rickthejournalist-blog

[rickthejournalist-blog]

Independent journalist for Hunted:NEWS reported  missing

The cities beloved journalist was reported missing on Friday. At this time  there are very few sources indicating clues of his whereabouts. We have received a statement from the PD in regards to their last interaction with the journalist. 

Official statement from PD: “At this time we are openly investigating all possibilities. Rick came to the Mission Row PD early Thursday in a rather frantic and overly paranoid state. (Even for him.) He suggested as a result of his latest article his life may be in jeopardy. We are doing everything within our power to continue the investigation.” 

Unfortunately the officer could not offer any further information. 

If you or anyone you know has been in contact with the journalist known as Rick, please contact the Hunted:NEWS network with any information. We will continue to provide updates as the story develops.

[rickthejournalist-blog]

Crime and taxes P3.

The tax man cometh 

Criminals come in all forms. From blood lusting crime lords to simple con artists and believe me when I say I have come in contact with every single type. In part one and two I spoke about criminals who put their worry for police and laws in the back seat while pursuing their monetary goals. This time I am putting the magnifying glass on the criminals who utilize the law as a sort of cloak from the darker aspects of crime. 

One of the most typical criminals who ride the line of the law come in the form of scam artists. From selling information to giving citizens new to the city “loans” these scum bags utilize peoples ignorance to their advantage.

I have had correspondence with many sources  that indicate they have been victimized by such criminals. The story always starts the same way. An unsuspecting individual heads up to the auto shop desperately looking for a vehicle to call their own. As they arrive, they are greeted by a friendly individual who talks to them about their future purchase. They groan about prices and start to sow the seeds of worry. 

Suddenly an “opportunity” is presented. The loan shark suggests they front the majority of the money with the caveat of a small interest fee for when its payed back. Of course it never gets back. As they attempt to pay it back, the interest keeps increasing. Until one day the loan shark has taken every cent earned and next start gunning for the pink slip.

It’s unbelievable how often newcomers to the city fall for this one. One day they are riding a high of a new friend made, new car obtained and control over their lives. The next day things get a little worse. The loan shark comes by, looking for their cut, their tax and things are still pretty light and cheery. Days pass and the pressure starts to build. Their wallets begin to to empty and their worries rise. 

Whatever you do - DO NOT accept large sums of money from people you do not know. The road to hell is paved with compassion. Believe me those who approach you from the stance of compassion in this city must be taken with a large grain of salt. DO NOT END UP THE VICTIM OF THIS STUPIDITY! 

Now this next instance of scammers gone wild hits close to home. As a doctor of journalism and a reporter subsidized by the controversial Weazel news channel, I have seen quite a few reporter come and go in my time. Some are forced to leave due to ties with crime coming to light others simply aren’t cut out for the job.

HuntedNEWS operates under the Weazel news channel umbrella. Seen in the second image of this article, another group of journalists were afforded the opportunity to operate under the same network. This group of dick wads went by the channel coined “Scrotum NEWS”. 

Believe me when I say, I encourage and welcome any individuals who wish to pursue a career in reporting/journalism. To suggest these individuals fall under those aforementioned categories is an insult to the medium of news. 

When they first came on the scene, these individuals from scrotum NEWS made a living rolling around the city in their over sized “news van” harassing locals on the street. After receiving push back from the higher ups at the network this dynamic duo had to change up their tactics to maintain viewership. 

Did they brain storm and come up with some heavy hitting story series that would inform and impact the people of the city? Hell no! They decided criminal sensationalism and hijinx would be a far superior route to take. 

Thus their new series was born. Akin to other cities programs known as “Cops”, this was a series which relied on having unsuspecting government officials sign long winded contracts with fine print and more clauses than you have fingers. After the acquisition signatures, the unsuspecting victims of this scam would then be subjected to a leach of a camera team latching to their backs while they attempted to conduct their official duties. 

With this shift in tactics the Scrotum NEWS boys were relevant again. Viewership skyrocketed and their paychecks followed suit. (Who would have thought putting government officials in near illegal scenarios would garner views?! Har har) 

However as word of Scrotum NEWS and their antics made its way up the chain of command, their series became more and more difficult to continue. Officials in charge of both government departments stated clearly to the press: 

“Members of the LSPD and EMS are prohibited from signing media contracts without higher up approval. We are taking legal action to void all existing contacts signed by uninformed government employees and will be suing the Scrotum NEWS network for multiple accounts of unlawful contract acquisition”

Shortly after this official statement, the Scrotum NEWS channel was canceled. Sources indicated the family playing a pivotal role in the termination scam artist run news channel however this information has not been verified. 

Needless to say, the Scrotum NEWS boys balls have been officially busted. The upside to criminals who choose to skirt the gray area of the lay comes in the form of more obtainable justice.

These types of scum suckers see the court room far more often for their crimes than any thugs or organized criminals. The issue being that due to their petty crimes, they are released sooner than most higher level criminals and thus are afforded the opportunity to go right back to their money lust fueled ways. 

Criminals and businessmen have many faces and many motives. However there is one which is shared by all : Their lust for the great dollar. 

