Danger Road: A True Crime Story of Murder and Redemption

by John P. Contini

Danger Road chronicles the incredible true story of three drug dealers who were brutally murdered in 1983 on Danger Road in the Florida Everglades. Lured into a phony drug deal each victim hoped would be his big retirement score, they allegedly found themselves at the business end of a gun wielded by a Miami-Dade police officer. But police and prosecutors say Officer Gilbert Fernandez, Jr. and his crew weren't there to arrest the drug dealers. They were there to execute them and steal their eight kilos of cocaine. The story details the transformation of Fernandez, a former Mr. Florida bodybuilding champion and black-belt karate instructor, who by many accounts turned his life around during the intervening years between the 1983 murders and his triple-murder indictment in 1990. The man once named " Miami 's Meanest Cop" no longer abused and intimidated detainees like he did when he was a police officer; he had become a loving father who lived to convert people to his newfound faith in Christianity. In spite of this radical transformation, Fernandez found himself on trial for his life in 1991. Danger Road is the story of that trial, told by John P. Contini, the Fort Lauderdale Criminal Lawyer who represented him. Contini gives readers a unique insider perspective on the mindsets of both a defense attorney in a capital murder case and a defendant who had become a completely different person by the time of his trial. Danger Road also reveals details about the influence of the media on the trial, and the biased judge and prosecutors who were hell-bent to send Fernandez to the chair. By ripping the lid off the behind-the-scenes machinations of our legal system, one of the author's goals was to cause readers to take another look at the way justice is dispensed in our society.

254 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2006

Reviews

[William E. Lewis Jr. · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Danger Road: A True Crime Story of Murder and Redemption" by John Contini of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a gripping and thought-provoking account of a heinous crime and its aftermath. Contini presents the reader with a unique perspective, as he not only served as the defense attorney for the perpetrator but also as a mentor to the victim's family.

Contini's writing is compelling, and he weaves together the complex and emotionally charged story with skill and sensitivity. He paints a vivid picture of the events leading up to the crime, the crime itself, and the subsequent trial and appeals process. Contini's attention to detail, coupled with his legal expertise, allows the reader to gain a deep understanding of the case and the individuals involved.

What sets "Danger Road" apart from other true crime accounts is Contini's emphasis on redemption. While the crime itself is brutal and senseless, Contini focuses on the transformation of the perpetrator, a young man who was deeply troubled and had a history of mental illness. Through his interactions with the perpetrator and the victim's family, Contini illustrates how compassion and forgiveness can lead to healing and growth.

Contini's writing is not without flaws, however. At times, the narrative can become bogged down in legal jargon and details that may be difficult for non-legal professionals to follow. Additionally, while Contini's focus on redemption is admirable, some readers may find it difficult to reconcile with the severity of the crime.

Overall, "Danger Road" is a well-crafted and thought-provoking read that will leave readers with a deeper understanding of the complexities of the criminal justice system and the human capacity for growth and redemption. Contini's insights into the legal system and his personal interactions with the individuals involved make for a unique and engaging read. While the narrative may be challenging at times, the ultimate message of compassion and forgiveness is a powerful one that will resonate with readers long after they have finished the book.

[Mac Mcconnell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Much of John's book is too close to home for me, and for many. Certainly you get the feeling of a certain naivete that bungles through some pretty scary events with drug lords and thugs, but when mixed with sincerity and growing maturity one gets a delight with the vicarious experience of being there - fortunately at a safe distance.

[Betty Stoneking · Rating 5 out of 5]

very good if you what a good crime book.Is about drug deals