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The Profiler Diaries: From the case files of a police psychologist
In this gripping – and sometimes terrifying – account, former South African Police Service (SAPS) head profiler Dr Gérard Labuschagne, successor to the legendary Micki Pistorius, recalls some of the 110 murder series and countless other bizarre crimes he analysed during his career. An expert on serial murder and rape cases, Labuschagne saw it all in his fourteen and a half years in the SAPS. He walks the reader through the first crime scene he ever attended, his arrest of the Muldersdrift serial rapist, his experience as the head of the task team mandated to catch the Quarry serial murderer, his involvement with the Brighton Beach axe murders, and more. Despite often being stymied by a lack of resources, office politics and political interference, Labuschagne and his team were always determined to get their man – or woman, as in the Womb Raider case. The Profiler Diaries is a fascinating – and often hair-raising – glimpse into what it was like to be a profiler in the world’s busiest profiling unit.
272 pages, Paperback
Published March 1, 2021
70 people are currently reading
284 people want to read
About the author
Gérard Labuschagne
2 books15 followersI was the head of the South African Police Service's Investigative Psychology Section which is the equivalent of the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Units in terms of roles and responsibilities. I held the rank of a Brigadier and was a sworn police officer. I am a qualified Clinical Psychologist, yet have undergone extensive threat assessment training, and investigative training such as sexual offences investigation, hostage negotiation, homicide and death investigation to name a few. I currently co-own South Africa's only sole-purpose threat assessment and management company, focusing on workplace violence prevention. The company is called L&S Threat Management (www.threatsa.co.za). We provide training, operational case consultation, policy development and post incident analysis services. In July 2019 I was appointed at the Founder President of the African Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (AfATAP). I am also a Certified Threat Manager (CTM) via ATAP.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 19, 2021
I have for a few years now been a big admirer of the genius that is Gerard Labuschagne, and was very glad that he has written this book. He gives you good background on himself before he joined the South African Polices Service (SAPS) and the way that investigations are dealt with before the specialized units of SAPS were disbanded and after. He is also very critical of the decision to abandon these specialized units, and I totally agree with it as it has left a big void, especially in a country with one of the highest murder rates in the world. He also takes you into the statistics of serial murderers in South Africa which was eye opening.
The book is then focused on 5 cases that stood out for him during his career as head of the Investigative Psychology Section of the SAPS and he takes you from the gruesome crime scenes he visited, through the investigation and apprehension of the suspects and then how much works goes into building a case and all the procedures that have to be followed to make evidence stick to lead to convictions. There is so much red tape during this time and it is shocking at how there is still a chance that a serial murderer could get away a investigation is not properly managed.
In the end in a country where the police service is not much trusted, and for good reasons, there is still a glimmer of hope that there are still police working hard and doing their jobs properly, and hopefully they can inspire the rest. It is sad though that Labuschagne left SAPS for the private sector as so many other greats in the police service did because of politics. This book is highly recommended, though not for the faint of heart.
The book is then focused on 5 cases that stood out for him during his career as head of the Investigative Psychology Section of the SAPS and he takes you from the gruesome crime scenes he visited, through the investigation and apprehension of the suspects and then how much works goes into building a case and all the procedures that have to be followed to make evidence stick to lead to convictions. There is so much red tape during this time and it is shocking at how there is still a chance that a serial murderer could get away a investigation is not properly managed.
In the end in a country where the police service is not much trusted, and for good reasons, there is still a glimmer of hope that there are still police working hard and doing their jobs properly, and hopefully they can inspire the rest. It is sad though that Labuschagne left SAPS for the private sector as so many other greats in the police service did because of politics. This book is highly recommended, though not for the faint of heart.
March 17, 2021
As a psychologist myself, with an interest in forensic work, I found this book an honest representation of serial offenders in South Africa. The cases were well formulated and the SAPS roles honestly portrayed. A brilliant book that takes away from the “glamour” of true crime and places the reader firmly into reality. As someone who has developed the forensic sense of humor, after working in the field for a few years, I found myself chuckling a few times. Well worth the read!
September 28, 2021
#theprofilerdiaries – Gèrard Labuchagne
#penguinrandomhousesa
When choosing to read a nonfiction publication, the credibility and authenticity of the author is of utmost importance to me. Even more so when I am familiar with the subject matter. I thus researched the author before deciding to buy and read the book and his credentials were impressive: he was the head of the SAPS IPS (Investigative Psychology Section) for several years; also, a clinical psychologist, criminologist, homicide and death investigator (trained internationally), hostage negotiator, certified threat manager and an advocate of the High Court. He is also an honorary professor in the UW’s Department of Forensic Medicine and Pathology and a regular speaker at internationally conferences who has published extensively in professional textbooks.
