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I Catch Killers: The Life and Many Deaths of a Homicide Detective
Serial killings, child abductions, organized crime hits and domestic murders. This is the memoir of a homicide detective.
Here I am: tall and broad, shaved head, had my nose broken three times fighting. Black suit, white shirt, the big city homicide detective. I've led investigations into serial killings, child abductions, organized crime hits and domestic murders. But beneath the suit, I've got an Om symbol in the shape of a Buddha tattooed on my right bicep. It balances the tattoo on my left ribs: "Better to die on your feet than live on your knees". That's how I choose to live my life.
As a cop, I got paid to catch killers and I learned what doing it can cost you. It cost me marriages and friendships. It cost me my reputation. They tell you not to let a case get personal, but I think it has to. Each one has taken a piece out of me and added a piece, until there's only pieces.
I CATCH KILLERS - IT'S WHAT I DO. IT'S WHO I AM.
Gary Jubelin was one of Australia's most celebrated homicide detective, leading investigations into the disappearance of William Tyrrell, the serial killing of three Aboriginal children in Bowraville and the brutal gangland murder of Terry Falconer. During his 34-year career, former Detective Chief Inspector Jubelin also ran the crime scene following the Lindt Cafe siege, investigated the death of Caroline Byrne and recovered the body of Matthew Leveson. Jubelin retired from the force in 2019. This is his story.
RUNNING TIME => 15hrs. and 32mins.
©2020 Gary Jubelin and Dan Box (P)2020 HarperCollins Publishers
Here I am: tall and broad, shaved head, had my nose broken three times fighting. Black suit, white shirt, the big city homicide detective. I've led investigations into serial killings, child abductions, organized crime hits and domestic murders. But beneath the suit, I've got an Om symbol in the shape of a Buddha tattooed on my right bicep. It balances the tattoo on my left ribs: "Better to die on your feet than live on your knees". That's how I choose to live my life.
As a cop, I got paid to catch killers and I learned what doing it can cost you. It cost me marriages and friendships. It cost me my reputation. They tell you not to let a case get personal, but I think it has to. Each one has taken a piece out of me and added a piece, until there's only pieces.
I CATCH KILLERS - IT'S WHAT I DO. IT'S WHO I AM.
Gary Jubelin was one of Australia's most celebrated homicide detective, leading investigations into the disappearance of William Tyrrell, the serial killing of three Aboriginal children in Bowraville and the brutal gangland murder of Terry Falconer. During his 34-year career, former Detective Chief Inspector Jubelin also ran the crime scene following the Lindt Cafe siege, investigated the death of Caroline Byrne and recovered the body of Matthew Leveson. Jubelin retired from the force in 2019. This is his story.
RUNNING TIME => 15hrs. and 32mins.
©2020 Gary Jubelin and Dan Box (P)2020 HarperCollins Publishers
Audible Audio
First published January 1, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
August 15, 2021
I decided on this audio choice easily; I had just finished the audio version of Missing William Tyrrell. This was a natural progression into this tragic and serious case. True crime and I don’t often cross paths, but I am so pleased I encountered this book. My daughter is studying for her Bachelor of Criminology this year and I excitedly mentioned this book to her as I made my way through.
Gary Jubelin was a cool young bloke, loved to surf and get into all sorts of mischief. Coming from a stable family background, he seemed to have quite a standard fare upbringing. I could sense from a young age, though, that he was a loyal person, formed strong friendships and was very aware of the underdog, and accepting of all shapes, sizes and colours. He had a particular understanding and kinship with indigenous Australians and wanted to learn about their culture. He ended up forming very close and personal relationships with many families he encountered over the course of his long career. They loved him as much as he loved them. He became ‘mates’ with criminals that turned their life around and was completely honest about this (and everything else) throughout the course of the book.
Gary chose to become a policeman over the trade he was in, after witnessing a cop chase. He was hooked from there. Many times, he described it as a complete addiction, a rush like no other. He knew toiling with the tools for the next twenty years would prove empty compared to the sheer thrill that this encounter gave him. Gary is a thinker, he engages in meditation, martial arts and is a very focused and ambitious man. This usage of a higher power and commitment to being centred helped him in a lot of ways and reminded me of the importance of this slowing down and being mindful of having a peace when sometimes that which is around us is everything but. This side of his nature is a fascinating one.
He joined the Australian Police Force and told his story in an engaging way, explaining to us, for example, ‘two years in’ etcetera, up to over 'thirty years in'. Such a long and committed time in the force.
