William Ramsey Investigates Empire City Under Siege: Three Decades of New York FBI Field Office...with Author Craig McGuire.
Dec 4, 2025
Craig McGuire, an accomplished author and journalist known for his true crime works, discusses his new book on the intense history of the New York FBI field office. He shares Anthony Nelson's inspiring journey from Red Hook to becoming a notable FBI agent. The conversation dives into gripping tales, like the high-stakes Bronfman kidnapping and the infamous Dog Day Afternoon bank heist. Craig also highlights the technological advances that shaped investigations and the sacrifices made by law enforcement throughout the years.
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Early Inspiration From J. Edgar Hoover
- Anthony Nelson received a signed letter from J. Edgar Hoover after writing to the FBI as a boy, which inspired his career path.
- That early recognition cemented his determination to join the Bureau despite its steep entry requirements.
Centralized Power Against Citywide Crime
- The FBI's strength grew from centralizing multi-jurisdictional expertise and specialized forensics.
- That centralized capability made the Bureau uniquely effective against evolving organized crime and time-sensitive crises.
Behind The Bronfman Kidnapping
- Anthony worked communications on the Bronfman kidnapping, which included a $4.6 million ransom drop and eventual rescue.
- The case combined urgent field coordination, dramatic forensic leads, and intense media attention.
