Under Too Long: Bombs, Drugs, Untaxed Alcohol, Terrorism, And The Undercover Agents Who Brought It All Down

by Billy The Liquor Guy

In 2007, agents of the New York State Petroleum, Alcohol, and Tobacco Bureau (PATB) seized over half a million dollars in untaxed alcohol, drugs, and guns. This takedown, the largest in New York history, led to 87 arrests, the recovery of an unprecedented quantity of cocaine, crack, and marijuana, and captured the attention of law enforcement agencies all around the world. Under Too Long is the story of the PATB undercover team that led this investigation, as seen through the eyes of “Billy the Liquor Guy.” Billy’s twelve-year odyssey into the world of undercover operations led him to dine in the homes of the “bad guys,” buy bombs from a man in Yonkers, travel to Tunisia to find an informant, and be hired as a hit man. But his undercover life took an enormous toll on Billy and his family, almost destroying them both. The only thing he could rely upon to get him through were his confidence, his sense of humor, and his team. This story combines true life investigation, graphic behind-the-scenes scenarios, and a personal tale about what happens psychologically to an agent when he’s undercover too long.

300 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 30, 2020

Reviews

[M.E. Roche · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the action-packed story of undercover officers from multiple levels of government written from the standpoint of one officer who took on the daring job as he sought to deal with the aftermath of 9/11. "Billy the Liquor Guy"--the main character--is a likable guy who endears himself to his co-operatives and to the "bad guys", although not so much to his superiors. His early operations begin with alcohol and cigarettes, but he soon moves on to firearms, human trafficking, and bomb-making. By the end, it shows how all his efforts do take a toll on his mental health and family life. The writer also gives a lot of credit to the available support out there for those with PTSD. It is a great read!

[Peggy Labuz · Rating 4 out of 5]

fascinating true story of the escapades of an undercover operative. I learned a lot, very eye opening about law enforcement officers in NY and the east coast operations, and dangerous situations they become involved in. This would make a great series or movie on Amazon Prime or Netflix, some might not like the rough language but it seems true to the story.

[Loren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book and can't wait to meet the author at a book club meeting next month. I got a glimpse of some amazing undercover work and how playing it cool and being quick on your feet, literally as well as figuratively, was what kept the author alive and bagged him some big time criminals rings for New York State.

[Joseph HAGGERTY · Rating 5 out of 5]

The courageous story of an investigator who was born to be an undercover agent. As the title suggests his cases involved dangerous criminals. More that once he was put in harm's way, but was able to talk his way out. He became a legend within law enforcement, but it took a lot out of him.

[Marie Gondek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lots of intrigue. A great read!

This was very authentic and made one realize the danger every officer deals with during their service and the long term effects of all that stress!