Clarence "Preacher" Heatley struck fear into the hearts of New Yorkers for over a decade. He was the vicious, ruthless leader of the Preacher crew, a gang that specialized in drug trafficking, extortion, and intimidation. The gang allegedly called Heatley "Preacher" because of his dazzling way with words, and ability to manipulate people into following and fearing him. Heatley didn't only rule the streets through speeches, though. He threatened and intimidated his rivals and enemies. Dissenters would be beaten or murdered. Heatley became a local legend. Although nobody could describe him or knew his movements, everyone knew who he was and everyone was afraid of him. His name on the streets became The Black Hand of Death.
