Roger Rogerson: From hero cop to convicted murderer – The inside story

by Duncan McNab

THE LIFE AND CRIMES OF AUSTRALIA'S MOST CORRUPT COPRoger Rogerson was a serial killer with a badge.Australia's most notorious corrupt cop was serving a life sentence for murdering student Jamie Gao in cold blood over 2.78 kg of ice, when he was found unresponsive in his cell. The man they called 'The Dodger' couldn't dodge his own death.Once one of the most highly decorated police officers in New South Wales, Rogerson would brag of the crims he killed. For too long, the whispers of corruption around him were ignored. But his unholy alliances with heroin dealers and underworld figures would eventually bring about his downfall. Rogerson was finally dismissed from the police force in 1986.This is the eye-opening updated account of Rogerson's life of crime and how he went from hero cop to ruthless criminal, considered one of the most corrupt and evil men in Australia. Detailing the chilling murder of Jamie Gao in storage unit 803 that led to Rogerson's final incarceration, bestselling author Duncan McNab also shares the stories behind the secrets Rogerson took to his grave.'[A] compelling and unapologetically unsympathetic account of Australia's most notorious former policeman' Weekend Australian'This is a wicked individual' Former detective Michael Drury, The Australian'A poisoned, evil little man' A former detective inspector

Genres: True Crime, Nonfiction, Crime

334 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 11, 2016

Reviews

[Tracey Allen at Carpe Librum · Rating 3 out of 5]

I only learned about ex-cop Roger Rogerson when the murder of Jamie Gao hit the news in 2014. I remember being astounded to see the CCTV footage of Rogerson and another ex-copper (Glen McNamara) disposing of Jamie Gao's body and wondering how this could have happened. How could two Australian Policemen become killers, and how could they be so stupid as to be caught on CCTV?

I picked up Roger Rogerson by Duncan McNab in an attempt to understand these questions and my curiosity has now been satisfied.

Duncan McNab is a former police detective and private investigator and he utilises these skills to give the reader a summary of Rogerson's colourful career, including his time in the police force, his criminal activity and jail time leading up to the murder of Jamie Gao.

Plenty of cops - and criminals - are mentioned throughout, and several criminal and court cases are included and outlined. As a reader only interested in the murder of Jamie Gao, the background was moderately interesting, but difficult to keep up with. Without knowing the various 'players' or anything about the NSW Police Force or alleged corruption within, I did feel bogged down at times.

My interest picked up again at the arrest for the murder of Jamie Gao and the content that followed. I was also interested in the relationship between Rogerson and McNamara and how these two teamed up.

However I felt the book was building towards the guilty verdict and because McNab himself rushed to the court to hear the verdict, his delivery of the verdict in the book is likewise delivered in a rush. This created a complete anti-climax and what should have been a 'hurrah' moment, instead fell flat.

Perhaps Roger Rogerson by Duncan McNab is better suited to readers who either served in the police force, worked in the legal system or conducted criminal activity in the last 30-40 years. Readers with a personal or connected interest in Roger Rogerson may get more out of reading this account than I was able to.

* Copy courtesy of Hachette Australia *

[Kirsti · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am going to admit to going into this book with a complete lack of knowledge of Roger Rogerson, and the crimes he has committed/ been accused of. I vaguely knew the name, and remembered the trials relating to Jamie Gao, but the rise and fall of the police man and public figure was something I wanted to learn about.

I did feel like this book was very informative, however it jumped around too much for me. I am too young to have been around to have a working knowledge of crimes barely referenced here, and I just needed more. We got plenty on the background of all the major players, but I needed to reiterate how they related back to Roger himself at times, as I lost track of the narrative. Perhaps that was partly my fault; I like the writing was a little dry for my taste and I kept getting distracted. I actually had to force myself through.

For all that, the story itself deserves to be told. Duncan McNab is well informed and definitely has an opinion and experience with the matters at hand. As stated, it was a little dry for my tastes but I can see it appealing to many (Should I have read this author's previous book on the subject? probably) Three stars.