First hurdle crossed successfully. But not all professionals are able to communicate successfully in writing; especially if the publication is aimed at the layman; often the expert author becomes either patronizing or remains incomprehensible due to overly formal language. The author also crossed this hurdle with ease; his writing is to the point, clear, concise; often amusing and ironic, but always respectful and empathic.
The book is divided into several chapters; the first few introduces the reader to the author and provides the background and a condensed history of serial murders and profiling in South Africa. The next chapters each focuses on specific investigations: Jose da Silva; the quarry murder series; the Muldersdrift serial rapist; the Brighton Beach axe murders and a rare case of the kidnapping of a child from her mother’s womb in a chapter titled ‘Womb raiders’.
The author does much more than merely reiterate the history of the investigations and subsequent court cases; he explains terms and procedures in detail. Anyone who has ever wondered how some technical issues are dealt with in South Africa (in reality, not as per CSI!) will benefit by reading this book. Terms that are often heard on news reports are also explained: summonses for cellular phone records, confessions, admissions, pointing outs, criminal capacity; temporary non-pathological incapacity; identity parades – to name a few.
The book is highly recommended for anyone remotely interested in any of the aforesaid, but I think all local crime authors should also invest in this book; it is a concise guide to South African Criminal Law; probably the best in this genre I have ever read, outside of formal textbooks; worthy of 5 stars on all levels.
#penguinrandomhousesa
When choosing to read a nonfiction publication, the credibility and authenticity of the author is of utmost importance to me. Even more so when I am familiar with the subject matter. I thus researched the author before deciding to buy and read the book and his credentials were impressive: he was the head of the SAPS IPS (Investigative Psychology Section) for several years; also, a clinical psychologist, criminologist, homicide and death investigator (trained internationally), hostage negotiator, certified threat manager and an advocate of the High Court. He is also an honorary professor in the UW’s Department of Forensic Medicine and Pathology and a regular speaker at internationally conferences who has published extensively in professional textbooks.
First hurdle crossed successfully. But not all professionals are able to communicate successfully in writing; especially if the publication is aimed at the layman; often the expert author becomes either patronizing or remains incomprehensible due to overly formal language. The author also crossed this hurdle with ease; his writing is to the point, clear, concise; often amusing and ironic, but always respectful and empathic.
The book is divided into several chapters; the first few introduces the reader to the author and provides the background and a condensed history of serial murders and profiling in South Africa. The next chapters each focuses on specific investigations: Jose da Silva; the quarry murder series; the Muldersdrift serial rapist; the Brighton Beach axe murders and a rare case of the kidnapping of a child from her mother’s womb in a chapter titled ‘Womb raiders’.
The author does much more than merely reiterate the history of the investigations and subsequent court cases; he explains terms and procedures in detail. Anyone who has ever wondered how some technical issues are dealt with in South Africa (in reality, not as per CSI!) will benefit by reading this book. Terms that are often heard on news reports are also explained: summonses for cellular phone records, confessions, admissions, pointing outs, criminal capacity; temporary non-pathological incapacity; identity parades – to name a few.
The book is highly recommended for anyone remotely interested in any of the aforesaid, but I think all local crime authors should also invest in this book; it is a concise guide to South African Criminal Law; probably the best in this genre I have ever read, outside of formal textbooks; worthy of 5 stars on all levels.
August 10, 2021
Some interesting aspects to the book but ultimately let down by dismal editing by the publisher.
June 29, 2022
I really enjoyed this book - 10/10 for me.
If you have been following Dr Labuschagne through his work and appearances in media interviews and various television programmes, you will know that he is an an absolute giant with credentials that literally hang off the page.
His book did not disappoint, what a pleasure this was to read (in his own words "noggal"). It was jaw-dropping, the cases fascinating, the behind-the-scenes bits eye-opening. You can actually feel his frustration sometimes, a very honest account of everything that is broken in the system. But he is even quicker to give credit to all of those in law enforcement who put their lives on hold to solve a crime, and then go largely unnoticed.
It really warmed my insides to see his exceptional care and protective attitude towards female victims and witnesses.
A brilliant read by a brilliant author, hope to see more of his work on our bookshelves in the near future, and perhaps even a series.
If you have been following Dr Labuschagne through his work and appearances in media interviews and various television programmes, you will know that he is an an absolute giant with credentials that literally hang off the page.