This bring us to our final segment of this article series. The rumors and declassified information pertaining to what is known as the “Los Santos Businessmen Manifesto” 

This document began to surface in small segments about a week ago.(one of which is above [image 3]) With redacted names and whole portions of the text seemingly absent from the public eye, its clear this document is a tell tale sign for potential moves being made from within the business world of Los Santos. As established gang numbers and their resulting acts of violence greatly spike and business boardroom conflicts strangely coming to a near stand still, this document has definitely achieved my full attention. 

From what I have been able to piece together between rumors and released segments of the text, it seems to be a paid to play agreement which offers a wide range of perks for the collective who agrees to its terms. From conflict mediation and public relations to complete security/protection plans this document will surely shake Los Santos right to the core. 

Rumors indicate that the business giant Stroker INC. is behind this documents formation. However at this point this information is near speculation. What we do know is that the document has already been signed by many well known business owners and the number of signatures is ever growing. Some rumors even suggesting certain well known criminal groups have added their names to the roster. 

From realtors to mechanics this document seems to be monopolizing the entirety of the business world under one all encompassing agreement. The implications of this type of agreement could both benefit and devastate the economic state of Los Santos.

With one simple group meeting, the prices for pink slips could collectively rise to near untouchable levels. On the same note however this potentially could provide the city and her people a great benefit via standardized inventory across the state. No longer will you run to 4 different retail locations in a quest for water only to pass out from dehydration due to lack of supply. 

I have had a chance to speak to a few experts on the potential impact of this type of agreement and the potential cause of its formation. These professionals suggested a potential catalyst for such an agreement would be lack of government regulation on the business market. Later going on to suggest that this type of agreement is not necessarily a terrible idea and rather a logical progression of the times. They indicating this is simply the free markets way of self regulation.

However other more skeptical individuals believe this is simply a way to legally bully the every day businessman into  a forced private tax. From the information obtained thus far, the signing of this document comes at a price. Achieving such a monopoly on a multitude of markets will result in business owners being forced into a corner and thus made to sign the agreement to preserve economic stability. 

From my personal research I have uncovered that some business’ signed to the agreement are owned by known criminals who have funded their ventured using laundered drug money. As a result of this information being made public, I speculate this affiliation has the potential to cause massive problems for the legitimate businesses who sign under this document

All in all one thing is certain: This document will cause an intensive shift in how business is conducted within the city. Whether that is a good thing or a horrible thing is yet to be determined. 

I will write a follow up article when more information on the LSBM manifesto surfaces.

So where does this leave the common citizen? Criminal organizations causing massive conflicts in the streets, thugs and scammers raining down havoc on Los Santos and her people, businessmen uniting under one banner with the primary interest of greed at the helm of the ship - the dark corrupt cloud rolls ever onward across our lives. 

It causes us to live in a constant state of fear and worry. For our lives, for our wallets and for our dignity. Each and every thing which made us fall in love with this city seem to be the same things that seem to damn it. From all the exciting business opportunities to the people hustle and bustle through the streets like blood through the veins of the city. As events continue to unfold it seems the corrupt underbelly of our city is beginning to bleed its tainted influence into each and every member of the communities lives. 

I truly do not know how to feel about the possibility of an alliance among the businessman. On the surface it seems like a decent move towards regulated order. As more information bubbles to the surface I cannot help but sense some rotting corrupt corpse lying just underneath the surface ready to taint the water from which we drink. All I can say is stay safe with your investment, run your business with dignity and make your voice heard when you detect injustice. 

In this day and age it is imperative that we take the responsibility of speak our minds and let the government know exactly what we feel will benefit the community. Do not simply allow some large corporation to speak for you. Even if you are apart of such a corporation, you still have a voice and it is your responsibility, nay your duty, to be precise with your speech. Let your higher ups know what you believe is right and stand strong with what you believe. If we all uphold this responsibility I know we can make Los Santos a better place for all. Criminals and legitimate businessmen alike.  

I will offer one final bit of advice for those who decide joining such an association as the LSBM or any comparative criminal organization is the correct move for them: When the tax man comes knocking on your door, it is already too late. Be prompt in your payments and go out of your way to pay your debts BEFORE the hammer comes down. The modern chains of slavery come in the form of debt. 

I hope you enjoyed this three part article on the many faces of crime and the influence they have on our great city. 

Remember: tread lightly, always pay your taxes and do your best to remain free.

Until next time

Your friend,

R.

[rickthejournalist-blog]

4-12-19

[rickthejournalist-blog]

Little Italy in flames after supposed reckless driving accident

An explosion echoed through the mirror park hills earlier today when a reckless driver struck a service station at the Stroker family owned gas station and mini mart “ Little Italy”. Conflicting reports suggest there was the possibility of foul play.

Emergency services were quick to respond to the scene and were able to completely contain the fire before it managed to cause any significant damage to the family owned mini mart. 

I will provide updates if I learn more - R

[rickthejournalist-blog]

Flying high with PLRP Airways

Taking the city and her people higher than ever before 

The airfields have been bustling with action since the PLRP airways officially made their debut. From security protocol upgrades to expansions in staff members and hardware, this airline is looking to make a serious stake in the game! 

The countless amenities and services this airway provides its customers makes it, in my eyes, a clear choice. For one, no other airway offers free rental vehicles while you conduct business in the variety of touch down locations. 

While touring with the airline it became clear to me that their attention to detail and security standards would easily have them stand out from all other private airway in the city. Shortly before I scheduled my guided tour appointment, many new staff members were added to the roaster as a result of the immense city population growth. A new staff upgrade which caught my eye was the private security team. Gone are the days of illegal drag races on the landing strips! Every flight has a trained staff member equip with hardware with the intention of protecting the flights passengers and their cargo. 

Each and every flight can be customized for the customers needs. From simple economy flights going for as low as $15 one way, to cargo flights to move goods safely and discreetly throughout the state. There is even the option of renting a completely private jet which can be booked for entire days at a time. The private jet packages are an especially good value if you are a business person looking to conduct business even while on the go. Many businesses often use this service to conduct meetings and make deals. There is no other airway in the state which offers the same level of security and discretion. 

This airway was a completely self funded venture and opened its doors with only one aircraft, two men on staff and one leased airfield to call their own. Since then it has expanded to an entire fleet of various aircraft and three plus airfields with over six diligent employees. Improvements are being made every day as the airway looks to be the leader in air travel. With prices so low and security/safety standards so supreme it would be a crime not to give this airline a try. 

I had a fantastic time riding with the PLRP airline. The staff are very knowledgeable and professional. 

The sight of the city from that high up in the air was a refreshing dose of perspective for me. So many hours chasing stories about crime and corruption can really ware on you. It seems only when you're that high up; you can look down on the city and its people and truly feel as though your sitting on some shoulder of a god like giant, inspecting the masses with a cleansed perspective. 

Even during a red eye flight, the high up view made the city seem far less bathed in its characteristic darkness. From that height it is almost as if you can see the glow of each and every soul both corrupt and clean alike.  

[rickthejournalist-blog]

Crime and taxes P2.

When the big cats are away, the rodents will play 

So you think you have what it takes to be a significant criminal within the borders of our fine state? Good. You and about every other ego filled citizen that find themselves their first roll of dirty cash and a illegal fire arm.

Lets consider the end game. Do you have what it takes to go up against the family? To police and control each and every aspect of the illegal money acquisition and laundry system? What about the fire power and tact to initiate and finish gang wars which will prevent your money from flowing with any regularity? 

The first image of this article should be a precautionary tale for any group that thinks it has what it takes. This group had a delusional idea which went as follows: They had the man power and the muscle to establish a means of control in the absence of the mafia and distant participation of the mob. Thus they felt they had a perfect opportunity to make a name for themselves. However their actions and the consequences of such actions painted a very clear and different picture in the final analysis. 

When they first came on scene, there was a fairly major power shake up which had recently occurred within the borders of our state. From massive government drug busts cutting off much of the income to large organized crime groups to the suspected exit of the mafia back to their home country, things were spiraling into a state of all out chaos within the streets. For small bands of criminals, this was the perfect opportunity to step up shop and fill the power vacuum. If only it was that simple.

The rag tag band of idiots we will deem the red gang used muscle as a means of control. From robbing truckers out of their livelihood to harassing every day citizens for money and goods, this group used any low level means necessary to achieve their main objection : Make money and take control. 

This set of goals is fairly straight forward but incredibly simple. With no plan of long term stability or counter measures this simple plan can only last so long. Removing police encounters and arrests from the equation (Which happened all too often to even put this group in the category of legitimate) The upward trajectory of the red gang did not last long. Just as the picture suggests the groups sell by date had long since passed and the expiration date had quickly arrived. 

Too many criminals get so big in their britches thinking they have the smarts and strategy to accomplish goals such as organized crime. But from my time running with these groups, they barely can tie their damn shoes. I mean if you’re getting taken in by the police for simple traffic violations or carrying too much pot on your person, how the hell do you expect to take on any legitimate foothold within this city? Its asinine to say the least.

To some groups credit they have the potential and smarts but lack the resources. In the second image I will go into details regarding such a group and how their efforts while smart would still end in the demise of their organization. 

All I can say is there are few paths to true success and even fewer groups with the will to put forward what it takes so achieve such success. 

Lets shift gears and move to a group which could have achieved some success but due to the random chaotic factors of life simply slipped through the cracks. 

Known by some sources as “The auto shop boys” This was a group of individuals that stayed low and consistent. Collecting information as their main weapon/tool and doing everything in their power to keep from stepping on toes during their moves.

A perfect plan in concept however just like many other organizations, chaos is the true enemy of order. Due to a lack of resources, new recruits were taken on as a way to extend their reach. Some of which being incredibly loyal and hard working individuals. While others seemed to have a far closer resemblance to agents of chaos. 

