The High Road: Confessions of a Homicide Cop

by Hank Idsinga

Hank Idsinga, whose grandfather was murdered in the Holocaust, became the country’s leading homicide detective; he shares his insights into tracking down murderers and serial killers over his colourful and decorated thirty-year career.

From the age of ten, Hank Idsinga knew he wanted to become a homicide detective, when he learned that his grandfather had been murdered by the Nazis in the Second World War. He prepared to be a police officer his entire youth and soon found himself in ill-fitting suits training for the job. More than competent—smart, incisive, caring, respectful—Idsinga ingratiated himself to his fellow officers and to his superiors. He was as capable of tracking down a getaway man as he was informing a mother that her son, lost to crime, would never return home. Idsinga found himself at the center of some of the most notable crimes in recent Toronto history, from the Jane Creba shooting on Boxing Day to shootouts on Yonge Street to helping track down some of the most vicious serial criminals the city has ever seen.

But it was in homicide that Hank Idsinga would prove such a vital asset to the Toronto Police Services. Idsinga teamed up with his partners, including future chief of police Mark Saunders, on many murder calls—some one-offs, others more nefarious—taking in the scene with his excellent recall, finding the motive and the method faster and more insightfully than most. Idsinga and his team of seasoned detectives participated in taking down some of the worst Toronto has to offer, perhaps none more so than serial killer Bruce McArthur, who had terrorized the gay village for years. Idsinga became the public face for that investigation, and despite the criticism of the police force’s handling of the murders, Idsinga always appeared strong and compassionate in front of the media’s camera flashes.

The High Road breathes life into the true detective genre, with raw, accessible and punchy prose, as honest and compelling as the homicide detective himself. His grandfather would have been proud.

Genres: Nonfiction, True Crime, Canada, Memoir, Crime, Book Club

336 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 28, 2026

About the author

Hank Idsinga was a member of the Toronto Police Services for thirty years, leading the country’s top homicide unit for five years. Having served as Detective Sergeant and, later, Inspector in charge of Toronto’s Homicide Squad, he has policed just about every kind of case you can imagine, and has stared down some of the hardest criminals the city has ever seen. Idsinga has received numerous awards from the Ontario Homicide Investigator’s Association, and has twice been recognized by Toronto Life magazine as one of Toronto’s 50 Most Influential People. Additionally, he is a regular presenter at policing conferences, including the FBI National Academy Associates Conference and the Ontario Homicide Investigators Conference, among others. Recently retired and now a crime commentary fixture on the Corus radio network (nationally) and Global Television, as well as American crime series in production, Idsinga speaks widely about policing in the wake of a highly decorated career.

Reviews

[Geri Williams-Borne]

Loved this book. The stories of effective leadership combined with respect are are examples of what should be expected in a police force or any organization that values its employees and the work they do. I have great admiration for the author in the cases he and his team worked on and solved. What an amazing homicide unit Toronto has. I hope that it continues to show this type of leadership and caring about fellow officers in the author. Author should be commended for writing this book and letting the public know what they do.

[EdithP]

Really insightful look at policing and how meticulous, determined and, of course, conscientiously ethical, investigators must be to unravel a crime and secure a conviction. With the methodical approach of a veteran detective, Indsinga uses examples and experience to make the case that the paramilitary structure of the TPS and the cronyism it has engendered are the biggest impediments to having a trusted and competent police force.

[Shelby]

4.5 ⭐️

I was so happy I requested this as an ARC and was approved. I devoured this book. I can’t say enough positive things.

I was so enticed in Hanks’ stories. I also really loved the pictures throughout the book. As someone who lives close to Toronto it was more appealing to me to know that I could visualize these settings more. But extremely upsetting that all this happened so close to home. Some of it was graphic and hard to read.

It speaks volumes in the end, of just how valued Hank was as a homicide detective and friend. I’m glad he retired when he did even though it was hard to walk away and say enough is enough. He deserves the retired life and I hope he’s living it to the fullest.

