Surviving the Line of Duty: Brent Cartwright's Harrowing Tale

In this gripping episode, we dive into the world of law enforcement with retired detective Brent Cartwright, who shares his incredible journey from being a dedicated police officer in Kansas City to surviving a life-threatening incident while working undercover. Brent recounts his early days in the military, his transition into law enforcement, and the intense experiences of working as an undercover detective in narcotics and firearms trafficking.

We explore the adrenaline-fueled world of undercover operations, the personal challenges Brent faced, and the events leading up to the tragic day when he was shot multiple times during a high-stakes operation. Brent opens up about the aftermath of this traumatic event, the mental toll it took on him, and his journey towards recovery and resilience.

Join us as Brent Cartwright candidly discusses his struggles with PTSD, the importance of seeking mental health support, and how he now advocates for fellow first responders. Learn more about his ongoing work with Runestone Ranch and the release of his book "Undercover Junkie," which sheds light on the human side of law enforcement and the profound impact of trauma.

 

SHOW NOTES:

Undercover Junkie

IN THE UNDERBELLY OF KANSAS CITY'S MOST LETHAL STREETS, ONE COP DESCENDS INTO A NIGHTMARE OF ADDICTION, BETRAYAL, AND LOST IDENTITY IN PURSUIT OF JUSTICE.

Detective Brent Cartwright seemed to have it all-a loving family, a promising police career, and a future full of possibilities. But the grind of everyday police work left him craving more-a deeper rush, bigger challenges, and higher stakes. His solution? Join the elite undercover unit, where he could chase the city's most dangerous criminals. But what started as a mission to do "real police work" transformed into a spiraling journey that would cost him everything.

Undercover Junkie is a raw, gut-wrenching plunge into the harrowing world of undercover policing where the boundaries between law and lawlessness blur. As Brent disappeared deeper into his alter ego-a street-hardened addict named Ricky-he became intoxicated by the chaos and the high of living on the razor's edge. Through high-stakes gun deals, drug operations, and the constant threat of being exposed, Brent's descent into darkness is as gripping as it is devastating.

More than a memoir, Undercover Junkie is an unflinching account that challenges the culture of silence that claims far too many of those who answer the call to serve, laying bare how a toxic environment can exact a toll on even the bravest among us. As Brent's story proves, without the proper safeguards, our heroes must sometimes sacrifice their own humanity in the name of duty-and the cost can be unimaginable.

Link to the book: Amazon.com: Undercover Junkie: Chasing Highs, Confronting Killers, and Unraveling in the Chaos: 9798992104608: Cartwright, Brent: Books

Website: Home | Undercovered

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