The group grew and the connections and resources grew with them. One of the main forms of income for this group was to sell “burner vehicles” to new comers in the city. A means to get where an individual needed to go and then to ditch their vehicle without worry. This service was the perfect wedge within the criminal world due to the lack of competition. At least so the group thought. 

One disgruntled member later and things began to go bad. Someone who thought they could skip chain of command and join with a larger organization known as the mafia which caused things for the auto shop boys to begin to unravel. The group in part operated on secrecy as on of their main tools and this tool was just stripped from them. 

A single drop of chaos in the wrong aspect of the group began to bleed into the success of all its members. After this betrayal things only got worse. A low level mafia member opened a rival car service which mirrored their own. This was the first blow to the up and coming organization and it hit right where it hurts the most, their wallets

With their main source of revenue nearly severed their hand was forced. Action had to be taken. This is when blood began to be shed. From small hits on employees of the car dealership to full scale gun fights in the streets, war was fully underway. A conflict swung into motion by one simple poorly vetted chaotic element within a trusted organization.

The attacks continued and things became increasingly difficult for the auto shop boys to survive let alone prosper. The height of the conflict came in the form of an all out attack on their own place of work just as the sun became clear within the morning sky. Members of the group clocking in for their shifts like any normal day. 

The day began like any other. I was sat within the office shooting the shit with a few of the group members when out of nowhere we heard the sounds of engines surrounding the establishment. As if a substantial branch of the tree of crime snapped from its foundation, a shot echoed out in the back lot of the business. A member that had gone to the back to smoke a cigarette lay dead on the floor. Cigarette still smoldering on the asphalt, a trail of smoke rising to the sky like the ghost of an idea since list in time. 

In an all out panic the remaining members of the group rushed to take arms but their attempts were futile. Running and gunning to the best of their ability the members of the auto shop attempted to gain control of the situation, all the while I lay back to a cement wall praying I make it out of the situation with my life.

Shortly after the gunfire began, it ceased. With bodies sprawled out on the floor and pools of blood filling the gutters. The scene was truly something out of a twisted artists dreams cape. The conflict was over. The mafia had won. 

Knowing some of the members of the auto shop boys remain alive but in critical condition, the mafia sent one farewell letter to the group of criminals. A message to make clear their time had passed. One of the burner cars was sent speeding through the shop window. Barreling through each and every vehicle in their stock, the vehicle ended its hellish trajectory in the lobby area of the shop. (See image 2) One of the stuck vehicles swung rogue from its neatly situated show position as a result of the collision and knocked me out cold. Twelve hours later I found myself in hospital recovery with a EMS rookie showing me a photo she took on the scene when they picked me up.

Members who survived the horrific gang attack left the city to preserve what shattered bits of their life remain. Needless to say from that day forward the city heard nothing more of the group known as “The auto shop boys” 

Even an organized group of individuals with smarts and fair intentions has weaknesses. If you fail to keep your group clean and tight in every way, sooner or later something chaotic will seep in and taint the very foundation so meticulously crafted.  

I felt during my reporting with this group they had tremendous potential. They were level headed, strong willed and smart. However as things began to develop within the city, they were forced to step out of their comfort zone and enter uncharted territory. Areas and domains they were not at all prepared for. 

Being a legitimate criminal is incredibly difficult in this city. If you do not have what it takes to adapt to the many harsh environments that flux like the moon you may find yourself within the jaws of a beast like organization you only dreamed of becoming. 

Finally I expand on a story which to this day provides me with a daily physical reminder of what happens to common every day citizens when they find themselves in the cross fire of gang conflicts. 

This story of course being my experience with the since disbanded Y-Gang. 

A truly idiotic and low level group of thugs which got their kicks by robbing the innocents of the city. With the combined firepower of a minor league baseball team and a hobbyist gun club of a town with the population of 2, this group wasn't exactly my definition of lethal. 

Since I was working on this story about low level crime, I thought what better way to get the inside perspective than to interview this group of thugs myself. After hiring some private security and setting up a secure/discreet location to meet, the interview was on. 

Nothing serious was shared (I’m certain these glorified street rats didn't have much to offer) Simple inquiries were made such as “Why yellow” and “Why civilian robberies?” After a short while I felt I was satisfied with this interaction and brought things to a close with a group photo (See image 3) Most groups aren’t too interested in having their faces out there but this group did not shy away in the slightest. 

Shortly after this picture was taken my hired muscle decided this was the opportune moment to strike back at this the Y gang for transgressions I was previously unaware of. From what I could understand, the Y gang had conflicts with these individuals in the past and cost them a lot of money in the process. It was a gruesome sight. 

Beaten to near death, the Y gang lay bleeding out at the top of our parking garage meeting spot. Once again, being a doctor of journalism, there were limited options I could peruse when it came to self defense. My best course of action was to lay low and wait things out. Soon the conflict had passed and the individuals I had hired to protect me fled from the scene. 

I quickly returned to the sight of the conflict and assessed the brutality that had just occurred. All members of the Y gang were significantly wounded but from my experience with these types of events, and later confirmation by EMS, they would all make it through. 