I can’t recommend this one enough, especially if you’re into true-crime that takes place in Toronto.


Thank you to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster for an eARC. The High Road is available now.

[Trevor Morrison]

What a remarkable career. He’s an example for others to follow

[Macwolf01 [Elise]]

4.5 ⭐️s

Fascinating and eye opening read about Hank Idsinga's career along with the inner workings and struggles within TPS. He should be proud of his career and service, I appreciate his reflection on leadership. As a Torontonian reading about many of these cases from a homicide detective was interesting.

TPS should pay attention to the call-outs in this book, and from others ... a little or a lot of self reflection is always warranted.

[Shannon]

*4.5

[Madison Dillon]

Happy pub date to The High Road by Hank Idsinga! Thank you Simon and Schuster for this advanced copy! I’ve never read anything like this, and I was really intrigued the whole way through. We follow Idsinga through his career, first as an officer on the road in division 14 in Toronto, then to his time as an officer in the homicide division where he worked for many years. He also explores his family’s history by talking about his grandfather who died in the Holocaust. This is overall a really good historical, true detective memoir, looping in many different themes and stories!

I’ve always been really interested in hearing true crime/detective stories, from many different perspectives, but this was the first memoir I’ve read by someone who spelt their life in law enforcement. Toronto is a huge, busy, bustling city, and I can’t image what it would be like to be an officer here. Idsinga tells these stories as if you’re sitting around the dinner table with him hearing little snippets of a compelling life.

Throughout the book, Idsinga’s life is unveiled. It was very interesting to see how he struggled at first trying to join the tps, how he overcame this, and how he helped give opportunities to younger officers later in his career. He talks about the issues in policing throughout history, and happening today, but he also talks about the good that people do in these jobs. I found this to be a well-balanced memoir full of very exciting and lively stories. Thank you Idsinga!

[Erica]

I went into this book expecting more of a traditional true crime memoir, but it ended up feeling like much more than that. Alongside the details of major investigations and high-profile cases, there was also a focus on the emotional weight that comes with police work and the human side of the job.

What stood out most to me was how reflective the writing felt. The book doesn’t just focus on the crimes themselves, but also on the impact they have on victims, families, investigators, and entire communities. The author shares his experiences honestly and doesn’t shy away from the pressures and realities of homicide investigations in Toronto.

I appreciated the balance between the procedural side of investigations and the more personal reflections on leadership and resilience. While it sounds like he had a very successful career, it also sounds like it was a difficult path.

Overall, it was an interesting and insightful look at a long career in policing. I think this will appeal to readers who are interested in the people behind the behind the scenes perspectives on major criminal cases and have that Canadian connection.

Thank you to Simon and Schuster for the gifted e-copy!

[M V]

CBC radio had him on for interview today. Piqued my interest. To the readers of this title, does he mention the Sherman murders?

[Barbara Allen]

I find I'm drawn to autobiographical works by someone who knew what they wanted to do with their lives from a very young age. Hank Idsinga was only a child when he found out what had happened to the grandfather he had never met. His mother's family had been torn apart by the Holocaust in World War II, his grandfather one of six million Jews murdered by the Nazis. His mother and her siblings were spared the same fate when they were sent away by their mother, a sacrifice that meant she never saw them again. He was certain at age ten that he wanted to get the bad guys who did this, to get justice. That passion led him to become a homicide detective.

The High Road is a riveting read filled with case stories, some terrifying, others hard-to-stomach and some that are heartwarming too, as the author describes growing into fulfilling his life's calling. It's a rare chance to see what policing is like, from the inside. He talks candidly about internal issues in a clear calm manner. His memory, attention to detail and methodical approach, especially evident in his description of complex cases, all come through in prose that's engaging rather than dry. His sensitivity to children is obvious as is the care he takes in describing the physical and emotional toll the job exacts on his fellow officers.

