The text appears to be a transcript of a conversation, possibly from a documentary or a talk show. The speaker, John, shares his experiences growing up in a neighborhood where the mafia was prevalent. He describes his early life as a child running errands for mafia members and slowly working his way up to become an enforcer and a hitman. He talks about the harsh realities of life in the mafia, including the loss of friends due to violence, and his eventual disillusionment with the lifestyle.
John also reflects on his experiences in prison and how they influenced his decision to change his life. After his release, he became an advocate for youth communities, sharing his insights about the potential consequences of their actions. He criticizes the portrayal of the mafia in media, pointing out the unrealistic aspects of these depictions.
John concludes the conversation by expressing his concerns about the influence of video games on young people, particularly those who are drawn to the idea of a "street gangster" lifestyle. He emphasizes the need for parents and educators to provide alternative perspectives and options for young people.
1. The speaker, known as "John Elite," was raised around the Russian Mafia and grew up in a neighborhood full of gangsters and boxing enthusiasts .
2. He started his criminal career as a kid running errands for George Gaddy and his brothers, who were known as "Lucasys soldiers" .
3. As he grew older, he worked his way up in the criminal underworld, becoming an enforcer and a hitman for the Gotti Rishi .
4. He was involved in a wide range of criminal activities, from bookmaking and selling drugs to loan sharking and hijacking .
5. The speaker was incarcerated multiple times, for assaults, carrying guns, and more serious crimes like attempted murders and drug dealing .
6. He eventually realized the error of his ways and became an advocate for the youth communities, sharing his experiences and providing insight into what their lives might be like if they continued on his path .
7. He expressed skepticism about the portrayal of the Mafia in video games, stating that they were often unrealistic and dramatic, and lacked a true understanding of the consequences of such actions .
8. He is currently in touch with several police departments and parent groups, working to help at-risk youth .