The Michael Carlin Podcast: Russell Poole Theory, Gangs in the LAPD, and the Tupac Cover-Up

In a Memorial Day episode of Chaos Merchants, Michael Douglas Carlin honors those who sacrificed for American freedom while continuing his in-depth investigation into the murders of Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G. The episode focuses heavily on the Russell Poole Theory, presenting it in multiple parts and highlighting systemic corruption involving LAPD officers, Compton Police, and Death Row Records.

Orlando Anderson as Patsy and the Vegas Interference

Carlin rejects the mainstream narrative that Orlando Anderson (a Southside Crip) was Tupac’s killer, calling him a "throwaway patsy.” He notes Anderson was the only Southside Crip visible in the casino that night and later died while "holding on to his last breath.” Carlin suggests the real story involves interference in the Vegas investigation by figures connected to LAPD and Compton Police, including a lieutenant interfering with the case.

He points out that just days before the shooting, Tupac was discussing breaking away from major labels to start his own independent distribution company — "Lucky Seven” — which would have disrupted the existing industry power structure.

Russell Poole: American Hero

Carlin portrays former LAPD detective Russell Poole as a dedicated truth-seeker who died while attempting to reopen the Tupac and Biggie cases at the sheriff’s station. He calls Poole an "American hero” who gave his life pursuing justice. The episode breaks down Poole’s theory across several segments, emphasizing evidence of deep corruption.

Gangs Inside Law Enforcement and Death Row

A major theme is the infiltration of gangs into police departments:

• Officers like David Mack openly declared Bloods affiliation upon arrest.

• Corrupt officers allegedly taught gang members police tactics, radio use, surveillance, and security protocols at Death Row Records.

• Reggie Wright Sr. (Compton Police) and Reggie Wright Jr. (Death Row security) are central. Carlin argues they were gang members who infiltrated law enforcement, gaining respect that allowed them to control situations and derail investigations.

Carlin details how the Wrights rose to power at Death Row after the killing of "Jake,” enabling a full gang takeover. He cites incidents like the Atlanta altercation and the beating death of Kelly Jamerson at the El Rey Theater, where police presence and a call from Reggie Wright Sr. helped shut down the case.

Thieves Inside Death Row Records

The podcast examines a culture of theft:

• Rafael Perez — stealing from evidence lockers.

• David Mack — convicted of bank robbery.

• Kevin Gaines — suspected of evidence tampering in the Snoop Dogg murder trial.

• Reggie Wright Jr. — known for robbing drug dealers and inmates.

Carlin argues these "thieves inside Death Row” created an explosive situation. The temptation to rob such a high-value target proved too strong. He connects this to ambushes on honest officers (e.g., Filberto Cuesta in LAPD and Burrell & McDonald in Compton) after drug dealers were previously robbed by corrupt cops.

Snoop Dogg Murder Trial and Broader Connections

Carlin revisits the Snoop Dogg trial for the murder of Philip Waldemariam, noting extensive coordination between defense attorney David Kenner, corrupt officers (Mack, Perez, Gaines), and figures tied to Sharitha Knight. Witness intimidation by both LAPD and Compton Police allegedly helped secure acquittal and deepened these dangerous alliances.

Industry, Street, and Police Collusion

The episode weaves in lyrics and commentary suggesting a coordinated plot. Carlin references claims that certain industry figures wanted Tupac and Suge removed, with Tupac’s push for independence as a key motive. He questions official investigations and highlights how police corruption is only possible when tolerated by management.

Carlin ends with a call for support, describing the podcast as "value for value” and encouraging donations, subscriptions, likes, and follows.

This episode of The Michael Carlin Podcast continues his relentless examination of the Tupac and Biggie cases through the lens of the Russell Poole Theory. By connecting gangs, corrupt officers (Rampart CRASH unit ties), and Death Row insiders like the Wrights, Carlin argues that the official narratives are cover-ups designed to protect powerful institutions and individuals.

The podcast remains focused on evidence, whistleblowers, and challenging mainstream accounts. For more, search The Michael Carlin Podcast on your preferred platform, and reach out to Carlin at MichaelDouglasCarlin@gmail.com or @MichaelDCarlin on X with questions or feedback.

Michael Carlin has created a gripping true crime podcast that dives deep into the most haunting, unsolved, and shocking cases from around the world. Hosted by veteran filmmaker journalist and author Michael Douglas Carlin, each episode meticulously reconstructs infamous crimes — from cold-blooded murders and mysterious disappearances to elaborate cons and decades-old cover-ups — blending chilling narration, exclusive interviews, archival audio, and careful analysis of evidence.

What sets The Michael Carlin Podcast apart is his commitment to humanity: the show honors victims and their families while fearlessly examining the psychology of killers, systemic failures, and the thin line between justice and injustice. Episodes vary in length and often include listener-submitted tips on active cases.

Whether you’re a longtime true crime obsessive or new to the genre, The Michael Carlin Podcast delivers spine-tingling suspense, thoughtful investigation, and haunting stories that linger long after the credits roll.

From Tupac and Biggie's Murders to JFK's Assassination and everything in between, we look at true crimes that echo from the past.

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