I know the Toronto settings he describes but even if I didn't, this would be a book I'd find hard to put down. I came away feeling I'd read a book that gave me hope. Thanks Hank, you're one of the good guys!

[Michelle]

Thank you to Simon & Schuster Canada for the advanced digital copy of The High Road: Confessions of a Homicide Cop.

The High Road is a memoir of Hank Idsinga's time with the Toronto Police Service.

Toronto is about two hours east of where I live. It is a city of over 3 million, within the city limits. The Greater Toronto Area, has a population of over 7 million. We typically visit the city a least a couple times a year. The city has so much to do, theater, our Toronto Blue Jays, concerts, shopping, an amusement park.

But there is a darker side to the city, as with most cities. This book is a fascinating, yet horrifying look into that darker side. There were a few high profile cases that I absolutely remember, but there is so much more going on than I think the average person even realizes.

The High Road moves through story after story from Idsinga's career as he moved through the police force, into homicide, and up the promotion ladder, until his retirement. For such an incredibly tough subject matter, the stories were told with some humor and also a lot of heart. There was a lot of insight into the workings of the Toronto Police Service and how investigations were carried out. This was immensely interesting. There was also some critiscm on how things operated within the TPS, especially at senior levels.

If you are interested in true crime stories and enjoy memoirs, I would recommend reading The High Road.

[Teena in Toronto]

I like reading memoirs and bios/autobios and also true crime. This memoir was especially interesting because it happened here in Toronto.

Hank Idsing is a former Toronto homicide detective who spent three decades with the Toronto Police Service. This book traces his journey from a childhood decision to become a detective after learning that his grandfather was murdered during the Holocaust to eventually leading one of Canada's most prominent homicide units. Idsinga talks about his career investigating murders, gang violence, shootings and serial homicide cases in Toronto. He describes the realities of police work, the challenges of solving complex crimes and the emotional impact that violent deaths have on victims' families, investigators and communities.

This memoir also talks about several high-profile Toronto cases, including the investigations surrounding the murders committed by serial killer Bruce McArthur, for which Idsinga became a public spokesperson. I remember most of the cases he spoke about so it was interesting to get the inside scoop on them. He also mentions the racism and favouritism that exists within the police force. I liked the writing style. I found it to be honest and interesting. As a head's up, there is swearing.

Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2026/06...

[tolovetoread]

I walked past this book in a store, read a couple of pages, and knew I had to buy it. Two days later, I was finished.

The High Road is a fascinating and eye-opening look at life inside the Toronto Police Service, through the eyes of Hank Idsinga, a 34 year veteran.

Idsinga takes us through his journey into policing and an incredible career that eventually led him to Head of Homicide, where he was involved in investigating some of Toronto’s most notorious and heartbreaking cases.

What I really enjoyed was that this wasn’t simply a book on crimes and investigations. Idsinga weaves the cases together with his personal experiences, values, and honest opinions about policing. He talks about the reality and pressures of the job, the impact these cases have on those investigating them, and what he believes needs to change in policing. I especially appreciated his message that the next generation of officers has an important role in being that change.

This was such an interesting and easy read. And if, like me, you grew up in and around Toronto, you’ll recognize most of these cases.

I picked it up on a whim and ended up flying through it. Definitely one I’d recommend. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

.

#tolovetoread #thehighroad #hankidsinga #truecrime

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[Brian Claman]

The High Road is an exceptional look inside homicide investigation from someone who actually lived it.

Hank Idsinga takes the reader behind the scenes of some of Toronto’s most difficult and high-profile murder investigations, but what makes this book particularly compelling is that it is about much more than solving crimes. It is also about leadership, judgment, perseverance, policing and, ultimately, people.

Idsinga does not romanticize police work. He writes candidly about the enormous amount of painstaking work that goes into a homicide investigation, the frustrations and internal challenges of policing, and the very human consequences of violent crime for victims, families and investigators alike.