His cases are dissected in detail, co-workers and attitudes of those he comes across, while witnessing his fierce determination every step of the way. Gary loves his job and admits freely how he will always be relentless in fighting for answers, even if those around him don’t agree. He will always question those most closely involved, but on the flipside, those persons of interest mostly respect this as they know he will tirelessly fight for their case and getting to the truth at any length. Most families love him dearly, and I felt it too! He uncovered systemic racism and such poor form from such top levels and disdain for solving murders. Some were not followed up, and some families were told ‘Oh, he/she probably went walk about’. The families had no recourse! I’m not sure how we would know this had it not been for Gary’s story.
Gary’s doggedness came at a cost. He couldn’t maintain relationships. I felt for the women who he was involved with as there was a lot of detail in the telling, but I see why. He showed how supportive they were, but how completely overtaking of a life was his career. He always supported his children, but his commitment to a career of homicide detective, and the level of commitment he puts in on an often 24/7 basis was overwhelming. This has nothing to do with anything, but he is a good looking and clever bloke. Cocky, sure of himself and very approachable. I think he ruffled one too many feathers, but I know who I’d want to be leading an investigation if I had lost a family member. Gary was that respected that he taught his craft at Goulburn and was able to train the new breed. He would have made an outstanding and quality teacher.
William Tyrrell’s case was his downfall (to a career lost). The work on this case was scrupulous, intense and impressive. He committed years to it and oversaw many professional people working to bring William home. On a technicality he ended up being in the position of those crooks he was chasing and charged with unlawful conduct. The families of those he helped during his amazing career were there to show their support. The family of the Bowraville murders, Caroline Byrne, Matthew Leveson amongst others. They loved Gary. Gary had to leave the Tyrrell investigation, was not even permitted a formal hand over. His predecessor was not open to answering William’s family’s queries, a complete opposite from the way Gary dealt with the family, this would have been an insult, a complete disrespect to those involved; they’d have been bereft of empathy.
I can still follow Gary on his podcast. Was keen to hear his voice, he has a slight lisp and just speaks like he is your friend, I think this comes with a level of compassion, fairness and integrity. He talks with criminals, past co-workers and criminologists. He’s a great guy, fascinating in his career. I will keep looking for more from Gary.
Rob Carlton hats off - top notch narration and I found myself thinking I was right there watching the cases unfold. Right in the middle. Perfect.
Gary Jubelin was a cool young bloke, loved to surf and get into all sorts of mischief. Coming from a stable family background, he seemed to have quite a standard fare upbringing. I could sense from a young age, though, that he was a loyal person, formed strong friendships and was very aware of the underdog, and accepting of all shapes, sizes and colours. He had a particular understanding and kinship with indigenous Australians and wanted to learn about their culture. He ended up forming very close and personal relationships with many families he encountered over the course of his long career. They loved him as much as he loved them. He became ‘mates’ with criminals that turned their life around and was completely honest about this (and everything else) throughout the course of the book.
Gary chose to become a policeman over the trade he was in, after witnessing a cop chase. He was hooked from there. Many times, he described it as a complete addiction, a rush like no other. He knew toiling with the tools for the next twenty years would prove empty compared to the sheer thrill that this encounter gave him. Gary is a thinker, he engages in meditation, martial arts and is a very focused and ambitious man. This usage of a higher power and commitment to being centred helped him in a lot of ways and reminded me of the importance of this slowing down and being mindful of having a peace when sometimes that which is around us is everything but. This side of his nature is a fascinating one.
He joined the Australian Police Force and told his story in an engaging way, explaining to us, for example, ‘two years in’ etcetera, up to over 'thirty years in'. Such a long and committed time in the force.
His cases are dissected in detail, co-workers and attitudes of those he comes across, while witnessing his fierce determination every step of the way. Gary loves his job and admits freely how he will always be relentless in fighting for answers, even if those around him don’t agree. He will always question those most closely involved, but on the flipside, those persons of interest mostly respect this as they know he will tirelessly fight for their case and getting to the truth at any length. Most families love him dearly, and I felt it too! He uncovered systemic racism and such poor form from such top levels and disdain for solving murders. Some were not followed up, and some families were told ‘Oh, he/she probably went walk about’. The families had no recourse! I’m not sure how we would know this had it not been for Gary’s story.
Gary’s doggedness came at a cost. He couldn’t maintain relationships. I felt for the women who he was involved with as there was a lot of detail in the telling, but I see why. He showed how supportive they were, but how completely overtaking of a life was his career. He always supported his children, but his commitment to a career of homicide detective, and the level of commitment he puts in on an often 24/7 basis was overwhelming. This has nothing to do with anything, but he is a good looking and clever bloke. Cocky, sure of himself and very approachable. I think he ruffled one too many feathers, but I know who I’d want to be leading an investigation if I had lost a family member. Gary was that respected that he taught his craft at Goulburn and was able to train the new breed. He would have made an outstanding and quality teacher.
