The book is the life story of Larry Lawton.  From his childhood in the Bronx, New York,  being incarcerated and tortured in the Federal Bureau of Prisons to how he developed and founded the Reality Check Program.  Growing up in the Bronx in the shadow of the Throgs Neck Bridge, Larry Lawton was an altar boy until the day he was sexually molested by a priest. Needing to prove his manhood, Lawton as a teen began a criminal career taking bets on football games. He hung out at local bars, was embraced by mobsters, and soon became an “earner” and enforcer for the Gambino crime family.

Larry holds nothing back and will open the eyes of a lot of  people.

It is a must read…..Do you like Mob stories, this is a great Mob story and much more with a great ending.

Click Here for Book Reviews

Jeff Kottkamp – Florida’s 17^th Lt. Governor:  Ft. Myers, Florida

As the first-ever Chairman of Florida’s Children and Youth Cabinet I have worked with hundreds of children who have made bad choices in life—but have so much good to offer the world. This book is an inspiration to anyone who wants to turn their life around. Mr. Lawton’s story is inspirational and authentic. He opens his heart and soul to the reader.  I highly recommend this “must read” book.

Florida’s 17th Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp

   Your book is amazing….Connor LOVED it so don’t forget teens in your marketing plan.  It’s so honest Larry…scary,…real…and you don’t apologize for being a bad guy in a former life.  It was your life…and you paid dearly.

   Your description of the loneliness (and torture) of prison life is a must read for any kid who might think that prison is what you see in those Discovery Channel TV shows. It’s also a must read for the rest of us…the political nature of the system is not something I had ever given thought to…

Bill Cassara

“There is no more important asset to the state of Florida than our children, and their paths through life are defined by the choices they make, and the guidance they receive along the way. Experience is often the best guide, and we should all look to learn from those who have traveled the path before us.  Larry’s story is genuine and stirring, and this book can be a fantastic tool for anyone looking to change his or her life for the better.”

Dominic  M. Calabro

Your book was very inspiring. Though the abuses you withstood were very difficult to read, I couldn’t put it down. I was especially impressed with how you turned your life around and your dedication to helping teens do the same with their lives. The book is well written and awe inspiring. A must read for anyone, especially anyone with teens.

Carol Kalet

Being from Iowa and reading this book opened my eyes about life in the mob and life in prison. I was mesmerized by Larry’s stories from childhood and his experiences in prison.  He never gave up!!  And what a message for our young.  You can change, become a better person, and learn from your mistakes and go on to help others learn from your mistakes.

Larry is stronger than any person I have ever known and the fact that he could move on from all the injustices in his past life, is a miracle. Yet he did!! 

The book is easy to read, keeps your interest, and reaches your soul in a way that I haven’t experienced in any books I have ever read.

Theresa Sample Nunez

You truly amaze me….you “walked the walk” and came out with a positive and up-beat attitude.  Your program to help young people avoid the life you clearly and honestly detailed in this riveting book speaks volumes as to the man you are.  Your vivid descriptions reflecting what life is really like in prison should be a wake-up call to society, especially to those who are dangerously close to crossing the line. It brings to the forefront, a serious problem in our society that most people are not aware of and leaders tend to shy away from. It’s a great book.

Larry Lawton is a man of many experiences! Larry Lawton is a man of trial and error! Larry Lawton is success! His book “Gangster Redemption” will have you looking over your shoulder as if he’s brought you with him as he describes in detail his life story. “Gangster Redemption” is all things right and wrong with society today. Larry Lawton is not a man who uses his past as an excuse. He doesn’t blame anyone for his past except himself. While he certainly has endured immense trauma throughout his life as you will read in “Gangster Redemption”,  he takes ownership of the life changing decisions and comes out of the fire with an influence for children and adults that is almost incomprehensible. “Gangster Redemption” is a compilation of action, history, biography and politics that ends with a feel good story with proven positive results. Larry Lawton doesn’t tell you what you want to hear, he tells you what you need to hear and you will listen when Larry speaks!

