Belton Platt, also known as Money Rock, was one of Charlotte, North Carolina's most notorious and flashy cocaine dealers in the 1980s. Born in 1964, Platt's life story is a gripping tale of wealth, crime, redemption, and faith.
Rise to Infamy
By the age of 22, Money Rock had amassed considerable wealth through his drug dealing activities. In the '80s, he was getting bricks of cocaine for only $12,000, which he sold primarily in the Piedmont Courts, a public housing project in Charlotte. Known for his generosity, Money Rock often paid for groceries, rent, and other needs for the residents of Piedmont Courts, earning a reputation as a benevolent figure despite his illicit activities.
Platt's sharp mind and exceptional math skills, combined with his attention to detail, contributed to his success as a drug dealer. He took pride in the purity of his product and ran his business with a strict structure, which further solidified his position as a leading figure in Charlotte's drug scene.
Conflict and Incarceration
In 1985, a violent shootout between Money Rock and a rival dealer named Big Lou at Piedmont Courts marked a turning point in Platt's life. Platt was found guilty and sent to prison on charges stemming from the incident. Although the verdict was later overturned, the shootout had already drawn significant attention from authorities.
Platt's criminal activities eventually caught up with him, and he was convicted on federal charges related to his role as a cocaine kingpin. He would go on to serve more than 20 years in prison, a period that would change his life forever.
Redemption and Faith
During his time in prison, Platt found solace and direction in religion. Embracing his faith, he became a devout Christian and earned the title of Reverend. Upon his release in 2010, Money Rock continued to follow his faith and reflected on his past life with a newfound perspective.
Platt admitted that he was in denial about the true nature of his lifestyle. He realized that the street life was not for him, despite being led into it by his father, who had taught him the drug trade. Before turning to crime, Platt had his own cleaning business, but he opted for the more lucrative drug dealing route, which ultimately cost him his freedom.
A Changed Man
Today, Reverend Belton Platt stands as a testament to the power of redemption and faith. His journey from one of Charlotte's flashiest and most successful drug dealers to a man of faith serves as a powerful reminder of the possibilities of change and redemption, even for those who have walked the darkest paths.
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