William Tyrrell’s case was his downfall (to a career lost). The work on this case was scrupulous, intense and impressive. He committed years to it and oversaw many professional people working to bring William home. On a technicality he ended up being in the position of those crooks he was chasing and charged with unlawful conduct. The families of those he helped during his amazing career were there to show their support. The family of the Bowraville murders, Caroline Byrne, Matthew Leveson amongst others. They loved Gary. Gary had to leave the Tyrrell investigation, was not even permitted a formal hand over. His predecessor was not open to answering William’s family’s queries, a complete opposite from the way Gary dealt with the family, this would have been an insult, a complete disrespect to those involved; they’d have been bereft of empathy.
I can still follow Gary on his podcast. Was keen to hear his voice, he has a slight lisp and just speaks like he is your friend, I think this comes with a level of compassion, fairness and integrity. He talks with criminals, past co-workers and criminologists. He’s a great guy, fascinating in his career. I will keep looking for more from Gary.
Rob Carlton hats off - top notch narration and I found myself thinking I was right there watching the cases unfold. Right in the middle. Perfect.
May 11, 2021
4.5 stars
‘I catch Killers — it’s what I do. It’s who I am.’
An amazing insight into the life of a homicide detective that is dedicated to his job… and passionate about getting justice for the victims.
Gary Jubelin, one of Australia’s most prominent homicide detectives, worked on some of the biggest criminal cases such as the Bowraville Murders, Terry Falconer and the Gangland crimes and the disappearance of three-year old William Tyrrell, gives a gutsy, raw and true account of not only his police investigations but his personal life too.
I was truly saddened and disgusted to hear he was turfed out of the police force… recording a suspected child killer, he was only doing his job and protecting himself. The NSW police department let one of their own down. Shame on them. He deserves a medal not a conviction.
Thank you for your service and for sharing your story.
‘I catch Killers — it’s what I do. It’s who I am.’
An amazing insight into the life of a homicide detective that is dedicated to his job… and passionate about getting justice for the victims.
Gary Jubelin, one of Australia’s most prominent homicide detectives, worked on some of the biggest criminal cases such as the Bowraville Murders, Terry Falconer and the Gangland crimes and the disappearance of three-year old William Tyrrell, gives a gutsy, raw and true account of not only his police investigations but his personal life too.
I was truly saddened and disgusted to hear he was turfed out of the police force… recording a suspected child killer, he was only doing his job and protecting himself. The NSW police department let one of their own down. Shame on them. He deserves a medal not a conviction.
Thank you for your service and for sharing your story.
August 19, 2022
2.5. As a criminology graduate, I didn’t think I could BE more disillusioned with the police force, yet here I am. I expected this to be a lot more about the investigative process of the crimes Jubelin worked on, but found it to skim the details and focus more on his life. At times, the ego stroking drove me mad. Towards the end of the book, however, I grew sympathetic towards him. For that I’m glad I pushed through. In saying that, when I pick up a true crime book, I don’t expect to hear as much about mindfulness practice as I do in my DBT program. To be fair, I’ll still read Jubelin’s next book.
October 11, 2020
I really enjoyed this. It's incredible when someone's life makes for an absolute crackerjack of a detective novel, and Jubelin manages this balance with ease. There's an affable narrative style within this book, and while his attitudes can be seen by some as pigheaded or too gung-ho, without police detectives like him there are families out there who would never find peace. There's too much at stake regarding people's lives and their futures that would be horrifically neglected and left to rot if investigations went down the drain like some in the upper echelons wish to do.
I think there's so much value in a book like this to see exactly how the world of policing works, and with a man who is reasonably humble. Dealing with so many of the awful facets of the world, there is an inevitable affection that you would expect to get to people- but Jubelin takes it in stride and pushes for what is right. The story of a man who has truly given everything possible to his career, it makes me rethink eyeing off police prosecution in the future- because maybe, it's a path to being able to do what's right.
I think there's so much value in a book like this to see exactly how the world of policing works, and with a man who is reasonably humble. Dealing with so many of the awful facets of the world, there is an inevitable affection that you would expect to get to people- but Jubelin takes it in stride and pushes for what is right. The story of a man who has truly given everything possible to his career, it makes me rethink eyeing off police prosecution in the future- because maybe, it's a path to being able to do what's right.
