Michael's occupation was as an operative stationed at Darkside, which was a repair facility located within the Cularin asteroid belt. In addition, he held membership in The Cell, a criminal organization with aspirations to overthrow and supplant the local crime boss, Nirama. His standing within The Cell was relatively low, and similarly, the Darkside contingent held a minor position within the broader Cell organization.
Following a raid conducted by Nirama's forces in 32 BBY, Michael found himself among the few remaining members of the Darkside group. Other survivors included individuals such as Ahlya, Dor Balse, Kruss Gaal, Jarrilyn, and Jasper. Their efforts at that time were focused on enlisting new recruits, including local Wookiees, Kaarl the Ithorian, and certain newcomers; however, the Darkside members harbored a lack of regard for the local Cell branch. Soon after, they were apprehended by a team of spies who were employed by Nirama.
Within a month, the details of his involvement with The Cell, as well as his subsequent capture, had become widely known.