EMS arrived on scene and got to work mending the battered individuals back to a point of health. Once the work of the EMS had been completed things only got worse from there for me. The sights of this reckless gang turned on me as a result of the altercation. They were under the impression I had orchestrated this attack and as a result held me at gun point. 

Robbing me of the money I intended to pay my hired muscle, my legal fire arm and my phone - this group solidified their stance as official winners for the scum bags of the month award. The roller-coaster of shit did not stop here, as a final farewell I was shot in the shoulder and left to bleed out. 

Clearly there is spectrum when it comes to the competence of criminals. From generally organized criminals to all out brutes. The impact of these groups nets the same result - All out blood in the streets and the terror in the lives of each and every civilian. 

My personal experiences are a small portion of what the citizens of our fine state experience on a daily basis. Crime is an evil which is never going to go away. As long as there is something of value in this world you better believe someone is already set on stealing it. 

So I finish this article with a word of caution to criminals with both big and small aspirations - Really ask yourself: Do you have what it takes to push through all these hardships and conflicts while make it out the other side unscathed? 

Brutal darkness flows through the streets more than ever these days. Be safe and be prepared for anything. 

Part 3 in the days to come. This will close out this trilogy article on criminal activity within the borders of Los Santos. 

Until next time

Your friend,

R.

[rickthejournalist-blog]

Louie Stroker has officially been detained on multiple counts of attempted murder on LEO. This arrest is after a conflict that occurred sometime late last night between the Stroker family and the LSPD. 

An official statement was provided by William Stroker. He was a witness to the conflict that occurred. 

“I believe Louie was wrongfully tased during an interaction with the police and as a result he had no choice but to draw his weapon in self defense. Due to the lack of legal representation within our city, this is a mans only means of defending his rights and freedoms.”

This story is still developing and I am currently seeking a statement from the chief of police on the incident. - R

[rickthejournalist-blog]

Crime and taxes P1.

A tail of two crime organizations 

-The following is a semi-historic account. All names and locations have been redacted for obvious reasons.-

Let me set the scene - Conflicts between two major crime organizations grow and grow like the boil of a kettle on a hot flame. Things at first seem to resemble a general simmer. Basic gang conflicts, turf wars even simple cases of good ol’ fashioned revenge. But as tempers rise, crimes escalate. Things that used to be called simple gang conflicts were later deemed by officials as: total chaos in the streets. 

Casualties and warrants stacked like a tower to the skies. This was truly a dark time for Los Santos. Mention of these two groups went from mere whispers to all out screams of terror. The Mob and the Mafia took center stage. 

Things took a particularly chaotic turn when one day the Mob was caught in what they describe as “the wrong place and wrong time”. The events open as follows - Many notable members of the Mob are making bank massive transfers via one of the major banks in the city. To civilians its just another day. Men in suits and ties simply conducting business. 

However, things under the surface were not as clear cut as this. What the members of “the family” mob/crime organization were not aware of was that one of the bank attendants tipped off the mafia. What originated as a simple transfer of large sums of cash quickly turned into an all out assault. 

What first comes to mind is some kind of bloody death match resulting in massive casualties. This was far from the case. You see, the mafia knew there was a possibility of great bloodshed if this violent path was taken. So someone had a brilliant idea which is being felt by the mob to this day. Someone simply called the cops and tipped them off to an alleged bank heist. 

Before the members of this crime family knew it, their vision was blurred by a barrage of blue and red as police stormed the bank and arrested many of the member of the unsuspecting crime organization. Countless high level arrests were made that day. Multiple counts of possession of dirty money, felony evasion and charges for possession of fully automatic weapons are but a few incriminating factors which put almost all the members of this crime family away that day. 

Needless to say, a major blow had been dealt to this crime organization. After the bank event, this group had to change their tactics. No longer could they walk the streets as seemingly free men. There were targets on each and every one of their backs. 

Due to reasons I am still investigating, many of the members of this family were released with what the citizens had deemed “a simple slap on the wrist”. This greatly troubled many members of the community due to the horrific acts this crime organization had taken part in throughout their time in the area. If the police couldn't even contain this beast of an organization then who would be able protect the people of the state from their onslaught? 

The worst part about all this? I do not even believe this organization is the worst force within these borders. Countless lives had been lost throughout their various criminal forays but the influence they had/have over the more localized and brutal crime within the city has me thinking about that query which popped into my head when I was being mugged by some low level scum bags: “Does the city NEED these crime organizations in conjunction with the police so that way we might remain truly safe?”

Lets not get ahead of ourselves. We need to see how this story ends. 

The terror perpetrated by the criminal organization known as the mafia continue to explode in the city with an effect akin to a grenade going off within the cab of a small vehicle. The blood continues to flow and the dirty money moves right along with it. It can not be stressed enough how insane this period in Los Santos was. The mafia was known for their large packs of motorcycle toting members rolling through the cities like some totalitarian nightmare. Whenever you heard the collective roar of their engines, you knew terror was sure to follow. 

