specifics here, but just understand that Russ says he felt betrayed.

Russ did eventually get out. Not with any help from Oliveira, but on his own. He made a bunch of money, cashed in his chips, and left New Bedford behind. Russ was never charged for any of the drug crimes he says he committed with Oliveira's knowledge.

Russ did eventually get out. Not with any help from Oliveira, but on his own. He made a bunch of money, cashed in his chips, and left New Bedford behind. Russ was never charged for any of the drug crimes he says he committed with Oliveira's knowledge.

Despite the shame, despite what Russ calls a waste of a life, when he thinks back, he can't help but still feel affection for Oliveira.

Despite the shame, despite what Russ calls a waste of a life, when he thinks back, he can't help but still feel affection for Oliveira.

Believe it or not, Russ told me that when he first learned I was trying to get in touch with him for this story, his initial instinct hadn't been to talk to me. It had actually been to reach out to Paul Oliveira, a man he hadn't spoken to in years. Not to confront him, but to warn him.

Believe it or not, Russ told me that when he first learned I was trying to get in touch with him for this story, his initial instinct hadn't been to talk to me. It had actually been to reach out to Paul Oliveira, a man he hadn't spoken to in years. Not to confront him, but to warn him.

Russ never did make that call to tip off Paul Oliveira about my reporting. Instead, this time, he decided to cooperate with me.

Russ never did make that call to tip off Paul Oliveira about my reporting. Instead, this time, he decided to cooperate with me.

Hey everyone, Dugan here. I'm back in the feed to share an episode from the new season of Deep Cover, The Truth About Sarah, a podcast from our friends at Pushkin Industries. Deep Cover is a show about people who lead double lives and weave webs of deception, and their new season is a story of stolen valor.

Hey everyone, Dugan here. I'm back in the feed to share an episode from the new season of Deep Cover, The Truth About Sarah, a podcast from our friends at Pushkin Industries. Deep Cover is a show about people who lead double lives and weave webs of deception, and their new season is a story of stolen valor.

Lies tend to be fragile and temperamental, with small ones flourishing and bigger ones wilting under their own weight. Not in the case of Sarah Kavanaugh. The bigger her lies grew, the more real they became. Sarah was many things. A decorated veteran. A Marine who saved her comrades. A young woman fighting cancer. Sarah was everything people wanted her to be. Until she wasn't.

Lies tend to be fragile and temperamental, with small ones flourishing and bigger ones wilting under their own weight. Not in the case of Sarah Kavanaugh. The bigger her lies grew, the more real they became. Sarah was many things. A decorated veteran. A Marine who saved her comrades. A young woman fighting cancer. Sarah was everything people wanted her to be. Until she wasn't.

That was an episode of the new season of Deep Cover. You can find more episodes of Deep Cover, The Truth About Sarah wherever you get your podcasts.

That was an episode of the new season of Deep Cover. You can find more episodes of Deep Cover, The Truth About Sarah wherever you get your podcasts.

Turns out, no one knew the real Sarah. Not her comrades. Not her wife. No one. On this season of Deep Cover, Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Jake Halpern and acclaimed investigative journalist Jess McHugh unravel an epic six-year deception that upended the lives of countless people. If you want to hear more, find Deep Cover, The Truth About Sarah, wherever you get your podcasts.

Turns out, no one knew the real Sarah. Not her comrades. Not her wife. No one. On this season of Deep Cover, Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Jake Halpern and acclaimed investigative journalist Jess McHugh unravel an epic six-year deception that upended the lives of countless people. If you want to hear more, find Deep Cover, The Truth About Sarah, wherever you get your podcasts.

And now, here's the episode.

And now, here's the episode.