Larry Lawton is one in a million!  His book, “Gangster Redemption” is even more unique! Yes, I loved it! Yes, it was thought provoking and informative! More than that, though, he has accomplished in his book something even more seasoned writers can only dream of. His content and writing style and content crosses genre barriers like a leaping gazelle!  This book is a biography, a thriller, a self-help book, a political commentary as well as the written form of an unfinished symphony. It leaves you wanting to know more. I enjoyed the book immensely, but it also left me enthusiastically waiting to see what Larry Lawton’s boundless enthusiasm and energy will come up with next! Making up for lost time is a powerful, adrenaline pumping motivator and Larry Lawton’s ability to deliver his message passionately, whether it be in a book, a seminar or a movie is unique. His humanity is not a mask he takes off at night. He is the real deal!

Here’s some reviews:

Gangster Redemption Book Reviews

Jeff Kottkamp – Florida’s 17^th Lt. Governor:  Ft. Myers, Florida

As the first-ever Chairman of Florida’s Children and Youth Cabinet I have worked with hundreds of children who have made bad choices in life—but have so much good to offer the world. This book is an inspiration to anyone who wants to turn their life around. Mr. Lawton’s story is inspirational and authentic. He opens his heart and soul to the reader.  I highly recommend this “must read” book.

Florida’s 17th Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp

   Your book is amazing….Connor LOVED it so don’t forget teens in your marketing plan.  It’s so honest Larry…scary,…real…and you don’t apologize for being a bad guy in a former life.  It was your life…and you paid dearly. 

   Your description of the loneliness (and torture) of prison life is a must read for any kid who might think that prison is what you see in those Discovery Channel TV shows. It’s also a must read for the rest of us…the political nature of the system is not something I had ever given thought to…

Bill Cassara

 “There is no more important asset to the state of Florida than our children, and their paths through life are defined by the choices they make, and the guidance they receive along the way. Experience is often the best guide, and we should all look to learn from those who have traveled the path before us.  Larry’s story is genuine and stirring, and this book can be a fantastic tool for anyone looking to change his or her life for the better.”

Dominic  M. Calabr

Carol Kalet – teacher with 30 years experience working with children:  Atlanta, Georgia

Your book was very inspiring. Though the abuses you withstood were very difficult to read, I couldn’t put it down. I was especially impressed with how you turned your life around and your dedication to helping teens do the same with their lives. The book is well written and awe inspiring. A must read for anyone, especially anyone with teens.

Theresa Sample Nunez – teacher, mother of 4, grandmother of 7:  Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Being from Iowa and reading this book opened my eyes about life in the mob and life in prison. I was mesmerized by Larry’s stories from childhood and his experiences in prison.  He never gave up!!  And what a message for our young.  You can change, become a better person, and learn from your mistakes and go on to help others learn from your mistakes.

Larry is stronger than any person I have ever known and the fact that he could move on from all the injustices in his past life, is a miracle. Yet he did!! 

The book is easy to read, keeps your interest, and reaches your soul in a way that I haven’t experienced in any books I have ever read.

Joe Fraumeni – retired business owner:  Melbourne, Florida

You truly amaze me….you “walked the walk” and came out with a positive and up-beat attitude.  Your program to help young people avoid the life you clearly and honestly detailed in this riveting book speaks volumes as to the man you are.  Your vivid descriptions reflecting what life is really like in prison should be a wake-up call to society, especially to those who are dangerously close to crossing the line. It brings to the forefront, a serious problem in our society that most people are not aware of and leaders tend to shy away from. It’s a great book.

Justin Wasson – Golf Professional, Father of one:  Viera, Florida

Larry Lawton is a man of many experiences! Larry Lawton is a man of trial and error! Larry Lawton is success! His book “Gangster Redemption” will have you looking over your shoulder as if he’s brought you with him as he describes in detail his life story. “Gangster Redemption” is all things right and wrong with society today. Larry Lawton is not a man who uses his past as an excuse. He doesn’t blame anyone for his past except himself. While he certainly has endured immense trauma throughout his life as you will read in “Gangster Redemption”,  he takes ownership of the life changing decisions and comes out of the fire with an influence for children and adults that is almost incomprehensible. “Gangster Redemption” is a compilation of action, history, biography and politics that ends with a feel good story with proven positive results. Larry Lawton doesn’t tell you what you want to hear, he tells you what you need to hear and you will listen when Larry speaks!

