Exclusive Interview with BMF Informant Tammy Cowins: The Truth Behind the Infamous Drug Cartel
Drug cartels have always been a subject of fascination, but what really goes on behind the scenes of a criminal organization? Tammy Cowins, a former informant for the Black Mafia Family (BMF), recently sat down for an exclusive interview to share her experiences working with one of America’s most notorious drug cartels. From her candid account, we learn just how deep the corruption runs and the immense toll it takes on those involved.
Background on the BMF
The Black Mafia Family was a drug cartel founded in Detroit, Michigan, in the late 1980s by brothers Demetrius and Terry Flenory. At its peak, the BMF had a presence in twenty-one states and was estimated to have made over $270 million in drug sales. The organization’s rise to power was marked by its flashy displays of wealth, including luxury cars, private jets, and extravagant parties. However, behind the scenes, the BMF was plagued with violence, corruption, and betrayal.
Tammy Cowins’ Role as an Informant
Tammy Cowins was recruited by the BMF as a bookkeeper in the early 2000s. Over time, she became disillusioned with the cartel’s illegal activities and turned to the authorities to help bring them down. Her cooperation led to the arrests of several key BMF members, including the Flenory brothers themselves. However, her actions came with a significant risk, and Cowins was forced to enter the witness protection program after receiving death threats from former BMF associates.
Insights into the BMF’s Inner Workings
During her interview, Cowins shared several insights into the workings of the BMF. One of the most notable was the organization’s strict code of silence, known as “the blue code.” Members who violated this code risked being ostracized or even killed, creating an environment of deep mistrust. Cowins also detailed the BMF’s use of violence to intimidate rivals, with hitmen being used to take out targets on several occasions.
The Personal Cost of Involvement
Finally, Cowins emphasized the immense personal cost of involvement with the BMF. Many of the cartel’s members were young men who grew up in poverty and turned to drug dealing as a means of escape. However, this choice came with a high price, as many members lost their lives or ended up imprisoned. Cowins herself received numerous death threats and had to leave behind everything she knew to enter witness protection.
Conclusion: A Stark Reminder of the Human Toll of the Drug Trade
Tammy Cowins’ interview provides a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a criminal organization. Her account sheds light on the immense corruption and violence that can be found in the drug trade, as well as the personal cost of involvement. While the BMF may be a particularly extreme example, it serves as a stark reminder of the human toll of the drug trade and the importance of fighting against it.