Owen Hanson’s story is one of startling transformation, from a promising college athlete to a ruthless criminal mastermind. His life journey—from the football fields of the University of Southern California (USC) to running an international drug trafficking empire—provides a fascinating look at how ambition, opportunity, and desperation can shape a person’s destiny. This article explores the rise and fall of Owen Hanson, examining his criminal activities, legal consequences, and attempts to rebuild his life after serving time in prison.
Early Life and Athletic Background
Owen Hanson was born on May 18, 1986, in the United States. Growing up, he seemed to have everything going for him. He was athletic, intelligent, and determined to make a name for himself. Hanson was particularly passionate about sports and honed his skills in football. His natural talent caught the eye of scouts, and he eventually earned a scholarship to play football at the University of Southern California (USC), one of the top college football programs in the country.
At USC, Hanson showcased his skills as a linebacker. But despite his promise, he never made it to the professional NFL ranks. His football career stalled, but it was during these years that Hanson was exposed to a lifestyle that would later lead him down a much darker path. Though his athletic future was limited, the fame and connections he made during his time in college would set the stage for his descent into crime.
The Formation of ODOG Enterprise
After leaving USC, Hanson found himself without a clear direction. The glitz and glamour of college life, combined with the pressures to succeed, likely influenced his decision to pursue a much more dangerous path: organized crime. Hanson became involved in the underground world of drug trafficking and illegal gambling. It was here that he created the ODOG Enterprise. A criminal organization involved in large-scale drug distribution, money laundering, and high-stakes sports betting.
The ODOG Enterprise was not just any small-time operation—it quickly became an international network. Hanson built an empire that spanned across the U.S., Mexico, and even overseas, trafficking thousands of kilograms of drugs like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and marijuana. He also ran a sprawling gambling operation, which involved illegal sports betting and unregulated casinos.
Hanson was known for his ruthless approach to running the enterprise. He used intimidation, threats, and violence to enforce the rules and keep his operations running smoothly. In this world, Hanson became a feared figure, and those who dared to cross him often faced severe consequences. It wasn’t just about money for Hanson—it was about power, control, and living a life far beyond the ordinary.
Criminal Activities and Operations
Under Hanson’s leadership, ODOG grew exponentially. The organization was involved in more than just the illegal distribution of drugs. Hanson’s enterprise was a multifaceted criminal operation with several lucrative avenues of income.
Drug Trafficking:
The scale of ODOG’s drug trafficking operations was staggering. The enterprise moved large quantities of illicit substances across international borders, using sophisticated methods to avoid detection by law enforcement. Hanson’s operation had connections to drug cartels in South America and was known for distributing cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, MDMA, and anabolic steroids. The money earned from these illicit activities was laundered through various businesses, including luxury car dealerships, casinos, and real estate.
Illegal Gambling:
On top of drug trafficking, Hanson’s organization ran a massive illegal sports betting operation. He exploited his connections in the world of sports to set up high-stakes gambling rings. Allowing clients to place bets on professional sports events without any regulation. The operation was highly lucrative, and Hanson’s group earned millions of dollars. They used intimidation to collect debts, often resorting to threats and violence to ensure that gamblers paid what they owed.
Violence and Enforcers:
The ODOG Enterprise was notorious for its use of violence. Hanson surrounded himself with enforcers who were tasked with maintaining order through fear and brutality. Anyone who posed a threat to the organization, whether it was a competitor or an unruly gambler, was dealt with harshly. Hanson’s reputation for cruelty was well-established, and his willingness to use force helped solidify his grip on power.
Arrest and Legal Consequences
Hanson’s criminal empire eventually drew the attention of law enforcement. His organization had become too large, too dangerous, and too profitable to remain under the radar. In 2015, after a lengthy investigation, the FBI and other federal agencies moved in to take down the ODOG Enterprise.
Hanson was arrested, and in 2017, he was convicted on a range of charges, including drug trafficking, money laundering, racketeering, and illegal gambling. The trial revealed the extent of his criminal activities and the level of violence used to maintain control over his operations. He was sentenced to 21 years in federal prison for running a violent criminal enterprise.
In addition to his prison sentence, Hanson was ordered to forfeit millions of dollars in assets, including luxury cars, real estate, and other high-value properties. It was clear that Hanson’s lavish lifestyle, funded by his criminal activities, had come to an abrupt end.
Life in Prison and Early Release
While serving his time, Hanson spent a significant amount of time in solitary confinement. A consequence of his notoriety and the danger he posed to other inmates. Life in prison was a stark contrast to the luxury and power he had experienced in the outside world. Yet, it was during this time that Hanson began to reconsider his future.
In exchange for cooperation with authorities, Hanson received a reduced sentence. He helped law enforcement break up other criminal networks and provided crucial information about his associates and their operations. This cooperation ultimately led to his early release in 2024.
Post-Prison Life and Rebranding
After his release from prison, Hanson made it clear that he was determined to turn his life around. He rebranded himself as a legitimate businessman, distancing himself from his criminal past. One of his first ventures was launching a protein ice cream brand, a stark departure from the illegal activities he had once been involved in. The brand was marketed heavily, and Hanson used his personal story of redemption to attract attention.
However, Hanson’s rebranding efforts have been met with skepticism. Many people questioned whether his transformation was genuine or if it was just another way to keep himself in the public eye. He has continued to make public appearances, speaking about his time in prison and the lessons he learned. Despite his attempts to build a new life, his criminal past continues to haunt him.
Controversy and Criticism
Hanson’s post-prison life has not been without controversy. Some critics argue that he has not truly repented for his actions, and his early release was part of a larger trend of leniency for high-profile criminals. Victims of ODOG’s violent activities have also expressed their frustration with Hanson’s new public persona, believing that he has not paid enough for the harm he caused.
Moreover, Hanson’s continued association with some of his former criminal associates raises questions about the extent of his reformation. Many wonder if he is truly out of the criminal world or simply biding his time until he can rebuild his empire.
Conclusion
Owen Hanson’s life story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of ambition, the allure of power, and the consequences of falling into a life of crime. His rise from college football player to kingpin of a violent international criminal organization is a sobering reminder of how easily one can be lured into illegal activities. While his efforts to rebuild his life after prison may appear genuine. The shadow of his criminal past will likely follow him for the rest of his life. His legacy is one of destruction, violence, and eventual redemption—but it remains to be seen if he can truly leave his criminal empire behind for good.
FAQs about Owen Hanson
Who is Owen Hanson?
Owen Hanson is a former USC football player turned criminal mastermind who led the ODOG Enterprise, a violent international drug and gambling network.
What crimes was Owen Hanson convicted of?
Hanson was convicted of drug trafficking, money laundering, racketeering, and illegal gambling, leading to a 21-year prison sentence.
How did Owen Hanson get released from prison early?
Hanson was released early in 2024 after cooperating with authorities, providing valuable information that helped dismantle other criminal organizations.
What is the ODOG Enterprise?
The ODOG Enterprise was a criminal network run by Hanson, involved in drug trafficking, illegal gambling, and money laundering across multiple countries.
Is Owen Hanson involved in business now?
After prison, Hanson rebranded himself as a businessman, launching a protein ice cream brand, but his criminal past continues to follow him.