August 30, 2020
I am 5 pages shy of finishing this, but couldn't wait - highly, highly recommend this. It's fast-paced, insightful, and written in just the right tone that you can almost hear Gary Jubelin's voice narrating this next to you. From celebrated homicide detective who's career was depicted in TV series Underbelly, to convicted criminal (in the eyes of the law, not in the eyes of the many victim's families he fought so hard to see justice serviced), Jubelin's story is also a stark reminder and highlighter of the inadequacies of the Australian police as well as of the judicial system. He delves into detail about his involvement in the murder of Terry Falconer, his decades long pursuit of justice for the families of the Bowraville children, the recovery of the body of Matt Leveson, and the case he's probably best known for - the disappearance of little William Tyrrell.
Ultimately, its also a deep, hard look at Jubelin himself, his incredible drive, determination, and super-human work ethic, and his obsession with seeking justice for the families he fought so hard for.
Ultimately, its also a deep, hard look at Jubelin himself, his incredible drive, determination, and super-human work ethic, and his obsession with seeking justice for the families he fought so hard for.
March 12, 2022
This was an interesting read, I like that Gary Jubelin didn’t glorify his story, it wasn’t sensationalised it was raw and honest.
Do I like him? You know what, I’m not sure.
I respect his work and the way he fought for the victims in all of his cases.
I found it hard to care when he was trying to relate through is past. This reads almost like a journal through his experiences, too much going on and the jumping back and forth through the years was confusing.
I did skim through a few of the chapters I found boring which is how I read this book so fast.
Whoops. 👀
This book does one thing right and that is making you really think about policing in Australia, it an honest account of it.
3 stars.
December 31, 2022
DNF at 31%. Read as a book club monthly read. Had the opportunity to speak with Gary Jubelin, a very fascinating man, intriguing career and life. After listening to him speak and discuss the book, I felt I didn’t need to finish it to understand Gary’s life, career and subsequent firing from a job he was very good at; a career that saw unthinkable horrors along side well earned successes, triumphs and losses. Worth a read for those who like non-fiction and autobiography from notable personalities.
Read
August 5, 2021LTS - I’m sure the detective did a great job as a service (judging by other reviews), loved the narrator, but being an Audio Book, just couldn’t get into the over abundance of profanity and f*bombs. It was constant. Not my cup of tea.
January 14, 2021
A really raw, honest look at the life of a homicide detective! The author has gone through a hell of a lot and writes with passion for his work. Jubelin’s career spans 34 years & involved some notorious Australian crimes. I loved the way he weaved his work & personal life throughout, not just focused on the crimes themselves- like a lot of true crime books do. You get a real sense of him & what it’s cost him to do his job, including 4 failed relationships & barely seeing his kids grow up. A sad ending, but real & not glossed over...
October 29, 2020
This was frustrating to read. Typical cop who thinks he’s not like the rest. Lacks depth and empathy. Two stars because I’m sure most readers will relate to his character development. My distaste for his personality doesn’t mean it was a waste of time and money. I think I felt patriotic for the first time in my life. Lol. I think his writing style will improve in future, but right now it’s not particularly striking.
June 29, 2023
i really loved this. the only reason this book wasn’t finished quicker was because of how heavy some of the topics jubelin talked about were, which required time to process them. his story is awesome, scary and depressing all at the same time. i went from needing to become a detective, to not knowing if i would ever have the strength to. jubelin’s story also highlighted a worry i’ve had since studying criminology, that “it isn’t a justice system, it’s just a system.”
Read
December 27, 2024okay I was not a fan of how he handled his personal relationships and treated the women in his life especially early on.
besides from that grievance, this book was enthralling. I learnt so much about the NSW Police structure and the justice system. I was engaged and wrapped up wanting to know how the crimes were solved and worked on. It was such an interesting and eye-opening read that addresses and calls out a lot of societal issues.
besides from that grievance, this book was enthralling. I learnt so much about the NSW Police structure and the justice system. I was engaged and wrapped up wanting to know how the crimes were solved and worked on. It was such an interesting and eye-opening read that addresses and calls out a lot of societal issues.
July 29, 2024
Book Club - Book #5
This book gave really interesting insights into the NSW police and legal system. The cases really gripped me especially with many of them being so local. It was a tad long and had some grammatical errors but overall I really enjoyed.
This book gave really interesting insights into the NSW police and legal system. The cases really gripped me especially with many of them being so local. It was a tad long and had some grammatical errors but overall I really enjoyed.
April 19, 2022
I'm still not quite sure where I sit with this one.
The writing was a little 'all over the place'. But, to be fair, this has been written by someone who, is not only untrained in creative writing, but was going through a grieving process at the time of writing.
I did appreciate the raw honesty and heart-on-sleeve approach. In some ways, Jubelin comes across as selfish, bull-headed, arrogant and married-to-the-job. But on the flipside of that,he has shown an admirable level of stamina and depth, when dealing with long-term cases and trials.