[Maureen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Culminating in the murder of Jamie Gao, this book traces the history of crime, corruption, standover tactics, assault and murder practised within the NSW Police Force over many decades. I found it fascinating, but it is confusingly structured, jumping from one era to another. If it had been a linear story, it would have been easier to follow, but as it is the reader is often left wondering if something happened before or after another important event. Sickening to think it took decades to get the two of them off the streets.

[Anna Loder · Rating 5 out of 5]

It read itself! I don’t do true crime at all, but I live in Cronulla just near Shelly Beach which is where Jamie Gao was found so I started flicking and then I went back and settled in...what a well explained journey, I feel like I now know all I want to about Roger Rogerson, Glen McNamara and crocked cops and organised crime than I could ever want to know!!

[Daniel Lang · Rating 4 out of 5]

Duncan McNab's "Roger Rogerson: From hero cop to convicted murderer – The inside story" is a compelling and meticulously researched account of one of Australia's most notorious figures in law enforcement. McNab, a former police detective himself, brings a unique insider perspective to this gripping true crime narrative.

The book offers a comprehensive look at Rogerson's life, from his early days as a highly decorated police officer to his eventual downfall and conviction for murder. McNab's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the complex web of corruption and crime easy to follow for readers.

One of the book's strengths is its unflinching portrayal of Rogerson. McNab doesn't shy away from exposing the dark side of his subject, presenting an "unapologetically unsympathetic account" of the man once hailed as a hero cop. This honest approach adds credibility to the narrative and allows readers to form their own judgments.

The author's extensive research is evident throughout the book. McNab draws on his decades of experience following Rogerson's career, both as a police officer and a criminal, to provide a wealth of details and insights. His attendance at the Jamie Gao murder trial for eighteen weeks demonstrates his commitment to accuracy and thoroughness.

While the book is largely focused on Rogerson, it also sheds light on the broader issues of police corruption and organized crime in New South Wales. McNab's exploration of Rogerson's connections to other corrupt officers and underworld figures provides valuable context for understanding the systemic problems within law enforcement.

The updated edition, which includes information on Rogerson's final conviction and imprisonment, brings the story full circle and offers a satisfying conclusion to this tale of corruption and justice.

If there's any criticism to be made, it might be that at times the wealth of information can be overwhelming. Some readers might find themselves wishing for a more streamlined narrative in certain sections.

Overall, "Roger Rogerson: From hero cop to convicted murderer" is a well-crafted, informative, and engaging read. It's a must-read for true crime enthusiasts and anyone interested in Australian law enforcement history. McNab's work stands as a testament to thorough investigative journalism and storytelling, earning it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.

[Matthew Donohue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: Roger Rogerson

Roger Rogerson is a gripping and unsettling biography that explores the life of one of Australia’s most notorious former police officers. Written by Duncan McNab, a former detective turned journalist, the book offers a meticulously detailed account of Rogerson’s rise and fall, unraveling a tale of crime, corruption, and betrayal.

Once celebrated as a brave and decorated officer in the New South Wales Police Force, Roger Rogerson’s name became synonymous with corruption and criminality. McNab examines the stark duality of Rogerson’s life: a public servant revered for his heroics but privately entangled in drug deals, extortion, and connections to organized crime. Through interviews, court transcripts, and investigative reporting, McNab paints a compelling yet chilling portrait of a man who blurred the lines between law enforcer and lawbreaker.

In the end, Rogerson is revealed to be little more than a manipulative opportunist, driven by greed and self-interest, with no regard for the lives he damaged or destroyed. His actions stand as a stark reminder of how unchecked power and ambition can corrupt even the most celebrated figures.

For true crime enthusiasts and those fascinated by the darker side of law enforcement, Roger Rogerson is a must-read—a sobering account of a man who epitomized both the best and the worst of policing.

Rating: 4.5/5

[David Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is always fun to read a factual book covering events that occurred in your lifetime. This book is one.

Initially it is very interesting, covering the early life and career of Roger Rogerson. It shines a light on the corruption that was endemic during the years of Askin and Allen. Unfortunately, the book bogs down in the middle and becomes quite repetitive. I lost count of the number of times he mentions that the outlaw bikies control hard drug sales and distribution in New South Wales.

The book picks up again when we get to the Jamie Gao murder. The author covers in detail the planning an execution of the crime and the incredible botching the two former detectives made of it. I think some of the facts were invented by the author as it was almost as if he was there.

The book then proceeds to the trial and sentencing of the offenders and ends wit the evident satisfaction of the author almost glowing out of the pages.

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

Whilst there were moments in this book I really enjoyed, I found that it jumped from story to story too quickly. I personally found the huge list of people and names mentioned in each chapter at times confusing. I wasn’t always familiar with the history and the small insight provided wasn’t enough for me. I think I would have preferred if it was a linear story as I felt it jumped a lot. I was very interested in the Gao story and felt that it took such a long time to get to that part. It was interesting and definitely made me question human kind; is it possible for someone to actually be that greedy, deceitful and evil? But I wish the story was mapped out or planned a little better. The names of people will always overlap but it just felt like it jumped forwards and backwards a lot and at times a little too confusing with all the names in the mix.

[Michelle McRitchie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good solid read. Got lost in a few bits as there was so much information, so many people and spiralled into different little stories in the book (all linked in some ways but sometimes hard to keep up). Recommended to those who like true crime, especially Australian stories. I do think writers like this are pretty courageous speaking up given the kind of people they are writing about!

[Holly Kildare · Rating 1 out of 5]

It’s an interesting story, but this writer has a waffly way of telling a story. I have attempted to read other works by this author but gave up due to his writing style. I have listened to the author on a podcast, and couldn’t finish it either.

[Tom Kendall · Rating 4 out of 5]

a bit unpolished

An interesting and generally enjoyable read.
The prose is unpolished and would benefit from a re-editing.
But not a fatal flaw … just room for improvement.
I enjoyed the read.

[Junipa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating read about a horribly flawed human being.

[joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved it

Loved from start to finish.
Couldn't put the book down
Highly recommended read.
Very well written
Enjoyed it throughout
.

[Charlie Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

felt as though it was getting off topic a few times. not an overly exciting read. interesting yet plain reading.

[Lynne · Rating 1 out of 5]

Whilst the story might be interesting, this is one of the worst written books I’ve read, I couldn’t even finish it. Don’t bother, watch the tv shows instead.

[Aaron Bazz · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting story but the book was quite hard to follow and not well written. I spent most of the time not having a clue what was going on or who the book was talking about.

[Tracey East]

How he dies a painful death, he deserves too.

[Dr Tim Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gripping yarn

I enjoyed this book. It was an interesting time in Australia and the corrupt elements of policing in NSW and QLD.

[Damian · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a conniving, creepy dude

[Susan Abbey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Roger Rogerson was notorious in his own self-gratification, corrupting others into his deplorable standards and tarnishing NSW Police. Informative of the extent to what lengths Rogerson went to reap and plunder, although I found the information a bit scattered and could not grasp a flow while reading.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even if you've only had a very fleeting interest in the goings on of one of Australia's most (in)famous cops, then ROGER ROGERSON is going to be an extremely intriguing read. Whilst it's the story of the man, and the myth that developed around him, it's also an important reminder of how that sort of myth building can skew law, order and society behaviour. For all the "bit of a rogue / hail fellow well met" persona that Rogerson built around himself, he shouldn't be a bit of a celebrity, or a figure of gentle affection for anybody and this book shows you exactly why.

McNab provides valuable insight into Rogerson's background, and that of his fellow-accused Glen McNamara, as an insider who knew all about them from his own days in the NSW Police Force, to contacts within the force and in the general community, and as an observer of the force from the point of a view of a journalist for many years. This is not just the story of the murder trial, it provides past and present angles that reader's may not necessarily have been given the opportunity to consider before. Particularly that of the Internal Affairs department, on whose desks various allegations against Rogerson have appeared over the years.

