The Inside Story of Operation Greylord

Operation Greylord is a story of true crime that details America's largest undercover FBI investigation into corruption. Terry Hake was the principal FBI undercover lawyer in the investigation, and his new book tells the story from the inside for the first time. The book is available online and in bookstores. You can pick up your copy at the Book Stall in Winnetka, Illinois and some local Barnes & Noble™ stores in the Chicago area. The book is also available online at books@thebookstall.com, Amazon.com, barnesnadnoble.com and other online sites.

"True crime narratives don't get much more suspenseful than Hake's account of his covert work to expose the endemic corruption in the Chicago court system."

— Publishers Weekly Starred Review

An Untrained Undercover Agent

Operation Greylord began in 1980, when Mr. Hake was a young assistant prosecutor in the Cook County State's Attorney's Office in Chicago. After complaining about corruption in the courts, he was approached by the U.S. Attorney's Office and the FBI about helping with an investigation. For nearly four years, Hake worked undercover as a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney in Operation Greylord.

Bribery, Corruption, & Betrayal

Operation Greylord is a detailed account of the operation from an insider's perspective. The case and trials lasted more than a decade, during which time Mr. Hake was unable to tell his story. Now, for the first time, you'll find out what really happened, through the eyes of the key undercover agent. During the operation, Hake accepted bribes, made payoffs, bugged judges' chambers, and wore a wire to bars and racetracks. He also befriended people he knew he would later betray.

The Aftermath

Operation Greylord was the longest and most successful undercover investigation in FBI history, and the largest corruption bust in the history of the United States. When all was said and done, the operation resulted in bribery and tax charges against 103 judges, lawyers, and court personnel, and more than 70 indictments.

Praise for Operation Greylord

Operation Greylord has received glowing reviews from readers and critics alike, including a starred review in Publishers Weekly. Visit the book's Amazon page to read more.

Book an Appearance

Mr. Hake has lectured extensively to business professionals, attorneys, and law students concerning the ethical lessons and investigative techniques learned during Greylord. He is available to speak at schools, businesses, colleges, and law enforcement agencies across the country. Get in touch via the contact form to book an appearance. Mr. Hake has previously spoken at some of the country's most prestigious universities, including:

The University of Chicago • Loyola University of Chicago • Harvard • Boston College • Yale • Georgetown University and the University of St. Thomas