Gary Webb

Gary Stephen Webb, a renowned American investigative journalist, left an indelible mark on the world of journalism with his groundbreaking series, "Dark Alliance", which made its debut in The Mercury News in 1996. This remarkable series delved into the murky origins of the crack cocaine trade in Los Angeles, shedding light on a complex web of events that had far-reaching consequences. Webb's meticulous research and investigative prowess revealed a shocking truth: that members of the anti-communist Contra rebels in Nicaragua played a pivotal role in creating the crack cocaine trade, utilizing the lucrative profits from cocaine sales to fund their struggle against the communist government. Furthermore, his findings suggested that the Contras may have operated with the tacit knowledge and protection of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA),adding a layer of complexity to an already convoluted narrative.