McNab is definitely no fan of Rogerson - and not just because he was directly threatened by the man when his first book on Rogerson (DODGER) was released. But he's not alone there, and the external persona that Rogerson was fond of portraying - the twinkle in the eye, the smiling, hearty bloke / one of the people façade is something that quite a few people had seen through a long time ago, alas with not quite enough evidence to be able to prove many of the allegations made. It also feels very much like McNab is scrupulously fair with his retelling of facts, and sometimes understandably acerbic in his observations. There was never any doubt in this readers mind about which was which.

The book ROGER ROGERSON also answered a heap of questions that were in this reader's mind when the charge of murder was first announced. It was hard to believe that somebody as wily and cunning as Rogerson would have been so easily caught out in such a murder. It was even harder to believe that McNamara - who spent years styling himself as a crusading ex-cop, committed to exposing paedophilia, virulently anti-drugs was somehow involved in a drug deal gone wrong. Stories of his researching a book seemed thin to say the least, but the gobsmacking bit was his hero-worship of Rogerson and the ease with which they seemed to have been identified as potential suspects in this crime. It seems that Rogerson might have been a handful in his day, but technology and conceit combined to make the untouchable very vulnerable.

This is a book that provides a lot of valuable and telling insights. Into corruption and how easily it can become entrenched. How backgrounds and stories can be built by individuals, and conflated by others for their own ends (there's a piece of political expediency here that should not have come as a particular surprise, but was still nonetheless startling). It's also a telling take on "celebrity crime" - criminals who are urban legends, or in this case, a corrupt and very dodgy cop who built himself into an urban legend, allowing everybody to conveniently ignore the damage and carnage left in his wake.

https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...

[CriminalRepurcussions · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author to be commended on this impressive encyclopaedic work of fact.
It is a textbook about the man and those he mixed and worked with, and against.
Rogerson's view of himself was above the law, coated in Teflon, indestructible - narcissistic?

If you are wanting a novel-type read, this is not the style of this book.
This is fact, true, and comes and goes forward and back in time, often on the same page, describing factually to the minute degree, I felt myself skimming because I already knew the story, seen the tv series, and met some of the characters but won't hint at who.

I skimmed because it was very woodenly set out, if only it was written in a true narrative style I'd have read every word.
That being said - nevertheless - a 5star read and work to be commended. I hope it is nominated for literary prize.

[Ross Hamilton]

f you have read any books about Australian crime in the 1970s and 1980s, the name Roger Rogerson most likely will not be a stranger to you. He was certainly no stranger to the news media, having actively courted them for years. More recently, people like myself made a point of reading the Sydney newspapers to see what was happening in the trial of Rogerson and his accomplice Glen McNamara for murder.

McNab is a former police detective, private investigator and investigative journalist as well as being personally acquainted with Rogerson on the job, which gave him a possibly unique outlook in being able to write this and the earlier work. It covers a lot of ground about both Rogerson and McNamara, making it a fascinating account. If you have any interest in true crime, corruption and seeing a truly bad bloke getting his come-uppance, then this is definitely the book for you.

[Laurel · Rating 3 out of 5]

A reasonably good overview of the rise and fall of Australia's most notorious crooked cop. Interesting insights into the sheer breadth of his criminal enterprises, but that breadth may make the saga difficult to follow if one isn't familiar with at least a few of the major figures of the Australian underworld of the 1980s - 2000s, purely because of the sheer number of names and dastardly deeds associated with Mr. Rogerson.

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superbly written with inside, verified sources this book contains a wealth of new information relating to the disgraced detective that has previously never been published. A must read for anyone interested in the depraved world of Rogerson, a man responsible for a handful of murders both in the line of duty, and for money. A truly incredible book, the depth of depravity revealed is astonishing and only possible due to McNabs sources and experience as a Police Officer and journalist.

[Danielle Laman]

Leaving this story for now. Not bad just not in right headspace for crimes in my backyard

[Gregory Totman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mcnab's book on Rogerson and his accomplice McNamara is a sad and sorry tale of dumb and dumber committing the most electronically recorded crime in Aussie history.
It's detailed yet well crafted McNab's pen more than tainted with poison towards the hapless dodger!!