Premium Episode 67 - José Vigoa pt. 2, or, the World is Yours
May 26, 2024
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Former drug kingpin José Vigoa discusses his unique operation in Las Vegas, from drug trafficking to sophisticated heists. The podcast delves into his escape from Cuba, criminal transformation, and detailed accounts of his daring robberies, including the Desert Inn heist. Also explored are the legal verdict, sentencing, and the power of clothing in shaping mindset.
Jose Vigoa built a unique drug trafficking operation with sophisticated money laundering methods.
Vigoa's heist crew showcased meticulous planning in high-stake robberies, evading law enforcement with strategic tactics.
Deep dives
Jose Vigoa's Escape from Cuba and Arrival in America
Jose Vigoa recounts his escape from Cuba during the Mariela Boat Lift, where he had to cut a tow line to save his own ship, leaving others in danger. After landing in Key West, he moved to Fort McCoy in Wisconsin, where law and order were nonexistent, and survival meant adapting to the harsh environment.
Adapting to Life in the U.S. and Transition to Criminal Activities
In Las Vegas, Vigoa marveled at American grocery stores and started as a busboy, eventually progressing to working at a casino. The resentment towards casino owners during a worker strike fueled his transition to crime. Facing financial struggles, he turned to selling drugs, marking the beginning of his criminal activities.
Success in Drug Trafficking and Transition to Heists
Vigoa's drug trafficking operation thrived with sophisticated methods of money laundering and a focus on intelligence and communication systems. Switching to a heist operation, Vigoa established strict rules, conducted extensive surveillance of hotels and banks, and executed successful high-stake heists, leading to significant financial gains.
Heightened Robbery Operations and Run-Ins with Law Enforcement
Vigoa's crew conducted daring heists, with meticulously planned precision timing, showcasing their nerve for armed confrontations. Their successful string of robberies, equipment acquisitions, and strategic tactics, including stealing getaway cars, kept them ahead of law enforcement. Despite close encounters with authorities, Vigoa's heist crew continued to evolve and expand their criminal operations.
I discuss how José Vigoa became a drug kingpin in Las Vegas. I get into some of the particulars on why he ran a very unique, specialized operation, and the anomalous way in which he got busted. Then, the heist spree begins, culminating with the Mandalay Bay job.
episode art by Robert Voyvodich @r.voy__
Songs:
Ten Crack Commandments instrumental
Scrap Yard by Tangerine Dream
Assault on Precinct 13 theme by John Carpenter
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