Jubelin seems to be someone who struggled to keep balance in his life regarding work vs family. Work seems to have always come before everyone and everything in his life.
While I do respect and admire the work of our police force and our justice system.
If this account of events is to be believed as accurate, I am appalled and extremely disappointed in the way this was handled by both the Police Force of NSW, and also the NSW Justice system.
The writing was a little 'all over the place'. But, to be fair, this has been written by someone who, is not only untrained in creative writing, but was going through a grieving process at the time of writing.
I did appreciate the raw honesty and heart-on-sleeve approach. In some ways, Jubelin comes across as selfish, bull-headed, arrogant and married-to-the-job. But on the flipside of that,he has shown an admirable level of stamina and depth, when dealing with long-term cases and trials.
Jubelin seems to be someone who struggled to keep balance in his life regarding work vs family. Work seems to have always come before everyone and everything in his life.
While I do respect and admire the work of our police force and our justice system.
If this account of events is to be believed as accurate, I am appalled and extremely disappointed in the way this was handled by both the Police Force of NSW, and also the NSW Justice system.
May 19, 2022
★★★★★ 4.5 stars (rounded up)
"I catch Killers — it’s what I do. It’s who I am."
I have always admired Gary Jubelin and his dogged determination to uncover the truth and seek justice for victims and their families. When he was called out and charged over "illegal recordings" of a suspect in the William Tyrrell investigation, I was both shocked and appalled. Not by his actions but by those of the NSW Police Force who should have protected one of their own instead of backing him into a corner and essentially silencing him.
If it wasn't for Gary Jubelin, many cases may not have been solved. If it wasn't for Gary Jubelin, Matthew Levenson's body may never have been recovered and thus giving his parents closure and to be able to bring their son home. If it wasn't for Gary Jubelin, the families of the Bowraville murders would have been ignored for three decades with no one fighting in their corner. He may not have solved the Bowraville murders nor uncovered the truth behind William Tyrrell's disappearance...but Gary Jubelin made a difference. He was there for the victims' families and stood beside them when no one else would. He was a voice for the victims. And I wish he was still able to be...because if anyone could get to the bottom of William Tyrrell's disappearance and bring the culprit to justice...it would be Gary Jubelin.
Leading us through his early years as constable through to detective, Jubelin identifies the change that came to the NSW Police Force after the Wood Royal Commission into police corruption. How many big names of those once looked up to became criminals themselves. Still idealistic, when asked by a lawyer if Roger Rogerson (corrupt copper from the 80s now serving a sentence for murder) was his hero, Jubelin states simply..."Look, I know who Roger Rogerson is. I haven't worked with him. As for a hero, I don't think so." Jubelin is honest and dogged. He works for the victims and their families, for truth and justice. Nothing more, nothing less.
I CATCH KILLERS may not be a perfectly styled story. It may be uneven in its pace. It may not have the depth of a fictionalised tale or the grammar of a seasoned writer. But what it does have is a completely raw and honest look at the life of a homicide detective beginning as naive constable fresh out of the academy peppered with tales from his youth. It is not a sensationalised story or glamourised in any way. Gary Jubelin is not a writer. He was a detective...and a bloody good one. And yes, he made a difference.
I loved reading Gary's story from his childhood to his surfing to his marriage to his joining the police force. His young naive idealism is probably the same for almost every copper that steps out of the academy and into real life as a probationary constable. They want to make a difference. But those early years are spent learning on the job and slowly but surely making his way through the ranks from general duties into the Armed Hold Up Squad, the Tactical Response Group and various others until he landed his dream job in homicide. For almost two decades Gary Jubelin was there for a victims' family's darkest days. He was taught not to get involved with the families as it would make investigating the cases harder...but he learnt that you HAD to become involved with them. Because they needed to know that someone was on their side fighting for their loved one in bringing them justice. And in becoming involved with the families made him fight that little bit harder. It became personal. And that made him a good copper. A great detective. And the best man for the job.
Which is why the police force turning their backs on him during one of those most famous and sensationalised investigations, rankles. If it rankles with me, I cannot imagine what it did to him. I doubt the families of the Bowraville victims will get justice for their murdered children now because Gary Jubelin was the only one willing to fight for them...really fight for them. And I find it unlikely we'll ever know what happened to William Tyrrell because Gary Jubelin knew that case better than anyone. To oust him on the basis of illegal recordings without listening or taking into account why, is appalling.
