The film's producer, David Hoberman, stated that the film's premise was inspired by a 2007 New York Times article about a man named John McAfee, a prominent anti-virus software developer. McAfee was facing charges in Belize for illegal gun possession and, according to the article, he claimed he was entrapped by the authorities who orchestrated his arrest.
However, the film's plot is not a direct adaptation of McAfee's story. "Snitch" weaves a fictional narrative about a father (played by Dwayne Johnson) who is forced to become an informant for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to save his son from a harsh prison sentence.
The film highlights the ethical complexities and potential abuses of entrapment tactics employed by law enforcement. It raises questions about whether individuals are justified in participating in illegal activities under duress, and whether the ends justify the means when it comes to achieving justice.
While not a direct recounting of a specific real-life case, "Snitch" uses the concept of entrapment as a springboard for exploring themes of family loyalty, moral compromise, and the justice system's imperfections. It aims to provoke discussion about the ethical implications of law enforcement strategies and the impact they can have on individuals and families.