Michelle Kovach-Silverman – Artist, Mother of three:  Melbourne, Florida

Larry Lawton is one in a million!  His book, “Gangster Redemption” is even more unique! Yes, I loved it! Yes, it was thought provoking and informative! More than that, though, he has accomplished in his book something even more seasoned writers can only dream of. His content and writing style and content crosses genre barriers like a leaping gazelle!  This book is a biography, a thriller, a self-help book, a political commentary as well as the written form of an unfinished symphony. It leaves you wanting to know more. I enjoyed the book immensely, but it also left me enthusiastically waiting to see what Larry Lawton’s boundless enthusiasm and energy will come up with next! Making up for lost time is a powerful, adrenaline pumping motivator and Larry Lawton’s ability to deliver his message passionately, whether it be in a book, a seminar or a movie is unique. His humanity is not a mask he takes off at night. He is the real deal!

The book is the life story of Larry Lawton. From his childhood in the Bronx, New York,  being incarcerated and tortured in the Federal Bureau of Prisons to how he developed and founded the Reality Check Program.

Larry holds nothing back and will open the eyes of a lot of  people.

It is a must read…..

Gangster Redemption Book Reviews

Jeff Kottkamp – Florida’s 17^th Lt. Governor:  Ft. Myers, Florida

As the first-ever Chairman of Florida’s Children and Youth Cabinet I have worked with hundreds of children who have made bad choices in life—but have so much good to offer the world. This book is an inspiration to anyone who wants to turn their life around. Mr. Lawton’s story is inspirational and authentic. He opens his heart and soul to the reader.  I highly recommend this “must read” book.

Florida’s 17th Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp

   Your book is amazing….Connor LOVED it so don’t forget teens in your marketing plan.  It’s so honest Larry…scary,…real…and you don’t apologize for being a bad guy in a former life.  It was your life…and you paid dearly.

   Your description of the loneliness (and torture) of prison life is a must read for any kid who might think that prison is what you see in those Discovery Channel TV shows. It’s also a must read for the rest of us…the political nature of the system is not something I had ever given thought to…

Bill Cassara

 “There is no more important asset to the state of Florida than our children, and their paths through life are defined by the choices they make, and the guidance they receive along the way. Experience is often the best guide, and we should all look to learn from those who have traveled the path before us.  Larry’s story is genuine and stirring, and this book can be a fantastic tool for anyone looking to change his or her life for the better.”

Dominic  M. Calabro

Your book was very inspiring. Though the abuses you withstood were very difficult to read, I couldn’t put it down. I was especially impressed with how you turned your life around and your dedication to helping teens do the same with their lives. The book is well written and awe inspiring. A must read for anyone, especially anyone with teens.

Carol Kalet

Being from Iowa and reading this book opened my eyes about life in the mob and life in prison. I was mesmerized by Larry’s stories from childhood and his experiences in prison.  He never gave up!!  And what a message for our young.  You can change, become a better person, and learn from your mistakes and go on to help others learn from your mistakes.

Larry is stronger than any person I have ever known and the fact that he could move on from all the injustices in his past life, is a miracle. Yet he did!! 

The book is easy to read, keeps your interest, and reaches your soul in a way that I haven’t experienced in any books I have ever read.

Theresa Sample Nunez

You truly amaze me….you “walked the walk” and came out with a positive and up-beat attitude.  Your program to help young people avoid the life you clearly and honestly detailed in this riveting book speaks volumes as to the man you are.  Your vivid descriptions reflecting what life is really like in prison should be a wake-up call to society, especially to those who are dangerously close to crossing the line. It brings to the forefront, a serious problem in our society that most people are not aware of and leaders tend to shy away from. It’s a great book.