Gary Jubelin is one of those detectives who you would have been lucky to have to fight in your corner. He pulls no punches; he tells it how it is; but he would go above and beyond the call of duty to get you justice...even to the detriment of his own personal life. He is not perfect and I doubt I could have suffered being married to him. Yes, he can come across as arrogant and single-minded but he is someone I would trust to fight in my corner, had I needed him. The end result for Jubelin is both shocking and appalling. On one side I can see the legality but on the other I can also see why. It was a fine line he walked...and sadly he did not come unscathed. And even more shocking is the way he was treated and basically ignored by "the powers that be" who thought only of statistics and results instead of truth and justice.
Jubelin's story is at times heartbreaking but his resilience shines through. Despite all that was thrown at him, he still stands...and he has moved on. But one thing is for sure...
Gary Jubelin made a difference. It's what he set out to do...and it's what he did.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
"I catch Killers — it’s what I do. It’s who I am."
I have always admired Gary Jubelin and his dogged determination to uncover the truth and seek justice for victims and their families. When he was called out and charged over "illegal recordings" of a suspect in the William Tyrrell investigation, I was both shocked and appalled. Not by his actions but by those of the NSW Police Force who should have protected one of their own instead of backing him into a corner and essentially silencing him.
If it wasn't for Gary Jubelin, many cases may not have been solved. If it wasn't for Gary Jubelin, Matthew Levenson's body may never have been recovered and thus giving his parents closure and to be able to bring their son home. If it wasn't for Gary Jubelin, the families of the Bowraville murders would have been ignored for three decades with no one fighting in their corner. He may not have solved the Bowraville murders nor uncovered the truth behind William Tyrrell's disappearance...but Gary Jubelin made a difference. He was there for the victims' families and stood beside them when no one else would. He was a voice for the victims. And I wish he was still able to be...because if anyone could get to the bottom of William Tyrrell's disappearance and bring the culprit to justice...it would be Gary Jubelin.
Leading us through his early years as constable through to detective, Jubelin identifies the change that came to the NSW Police Force after the Wood Royal Commission into police corruption. How many big names of those once looked up to became criminals themselves. Still idealistic, when asked by a lawyer if Roger Rogerson (corrupt copper from the 80s now serving a sentence for murder) was his hero, Jubelin states simply..."Look, I know who Roger Rogerson is. I haven't worked with him. As for a hero, I don't think so." Jubelin is honest and dogged. He works for the victims and their families, for truth and justice. Nothing more, nothing less.
I CATCH KILLERS may not be a perfectly styled story. It may be uneven in its pace. It may not have the depth of a fictionalised tale or the grammar of a seasoned writer. But what it does have is a completely raw and honest look at the life of a homicide detective beginning as naive constable fresh out of the academy peppered with tales from his youth. It is not a sensationalised story or glamourised in any way. Gary Jubelin is not a writer. He was a detective...and a bloody good one. And yes, he made a difference.
I loved reading Gary's story from his childhood to his surfing to his marriage to his joining the police force. His young naive idealism is probably the same for almost every copper that steps out of the academy and into real life as a probationary constable. They want to make a difference. But those early years are spent learning on the job and slowly but surely making his way through the ranks from general duties into the Armed Hold Up Squad, the Tactical Response Group and various others until he landed his dream job in homicide. For almost two decades Gary Jubelin was there for a victims' family's darkest days. He was taught not to get involved with the families as it would make investigating the cases harder...but he learnt that you HAD to become involved with them. Because they needed to know that someone was on their side fighting for their loved one in bringing them justice. And in becoming involved with the families made him fight that little bit harder. It became personal. And that made him a good copper. A great detective. And the best man for the job.
Which is why the police force turning their backs on him during one of those most famous and sensationalised investigations, rankles. If it rankles with me, I cannot imagine what it did to him. I doubt the families of the Bowraville victims will get justice for their murdered children now because Gary Jubelin was the only one willing to fight for them...really fight for them. And I find it unlikely we'll ever know what happened to William Tyrrell because Gary Jubelin knew that case better than anyone. To oust him on the basis of illegal recordings without listening or taking into account why, is appalling.
Gary Jubelin is one of those detectives who you would have been lucky to have to fight in your corner. He pulls no punches; he tells it how it is; but he would go above and beyond the call of duty to get you justice...even to the detriment of his own personal life. He is not perfect and I doubt I could have suffered being married to him. Yes, he can come across as arrogant and single-minded but he is someone I would trust to fight in my corner, had I needed him. The end result for Jubelin is both shocking and appalling. On one side I can see the legality but on the other I can also see why. It was a fine line he walked...and sadly he did not come unscathed. And even more shocking is the way he was treated and basically ignored by "the powers that be" who thought only of statistics and results instead of truth and justice.
Jubelin's story is at times heartbreaking but his resilience shines through. Despite all that was thrown at him, he still stands...and he has moved on. But one thing is for sure...