I particularly appreciated his willingness to discuss both what policing does well and where it falls short. That honesty gives the book credibility.

Despite dealing with some extraordinarily dark subject matter, The High Road remains highly readable and deeply human. It gave me a greater appreciation for the complexity of homicide investigation and for the people who spend their careers doing this work.

An absorbing, candid and thought-provoking memoir. An easy five stars.

[L]

This was an interesting read and gave me insight into the rigour involved in homicide investigations. The focus, impartiality, tenacity, perseverance, instincts and energy required are really profiled in the cases Hank Idsinga shares in this book. I came to see how important the right leadership is and how it can foster or destroy the commitment required from these very dedicated officers and civilian members of the TPS. I was always impressed by Mr. Idsinga’s composure and patience during his public appearances related to the Bruce MacArthur investigation. I had hoped for a bit more content relating to the systemic problems within the TPS leadership but can understand that enough was said to make the point that it’s a problem that needs resolving and is omnipresent in police services around the world.

Thank you for your service and dedication, Hank Idsinga, and to your wife, daughter and extended family in supporting you to do the very important work you did serving the people of Toronto for 34 years. You touched many lives both inside and outside the TPS. Enjoy your richly deserved retirement and may it be a long, happy and healthy one.

[Marharyta]

💕 As someone who knows nothing about the workings of the Toronto police force, this book was definitely eye opening. It is told chronologically through the career of the author, from his decision to join the police force through to his retirement.

He spoke highly of many a mentor and how they influenced his career. The institutional changes through the decades, along with the changes in departmental structure were educational.

The homicide cases were tough, especially those involving children. The steps that were taken to apprehend the suspects were interesting. The opening story of his family history and his grandfather’s murder within the concentration camp was horrific and gripping.

What I found difficult in this book was the writing style. It’s very factual and calculated. It goes from case to case without a mental break - written almost like a report.

Although I understand not wanting to bring his personal life into the book, I would have enjoyed the book more with personal breaks in between the professional tales. Or a glimpse at the emotional and psychological nature of police work. This story lacks that personal touch that would have provided a greater connection with the reader.

ARC Read 26Mar2026

[C.J. Frederick]

This is a book about policing. And it is also not a book about policing. (Like a relationship status on Facebook, It' s complicated.) Ever wonder who is behind the uniform? This memoir provides some insight into who patrols our streets and investigates the horrific crimes that occur on them. It shines a light on the enormous toll that this profession takes on those who wear the uniform. And it urges the organization to adjust to the times by modernizing its structure and addressing some inherent flaws (including racism, homophobia, misogyny, and antisemitism).

I watched Hank Idsinga for years on TV press conferences. He struck me then as a straight shooter who had decency in his core. This memoir, I think, further corroborates that feeling. Thank you for your service, Hank.

To loosely quote Alex Haley ("Roots"):
The most important day of your life is the day you are born. The second most important day is when you realize why.

Check, check to Mr Idsinga.

[Diana]

I really enjoyed this book. On the surface it's a memoir of the career of a police and then a detective with toronto police services. But it's so much more. It goes into the inner workings of the police without it being too technical or boring. It also gives a brief account on some of the various cases he worked on or lead. He then speaks of the qualities of leadership that make a difference in work and in the community. If you are interesting in true crime, if you are interested in how the toronto police services runs, if you lived in the city from 1990 onwards, if you are interested in leadership skills this book is for you. This book is very relatable to any torontian who lived in the city during the 90s and onwards, the names and cases are familiar and bring certain authentic familiarity to the book. I would definitely recommend this book.

[Cathy]

Well-written thoughtful memoir from Hank Idsinga, Toronto's top homicide cop/leader of the unit for five years, years that saw any number of high-profile cases and which his team solved. Being a resident of Toronto, this book hit close to home. The cases Idsinga covers are meaningful to him for the policing lessons learned. I remember them all. But Idsinga tells the story of why he wanted to be a cop from the age of ten, how he achieved that goal, how he worked through 34 years of the job, no mean feat given a lot of internal policing strife. This is a calm measured man, that we know from the many pressers he gave the public on case updates. And this is his greatest skill and appeal. Retired now but sought after by companies, the media, Idsinga has left a legacy at TPS.

