

432: Larry Lawton | From Jewel Thief to Honorary Cop Part One
Nov 17, 2020
Larry Lawton, a former jewel thief who spent over a decade in federal prison, now works to divert youth from crime through The Reality Check Program. He shares gripping tales of his early hustles and the shift to organized jewelry heists. Listeners learn about the meticulous strategies behind planning a heist and how he evaded detection afterward. Lawton also highlights the challenges those leaving prison face, emphasizing the need for societal reform to break the cycle of incarceration. This eye-opening discussion balances crime stories with insights on redemption.
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Early Hustles
- Larry Lawton made $125 a week at 12 years old through various hustles in 1972.
- This is equivalent to over $750 today, showcasing his early entrepreneurial spirit, albeit illegally.
First Heist
- Lawton's first jewelry store robbery was an insurance scam setup.
- The store owner wanted to keep the jewelry and insurance payout, showing Lawton's initial entry into the world of heists.
Quick Turnover
- Never steal anything you cannot quickly get rid of.
- Always have a plan for moving stolen goods immediately, reducing risk of getting caught.