Gary Jubelin made a difference. It's what he set out to do...and it's what he did.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
September 6, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this book, and have a lot of respect for what the author tried to do and what he endured. It gives a real insight into the strange, complicated life of the homicide detective, including the mountainous administrative and review work. He admits he is not perfect, but continued to do his best. I look forward to seeing the tv series.
May 1, 2022
I hate this character. Oh wait it’s a biography.
February 24, 2024
Interesting story, however my main takeaway is how fascinating Gary’s inability to have a work life balance is
April 28, 2024
Interesting read! Follows the style of writing in “A Thousand Naked Strangers” memoir. Fast paced, quick stories & call backs. Some looping around in the time line. It can be hard to keep track of all the names mentioned as he continues down the years of cases & and the very brief narratives given. It makes sense mostly given the span of time being covered.
Overall it feels like a very genuine, gritty retelling of a hardened detective’s life experience and seeing the complex arch of his relation to the police department and the justice system overall. He does a good job of drawing you into the chaotic whirlwind of his career and family life, not sparing the ugly details.
It’s wild to see what some people endure & even choose in how they live their life and when their career becomes the life calling… the crazy sacrifices made at expense of health and family. It’s easy to judge from the outside without understand the weight of working for victims families and living so close to death and evil.
It’s also interesting personally being connected to the legal career and understanding the similar sacrifices always being made in contrast to what it appears to be to police and victims. No matter the profession, it’s made up of fallible humans with self interest, social ambition, and moral flaws.
Would recommend, just be ready for the quick pace and sometimes confusing events & callbacks.
Overall it feels like a very genuine, gritty retelling of a hardened detective’s life experience and seeing the complex arch of his relation to the police department and the justice system overall. He does a good job of drawing you into the chaotic whirlwind of his career and family life, not sparing the ugly details.
It’s wild to see what some people endure & even choose in how they live their life and when their career becomes the life calling… the crazy sacrifices made at expense of health and family. It’s easy to judge from the outside without understand the weight of working for victims families and living so close to death and evil.
It’s also interesting personally being connected to the legal career and understanding the similar sacrifices always being made in contrast to what it appears to be to police and victims. No matter the profession, it’s made up of fallible humans with self interest, social ambition, and moral flaws.
Would recommend, just be ready for the quick pace and sometimes confusing events & callbacks.
September 4, 2020
Wow, what an amazing career Gary. You were such a dedicated Police Officer/Detective who obviously loved your job and did it diligently and with passion and in the process never forgot about the victim and their families. You gave so much of yourself in the process. It’s sad that you were thrown under the bus by those who should have been applauding you and supporting you. As far as recording a suspect who you could not trust to tell the truth! So what, you did what you had to do to protect yourself and to get the truth. You were admired & trusted by many and you will be a great loss to the police force and the public as when you were on a case I always felt that it was in good hands. My own family have been through the court system due to a horrendous crime and we have experienced first hand how the criminals get all of the rights and the victims and their families have to fight all the way for justice. Luckily for us we had an amazing police officers, judge and jury and we were satisfied with the sentence but it was a long fight. I wish you and your family well going forward as I am sure whatever you do next, you will be as dedicated and committed as you always have been. Thank you for sharing your story.
January 12, 2023
When I picked this out of my bookshelf, I wasn't sure what kind of book to expect- True crime is right up my alley, but when I started I was unsure if this was a book I'd enjoy reading as it's more of an autobiography. After finishing, I'm glad to have read this. At times I found myself questioning his more aggressive approach and method, however it's very clear his dedication to the homicide victims and their families and I particularly appreciated reading about his experience with the indigenous population of Bowraville, his relationships with them and his passion for the case, as well as his growth as a cop to realise the system being, at times, biased and corrupt.
June 5, 2021
I enjoyed this one. Pretty entertaining and lots of interesting tales. I felt the ending was pretty unfulfilling as it was told from Jubelin’s perspective (obviously) and he sold it in a way that made him seem like he was dragged and framed but in reality he sounded like a nightmare to work with. Great detective with his heart in the right place. Loved the connection he built with the Bowraville mob. Overall I would recommend this one!
May 24, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I started this book 9 months ago as a physical book but then I got the pdf version so that I could read it anywhere (mainly at school). True crime is an area that I'm interested in and as this is an Australian based book it gave me more insight into how the Australian police work and all that. It was also interesting to see what goes on in the background with cases that I had heard about growing up.
While it did take me 9 months to read, I feel like reading it so slowly helped me to absorb more from it and I enjoyed being able to stop it at any time which you can't do with many books. Overall I really enjoyed this and would recommend if you're interested in true crime.