Larry Lawton is a man of many experiences! Larry Lawton is a man of trial and error! Larry Lawton is success! His book “Gangster Redemption” will have you looking over your shoulder as if he’s brought you with him as he describes in detail his life story. “Gangster Redemption” is all things right and wrong with society today. Larry Lawton is not a man who uses his past as an excuse. He doesn’t blame anyone for his past except himself. While he certainly has endured immense trauma throughout his life as you will read in “Gangster Redemption”,  he takes ownership of the life changing decisions and comes out of the fire with an influence for children and adults that is almost incomprehensible. “Gangster Redemption” is a compilation of action, history, biography and politics that ends with a feel good story with proven positive results. Larry Lawton doesn’t tell you what you want to hear, he tells you what you need to hear and you will listen when Larry speaks!

Larry Lawton is one in a million!  His book, “Gangster Redemption” is even more unique! Yes, I loved it! Yes, it was thought provoking and informative! More than that, though, he has accomplished in his book something even more seasoned writers can only dream of. His content and writing style and content crosses genre barriers like a leaping gazelle!  This book is a biography, a thriller, a self-help book, a political commentary as well as the written form of an unfinished symphony. It leaves you wanting to know more. I enjoyed the book immensely, but it also left me enthusiastically waiting to see what Larry Lawton’s boundless enthusiasm and energy will come up with next! Making up for lost time is a powerful, adrenaline pumping motivator and Larry Lawton’s ability to deliver his message passionately, whether it be in a book, a seminar or a movie is unique. His humanity is not a mask he takes off at night. He is the real deal!

I want to emphasize this. I support law enforcement officers and respect what they do. I am just tired of seeing all the mismanagement, abuse of power and corruption by high officials in law enforcement and it is time someone speaks out.

I had my personal views about the Chief Lock – Commander Schrum incident but kept quiet. Since being attacked by supporters of Chief Lock for supporting the political process by the council, I decided to research the case. I read the 78 page report and I defy anyone to read it and not believe there was a cover-up or at the very least, total incompetence.

This one statement says it all. If you or I stole pills, would we be in jail? Of course. 

I was told by a councilmen that Chief Lock never liked me because I am a convicted felon. That is his prerogative of course. I was also told by another chief, that the chiefs think I am not a team player. So I tend to believe the councilmen.

After speaking to that one chief I kept real quiet about voicing my opinion for a long time, only to be laughed at and disrespected behind my back. Well, not anymore. I have been lied to by so many chiefs I am disgusted. It is time I speak my mind. I will do my research on all the police departments and then say it like it is, post it everywhere, and start chat groups and forums to make the necessary changes that are needed to be made. Politically, people have the power, not the chiefs or politicians.

Lets start by looking into West Melbourne’s police department. The police department spent $9,000 on a swat truck. Are you kidding me? The citizens should be up in arms about such a waste of money. Who authorized that? City manager, council, who?

The police department eliminates PAL but keeps a swat truck. That is beyond ridiculous. Why aren’t more citizens mad about that? Do they know about it? Over 50% of West Melbourne’s budget is the police department. The economy is in the tank and $9,000 goes for a toy. That is fiscally irresponsible for whoever approved that purchase.

I interviewed a police officer from West Melbourne and he only spoke on the condition I keep his name out because he feared for his job. He said a lot of officers are not happy with Chief Lock. The council voted for a raise for them and who got the raise? Not the rank and file. The top heavy brass of the police department. That is why they want a union, they don’t trust the police administration.

Let’s set the record straight. I am a convicted felon and spent eleven years in federal prison for Hobbsac Robbery, interfering with interstate commerce. I did my time and I am right with God in all ways. I made mistakes and paid for them. I live with the hurt I caused others every day. It is called a conscience. I think others need a conscience.

I also know men in prison who were convicted on less than what I read in that 78 page report. Until West Melbourne rights the wrongs, it will be known as a corrupt city. As a man who tries to break-down the us against them mentality, it is difficult when you have incidents like the West Melbourne drug theft.

