Gone South Episode: S4|E14: La Barbie Release Date: January 15, 2025
Host: Jed Lipinski
Contributor: Skip Sewell
Introduction
In the fourteenth episode of Season 4, titled "La Barbie," Gone South takes listeners deep into the murky waters of international drug trafficking, focusing on one of the most intriguing figures in modern criminal history: Edgar Baldez Villareal, infamously known as "La Barbie." Hosted by Jed Lipinski and featuring insights from DEA agent Skip Sewell, this episode chronicles the relentless pursuit and eventual capture of a high-profile drug lord whose path from a middle-class Texan to a Mexican cartel kingpin encapsulates the complex dynamics of organized crime in the South.
The Rise and Fall of Richard Pena
The episode opens with a recap of Season 1, reminding listeners of Skip Sewell's involvement in the investigation of Margaret Coon's murder. However, the focus swiftly shifts to Skip's tenure with the DEA in the late 1990s, highlighting his pivotal role in bringing down Richard Pena, a Dominican-born drug kingpin whose violent rise mirrored the infamous Tony Montana from Scarface.
At [02:35], Jed Lipinski describes Pena's notoriety:
"We could literally attribute 100, if not more so shootings and killings to Pena and his and his gangs. He was a psychopath. He was a vicious killing machine."
Despite indicting Pena on multiple charges, Skip suspected that Pena's organization was merely the tip of the iceberg, responsible for making New Orleans the murder capital of America during that period.
The Emergence of Big Oz
Skip Sewell's investigation took an unexpected turn when an informant revealed the existence of an even more formidable drug dealer, nicknamed "Big Oz." Operating under the guise of a car repair shop in Claiborne Avenue, Big Oz was a significant player whose operations surpassed those of Pena. Jed Lipinski provides a vivid description at [04:28]:
"He was about 6 foot 6 and weighed 320, 330 pounds. But he was a mild-mannered, easygoing guy."
Skip's strategy involved turning a mid-level dealer, Dee, into an informant to infiltrate Big Oz's network. However, unforeseen complications arose when Dee mistakenly accepted $50,000 worth of marijuana instead of cocaine, jeopardizing the operation ([05:24] Skip Sewell).
Trail Leads to La Barbie
The arrest of Big Oz unveiled further connections to a mysterious supplier named Mike from Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. This revelation pointed towards deeper cartel involvement and hinted at the presence of a more significant threat. As Skip and his team delved deeper, they discovered that Mike was connected to Edgar Baldez Villareal, later known as La Barbie.
At [08:58], Skip Sewell elaborates:
"Cesar, it turned out, was living with a stripper in the French Quarter. And according to sources, he was supplying cocaine to the bars and clubs along Bourbon Street."
This connection was pivotal, leading Skip to initiate a cautious approach to uncover La Barbie's true identity and operations.
The Risky Mission and Temporary Setback
Dee's mission to meet with Mike in person led him to Nuevo Laredo, amidst escalating cartel violence. During this perilous encounter, Dee reported being captured and held in Mike's heavily guarded compound. The adrenaline of the situation is palpable when Skip describes Dee's report at [15:11]:
"As Dee unfolded the story over the phone, Skip was speechless. He couldn't believe that Dee had actually made it inside Mike's mansion and spoken with him face to face."
Months of uncertainty ensued, with Dee providing minimal updates until he finally informed Skip of an impending cocaine shipment. This breakthrough facilitated a strategic operation that culminated in the discovery of 60 pounds of concealed cocaine within a Dodge truck at [18:38].
Unmasking La Barbie
The arrest of Caesar Pena Garrone, Big Oz's subordinate, revealed crucial information about Mike's true identity—Edgar Baldez Villareal, or La Barbie. Jed Lipinski narrates Cesar's revelation at [21:17]:
"Cesar tells us that Mike, the guy in Mexico, is actually Edgar Baldez Villareal, known as La Barbie."
La Barbie's rise within the Beltran Leyva cartel showcased his strategic acumen and ruthless efficiency. Despite numerous attempts, extraditing La Barbie from Mexico proved challenging due to his extensive protection and the complexities of international law.
La Barbie’s Capture and Legacy
In August 2010, Mexican marines successfully captured La Barbie in Toluca without the violent confrontations that were widely expected. Jed Lipinski reflects on the surreal nature of his arrest at [27:31]:
"When authorities paraded him before news cameras, photos of labarbi smirking in a green polo shirt went viral."
La Barbie's extradition to the United States and subsequent guilty plea in 2016 marked the culmination of Skip Sewell's two-decade-long pursuit. His 49-year sentence underscored the magnitude of his crimes and the DEA's commitment to dismantling powerful drug networks.
Conclusion
"La Barbie" serves as a testament to the intricate dance between law enforcement and organized crime. Through Skip Sewell's unwavering dedication and strategic prowess, Gone South paints a comprehensive picture of how a seemingly ordinary individual can ascend to the heights of criminal supremacy. The episode not only recounts the procedural aspects of the investigation but also delves into the personal reflections of both Skip and Jed, pondering the factors that drive individuals toward such destructive paths.
Notable Quotes
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Jed Lipinski [02:35]:
"We could literally attribute 100, if not more so shootings and killings to Pena and his and his gangs. He was a psychopath. He was a vicious killing machine." -
Jed Lipinski [04:28]:
"He was about 6 foot 6 and weighed 320, 330 pounds. But he was a mild-mannered, easygoing guy." -
Jed Lipinski [27:31]:
"When authorities paraded him before news cameras, photos of labarbi smirking in a green polo shirt went viral."
Final Thoughts
Episode "La Barbie" epitomizes Gone South's commitment to unveiling the often-overlooked narratives within Southern crime stories. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Jed Lipinski and Skip Sewell offer listeners an immersive experience into the complexities of drug trafficking and the relentless pursuit of justice. This episode not only chronicles the downfall of a notorious drug lord but also serves as a reflection on the broader societal and personal factors that contribute to the rise of organized crime.
For more gripping stories and in-depth investigations, subscribe to Gone South on your preferred podcast platform and join Jed Lipinski as he uncovers the hidden facets of Southern criminal history.