This is not to say that other small tier criminal organizations didn’t make an effort to try their hand at filling the power vacuum left as a result of the mobs absence. Some were partially successful for a short time. Obtaining gang held territories as well as establishing certain illegal coastal supply lines. There seemed to be an active effort on the part of Los Santos’ criminals to balance the scale.

These small coins of success did not last long.  

The small tier crime groups trying to make a stake in the game were one by one wiped off the map. Some luckier than others being offered an ultimatum by the mafia. Join or die. Pride got the better of many groups but some folded and became pawns for the mafias malicious plans. 

Fast forward weeks after the bank fiasco which seemingly drove the mob out. The city had became a truly hellish landscape to live in. There was no safe place for the common citizen to hang their hat without the fear of hearing those roaring engines of the mafia. 

Unlike many crime organizations, the mafia believed their strength was in riding together. They would often go on massive rides up to the norther parts of the state to conduct large scale drug deals and weapon trades. Little did they know, this self assumed strength would be their greatest weakness. 

On one faithful night, when the moon was full, the mafia road their bikes like the horsemen of the apocalypse towards a small town they would frequent for business. The goal was to conduct one of many drug drops and dirty money pick ups. A fairly standard procedure. They road up a long winding dirt road, their bikes engines echoing through the hills like an ominous thunder cloud rolling in. One by one their engines shut off and soon after the town was bathed in silence. 

The deal went underway. The leader and head members spoke to the buyer as the majority of the mafia members mingled amongst their bikes and comrades.

Suddenly out of the night two small pops echo in the air as 3 men, all in suits and red ties step forward. Two members of the mafia ,which occupied the far ends of the gang of bikers as a way to take guard, lay face down in the dirt with blood pooling around them. The leader of the trio stepped forward to face the mafia boss. Stopping only feet away. They were close enough to see the details of each others cold illuminated expressions within the light of the full moon.

The mafia boss’ face filled with prideful disgust and determination as he spoke. 

“Do you honestly think you can stop my men with only three of you? Your family has crumbled, torn to the ground by the hands of my men! You have made a grievous mistake.Such fools.” 

At this, the leader of the men in red ties chuckled. This chuckle turned into a full uncontrollable laugh. After a moment of levity, he focused and stared the boss dead in the eyes. 

“You know? You’re absolutely right! How rude of me?! Please, let me formally introduce you to my family!” 

Men in black suits and red ties seemingly came out of no where. As if a box of fire crackers had suddenly been ignited in the lonesome town, the night air erupted in a barge of gunfire. The chaos lasted all of 30 seconds before each and every mafia biker lay dead in the dirt next to their rides. Those who had enacted the hit had slipped back into the shadows as quickly as they had appeared. All but the trio in suits, the mafia boss himself, and the individual who intended on purchasing a large shipment of drugs still held breath within their lungs. 

At this point the mafia boss began to scramble for words in an attempt for self preservation. Nothing came out aside from near gibberish. The leader of the trio approached the simple drug buyer and offered him a simple point of advice. 

“The only things that are certain in this life is crime and taxes. If you choose to stay clear of either of those certainties..” 

Pausing he turned to the Mafia boss and without hesitation points his hand gun directly between the mafia leaders eyes.

“...death is sure to follow” 

And with one final pull of the trigger, the small town was silent once more. the trio dusted themselves off as they walked amongst the dead. Surveying their work and assuring there job was complete. Satisfied, one of the men pulled out his phone and called their ride. Within minutes they were loaded up in their stark white SUV and began to exit the scene. The boss rolled his tinted pitch black window down just before departing and made eye contact with the still stunned drug buyer. With a smirk on his face he offered one last phrase with a certainty as if he had practiced it in the mirror countless times. 

“Remember, pay your taxes!” 

This story always makes me stop and wonder a few things. For one, how accurate actually is it? And more importantly did the mob honestly think they solved their problem for good that night?

Soon after the events on that night of the full moon, sources indicated seeing high members of the mafia occasionally throughout the city. But this must always be taken with a grain of salt. Lots of people think they have seen UFOs too.

However reports every day continue to come out in regards to a resurgence of mafia related activities. To me it honestly seems this tale of two crime organizations for the most part has come to a close. 

Perhaps things have just devolved into a cold war of sorts. These organizations simply turning from the streets towards the board rooms as their new battle fields. Much of the activities mentioned above still occur to this day but behind closed doors and in far more controlled circumstances. Tactics transforming from simple sword play into laser surgery.

Others indicate that after this great conflict, both organizations disbanded entirely their members now attempting to live honestly, crime free, lives. 

I personally don’t buy that load of horse shit for a second. I mean honestly how do you expect me to believe “the family” isn’t still out there when every day I get reports of gun shots in their very stomping grounds. I find vehicles littered with bullet holes left only blocks from areas where they reportedly have been seen half an hour prior. 

Yeah, not buying it.

I don’t necessarily believe all the folk lore surrounding the events of the past. What I do know is the tax which touches many of the criminals in this city is very real. Sure enough I have heard stories of low level thugs attempting to shrug off the tax and lets just say they don’t frequent the city much any more. 

