The Black Hand: The Story of Rene "Boxer" Enriquez and His Life in the Mexican Mafia

An intense and shocking inside look at the inner workings of La Eme, the Mexican Mafia (La Familia Mexicana), The Black Hand is the story of loyal soldier Rene “Boxer” Enriquez, his life of crime, and his ultimate redemption. Award-winning investigative journalist and author Chris Blatchford tells the never-before-told true story of the most powerful gang in America—and one of the most brutal and ruthless criminal organizations in the world—who control the California underworld and wave the flag of The Black Hand.

Rene "Boxer" Enriquez grew up in East L.A., where gang fights and drive-by shootings were everyday occurrences fueled by rage, drugs, and alcohol. Sent to prison at nineteen, he was recruited by La Eme, the near-mythic Mexican Mafia, arguably the most well-armed and dangerous gang in American history. A young man without fear who would kill without hesitation, Enriquez's loyalty and iron will drove him quickly up the ranks, from mob enforcer to the upper echelons, where he would help rule for nearly two decades. Seeking respect, he devoted his life to a bloody cause, only to find betrayal and disillusionment.

Award-winning journalist Chris Blatchford's The Black Hand is an astonishing look deep inside a closed, secret, and deadly criminal society—an intense and unprecedented tale of depravity, violence, and redemption.

“Blatchford is well-suited to tell this story . . . he captures the nuances and nihilism of the prison world . . . The narrative is interspersed with fascinating prison arcana.” - Los Angeles Times

“A gripping, powerful, chilling inside look at a criminal organization that is changing the organized crime landscape. This is a mob classic.” - Dominick Dunne

“A courageous and well-written exposé on one of the most ruthless and powerful gangs of all, the Mexican Mafia. Chris Blatchford reaffirms his position as being among Americans greatest investigative reporters.” - Vincent Bugliosi, author of Helter Skelter

“Chris Blatchford has hit a grand slam. The Black Hand is an important page turning book that will take you into a frightening dark world that shouldn’t exist… but it does. It’s riveting, and when you finish the book, you’ll get up and lock your doors. Highly recommended.” - William "Billy" Queen, retired special agent ATF and bestselling author of Under and Alone

“A fascinating, vivid and unforgettable insider’s look at the bloody, secret and deadly Mexican Mafia. Chris Blatchford’s compulsively readable wake-up call spares no one and names everyone, including the politicians who aid and abet this dangerous criminal organization, through corruption, maddening naiveté, or political correctness.” - Joseph Wambaugh

“A fascinating look at the world of the Mexican Mafia, more ruthless than the LCN. A must read for law enforcement and a tribute to the courage of ‘dropout’ Rene ‘Boxer’ Enriquez.” - Joe Pistone, aka Donnie Brasco

“Chris Blatchford has the real goods. He has the insightful eye of a predatory creature. He writes about predators with an ease and fluidity that is rare these days. If you really want to know what the belly of the beast in East Los Angeles looks like, read Blatchford’s book. I highly recommend it.” - Philip Carlo, author of Gaspipe