I started this book 9 months ago as a physical book but then I got the pdf version so that I could read it anywhere (mainly at school). True crime is an area that I'm interested in and as this is an Australian based book it gave me more insight into how the Australian police work and all that. It was also interesting to see what goes on in the background with cases that I had heard about growing up.
While it did take me 9 months to read, I feel like reading it so slowly helped me to absorb more from it and I enjoyed being able to stop it at any time which you can't do with many books. Overall I really enjoyed this and would recommend if you're interested in true crime.
May 5, 2025
Such a good book. Have listened to Gary’s postcast for a while and he never really gets too much into the William case. After reading his book and I have more found respect for him as a father and a ex cop. Props to him for standing by his word and following what he truely believes in. I think if all homicide cops had the same outlook ok cases, the world would be very different!
Loved looking at the photos too! Nice to see his kids and his experience through the cops
Loved looking at the photos too! Nice to see his kids and his experience through the cops
September 1, 2020
Excellent reading about Gary Jubelins' life as a police officer and then a detective. He was one of the good detectives who had compassion for the families of those who were killed. He went above and beyond his duty and his life was a very interesting one, with the heartbreaks and challenges in his personal life and working life. I was almost in tears at the end of his book over the way he was set up over something so minor while leading the search for little William Tyrell. Set up by those in the force who obviously knew him to be one of the good guys.
Good luck Gary with your appeal against your charges and $10,000 fine!
You deserve to have a good life as you are obviously a good man!!
Good luck Gary with your appeal against your charges and $10,000 fine!
You deserve to have a good life as you are obviously a good man!!
March 7, 2021
I absolutely loved this book!!! It's so well written (there are a few small spelling errors) but it makes you feel like you're there! It's not gorey in the details, but enough are provided to develop a picture.
I understand the feelings Gary has about work and life- he described me in some sections!
I feel for the things he has been through and the many victims and their families; I can't believe there are so many people who are faced with foul play... I spectacular insite into the life of a homicide detective.
I understand the feelings Gary has about work and life- he described me in some sections!
I feel for the things he has been through and the many victims and their families; I can't believe there are so many people who are faced with foul play... I spectacular insite into the life of a homicide detective.
February 5, 2023
This was an insightful and inspirational book. It was easy to read and the format helped me understand how many small moments meant he came to make decisions and just wow.
This book needs to be picked up by HBO and an episode for every chapter. It could have been ten times longer and I would have still been hooked.
Seriously incredible person made from many years of “ordinary” moments who changed the course of many lives.
One line in the book really stuck with me about the limits of what he could do was not about retribution or revenge but his work meant that justice would be served.
This book needs to be picked up by HBO and an episode for every chapter. It could have been ten times longer and I would have still been hooked.
Seriously incredible person made from many years of “ordinary” moments who changed the course of many lives.
One line in the book really stuck with me about the limits of what he could do was not about retribution or revenge but his work meant that justice would be served.
October 25, 2022
Absolutely fantastic book! Didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. A really good insight into detective life and had a good balance of personal and work anecdotes. Really upsetting how Gary’s career ended after all the years given to service
May 16, 2025
3.5 stars! Had to think hard in between the two star ratings tbh
Dude this was LOOOOONG. I mean it covers a detective’s 40 odd year career but man, I just really feel like there were some parts that stretched the word count just a touch 👌🏼
I have a lot of complicated feelings about the police force as many do, it’s very hard to truly sympathise with Gary as a lot of his work just feels like it is what cops SHOULD be doing yaknow like the bare minimum?
Not shocked about the ending tbh. Of course all these resources were put into completely ruining and decimating a man’s career and reputation after he’d sacrificed his whole life and career for the force. Now imagine if all this effort was put into making ACTUALLY corrupt cops face consequences? Crazy work.
I’d really love to meet this man and just have a yarn with him. Seems like he’s a top bloke
Dude this was LOOOOONG. I mean it covers a detective’s 40 odd year career but man, I just really feel like there were some parts that stretched the word count just a touch 👌🏼
I have a lot of complicated feelings about the police force as many do, it’s very hard to truly sympathise with Gary as a lot of his work just feels like it is what cops SHOULD be doing yaknow like the bare minimum?
Not shocked about the ending tbh. Of course all these resources were put into completely ruining and decimating a man’s career and reputation after he’d sacrificed his whole life and career for the force. Now imagine if all this effort was put into making ACTUALLY corrupt cops face consequences? Crazy work.
I’d really love to meet this man and just have a yarn with him. Seems like he’s a top bloke
October 15, 2025
I thought the focus on the victims families and humanely outlook on true crime was really good, and the overall book was well formatted. I just really struggled to get through it (probably cause I’m lazy and no fault on the book lol). But when I did listen I was hooked and it was very enjoyable.
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