Interview with Reid Galbreath, Author of What Are The Odds
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What Are The Odds

Blowing the Whistle on the California State Lottery

Release Date: 03/15/2022

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about What Are The Odds

From a four-year-old in a seersucker suit dreaming of being Ben Matlock to a seasoned investigator taking on one of California’s most powerful institutions, Gary Reid Galbreath’s journey toward justice took an unexpected turn when he discovered corruption at the heart of the California State Lottery. This riveting memoir exposes what happens when one man’s dedication to truth collides with a system designed to protect itself.

As a decorated law enforcement officer turned lottery investigator, Galbreath uncovered disturbing evidence of misappropriated funds and fraud schemes targeting California’s most vulnerable residents. But when he dug deeper, he found himself labeled a whistleblower and fired by the very officials he was investigating—the same ones who had praised his investigative skills just months earlier.

Through Galbreath’s candid narrative, readers get an insider’s view of the price of integrity in a system where looking the other way is often the easier choice. He details how his “unauthorized investigation” into corruption led to his termination, the years-long battle for vindication, and his ultimate settlement with the state.

More than just an exposé, this is a story about standing up for what’s right when the odds are stacked against you. From the investigation that ended his career to the aftermath that tested his resolve, Galbreath’s account reveals the personal cost of exposing institutional corruption and the importance of maintaining one’s principles in the face of adversity.

Editorial Review ★★★★★

In this compelling memoir, former law enforcement officer and lottery investigator Gary Reid Galbreath provides a candid account of institutional oversight and personal integrity. Through his journey from decorated officer to whistleblower, Galbreath offers readers an unprecedented look into the challenges of maintaining ethical standards within large bureaucratic systems.

What sets this work apart is its unique insider perspective on investigative processes. Galbreath’s background in law enforcement lends particular credibility to his account of uncovering institutional irregularities. His progression from trusted investigator to whistleblower illustrates the complex challenges faced by those who choose to expose systemic issues.

The book’s greatest strength lies in its detailed examination of investigative procedures and institutional responses. Through careful documentation of his findings and the subsequent aftermath, Galbreath provides valuable insight into how organizations react to internal investigations. His description of the transition from praised investigator to terminated employee demonstrates the personal costs of maintaining integrity.

Particularly impressive is the author’s handling of complex investigative details. Drawing from his law enforcement background, Galbreath explains sophisticated fraud schemes and financial irregularities in accessible terms while maintaining narrative momentum. His ability to balance technical detail with personal narrative creates an engaging account that serves both as memoir and investigative case study.

The writing effectively combines professional observation with personal reflection. Galbreath’s experience allows him to examine institutional dynamics while sharing the human impact of his choices. His account of the settlement process and aftermath provides important perspective on the long-term consequences of whistleblowing.

“What Are The Odds” stands as a significant contribution to whistleblower literature, offering readers both professional insight and personal testimony about the importance of institutional accountability.

About This Author

Gary Reid Galbreath is a former police officer and state investigator originally from California. He has worked on countless investigations in government, health insurance, and the private sector. During his career in law enforcement, he served as a Terrorism Liaison Officer, Training Officer, and Lead Public Safety Officer. He has over 17 years of experience in law enforcement, investigations, and security. After a decorated 11-year law enforcement career, replete with numerous commendations for his investigative skills, Galbreath was fired by the top officials in the California State Lottery for conducting an "unauthorized investigation" into corruption, committed by the very people who fired him. Galbreath's investigation centered around misappropriation of public funds, lack of safeguards to protect the public from fraud, and failure to prosecute those who preyed upon some of California's most vulnerable residents. These were the very things he was trained and tasked to investigate. Not dissuaded into continuing a life of public service, Reid finds time to volunteer in his community working with charities focused on assisting underprivileged, special needs, and terminally ill children in need. Reid currently lives in Las Vegas Nevada with his girlfriend, his two Frenchies, his two kitties, and his red-eared Slider Harriett. You will usually find him pool-side making cocktails for his friends. Reid has a collection of unique liquors and memorabilia.

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