The Untold Story of Cocaine Quarterback: Cartel’s Notorious Signal-Caller
The transformation of Owen Hanson from a college football quarterback to a notorious drug kingpin is a striking narrative that encapsulates ambition gone awry. This extraordinary tale is explored in the docuseries, Cocaine Quarterback: Signal-Caller for the Cartel, which reveals how Hanson navigated the world of drugs after initial stints in sports.
The Early Life of Owen Hanson
Born and raised in Redondo Beach, California, Owen Hanson displayed athletic prowess early on. A standout volleyball player, he received several offers from universities, including the University of Southern California (USC) in the early 2000s. Despite not securing a starting position, Hanson’s aggressive pursuit of success led him down a darker path.
A Rise in the College Ranks
In 2004, Hanson attempted to join USC’s football team. He managed to earn a spot on the roster during tryouts, ultimately serving as the backup quarterback in the 2005 National Championship game. Although his playing time was limited, he gained a reputation for being a dedicated team player and a resourceful individual with valuable contacts in the illegal drug scene.
From Sports to Drug Smuggling
After college, Hanson’s aspirations to become a real estate agent were thwarted by the 2008 economic downturn. Seeking alternative income, he launched a sports betting operation, which eventually caught the attention of the Sinaloa Cartel. His knack for networking and knowledge of illicit activities made him an attractive recruit for the cartel.
The Cartel Connection
Hanson’s journey soon took him to Australia, where he moved substantial quantities of cocaine in exchange for large amounts of cash. The high prices of drugs in Australia and the stringent controls on cash movement complicated his operations, prompting him to find creative solutions for laundering cartel funds.
- Hanson estimated laundering between $100,000 to $150,000 daily.
- He utilized the Ugg boot craze to hide gold bullions in shipments.
Controversial Partnerships and Arrest
In 2011, Hanson teamed up with Robert Cipriani, known as Robin Hood 702, to launder $1.5 million through gambling operations in Las Vegas. Their relationship soured when Cipriani lost $2.5 million in a casino, leading him to seek help from the authorities. This initiated a chain of events that ultimately led to Hanson’s undoing.
The Fall from Grace
On September 9, 2015, Owen Hanson was apprehended by the FBI during a coordinated investigation that involved multiple law enforcement agencies. His downfall was orchestrated partly due to the cooperation of Cipriani, who provided crucial information.
Sentencing and Release
Following his arrest, over 20 associates of Hanson faced charges, including his close friend, Giovanni “Tank” Brandolino. In late 2017, Hanson received a 21-year prison sentence, which was later reduced in exchange for information leading to the arrest of Michael Croke, an Australian attorney.
After serving nine years, Hanson was transferred to a halfway house in March 2024, with plans for release scheduled for June 2025. He now remains under supervised parole, serving as a reminder of how ambition can lead to perilous choices.
