38 Facts About Roberto Escobar

Early Life and Family Background

Roberto Escobar, often overshadowed by his infamous brother Pablo, has a story worth telling. His early years and family background shaped much of his life.

1. Roberto Escobar was born on January 13, 1947, in Rionegro, Colombia.
2. He is the older brother of the notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar.
3. Their father, Abel de Jesús Escobar Echeverri, was a farmer, while their mother, Hermilda de los Dolores Gaviria Berrío, was a schoolteacher.
4. Roberto and Pablo grew up in a modest household with six other siblings.
5. Despite their later criminal activities, the Escobar family was known for their strong Catholic faith.

Education and Early Career

Before diving into the world of crime, Roberto had a different path in mind. His education and early career choices were quite different from what one might expect.

6. Roberto studied electrical engineering at the University of Medellín.
7. He initially worked as an accountant, a skill that would later prove invaluable.
8. Roberto also had a brief stint as a professional cyclist, competing in national events.
9. His nickname, "El Osito" (The Little Bear), originated from his cycling days.
10. He was known for his meticulous nature, which later helped in managing the cartel's finances.

Involvement in the Medellín Cartel

Roberto's life took a dramatic turn when he joined his brother in the Medellín Cartel. His role was crucial to the cartel's operations.

11. Roberto became the chief accountant for the Medellín Cartel.
12. He was responsible for managing billions of dollars in drug money.
13. Roberto developed innovative methods to launder money, including using offshore accounts.
14. He was known for his ability to keep detailed records, even in the chaotic world of drug trafficking.
15. Roberto's financial acumen helped the cartel evade law enforcement for years.

Legal Troubles and Imprisonment

Roberto's involvement in the cartel eventually caught up with him. His legal troubles and imprisonment marked a significant chapter in his life.

16. In 1992, Roberto was arrested and charged with numerous crimes, including drug trafficking and money laundering.
17. He was sentenced to 14 years in prison.
18. During his time in prison, Roberto survived an assassination attempt that left him partially blind.
19. Despite his injuries, he continued to manage cartel operations from behind bars.
20. Roberto was released from prison in 2006 after serving half of his sentence.

Life After Prison

After his release, Roberto's life took yet another turn. He ventured into new territories, trying to leave his criminal past behind.

21. Roberto co-authored a book titled "The Accountant's Story," detailing his life in the cartel.
22. He started a company called Escobar Inc., which focuses on various business ventures.
23. Roberto has been involved in several legal battles over the use of the Escobar name.
24. He has claimed ownership of the rights to the name "Pablo Escobar" and has sued companies for unauthorized use.
25. Roberto has also ventured into the tech world, launching a foldable smartphone called the "Escobar Fold."

Controversies and Public Image

Roberto's post-prison life has not been without controversy. His actions and statements have often stirred public debate.

26. Roberto has made several controversial claims, including that he was the true mastermind behind the Medellín Cartel.
27. He has accused Netflix of using his family's story without permission in the series "Narcos."
28. Roberto demanded $1 billion from Netflix for the unauthorized use of his brother's story.
29. He has also claimed that he has information about hidden cartel money that has never been found.
30. Roberto's public appearances often draw mixed reactions, with some viewing him as a reformed man and others as a criminal seeking attention.

Personal Life and Legacy

Despite his criminal past, Roberto's personal life and legacy continue to intrigue many. His story is a complex tapestry of crime, redemption, and controversy.

31. Roberto has a son named Nicolás Escobar, who has also been involved in various business ventures.
32. He has expressed regret for his involvement in the cartel and the violence it caused.
33. Roberto has dedicated part of his life to charitable activities, including helping victims of landmines.
34. He has been vocal about his desire to change the public perception of the Escobar name.
35. Roberto's life story has been the subject of numerous documentaries and books.
36. He remains a controversial figure, with opinions about him deeply divided.
37. Roberto's legacy is a mix of infamy and attempts at redemption.
38. Despite everything, Roberto Escobar's story is a testament to the complexities of human nature and the possibility of change.

Final Thoughts on Roberto Escobar

Roberto Escobar's life is a mix of intrigue, danger, and unexpected turns. From his early days alongside his infamous brother Pablo to his later years as a businessman, Roberto's story is anything but ordinary. His involvement in the Medellín Cartel and subsequent time in prison highlight a life steeped in crime and consequence. Yet, his shift to entrepreneurship, particularly with his ventures into technology and tourism, shows a different side. Roberto's life serves as a reminder of the complexities within individuals often painted with a single brush. Whether viewed as a criminal, a survivor, or a businessman, his story continues to captivate and provoke thought. Understanding Roberto Escobar means looking beyond headlines and delving into the nuanced reality of his experiences. His life, filled with highs and lows, offers a unique perspective on resilience and transformation.