Criminal Attorney: Episode 7 - Origin Story Run from the Boogeyman

Host: Matthew Nelson
Reporter: Rich Breton
Release Date: November 4, 2024

1. Introduction

In the seventh episode of Criminal Attorney, titled "Origin Story Run from the Boogeyman," host Matthew Nelson delves into the complex and enigmatic life of Paul Bergrin, a renowned criminal defense attorney from Newark, New Jersey. The episode unravels Paul's journey from a heroic lifeguard friend to a suspect embroiled in criminal activities, exploring the factors that may have led to his downfall.

2. Early Life and Friendship with Rich Breton

The episode opens with a nostalgic recount of Paul Bergrin's early life, highlighting his deep-rooted friendship with Rich Breton.

At [00:14], Matthew Nelson introduces Rich Breton, who shares a pivotal childhood memory:

Rich Breton [00:45]: "So we swam over there, hung out with them for a while, shot some pool, ate some food, and then had to swim back."

This memory underscores Paul’s heroic nature when he saves Rich from drowning:

Rich Breton [01:40]: "You know, I thought I was drowning, but he was. He saved me, so he saved my life that day."

The strong bond between Rich and Paul is further emphasized:

Rich Breton [02:18]: "If you wanted to pick and describe what you wanted your kid to be like when they were teenagers, you would describe Paul."

3. Family Background and Father's Influence

Paul's upbringing in Far Rockaway, Queens during the 1950s and 60s is explored, revealing a tumultuous family environment. His father, Bertram Bergrin, was a New York City police patrol officer whose behavior left a lasting impact on Paul.

Rich recounts Paul's childhood experiences:

Rich Breton [05:23]: "We used to hang out also a lot at Beechninth Street... We all were very close."

However, beneath the surface, there were signs of corruption and strictness:

Rich Breton [07:41]: "His dad had like 100 different bank books back when you had bank books... a closet full of appliances."

This hinted at possible illicit activities:

Rich Breton [08:05]: "I think it was more money than a policeman would make... I’m guessing he got kickbacks, but I don't know."

Paul’s relationship with his father was fraught with abuse and neglect:

Rich Breton [09:42]: "I don't see much affection between Paul's dad and any of the family members."

Despite this, Paul initially intended to follow in his father's footsteps by passing the police entrance exam but was influenced by his wife, Barbara, to pursue a more prestigious career in law.

4. Career Shift to Criminal Defense

Paul's transition from the Essex County Prosecutor's office to becoming a criminal defense attorney marked a significant turning point in his career. His early experiences in the prosecutor’s office exposed him to unethical practices:

Matthew Nelson [03:24]: "He was writing that while in prison awaiting trial. He names names."

This revelation in his memoir hinted at the beginning of his conflict with the government.

Additionally, Paul's shift was influenced by his exposure to colleagues like Richard "Ritchie" Roberts, a former detective who also transitioned to defense law.

5. Relationships with Peers and Clients

Paul’s courtroom prowess and charismatic personality made him a central figure in Newark’s legal and social circles. His friendship with Ritchie Roberts is particularly notable:

Ritchie Roberts [12:09]: "He understood the law. His style in the courtroom... he got acquittal after acquittal."

Paul’s reputation extended beyond the courtroom, as he mingled with both criminals and law enforcement:

Ritchie Roberts [16:11]: "Paul's clients, of course, included drug kingpins who stood around at the same party as Paul's friends from law enforcement."

These minglings fostered an environment where Paul was seen as a bridge between different worlds, often leading to ethical gray areas.

6. Emerging Corruption and Downfall

As Paul's legend grew, so did the suspicions surrounding his practices. His memoir, received clandestinely by Rich, painted a picture of Paul as an underdog fighting against powerful government forces:

Matthew Nelson [03:49]: "He makes the connections that that's why they're going after him."

However, the reality hinted at deeper corruption:

Ritchie Roberts [16:30]: "Paul was known in Newark. He had a reputation of being there for those who wouldn't otherwise be able to afford a high-powered attorney."

Accusations against Paul included involvement in "New York Confidential," cartel connections, and witness tampering, ultimately leading to his arrest.

7. Perspectives on Paul's Behavior

Colleagues and associates offer varying interpretations of Paul's actions:

• Ritchie Roberts views Paul as inherently corrupt:

  Ritchie Roberts [19:32]: "There was something in him. And maybe it was too easy for him to get away with some of the things he was getting away with."

• John Edwards Tiffany suggests Paul might have inherent sociopathic tendencies:

  John Edwards Tiffany [21:50]: "He probably had sociopathic tendencies."

• Henry Klingaman presents a more nuanced view, portraying Paul as a tragic figure:

  Henry Klingaman [22:11]: "Paul was clearly in control of his faculties at all times. He was one of these tragic figures that perhaps if he had stayed on the right side of the law, would have nonetheless been very successful."

These perspectives highlight the complexity of Paul’s character, leaving listeners to ponder whether his descent was a product of his environment or inherent personality traits.

8. Conclusion

Paul Bergrin's story embodies the intricate interplay between personal history, professional ethics, and environmental influences. From his heroic act of saving a friend to his alleged criminal activities, Paul's life serves as a cautionary tale about the corrupting influence of power and ambition within the legal system. The episode concludes by reflecting on the failure of the justice system to contain one of its own, ultimately questioning the very foundations of legality and morality that Paul once upheld.

Notable Quotes:

• Rich Breton [01:40]: "You know, I thought I was drowning, but he was. He saved me, so he saved my life that day."

• Ritchie Roberts [16:30]: "Paul was known in Newark. He had a reputation of being there for those who wouldn't otherwise be able to afford a high-powered attorney."

• Henry Klingaman [22:11]: "Paul was clearly in control of his faculties at all times. He was one of these tragic figures that perhaps if he had stayed on the right side of the law, would have nonetheless been very successful."

This episode of Criminal Attorney provides a comprehensive look into the enigmatic life of Paul Bergrin, blending personal anecdotes with investigative reporting to paint a vivid picture of a man who once stood as a pillar of the community but ultimately fell from grace amidst allegations of deep-seated corruption.