I speak to people on the fence about law enforcement everyday. Good, law abiding citizens. The number of people who don’t trust the police is shocking and troubling. I am talking about good, law abiding citizens. I understand why people protest. Maybe they need that here in Brevard county.

I always say this, people are human and humans do stupid, corrupt things. We can all forgive them and should forgive them, but even the slightest appearance of corruption has to be enough to make changes to gain back the citizens trust.

To the city council of West Melbourne. Tough decisions have to be made.  Sticking to your convictions is worth more than any vote you will ever get. Do what you believe is right.

God Bless You,

Larry Lawton

To learn more about what I do. Visit Lawton911 and the Reality Check Program DVD

I am pointing out Corizon healthcare because they are the nations largest prison healthcare contractor and growing everyday.  Big companies can undercut a smaller company with regards to the healthcare contract a prison uses, but does that make them the best for the community? Not necessarily. And can a company get to big?  Yes!

Companies that control the lives of people who don’t have a choice should be scrutinized by either Congress or an independent outside source. Lack of medical care kills people.

Being good for the community has a lot to do with what internal oversight a company places on itself. If they lack independent internal oversight it is a sign they will cut corners to save money and NOT be good for the community.

I am constantly researching prison health issues, what the inmates are saying, how the guards react and am available to the federal bureau of prisons, state prisons, federal officials, congress and state and local governments for advice and understanding what REALLY goes on inside a prison.

Getting the facts will help the decision makers who contract prison healthcare companies make the best decision possible when it comes to understanding what prison healthcare companies are suppose to do.

Keep following my blog and newsletter as I will be coming out with new facts and articles on prison issues and prison healthcare issues.

Visit Lawton911 and the Reality Check Program DVD to learn more about what we do and sign-up for our free newsletter.

Larry Lawton

Community policing affects all aspects of a city. Study after study shows good community policing reduces crime. With less crime people want to move to the city and that helps the tax base. Businesses are more apt to move their business to a place they know their employees will be treated right. People living in harmony is good for everyone.

There are a percentage of people who will never like the police and there are a percentage of people who will always support the police. Let’s work on the middle percentage who can go either way. These are people who had bad experiences with law enforcement, but are good people.

Here’s two examples of people I know. My mother, here is an 80 year old woman who is the nicest, most law abiding citizen you will ever meet, but doesn’t trust the police. My mom was a nurse for over fifty years and had some bad experiences with police and patients. Mom respects them, but doesn’t trust them. My girlfriend who is a teacher, born in Iowa, a country girl, but had a few bad experiences with the police and she is now scared to even call them.

The two examples above are not uncommon. Here is why it is bad. My mother speaks to her friends while bowling, on the phone, etc., and my girlfriend speaks to everyone at work, at parties, etc. If people like my mom and girlfriend speak negative of the police, it becomes a snowball rolling down a hill effect.

Then you get some police officers who get bitter and have a, I don’t care attitude (not all of them of course, but definitely a percentage of them) and then you have a recipe for a disaster. The US against THEM mentality.

It’s all about leadership, training, spending dollars wisely and dismantling the old boys network and wall of blue mentality. City leaders and chiefs of police need to think outside the box.

If the Trayvon Martin cases has taught us anything it is that the police need the community and community needs the police. Communications and better community policing would have went a long way in Sanford.

Here is community policing at its best….

While at the courthouse the other day, I was speaking with a few police officers outside a courtroom waiting on a case.  As we were talking an 89 year old lady walked by and started talking to us about getting a ticket for not having her handicap placard up. She was obviously confused and needed direction. Her handicap placard fell on the dashboard and she was wondering what to do.

It was quite obvious the lady was handicapped and she was a very nice lady.  The officer explained that the person who wrote the ticket probably didn’t see the placard. You can see that explaining to her how to fight the ticket was very difficult. While I was talking to the lady the officer went away for a second, made a phone call and came back and told the lady to head to the police station and they were going to expunge the ticket.

To see this ladies eyes light up and her grab the officer and say “You are a wonderful young man” she was so happy and thankful. That made me smile so much.

