In late 1960s Harlem, Frank Lucas ascends the criminal hierarchy after his mentor and boss dies. Spotting an opportunity in the heroin trade, Lucas devises a bold plan to bypass traditional Mafia structures and source his product directly from Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. By doing so, he is able to sell a purer product at a lower price. Lucas's Blue Magic heroin quickly dominates the market, making him incredibly wealthy and giving him near-celebrity status in his community. To maintain his empire, Lucas employs his family members, trusts few outside his circle, and adheres to a strict, discreet code.

Meanwhile, Richie Roberts, an honest and dedicated New Jersey detective, is ostracized by his corrupt colleagues for turning in a million dollars in unmarked cash. His unwavering pursuit of justice leads him to head up a special narcotics task force. Unbeknownst to Lucas, Roberts zeroes in on the elusive drug kingpin's operation, determined to bring down the untouchable empire. As Lucas's reign expands and his tactics grow increasingly brutal, Roberts's quest becomes a personal and professional obsession, setting the stage for a high-stakes game of cat and mouse between the law and the cunning criminal mastermind.