Terry Lee Flenory, also known as “Southwest T,” is a former drug dealer and co-founder of the infamous Black Mafia Family (BMF), a large-scale drug trafficking and money laundering organization. Born on January 10, 1972, in Detroit, Michigan, he is the younger brother of Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory, with whom he established the organization in the late 1980s.
The Black Mafia Family
BMF was one of the most prominent drug trafficking organizations in the United States during the 1990s and early 2000s. The brothers operated the enterprise out of Detroit and expanded its network across multiple states.
- Core Activities: Smuggling cocaine primarily from Mexican cartels into the U.S. and distributing it across major cities.
- Expansion into Entertainment: They also established BMF Entertainment, a hip-hop label used to legitimize their wealth and connect with the music industry.
Arrest and Conviction
In 2005, the Flenory brothers were arrested as part of a large federal investigation into BMF. They were both convicted of running a continuing criminal enterprise and sentenced to 30 years in federal prison.
- Terry Flenory was released on home confinement in 2020 due to health concerns and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Legacy and Pop Culture
Terry Lee Flenory’s life and the BMF story have become the subject of fascination in popular culture.
- TV Series: The rise and fall of BMF is depicted in the STARZ series “BMF”, executive-produced by rapper 50 Cent. The show highlights their criminal empire and family dynamics, introducing a new generation to their story.
- Cultural Impact: Despite their criminal background, the Flenory brothers’ influence on hip-hop culture and their ability to amass power and wealth have made them legendary figures in urban folklore.
Personal Life
Terry has kept a relatively low profile since his release, reportedly focusing on family and legitimate business ventures. Unlike his brother Big Meech, who is still incarcerated, Terry has distanced himself from illegal activities.
Terry Lee Flenory’s story is a complex tale of ambition, crime, and consequences, serving as both a cautionary tale and a symbol of the blurred lines between street culture and mainstream success.