[Elaine Collingwood]

What a fascinating and eye opening book by one of Toronto's Top Homicide cops.

This book details many of Hank Idsinga's top cases and those that have stuck with him. I remember seeing him on the news often with respect to the Bruce McArthur serial murder case a few years ago. It was heart-breaking to read the details of some of the cases he has investigated but it also taught me all the hard work that goes into investigating a homicide.

I was sadden to read about the issues that have affected and appear to still be affecting the Toronto Police service. However, I think it is a reality facing many different police agencies, not just Toronto.

[To Read Pile Too Big]

The first part of the book was really good. It followed his progression through the ranks and I learned a lot about policing and investigations and how much work is involved to solve a case.

Later in the book, it kinda gets bogged down with describing case after case after case. If you live in Toronto, you will probably be more interested in these cases, but most of them were new to me and didn't really interest me much. The huge cases that every Canadian remembers were much more intriguing (Houston, Prism, Christine Jessop, etc).

I do think that every person who reads this will come away with a bit more respect for what the police do and that's a good thing.

[DV K]

What a career. Good for Hank Idsinga that he was brave enough to call out the racism, anti-semitism and paramilitary toxic culture in the TPS. Sadly, this is not a surprise for me. What a shame that the upstanding people in the police force don’t get promoted because they are seen as unwilling to “fit in” and “tow the party line”.

Many cases explored in this book: Bruce McArthur, Christine Jessop, Mark Moore, Katelynn Sampson. A good police officer and detective is difficult to replace.

I found the book very interesting and I highly recommend.

[Stephanie K.]

Loved it!! It was wonderful to read this book and recognize street names, and even the TTC Subway corridor between 2 stations (as I had been in this corridor before).

The writing was well done and seeing a glimpse into Toronto Police Services was interesting. I also liked learning more about the cases investigated (things the media doesn’t tell us).

[rj]

The High Road is an interesting but tragic story of the typical day in the life of a homicide cop. The crimes described in this book were mostly a mix of sad/disturbing, and it definitely gives me more appreciation for what police have to go through in order to keep the city safe. The only reason why i didnt finish this is because i had to return it to the library since it was due 😅

[Enid Wray]

This is exactly the “same same” as every other police memoir I’ve read… a review of great crimes and cases wrapped up as a memoir.

Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for granting me access to an early digital review copy.

DNF

[Colten Roberts]

Hank Idsinga touches on his experience as a police officer for 34 years in Toronto. His work in homicide being the most notable, he breaks down various cases he has worked in and also gives his thoughts and knowledge on them too. Very good story and good presentation

[Rick Digiandomenico]

Excellent read

Excellent job with this book. Not too much about the racism or dysfunctional upper
management. That's okay by me. I prefer to read more about his policing experiences and investigations. All that other stuff is too toxic.

[Rhonda Struthers]

A behind the scene look into the work that goes into homicide investigations in Ontario, Canada. Hank Idsinga reminisces on the environment of policing through the decades and his involvement in several homicides including some high profile Murders during his tenure within the police department.

[Barbara]

This is worth reading for Idsinga's account of the Bruce McArthur case over two non-consecutive chapters, "Project Houston" and "Project Prism". I had never previously read that the police originally thought it should be investigating an international cannibal ring!

[Katherine Aylesworth]

Having covered many of these murders while working in news, it was insightful gaining the investigator’s perspective. I really respect Hank Idsinga and all he accomplished leading Toronto’s Homicide Unit. He offers a valuable critique of policing culture. Predictably, the systemic toxicity seems so deeply ingrained that it overrides those making positive impacts.