It's not too late: He can still write a book and get on Oprah's recommended reading list.
May 23, 2008 - A motivational speaker "who experiences and a frank, tough-guy approach to warn students about the dangers of drugs and a criminal lifestyle," is in custody on $1 million bail, accused of attempted murder.
Russell Simon Jr., 45, was charged with nine counts, including attempted murder, criminal sexual conduct and assault with a dangerous weapon. He was arrested after police were called to the home he shares with his girlfriend after shots were fired. After a fight with a former prison buddy, Simon forced his girlfriend to perform oral sex. he threatened to kill her and her 9-year-old son. She was shot in the arm.
Some counselors and school administrators who have heard Simon speak said he connected with his audience by talking about his own life -- how alcohol affected his home life, the poor decisions he made, and the dangers of prison life. He talked seriously. And his program, "10 Seconds Can Change Your Life Forever," showed how he beat his demons to succeed.
Isanti County Attorney Jeff Edblad said Friday that tests show Simon had cocaine, THC and methamphetamine in his system. His bail was $1 million because prosecutors will ask for stiffer penalties against Simon if he's convicted. In addition, bail was kept at $1 million because Simon made threatening phone calls from the jail to his former wife. Authorities are also investigating possible fraud or identity theft because Simon had four credit cards belonging to someone else.
June 7 - Motivational speaker's life a mixed message
Investigators say that in the weeks since Simon's arrest, several people have told them that Simon had fallen on hard financial times and tried to keep going by taking advantage of women, some of whom he met through personal ads on the Internet.
After boasting of his motivational work to win their trust, he'd manipulate them for money and sex.
