This feature examines the rise and fall of Seattle goaltender Phoenix Jones. An ambitious man armed with expensive bulletproof suits, pepper spray, and other mildly offensive weapons. Aspiring heroes will walk the streets at night, looking for any glitches they can find and help. He has been practicing since 2010 and has foiled carjackings, stopped street fights and even terrorized drug dealers.
He even manages to inspire others to join him on patrol. He inspired Purple Rain, who fought to spread awareness of domestic violence, Midnight Jack, and the Red Dragon. His team grew to about ten members and called itself the Rain City Superhero Movement.
He got hurt a lot trying, and was discouraged by the police and even other occasional costumed heroes. He seems blind to what other people can see – and he may only make it worse over time. By then, he had joined a group of costume wearers around the world who wanted to make their mark and make a difference in crime-fighting.
Phoenix-Jones doesn’t appear to share her healthy awareness of her limits, nor her willingness to involve trained law enforcement officers. He also drew a lot of criticism for allowing film crews to follow him, as he seemed to care more about his fame than the causes he championed.
He attracts villains and supporters alike, garnering widespread media attention from news networks, podcasts, audio shows and a YouTube channel.
Phoenix Jones is really Benjamin Fodor, a husband, father and occasional professional fighter. He also works at a day care center that takes care of children with special needs. His exploits as a superhero eventually cost him his job, his wife, and his eventual arrest for drug crimes.
Despite his polarizing behavior, even his critics were surprised by how it all turned out.
If you’re interested in non-traditional community service, this is an interesting watch for you.
