Introduction
Demetrius Flenory Jr. is a name that strikes fear and fascination into the hearts and minds of those who have followed the drug trade in the United States over the past few decades. Born into a family of drug dealers and hustlers, Flenory rose to power in the 1990s as the leader of the notorious Black Mafia Family (BMF), a cocaine trafficking organization that dominated the drug trade in the Midwest and Southeast.
Flenory’s story is one of ambition, ruthlessness, and ultimately downfall, as he was brought down by a joint investigation by federal and state law enforcement agencies that resulted in his arrest and conviction in 2007. Despite serving a lengthy prison sentence, Flenory has remained a subject of fascination for true crime enthusiasts and hip-hop fans, who have immortalized him in music and pop culture.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the life, career, and controversies surrounding Demetrius Flenory Jr.
Early Life and Background
Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory Jr. was born on June 21, 1968, in Detroit, Michigan. He was the second of three children born to Demetrius Flenory Sr. and Gaye Taylor. Flenory Sr. was a drug dealer and hustler who operated in the Detroit area, and he raised his son to follow in his footsteps.
Flenory Jr. grew up in a world of violence and crime, and he was exposed to the drug trade at a young age. His father was a mentor and role model to him, and he quickly learned the ins and outs of the business. By the time he was a teenager, Flenory Jr. was already involved in drug trafficking, and he had a reputation as a ruthless and ambitious young man.
Rise to Power in the Drug Trade
In the 1980s, Flenory Jr. began to make a name for himself in the Detroit drug trade. He quickly became known for his business acumen and his ability to outmaneuver his rivals. He also developed a reputation for his willingness to use violence to protect his interests, and he was soon feared by many in the Detroit underworld.
By the early 1990s, Flenory Jr. had expanded his operations beyond Detroit and had begun to build a nationwide network of drug dealers and suppliers. He had also developed close ties to several high-profile rappers, including Jeezy, Rick Ross, and T.I., who helped to popularize the BMF brand and its flashy, extravagant lifestyle.
The Black Mafia Family
In 1990, Flenory Jr. and his brother, Terry “Southwest T” Flenory, founded the Black Mafia Family, which quickly became one of the most powerful and successful drug trafficking organizations in the country. The BMF operated a sophisticated and highly profitable cocaine trafficking operation that spanned several states, including Michigan, Georgia, California, and Texas.
The BMF was known for its extravagant spending and flashy lifestyle, which included expensive cars, jewelry, and parties.