Michael S. Vigil, born and raised in New Mexico, earned his degree in Criminology at New Mexico State University where he graduated with Honors. He later joined the Drug Enforcement Administration and became one of its most highly decorated agents. He served in thirteen foreign and domestic posts and rose through the ranks to the highest level of the
Senior Executive Service.

Mr. Vigil has received numerous awards during his elite career such as Law Enforcement's most prestigious recognition: The National Association of Police Organization's (NAPO) Top Cop Award. Many foreign governments have honored Mr. Vigil for his extraordinary service in the violent struggle against transnational organized crime. He was made an honorary General by the country of Afghanistan and China bestowed him with the "Key to the City" of Shanghai. The President of the Dominican Republic also presented him with an Admiral's sword. He is mentioned in numerous books and appears on documentaries and popular television programs such as Gangsters: America's Most Evil and Manhunt

He is a contributor to the highly regarded Cipher Brief. His highly acclaimed memoir, DEAL, was released in 2014. Metal Coffins: The Blood Alliance Cartel is his first fiction novel and many of the scenarios are derived from his experiences as an undercover agent.