Yes, any judge would have dismissed the ticket but this officer made that lady a police supporter instead of a police hater. You could see her attitude change. It was all how he communicated with this lady.

The officer and I were discussing community policing and he said, “only 25% of the police officers have the communications skills to be good community policing officers.” That is coming from a long time police officer.

Here is community policing at its worst….

A resident in an upscale apartment complex calls the police after an off-duty police officer contracted by the complex bangs on her door due to a noise complaint that was falsely placed against her. She wouldn’t open the door because she didn’t know it was a police officer at the door, so she rightfully called 911 and asked for assistance.

Three uniformed police officers came and didn’t want to take the time to listen to the lady who called 911. The person who called the police felt intimidated to the point she was scared if she said anything else she would be arrested.

If the police officers understood community policing they would have made the woman who called them feel comfortable, secure and safe. Instead, they made a good person feel threatened, unsafe and never wanting to call the police again. It is sad because a great community policing opportunity was wasted.

Like the police officer in court told me. Only 25% of cops have the communication skills to do it right. I tend to believe that number. Maybe the higher ups in the police departments can make that number higher.

I am not here to bash police officers, police chiefs or departments in anyway, but sometimes being silent is wrong as well. Like the protests and marches in the Trayvon Martin case, eyes need to be open or it will never change. Visit Lawton911 for more information on the services we provide.

Larry Lawton is the founder and president of Lawton911 and the Reality Check Program DVD. He is an author and deals with police departments and community policing around the country. For more information on how Lawton911 can help your police department, city or business, contact info@lawton911.com

When you say everything, I automatically think, what example is he getting? Are you always being negative towards your son? I often tell parents you are not their friend, you are their parent and it is okay to be a tough parent as long as you show the love as well. That is the key.

The little things count. Like giving your child your undivided attention, not checking your phone when speaking with him, looking at him when communicating, not watching TV and talking at the same time, etc. It is often easy for parents to get distracted with work, bills, other family, etc., but we have to remember our primary goal is to parent. Setting a good example is everything.

Believe me, your child sees everything. That is why I emphasize control when dealing with teenagers. Never fly off the handle. If you lose control and fly off the handle, what does that teach your son or daughter? It teaches them that it is okay to lose control, that what you say is not going to be final and eventually they ignore you no matter how loud you get.

The single best way to help a child make good choices is by setting a good example. Look at your child’s choices in a different way and you will see he makes some good choices as well. Did he come home on time? If he did, then he made a good choice to respect your rules. Is he a drug addict? If not, he made a good choice to listen to you on the dangers of drugs. I think you get my drift. Look for the positive and not always the negative.

You can find good and bad in everybody. Teen or adult. Try to look for the good and praise that and then try and correct the bad choices in an educational way. It is all about communications.

Be a good example and all will work out.

Get a copy of the Reality Check Program DVD. It will help your son see the choices he makes will have serious consequences.

Good luck and always stay pro-active.

Larry Lawton

To learn more and have Larry come to your church, school or area click here.

(Click Here) to view the episode.

Larry will discuss his soon to be released book “Gangster Redemption”, To read the synopsis (Click Here) To read the book reviews (Click Here) Larry will also discuss the Reality Check Program and other topics relating to teens.

The first half of the show features Karen Locke the COO of Crosswinds Youth Service who is promoting the 2012 Great Brevard Duck Race which raises funds to help the youth of Brevard county. Larry Lawton is a big supporter of Crosswinds Youth Services.

“Jan Lokay, Karen Locke and all the staff at Crosswinds do great things for the youth of Brevard County, I have a great relationship with them as there are never enough services for the youth of our county.”  said Lawton.

“Partnerships are the answer when it comes to helping teens, whether it be with Law Enforcement, Rotary clubs, Kiwanis clubs, local or national businesses or Crosswinds Youth Services. Families and parents need help.” said Joe Reilly, Vice President of Lawton911 and the Reality Check Program.

To learn more about what Lawton911 and the Reality Check Program offer (Click Here)