Quinci’s arrival on São Miguel had changed the island in surprising ways. A number of locals had become rich thanks to the Italian’s cocaine, then started legitimate businesses, such as coffee shops, many of which still exist today. But the drugs also had more damaging long-term effects. Quinci’s cocaine was so potent that they started taking other drugs to lessen the symptoms of withdrawal. They became addicted to heroin, which was shipped in from the continent, often via the postal service. The arrival of Quinci’s cocaine increased consumption of other illicit substances, and young people and adults from poorer parts of the island were the ones most affected. “It completely ruined my life. I’m still living with consequences to this day.”

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