Unveiling The Life And Crimes Of Clarence Heatley: The Preacher Crew's Infamy

Who Is Clarence Heatley?

Clarence Heatley was a notorious figure in the criminal underworld, leading a gang known as the "Preacher Crew." Operating primarily in the Bronx and Harlem, Heatley and his crew were infamous for their involvement in drug trafficking, extortion, kidnapping, and even murder. His notorious reputation was fueled by his ruthless methods of gaining control and notoriety on the streets.

Heatley's criminal enterprise was marked by violence and intimidation, with his top lieutenant being a former housing cop, John Cuff. As law enforcement began to close in, a task force comprising the New York Police Department and the FBI was formed in the early 1990s to dismantle Heatley’s operations. Ultimately, both Heatley and Cuff accepted plea deals to avoid the death penalty, with Heatley now serving his sentence at Florida's Federal Correctional Institution, Talladega.

Early Life and Criminal Activity

Not much is known about the formative years of Clarence Heatley. He was born in the early 1950s and grew up in the Harlem section of northern Manhattan. His childhood was likely fraught with challenges, which may have led him down a path of crime.

Reportedly dropping out of school by the fourth grade, Heatley learned to navigate the dangerous streets of his neighborhood. This early exposure to adversity contributed to his growing involvement in criminal activities, leading to numerous convictions for possession of firearms and robbery during the 1970s.

Crimes With the Preacher Crew

Heatley, often referred to by nicknames like "The Preacher" and "The Black Hand of Death," led the Preacher Crew in a series of heinous crimes. This gang was deeply involved in selling various drugs, including cocaine, crack-cocaine, heroin, and PCP. They were notorious for using extreme violence, including kidnapping and murder, to assert their dominance in the streets of New York City.

One of the more shocking allegations against the Preacher Crew was their rumored kidnapping of singer Bobby Brown for ransom tied to a drug debt. Their operations were well-organized, with roles assigned even to "janitors," who were responsible for cleaning up after the crew's violent acts. This level of organization exemplified the extent of their criminal enterprise, which operated out of apartment buildings in the Bronx.

Arrest, Conviction and Sentencing

By the early 1990s, the Preacher Crew had gained infamy for being linked to approximately 45 homicides. This alarming statistic prompted a concerted effort by law enforcement to take down the gang. Heatley and Cuff soon found themselves facing the consequences of their actions as they entered into plea deals to avoid facing the death penalty.

In February 1999, Heatley pleaded guilty to racketeering and conspiracy to commit murder, admitting involvement in 13 drug-related homicides. His attorney explained that accepting the plea bargain was the best option to prevent execution and allow Heatley to remain a positive influence for his family. Despite his efforts to mitigate the damage, Heatley acknowledged that he had profited significantly from his drug dealings during the years leading up to his arrest.

Family and Son

Heatley's criminal activities did not just affect him; they also involved his family. His enterprise was sometimes referred to as "The Family," highlighting the participation of his son, daughter, and girlfriend in his illegal operations. The intertwining of family and crime further complicated the impact of his actions on those closest to him.

His son, Shaka, cooperated with authorities and provided insight into the workings of the Preacher Crew during a 1997 prison interview. This disclosure was featured in the documentary "The Son of Preacher: The Black Hand That Ruled Harlem," showcasing the real-life implications of Heatley's criminal lifestyle on his family.

Key Takeaways