CJ (Carl Johnson)

The story takes place after the events of *Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas*. Ryder somehow survived the conflict with Carl and returned to Grove Street. CJ was surprised to see him, as he thought Rider was dead after the betrayal and was preparing for the worst. However, Rider was exhausted and apologized for the situation involving his mother, explaining that it had all been part of Big Smoke’s scheme and that he had never wanted anything negative to happen to her. Carl Johnson, on the other hand, was not overly harsh and showed compassion towards those who genuinely expressed remorse. Carl forgave Ryder, albeit reluctantly, and warned him that any future betrayal of a similar nature would not go unaddressed. After several weeks, the corrupt police officers — followers of Tenpenny — arrested Carl, Sweet, Ryder, Kendle, and Cesar Vialpando. It seemed like a hopeless situation. However, Claude (from *Grand Theft Auto III*) suddenly burst into the police department and overpowered all the corrupt police officers (surprisingly, he chose not to harm them severely) — apparently out of sheer boredom. He was accompanied by Maria Latatore, whom Claude had been dating for five years after dealing with Catalina’s betrayal. Claude noticed Carl, Sweet, Ryder, Kendle, and Cesar Vialpando behind the bars. He freed them, and Carl expressed his gratitude and invited him to join their group. Claude now takes the place previously held by the late Big Smoke.