Camp Gagnon: Chinese Gangster on Satanic Rituals, Becoming a Cop, and NYC in the 90s

Host: Mark Gagnon
Guest: Mike Moy
Release Date: June 19, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of Camp Gagnon, host Mark Gagnon sits down with Mike Moy, a man whose life journey traverses the murky waters of Chinatown’s underworld and the disciplined corridors of the NYPD. Moy shares his firsthand experiences, shedding light on Chinese gang dynamics, initiation rituals, and his transformation from a gang member to a decorated detective.

Early Life and Gang Involvement

Mike Moy was born and raised in New York City’s Chinatown, where his teenage years were marked by involvement with the Fuch Ching gang. This period was pivotal, shaping his understanding of both the criminal world and the protective allure gangs offered to marginalized youth.

"I was the only Asian kid in my class. Throughout those years, especially during the 70s and 80s, it wasn't easy." (18:05)

Initiation Rituals

Moy delves into the elaborate initiation rituals required to join the Fuch Ching gang. These ceremonies were more than mere rites of passage; they were a testament to loyalty and respect within the gang hierarchy.

"We gave the incense to General Kwan, poured the white wine on the floor, and mixed our blood with the wine. It was a solemn honor." (04:52)

He contrasts the local Chinatown gangs with the more structured Triads based in Hong Kong, highlighting the differences in their operational methods and cultural codes.

Gang Dynamics in Chinatown

The conversation explores the intricate relationship between local gangs and the Tongs—the community organizations that acted as intermediaries between the gangs and legitimate businesses. Moy explains how the Tongs facilitated connections with politicians and managed community affairs, effectively serving as a bridge between criminal activities and the broader Chinese-American community.

"The Tongs are like your local government for Chinese-speaking people in a city." (08:30)

Moy also discusses the primary criminal activities driven by these gangs, such as gambling operations, extortion, and the counterfeit goods trade, emphasizing how these illicit enterprises were deeply woven into the community’s fabric.

Transition to the NYPD

Driven by personal reflections and a desire for change, Moy sought to leave his life within the gangs. Influenced by a fellow officer’s act of forgiveness, he reconsidered his path and decided to pursue a career in law enforcement. His transition from "bad to blue" marked a significant turning point in his life.

"I started to think maybe doing the right thing is a good thing because I've been doing all these bad things." (87:00)

Moy details the rigorous process of joining the NYPD, including background checks that surprisingly revealed nothing on paper despite his past.

Experiences as a Detective

As a detective in the NYPD, Moy applied his deep understanding of criminal mindsets to his investigations. His unique background provided him with insights that many of his peers lacked, allowing him to navigate complex cases with a nuanced perspective.

"I understand their mindset. So when I make the arrest, I know their mindset." (115:49)

Moy recounts various cases, including high-stakes drug busts and intricate gang-related crimes, illustrating the challenges and dangers he faced on the force.

Cultural Insights and Respect

A recurring theme in Moy’s narrative is the importance of respect within gangster culture. He explains how cultural values like loyalty and face play crucial roles in maintaining order and enforcing codes of conduct among gang members.

"Respect is a big thing. You respect us, we respect you." (75:30)

Moy contrasts these values with those of other gangs, highlighting the patience and long-term strategies employed by Chinese gangs in seeking revenge and maintaining their reputations.

Personal Reflections and Challenges

Moy reflects on the psychological toll of his dual life, grappling with his past actions and his role within the police force. The emotional weight of transitioning from a gang member to a detective is evident as he shares personal stories that underscore his internal conflict and drive for redemption.

"I did a lot of self-reflection. That's another reason why I didn't get into hard drugs." (87:00)

Legal Battles and Current Endeavors

Post-retirement, Moy has taken legal actions against the NYPD, alleging misconduct and corruption within the force. He discusses the slow wheels of justice and the challenges faced in seeking accountability from higher-ups who betrayed him.

"These are the guys that handled my case and did this to me." (128:50)

Additionally, Moy has authored a book titled "Bad to Blue," which chronicles his life story, offering an insider’s perspective on Chinatown’s gang history and his journey within law enforcement.

"If you've made it to the end of this episode, that's because you rock with us. And Mike Moy's 'Bad to Blue' provides a detailed account of these untold stories." (132:20)

UFO Encounters and Human Fascinations

In an unexpected turn, Moy shares anecdotes from his years in the NYPD where fellow officers reported unexplained UFO sightings. These tales add an intriguing layer to his narrative, blending the gritty realities of gang life with the mysterious allure of the unknown.

"One guy saw an object as big as a football field hovering in the sky and just shot off instantly without a sound." (123:28)

Conclusion

Mike Moy's story is a remarkable testament to personal transformation and the complexities of identity within immigrant communities. From the depths of Chinatown’s gang life to the structured environment of the NYPD, Moy's experiences offer invaluable insights into the cultural and social dynamics that shape both criminal organizations and law enforcement.

For those interested in delving deeper into Moy's life and the untold stories of Chinatown’s past, his book "Bad to Blue" is available on Amazon, providing a comprehensive exploration of his journey and the intricate tapestry of New York City's underbelly during the 70s, 80s, and 90s.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• 04:52 Mike Moy: "We gave the incense to General Kwan, poured the white wine on the floor, and mixed our blood with the wine. It was a solemn honor."
• 08:30 Mike Moy: "The Tongs are like your local government for Chinese-speaking people in a city."
• 18:05 Mike Moy: "I was the only Asian kid in my class. Throughout those years, especially during the 70s and 80s, it wasn't easy."
• 75:30 Mike Moy: "Respect is a big thing. You respect us, we respect you."
• 87:00 Mike Moy: "I started to think maybe doing the right thing is a good thing because I've been doing all these bad things."
• 115:49 Mike Moy: "I understand their mindset. So when I make the arrest, I know their mindset."
• 123:28 Mike Moy: "One guy saw an object as big as a football field hovering in the sky and just shot off instantly without a sound."

This summary aims to provide an insightful overview of Mike Moy's profound experiences, capturing the essence of his conversation with Mark Gagnon on Camp Gagnon. For those intrigued by the intersection of criminal underworlds and law enforcement, this episode offers a riveting exploration of loyalty, transformation, and the enduring quest for justice.