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Ricky Donnell Ross

A NAME KNOWN.
A LIFE STILL
BEING WRITTEN.

Author. Speaker. A man whose story moves from the streets of South Central Los Angeles to conversations about choices, education, and change.

Read his books
Ricky Ross beside a city riverfront

Ricky Donnell “Freeway Rick” Ross became known for his role in Los Angeles’s cocaine trade during the 1980s. That history carries serious consequences for communities and families. It is part of his story, and a reason to examine it with care.

After incarceration and his release in 2009, his public life came to include writing and speaking. His autobiography, co-authored with Cathy Scott, was published in 2014. His story is also the subject of Marc Levin’s documentary, Freeway: Crack in the System.

2009

Released from federal prison.

2014

The autobiography is published.

2015

The documentary reaches audiences.

THE LESSONS CONTINUE.

In public conversations about literacy and personal change, Ross has reflected on education and learning during incarceration. The books, interviews, and proposed speaking program here offer different ways into those conversations.

This website is being developed around both his story and what his audiences are looking for today: a book to read, a perspective to consider, or a meaningful conversation at an event.

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Draft biography for owner review. Background: DOJ case history; 2009 release reporting; book record; film production credits.