FBI Agent Involved with the Mexican Cartel - Angelica Robles Tells Her Story

Added: Oct 16, 2023

Robles grew up in Chicago in an underserved community called Cicero, which was known for its high crime rates and gang activity. She was raised in a Mexican neighborhood and was determined to succeed due to her parents' immigrant background. Robles excelled academically and was involved in sports, which kept her away from the streets and focused on her education.

After graduating from college with a degree in forensic psychology and chemistry, Robles pursued a career in law enforcement. She joined the FBI and worked as an investigator for 16 years. During her time with the FBI, she encountered various criminals, including murderers, drug dealers, and terrorists. Robles became skilled at interrogating these individuals and learned to detach herself emotionally during the process.

One of the most impactful cases Robles worked on was the murder of a friend's sister by the Mexican cartel. This incident motivated her to join the government and understand the motivations behind such heinous crimes. She delved into the psychology of criminals and sought to uncover the reasons behind their actions.

Robles discusses her experiences interrogating criminals, including serial killers and child predators. She explains that many of these individuals had a history of childhood trauma, which contributed to their criminal behavior. She also mentions that she never cried during interrogations but would sometimes cry afterward due to the emotional toll of hearing such disturbing stories.

The podcast explores the prevalence of psychopathy and sociopathy among criminals. Robles explains that childhood trauma is often a common factor in the development of these disorders. She also discusses the disturbing rise in child trafficking and the exploitation of children for various vices, including sex and organ trafficking.

Robles shares her tactics for interrogating criminals, emphasizing the importance of building trust and comfort with the individual. She often used her language skills, particularly Spanish, to connect with Mexican drug dealers and gain their trust. She also mentions that she could often sense when someone was lying or hiding something based on their body language and behavior.

The podcast delves into the darker aspects of Robles' career, including the dangers she faced while working undercover. She recounts instances where she had guns pointed at her and the constant threat of violence. Despite the risks, Robles remained committed to her work and sought to make a difference in the fight against crime.

After leaving full-time work with the FBI in 2013, Robles continued to work as a contractor for various government agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security. However, she faced challenges after publishing her book, as she was blacklisted by the Department of Defense. Despite this setback, her book became a bestseller, and she later signed a deal to turn it into a Hollywood movie.

Robles also discusses her personal life, including her marriage to a man who was later revealed to be involved with the Mexican cartel. She shares the shock and betrayal she felt upon discovering his true identity and the difficult decision she had to make to report him to the government. Robles emphasizes the importance of prioritizing her career and the safety of her children over her relationship.

Robles continues by describing how the process of buying buildings in Houston is often celebrated with extravagant parties, including drug use and visits to strip clubs. She emphasizes that drug trafficking is not just about moving drugs across the border, but it is a complex empire connected to human trafficking, business, and corrupt government officials. She believes that everyone has the potential to kill if necessary, as she has witnessed seemingly harmless individuals involved in criminal activities.

The conversation then shifts to the topic of human trafficking, particularly in Houston. Robles reveals that she was transferred to Houston in 2008 to work on human trafficking cases, which she initially did not realize was a prevalent issue in the city. She describes the severity of the problem, explaining that children are being trafficked and abused in bars and other locations, with drunk men selecting them for exploitation. Robles highlights the challenges of investigating these cases, as they require extensive evidence collection and strategic planning to ensure the maximum number of perpetrators can be brought to justice.

Robles also discusses the presence of rogue agents working with cartels and being paid off. She mentions that she worked in the wire room, where she listened to intercepted calls, and witnessed the dangerous and unpredictable nature of the work. She shares an anecdote about being in the DEA elevator when the news of El Chapo's extradition to Houston broke, highlighting the constant threat and escape attempts associated with high-profile cartel members.

The conversation then turns to Robles' book, "Through These Brown Eyes," which she describes as her life story told from her perspective. She explains that the book covers her childhood trauma, her decision to work for the government, and the subsequent traumas she experienced. Robles reveals that the book ultimately led to the unraveling of her marriage, as she discovered her husband's involvement with the Mexican cartel. She describes the shock and devastation she felt upon learning the truth, but also acknowledges that it ultimately led to positive changes in her life.

Robles discusses the polygraph tests she had to undergo as part of her work for the government, which aimed to ensure she was not involved in criminal activities. She explains the questions asked during these tests and the potential consequences of being implicated in illegal activities. She also reveals that her husband denied any involvement with the cartel, despite the evidence presented in her book.

The conversation then delves into the film adaptation of Robles' book, titled "Veritas." She explains that the film is being produced by Gold Tree Films, and she has been named the executive producer. Robles shares her involvement in the creative process and her excitement about the project. She also mentions that she has been approached for two documentaries and has received interest in purchasing the intellectual property for her second book.

Robles discusses the challenges she faced after the release of her book, including concerns about her safety. However, she believes that the cartel would not target her because it would draw unnecessary attention to their operations. She also talks about the importance of forgiveness in her life and how it has helped her move forward and rebuild her life.

The conversation touches on various other topics, including the prevalence of drug addiction, the prison system in America, racism, and the importance of mental health. Robles expresses her belief that addiction and crime will always exist as long as there is money involved and people in pain. She also discusses the issue of homelessness in America, particularly in California, and the challenges faced by individuals in this situation.

According to Robles, many individuals involved in criminal activities, including the cartel, are motivated by money. However, she believes that some of them can change and be rehabilitated. Leaving a gang or the cartel is extremely challenging, with only two ways out: death or entering the Witness Protection Program.

The conversation then shifts to the topic of trust and how people can be deceived, even those who are intelligent and think they are strong. Robles emphasizes that everyone is vulnerable to being taken advantage of, regardless of their intelligence or strength. She believes that everything in life is either a lesson or a blessing and that laughter is the best medicine.

Robles reflects on her own experiences and how she ended up marrying into the cartel as an undercover agent. She finds it both funny and ironic that she, a world-class interrogator, was deceived. She acknowledges that anyone can be fooled, no matter how smart or strong they think they are.

The discussion then turns to the impact of Robles's actions on her children. She expresses concern about how they will perceive her choices and the potential damage it may cause. She has her children in therapy to help them process their emotions and address any questions they may have about their father's involvement in criminal activities.

They go on to discuss the possibility that Robles's husband may not have fully considered the long-term effects of his actions on their children. They speculate that he may have been consumed by the present moment and the fear of being discovered. However, they also acknowledge that men often don't think about the consequences of their actions.

Despite the challenges and consequences, Robles remains optimistic about the future. She is excited about the opportunities that have come her way, such as becoming an executive producer and being involved in other projects. She encourages others to see life's challenges as opportunities for growth and to never give up on recreating themselves.

The podcast concludes with a discussion about the importance of processing trauma and seeking help. Angelica advises those dealing with trauma to talk to someone, whether it be a therapist or a trusted individual who can listen and provide support. She emphasizes the need to process and confront trauma in order to heal and move forward.