Carlton Leach, a name synonymous with the British criminal underworld, has been a figure of intrigue for many. His life, filled with violence, crime, and eventual redemption, has made him a subject of fascination. But beyond the tales of his criminal exploits, many are curious about his financial standing. How much is Carlton Leach worth today? In this article, we delve deep into Carlton Leach’s net worth, exploring his journey from a feared gangster to a respected figure in the community.
Early Life and Entry into Crime
Carlton Leach was born in 1959 in Canning Town, East London, a place known for its tough neighborhoods and even tougher residents. From a young age, Carlton was drawn to the rough streets, where survival meant adopting a life of crime. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a well-known figure in the hooligan culture associated with football. His involvement with the Inter City Firm, a notorious group of West Ham United supporters, marked the beginning of his criminal career.
The Essex Boys and Rise to Infamy
In the 1980s and 1990s, Carlton Leach became closely associated with the notorious Essex Boys gang. The gang was involved in drug trafficking, violence, and other illegal activities that made them one of the most feared groups in the UK. Carlton’s role in the gang, coupled with his reputation as an enforcer, cemented his place in the criminal underworld. It was during this time that his wealth began to accumulate, primarily through illegal means.
Carlton Leach’s Transition to Legal Ventures
Following the infamous Rettendon murders in 1995, where three members of the Essex Boys gang were brutally killed, Carlton Leach began to distance himself from his life of crime. The incident, which was widely covered in the media and later depicted in the film Rise of the Footsoldier, had a profound impact on him. Carlton decided to transition into more legitimate business ventures, leveraging his notoriety to build a new life.
The Movie and Book Deals
One of the most significant sources of Carlton Leach’s wealth came from the media. The Rise of the Footsoldier movie, which was based on his life, became a cult hit. Carlton was not only portrayed in the film but also received financial compensation for the rights to his story. The success of the film led to several sequels, further boosting his income.
In addition to the movie, Carlton authored a book titled Muscle, which details his life in the criminal underworld. The book’s success added to his financial portfolio, making him a recognized author and public speaker.
Public Speaking and Consultancy
In recent years, Carlton Leach has reinvented himself as a public speaker and consultant. He frequently gives talks about his life, the dangers of crime, and the importance of making positive choices. His unique insights into the criminal world have made him a sought-after speaker, and he charges significant fees for his appearances. This new career path has become a substantial source of income, further adding to his net worth.
Current Ventures and Net Worth
Today, Carlton Leach continues to capitalize on his past, but through legal means. He is involved in various business ventures, including consulting for films and television shows that depict crime and the underworld. While exact figures are hard to pin down, estimates suggest that Carlton Leach’s net worth is in the region of £2 million to £5 million. This wealth is a combination of earnings from his media deals, book sales, public speaking engagements, and other business ventures.
Conclusion
Carlton Leach’s life is a testament to the ability to reinvent oneself. From a feared gangster to a respected figure, his journey is both fascinating and instructive. His net worth, built through both illegal and legal means, reflects his resilience and ability to adapt. As Carlton continues to share his story and insights, his financial standing is likely to grow, cementing his place not only in the annals of British crime history but also in the world of business.