Frank Matthews (drug trafficker)

Frank Matthews NYPD mugshot

Frank Matthews (born February 13, 1944; disappeared July 2, 1973) was an American drug trafficker who operated in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He is often compared to other notable figures in the drug trade such as Frank Lucas and Leroy "Nicky" Barnes. Matthews was known for his flamboyant lifestyle, his ability to evade law enforcement, and his mysterious disappearance, which has led to various theories about his fate.

Early Life

Little is known about Matthews' early life. He was born in Durham, North Carolina, and is believed to have moved to New York City in the mid-1960s. It was in New York that Matthews began his career in the illegal drug trade, initially starting with small-time operations.

Rise to Power

Matthews quickly rose through the ranks due to his charisma, intelligence, and ruthless approach to the business. By the late 1960s, he had established a significant drug distribution network that spanned across many states in the USA, including New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and even reaching as far as California. His network was also said to have international connections, importing large quantities of heroin and cocaine from countries such as France and Venezuela.

Matthews was known for his lavish lifestyle, often seen wearing expensive suits and driving luxury cars. He owned several properties across the United States, which were used as bases for his operations. Despite his high profile, Matthews managed to avoid significant jail time through a combination of legal technicalities, bribes, and intimidation of witnesses.

Disappearance

On July 2, 1973, Frank Matthews disappeared without a trace. At the time of his disappearance, he was facing federal drug charges and was out on bail. He had told acquaintances that he was planning to flee the country, but it is unclear if he succeeded. Over the years, there have been numerous theories about his fate, including that he was killed by rivals, that he successfully escaped to a foreign country, or that he entered witness protection, although the latter is widely considered unlikely.

Legacy

The disappearance of Frank Matthews has become one of the most enduring mysteries in the history of American organized crime. He left behind a vast empire that quickly crumbled without his leadership. The story of his life and disappearance has been the subject of various books, documentaries, and articles, contributing to the legend of the man who was once known as the "Ghost of the Drug World."

See Also

• Organized crime in the United States
• Witness protection program
• Drug enforcement in the United States