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Raymond 'Shrimp Boy' Chow Billed Himself As Reformed Gangster Before Arrest

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) -- Between Raymond 'Shrimp Boy' Chow's 2003 release from prison, and his arrest on federal charges Wednesday, Chow had billed himself as a reformed gangster who advocates on behalf of children, and received numerous awards and recognition from Bay Area lawmakers.

In 2006, San Francisco Supervisor Fiona Ma awarded Chow a "Certificate of Honor" from the city, which Ma defended to the San Francisco Chronicle, saying Chow had "learned his lesson the hard way and wants to be a positive influence on the lives of young people."

In 2012, Senator Dianne Feinstein recognized Chow as a former offender who had become an asset to their community.

Also in 2012, Assemblyman Tom Ammiano honored Chow with a "change agent" award. San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee recognized Chow's "willingness to give back to the community."

Chow had also been speaking with children to warn them of the dangers of alcohol and drugs. He was apparently charging $200 per appearance for those speeches.

 

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