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Danger Road: A true crime story of murder and redemption
Liberty Press announces the release of Danger Road: A true crime story of murder and redemption, by criminal defense lawyer and author John P. Contini. Contini was the trial lawyer who defended Gilbert Fernandez, Jr., the former Miami-Dade police officer once named, Miamis Meanest Cop. Danger Road is the riveting courtroom drama that recreates the true crime story of three drug dealers who were brutally murdered in 1983 on a lonely stretch of dirt road - ironically named Danger Road, in the Florida Everglades. Each victim had hoped this final drug deal in Hollywood, Florida would be their big retirement score. Instead, the drug dealers allegedly found themselves at the end of a gun wielded by Metro Dade officer Gilbert Fernandez, Jr., and eventually along Danger Road in Miamis Everglades. Fernandez, formerly known as a Mr. Florida bodybuilding champion, kick boxing champion and black-belt karate instructor, was also alleged to be the muscle for the mob in South Florida. He and his crew were not there to arrest the drug dealers that night, according to police - they were there to kill them and steal their nine kilos of cocaine.
274 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2006
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
April 26, 2023
"Danger Road: A True Crime Story of Murder and Redemption" by John Contini of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a gripping and thought-provoking account of a heinous crime and its aftermath. Contini presents the reader with a unique perspective, as he not only served as the defense attorney for the perpetrator but also as a mentor to the victim's family.
Contini's writing is compelling, and he weaves together the complex and emotionally charged story with skill and sensitivity. He paints a vivid picture of the events leading up to the crime, the crime itself, and the subsequent trial and appeals process. Contini's attention to detail, coupled with his legal expertise, allows the reader to gain a deep understanding of the case and the individuals involved.
What sets "Danger Road" apart from other true crime accounts is Contini's emphasis on redemption. While the crime itself is brutal and senseless, Contini focuses on the transformation of the perpetrator, a young man who was deeply troubled and had a history of mental illness. Through his interactions with the perpetrator and the victim's family, Contini illustrates how compassion and forgiveness can lead to healing and growth.
Contini's writing is not without flaws, however. At times, the narrative can become bogged down in legal jargon and details that may be difficult for non-legal professionals to follow. Additionally, while Contini's focus on redemption is admirable, some readers may find it difficult to reconcile with the severity of the crime.
Overall, "Danger Road" is a well-crafted and thought-provoking read that will leave readers with a deeper understanding of the complexities of the criminal justice system and the human capacity for growth and redemption. Contini's insights into the legal system and his personal interactions with the individuals involved make for a unique and engaging read. While the narrative may be challenging at times, the ultimate message of compassion and forgiveness is a powerful one that will resonate with readers long after they have finished the book.
Contini's writing is compelling, and he weaves together the complex and emotionally charged story with skill and sensitivity. He paints a vivid picture of the events leading up to the crime, the crime itself, and the subsequent trial and appeals process. Contini's attention to detail, coupled with his legal expertise, allows the reader to gain a deep understanding of the case and the individuals involved.
What sets "Danger Road" apart from other true crime accounts is Contini's emphasis on redemption. While the crime itself is brutal and senseless, Contini focuses on the transformation of the perpetrator, a young man who was deeply troubled and had a history of mental illness. Through his interactions with the perpetrator and the victim's family, Contini illustrates how compassion and forgiveness can lead to healing and growth.
Contini's writing is not without flaws, however. At times, the narrative can become bogged down in legal jargon and details that may be difficult for non-legal professionals to follow. Additionally, while Contini's focus on redemption is admirable, some readers may find it difficult to reconcile with the severity of the crime.
Overall, "Danger Road" is a well-crafted and thought-provoking read that will leave readers with a deeper understanding of the complexities of the criminal justice system and the human capacity for growth and redemption. Contini's insights into the legal system and his personal interactions with the individuals involved make for a unique and engaging read. While the narrative may be challenging at times, the ultimate message of compassion and forgiveness is a powerful one that will resonate with readers long after they have finished the book.
December 21, 2008
Much of John's book is too close to home for me, and for many. Certainly you get the feeling of a certain naivete that bungles through some pretty scary events with drug lords and thugs, but when mixed with sincerity and growing maturity one gets a delight with the vicarious experience of being there - fortunately at a safe distance.
April 18, 2022
very good if you what a good crime book.Is about drug deals
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews