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The Brass Wall: The Betrayal of Undercover Detective #4126
"A modern-day Serpico."- Entertainment Weekly (one of the 10 best books of 2003-nonfiction)In 1993, Vincent Armanti, Undercover Detective #4126, agreed to infiltrate the branch of the Luchese family responsible for the homicide of a beloved fireman. Already a legend for his past undercover work, Armanti transformed himself into Vinnie "Blue Eyes" Penisi-a veteran hood with an icy stare. Then he found out that the wiseguys had access to classified police information. When the leak was revealed to be the son of the commander of NYPD's Internal Affairs Bureau, IAB detectives compromised Armanti again and again to protect the powerful man's son. But Armanti stayed on the job, even when it was clear his life was in danger.Here, in all his humanity, is an unforgettable hero, battling for his honor and survival. Here, with all its compromises, is the city of New York. Here is a remarkable story that ranks with the great police classics.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 26, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
May 2, 2025
This was a well researched and gripping story of betrayal and corruption in the largest police department in the world.
Sadly I knew many of the bosses named in this expose. I felt badly for the undercover officer who was put in such a dangerous position by those bosses who should have provided him with assistance rather than turn teir backs. As a former commander who ran multiple undercover operations against organized criminals I would have been the first supervisor to come to his defense. I highly recommend this book which is hard to put down once you start reading it.
Sadly I knew many of the bosses named in this expose. I felt badly for the undercover officer who was put in such a dangerous position by those bosses who should have provided him with assistance rather than turn teir backs. As a former commander who ran multiple undercover operations against organized criminals I would have been the first supervisor to come to his defense. I highly recommend this book which is hard to put down once you start reading it.
July 10, 2014
It is a great true story,. You can tell the writer has a great respect for the main character and those who are real "heroes". Story about corruption and the protection of those who vowed to protect the public they serve, but protected their own unlawful interests instead. Jeopardizing a devoted and skilled undercover's life in the process. The writer has a way with his rhythm that makes you feel he's telling you you this tale in your living room. Very interesting with a great flow.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews