The Antihero Podcast: Hunting Pablo Escobar Feat. Steve Murphy
Release Date: January 13, 2025
Host: Brent Tucker and Tyler

Overview

In this riveting episode of The Antihero Podcast, hosts Brent Tucker and Tyler delve deep into the tumultuous journey of Steve Murphy, a former DEA agent who played a pivotal role in the hunt for the infamous narcoterrorist, Pablo Escobar. Combining firsthand accounts with insightful discussions, the episode offers listeners a comprehensive look into the complexities of international law enforcement and the relentless pursuit of one of history's most notorious criminals.

Introduction to Steve Murphy and His Early Life
Key Moments: [00:00] – [08:51]

Steve Murphy begins by recounting a formative incident from his youth that ignited his passion for law enforcement. At the age of ten, Steve and his friends attempted to break into a house in middle Tennessee to steal food. Their plans were thwarted when local police intervened. Faced with the choice between potential jail time or being taken home, Steve chose to go with the authorities, a decision heavily influenced by his father, a Southern Baptist minister who enforced discipline without spoiling him.

Steve Murphy [08:00]: "We looked at each other and said, take us to jail. Yeah, because I knew what was going to happen when I got old."

This early encounter instilled in Steve a profound sense of responsibility and the importance of making the right choices, laying the foundation for his future career in law enforcement.

Transition to the DEA and Early Career Challenges
Key Moments: [08:53] – [25:08]

After six years as a uniformed cop in West Virginia and six years as a railroad cop, Steve's career took a significant turn when he joined the DEA. The transition was motivated primarily by financial incentives, allowing him to better support his growing family.

Steve Murphy [17:47]: "Quite honestly, it was the money. My salary doubled when I went to the railroad."

His first posting with the DEA was in Miami in 1987, during the height of the "Miami Vice" era. Contrary to popular media portrayals, Steve describes his experiences as far from glamorous, focusing instead on serious narcotics operations.

In early 1988, Steve undertook his first undercover mission in the Turks and Caicos Islands, apprehending a shipment of 400 kilos of cocaine. This marked a significant escalation from the minor drug cases he had previously handled, showcasing the intense challenges that lay ahead.

Steve Murphy [24:27]: "I was addicted to cocaine at that point, but in a different way. I was so excited."

The Hunt for Pablo Escobar
Key Moments: [25:09] – [76:02]

Steve's most notable mission was the pursuit of Pablo Escobar, the kingpin of the Medellin Cartel. Alongside his partner, Javier Pena, Steve was stationed in Medellin, Colombia, where they collaborated closely with the Colombian National Police to dismantle Escobar's empire.

The operation was fraught with obstacles, including bureaucratic red tape and initial lack of support from local authorities. However, the introduction of elite units like Delta Force and DEVGRU agents significantly enhanced their operational capabilities.

Steve Murphy [44:25]: "We're going after the world's first narco terrorist."

After 18 relentless months, the team finally cornered Escobar in a three-story row house. Contrary to many dramatized accounts, Steve clarifies that it wasn't an American operator who shot Escobar but rather the combined efforts of trained Colombian officers.

Steve Murphy [76:02]: "We caught him in a crossfire."

Challenges and Internal Dynamics
Key Moments: [25:09] – [54:35]

Throughout the manhunt, Steve highlights the challenges of operating in a foreign country with its own set of political and law enforcement dynamics. Trust between American agents and Colombian officials was paramount, and Steve credits figures like Colonel Hugo Martinez for their professionalism and dedication.

Steve Murphy [82:43]: "The Colombian National Police are very professional."

Despite occasional friction and differing operational methodologies, the collaboration proved effective in undermining Escobar's operations. However, Steve also remarks on the personal sacrifices made, including extended periods away from family and the psychological toll of the relentless pursuit.

Views on the War on Drugs and Its Impact
Key Moments: [87:07] – [90:02]

Steve offers a candid perspective on the broader War on Drugs, emphasizing the need for continued aggressive actions against major traffickers while critiquing the domestic focus on drug demand reduction.

Steve Murphy [90:02]: "The murder rate in Medellin had dropped by almost 80%."

He underscores the importance of targeting high-level traffickers to mitigate widespread societal harm, advocating for policies that address both supply and demand facets of the drug trade.

Current Projects and Future Endeavors
Key Moments: [97:07] – [105:23]

Since retiring in 2013, Steve has remained active in law enforcement circles through his podcast "Game of Crimes with Murph in the Morning" and his speaking engagements under the banner "DEA Narcos." Additionally, he is involved in investigating historical cases like the "Lost Clipper," which pertains to the disappearance of 15 Americans in 1938 over Micronesia.

Steve Murphy [100:51]: "This would probably be the holy grail of the whole thing, is that maybe we could bring closure to 15 families."

Steve continues to advocate for enhanced drug enforcement measures and greater public awareness of the narcotics crisis, illustrating his unwavering commitment to combating drug-related issues.

Closing Thoughts and Media Portrayal
Key Moments: [76:16] – [80:56]

Steve expresses his frustration with Hollywood's often inaccurate portrayal of law enforcement operations. He recounts his direct involvement in ensuring the authenticity of characters in shows like "Narcos," emphasizing the stark contrast between real-life operations and their dramatized versions.

Steve Murphy [76:16]: "Made a little more authentic."

He advocates for truth over sensationalism, aiming to provide the public with accurate accounts of law enforcement's efforts and sacrifices in combating high-profile criminals like Escobar.

Notable Quotes

• Steve Murphy [00:00]: "We're establishing, we're re-establishing the search block."

• Steve Murphy [08:00]: "We looked at each other and said, take us to jail. Yeah, because I knew what was going to happen when I got old."

• Steve Murphy [17:47]: "Quite honestly, it was the money. My salary doubled when I went to the railroad."

• Steve Murphy [24:27]: "I was addicted to cocaine at that point, but in a different way. I was so excited."

• Steve Murphy [44:25]: "We're going after the world's first narco terrorist."

• Steve Murphy [76:02]: "We caught him in a crossfire."

• Steve Murphy [82:43]: "The Colombian National Police are very professional."

• Steve Murphy [90:02]: "The murder rate in Medellin had dropped by almost 80%."

• Steve Murphy [100:51]: "This would probably be the holy grail of the whole thing, is that maybe we could bring closure to 15 families."

Conclusion

"Hunting Pablo Escobar" serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication and courage of law enforcement agents like Steve Murphy. Through his detailed recounting of events, listeners gain an authentic understanding of the intricacies and challenges involved in international drug enforcement. The episode not only honors the sacrifices made by Steve and his colleagues but also underscores the ongoing struggle against narcoterrorism and the critical need for persistent and informed efforts to combat it.