The Robert Spiers Benjamin Award 2010

William Finnegan

Powerful reporting and writing that reveals the extent to which drug cartels have penetrated Mexican society, virtually conquering entire towns and regions. William Finnegan and The New Yorker provide an impressive and comprehensive account of La Familia’s rise to power in Michoacan state, at the same time illustrating and explaining the ruthless rivalries between the country’s gangs. Finnegan tackles a very dangerous story and delivers insightful and well-researched reporting that traces, for the first time, the philosophical roots of one of Mexico’s most vicious and bizarre drug cult groups.