Robert DeShaun Peace

Robert DeShaun Peace is born in East Orange, New Jersey in 1980. His mother is Jackie Peace, who grew up on Chapman Street in East Orange and never leaves. His father is Robert “Skeet” Douglas, a construction worker and cocaine dealer. His father goes to jail for a double murder he says he didn't commit.

Rob is smart, and extremely good with people. In his early years, teachers and family members can all tell he is going to go far. Jackie is compelled to make sure of it, though. She works two jobs, goes to night school, and does what she can to provide tuition for Rob to go to private school.

Although Rob excels at school, he feels equally at home on the streets. He plays rough games of football on the street, flipping kids over his back onto the asphalt, and tackling them into...