So I finish this part of the article series with a question to you. Do you feel there is a net positive having organizations like “the family” within the borders of our fine state? Or do you feel these groups over all put our lives in greater danger? 

All I know is this rabbit hole goes so much deeper and we have only scratched the surface. 

Until next time

Your friend,

R.

[rickthejournalist-blog]

Strength invites challenge and challenge insight conflict. 

Police department adds to staff and goes through mandatory training in response to recent controversy. 

In the wake of controversy which shook the PD to the core, efforts have been enacted to mend the divide between the force and the citizens of this great state. 

Some believe that a significant order may finally be established within the city. While others feel this new flexing of the governments assets via new hires will simply force criminals to dig their claws deeper.

Other sources indicate that certain members recently hired on as new recruits have ties to some of the larger aspects of organized crime within the city. This is a troubling development and I will continue to do my best to uncover this aspect of the situation.

One thing is clear, there is a new element in town which will bring a vast number of unknown variables bubbling to the surface like an oil spill within the waters of a great ocean.

Something about all this is unsettling to me. I can’t put my finger on it at this time. There seems to be an underlying flow of crime within the borders of LS which is beginning to pick up speed. Becoming an undertow which is sure to sweep away any innocent which crosses its path. After the government wide drug busts which forced many organized crime families to reorient their ability to bring in revenue, things became lawless.

Daily reports of drive by shootings and lawless acts of violence continue to roll in. From  a spike in common every day robberies/muggings to low level crime organizations scrambling to get hold of territories held by the absent Mob and mafia, the city had fallen into chaos. 

I for one was first hand a victim of this lawless undertow while attempting to conduct my work as a doctor of journalism. 

The long short of it all : I hired some muscle for private security while continuing my research. During an interview with one of the cities new up and coming gangs “The Y-gang” (or as I like to call them THE PISSED PANTS GANG) a conflict occurred between my security and this gang which nearly cost me my life. Robbed of everything I had at the time and threatened/ wounded within an inch of my life a question arose within my mind - Do we NEED the families in conjunction with the police to truly be safe?

I am writing a three part opinion piece where I go into great detail about this question. I feel this is only the beginning. - Coming soon. 

Be cautious of where you swim and always come ready to protect yourself against all odds. Things may get better but we are not out of the woods quite yet.

Until next time

Your friend,

R.

[rickthejournalist-blog]

Event still ongoing - Time for government regulation on trucking? 

Update: Road has been cleared and reopened. 

Just another day in LS

[rickthejournalist-blog]

Car show turned blood bath 

Is it time for Los Santos citizens to be provided legal representation? 

If this doesn't indicate poor police training and corruption within the law, you just don’t have your senses dialed in. 

Things began as you would expect when imagining a car enthusiasts gathering. Fancy high dollar vehicles arrive at the lot. Engines rev. Laughs are had. 

What made this gathering different than any other is how it ended. But lets not get ahead of ourselves. With every story there is a beginning to the end. Things began to turn sour when a rookie police officer pulled on to the scene and began taking issue with one specific drivers vehicle. 

He indicated that the vehicle lighting (see image above) was illegal and as a result he would be receiving a “fix it ticket”. Fair enough right? Unfortunately this cop thought otherwise. He remained at the gathering looming in the background, waiting like a vulture for its prey to slip up.

Sure enough one of the vehicle enthusiasts began showing his fellow car lovers a new LEGALLY obtained fire arm that he had just purchased. This caused the police officer to spring into action, and a rifle on the crowd. Confused and a slightly taken aback by the officers response, the enthusiast who was flexing his 2nd amendment RIGHTS began to step toward the officer to come within speaking distance. 

At this point the officer screamed in a shrill voice “MOVE ANY FURTHER AND I’LL OPEN FIRE” Being absolutely terrified by this reaction, the suspect in question attempted to duck behind a street light to shield his body from the officers lethal gaze. Seeing this movement caused this Dirty Harry wannabe cop to OPEN FIRE on the entire crowd of vehicle enthusiasts, myself included. 

A few members of the crowd drew their legal fire arms in sheer self defense while others attempted to flee the frenzied shooting gallery. It was an absolute blood bath as bullets were sprayed in the general direction of the crowd. Thousands of dollars of damage to vehicles and heaps of trauma later a member of this vehicle loving group lay bleeding out on the floor of the parking lot. 

Luckily the wounded individual was able to make it to urgent care where he eventually returned to good health.

The officer in question after the incident initially declined to make a statement. Due to parallel legal issues I found myself entwined in, was I able to get a statement from the officer. He responded by saying he felt opening fire on the suspect while 6+ by standards lay in the crossfire was just and does not feel guilt about the incident.

Now lets consider a few things. This should in no way have developed into a damn near mass shooting as a result of a vehicle possessing an illegal under glow. I DAMN NEAR HAD MY HEAD BLOWN CLEAR OFF. I feel the only reason why the rookie officer didn’t just gun us all down right there is due to some of the groups members acting in self defense and drawing their legally owned weapons. 

This brings me to my first point. The citizens of Los Santos NEED LEGAL REPRESENTATION. I know I can’t be the only one who has heard the whole “You do NOT have the right to an attorney, since their aren’t any within the state” UH HELLO? HEARD OF SELF REPRESENTATION? The legal process needs an absolute over haul and as citizens of this fine state, we are not safe until this occurs. When the only way to even possible pose as a legal case to an officer is by telling him to stand down while pointing a loaded hand gun at them, it is CLEAR something is wrong. These officers need to be held accountable for their actions.

Some witnesses that were at the scene of the incident suggest its time for the rookie officer to step down from his position on the force. I personally don’t feel this will solve the problem in any way. I believe in the wake of these events, it is the responsibility of the entire force to put their officers through greater levels of training so that they may keep both the citizens as well as them selves out of harms way. Shooting at a suspect should be an ABSOLUTE last resort, especially when there are by standards that could be harmed in the wake. 

So I pass these thoughts on to you my faithful followers. Do you think the officer in question should step down from his position? Do you feel there is a desperate need for the job of attorney within the borders of Los Santos? Reach out to your congressman and let your opinions be known! 

Run for the hills if you have any outstanding warrants, change that under glow to pink as soon as you get to the garage and for the love of god KNOW YOUR RIGHTS! Stay safe and be well

Until next time

Your friend,

R.

[rickthejournalist-blog]

Official Statement and Interview with Chief of Police “Skate” O’Connor

Many things were spoke about during this interview. Some of which would appear to be troubling to the citizens of Los Santos. A cloud of corruption has surely descended upon our great city and it brings darkness to each and every one of our lives. 

Firstly, the Chief commented on the Stroker family arrest that had been made a few days prior. “ We believe the charges given to Louie Stroker, nephew of William “Willie” Stroker, were appropriate.”

When I brought up citizens concerns that the charges given to Louie Stroker were too light, the Chief chuckled and reiterated his stance indicating the charges were just. 

As a doctor of journalism, I felt it was my duty to attempt and dig as deep as I could about the Stroker family crimes. Unfortunately due to the open investigation, the chief of police declined to comment. 

The Chief offered a closing statement for the entire city. “In the coming days we will be enforcing all warrants and charges. If you have any outstanding warrants it is your responsibility to turn yourself in or we WILL be coming after you.” 

Now, If all that doesn't smell fishy I think you should make your way to the ER and get your nose checked! Do these swine honestly believe their actions/inaction will go unnoticed by the good people of the city? 

Light sentences for those with mob affiliation? Charging and arresting common every day citizens for traffic violations while MASSIVE crime organizations run throughout the streets like poison in a well? None of this adds up. 

Source after source continue to come out of the woodwork and contact me about their own personal tales of police corruption. This trend does not seem to be slowing down. 

As always, the story is developing and Ill be posting updates on twitter whenever I know more. Stay low and whatever you do - DO NOT get yourself involved with either the mafia, mob and most importantly THE POLICE! 

Until next time

Your friend,

R.

[rickthejournalist-blog]

LSPD UNDER SIEGE BY TERRORIST ORGANIZATION

The attack has been reported to be an isolated incident and has since been contained. Officers on the scene decline to make a statement at this time but assure that the threat to the PD and greater city area has since been dealt with fully. 

I had the opportunity to sell footage and stories from this event to the HuntedNEWS network as a result of my, lets say captive involvement in the scene. (And what a blood bath)

Much of what I saw during that horrific attack is still under investigation for which I have been informed I cannot comment. However I’ll tell each and every one of you this -  Love him or hate him, If it wasn’t for the heroic efforts of William “Willie” Stroker during the attack, you faithful reader would have to find some other two buck chuck to get your news from this morning!

As a result of this bond formed in blood, I was afforded an interview with Mr. Stroker which I will be posting here later in the week. A small tease to this comes from a statement I thought the city might like to hear. 

From Mr.Stroker himself during his statement about the attack : “Yes, I believe automatic weapons should absolutely be legalized within the city of Los Santos. If more citizens possessed that type of fire power, perhaps more lives would be saved” 

Now, I’m sure you want my comments on the whole matter being that I was there during the whole blood bath. It was sloppy and poorly orchestrated. Once the officers on scene were able to sift through the chaos, like a low level thief greedily seeking out a fallen diamond ring from within a mud puddle, they jumped to action and were easily able to apprehend the terrorist leader and end the attacks. This is by no means me indicating my support of the LSPD in anyway and rather my concern.

After everything cooled down and I could tell the chaos was over I went to exit the station to begin collecting statements. Come to find I was left locked in the bowels of the station for well over half a day before the good ol’ boys finally came to let me out. I AM A DOCTOR OF JOURNALISM GOD DAMN IT. IS THIS HOW OUR CITIES POLICE TREATS THE PRESS?

It seems these cops only come running when there’s word of a potential sum of money to be seized or a damn bonus to be snagged as a result of a successful drug bust. Lets just say money really is the best way to these piggies hearts. 

As always, the story is developing and Ill be posting updates on twitter whenever I know more. Keep your selves and more importantly your wallets safe tonight Los Santos. 

Your friend,

R.