His book did not disappoint, what a pleasure this was to read (in his own words "noggal"). It was jaw-dropping, the cases fascinating, the behind-the-scenes bits eye-opening. You can actually feel his frustration sometimes, a very honest account of everything that is broken in the system. But he is even quicker to give credit to all of those in law enforcement who put their lives on hold to solve a crime, and then go largely unnoticed.
It really warmed my insides to see his exceptional care and protective attitude towards female victims and witnesses.
A brilliant read by a brilliant author, hope to see more of his work on our bookshelves in the near future, and perhaps even a series.
March 7, 2024
A fascinating read about catching serial murderers in the South African context - both instils some faith in SAPS' ability to solve crimes but also highlights serious shortfalls and frustrations within the police force.
June 3, 2021
What a great book, i couldn’t bear put it down. I have a new understanding in hoe much work goes into a case especially when going to court. Wish there was more to read. I love it and it really gives an inside view of the SAPS now and years ago. Really a great read.
September 22, 2021
This book reads as a long winded CV for the author with a few interesting details about cases he has been involved in. Micki Pistorius’s books are way better! Very disappointed.
November 26, 2021
First of all, I need to mention I have read numerous books written by international and local profilers. This is not one I would recommend if you want to learn about serial murderers or other serial offenders. Unless you are South African and familiar with the "workings" of our country.
If not for the book being dedicated to the victims and their families I would've burned it after reading the acknowledgements. Who thanks covid for giving them time to write a book when thousands of people have lost loved ones because of it? Obviously, this infuriated me, especially coming from a psychologist.
However, I pushed through and read the book. It reads like an exit interview written by a disgruntled employee. Yes, the SAPS is flawed, this entire country is, but bitching and moaning about politics isn't in my opinion focusing on the victims. Dr Labuschagne and the detectives did an amazing job apprehending numerous violent criminals during his time with the SAPS, despite far too many structural and political roadblocks, and for that, I can't thank or praise them enough.
If not for the book being dedicated to the victims and their families I would've burned it after reading the acknowledgements. Who thanks covid for giving them time to write a book when thousands of people have lost loved ones because of it? Obviously, this infuriated me, especially coming from a psychologist.
However, I pushed through and read the book. It reads like an exit interview written by a disgruntled employee. Yes, the SAPS is flawed, this entire country is, but bitching and moaning about politics isn't in my opinion focusing on the victims. Dr Labuschagne and the detectives did an amazing job apprehending numerous violent criminals during his time with the SAPS, despite far too many structural and political roadblocks, and for that, I can't thank or praise them enough.
July 30, 2021
Ek was nog nooit so verlig ek het 'n boek klaar gelees nie. Benewens die uiters interessante sake wat die skrywer in baie detail bespreek, het die boek my eintlik uiters negatief teenoor die SAPD.
Labuschagne draai nie doekies om oor die stand van ons polisiediens nie. Dit het my nogal depressief gemaak - veral toe SA in die tyd wat ek die boek gelees het (julie 2021) in opstande en anargie (veral KZN) verval het. Ek het selfs vir 'n ruk eerder die boek gelos, want ek het hoop gesoek en kon nie "ontsnap'' tussen die blaaie nie.
Die boek is beslis 'n moet-lees as jy meer wil weet oor reeksmoordenaars en ondersoekmetodes - baie goeie bron vir krimi-skrywers wat navorsing wil doen.
Moet nie ligte leesstof verwag nie.
Labuschagne draai nie doekies om oor die stand van ons polisiediens nie. Dit het my nogal depressief gemaak - veral toe SA in die tyd wat ek die boek gelees het (julie 2021) in opstande en anargie (veral KZN) verval het. Ek het selfs vir 'n ruk eerder die boek gelos, want ek het hoop gesoek en kon nie "ontsnap'' tussen die blaaie nie.
Die boek is beslis 'n moet-lees as jy meer wil weet oor reeksmoordenaars en ondersoekmetodes - baie goeie bron vir krimi-skrywers wat navorsing wil doen.
Moet nie ligte leesstof verwag nie.
October 18, 2022
A real eye opener with regard to the inefficiencies inherent in the ability of the current police force to conduct proper crime scene investigation and the huge backlog from a forensics perspective. In some cases the lack of empathy and common sense by SAPS when dealing with the loved ones of a slain victim was astonishing.
Overall a very interesting read which was well written by the Author who despite often being faced with a serious lack of resources, interference from political figures and general apathy from some individuals he had to work with, continually showed immense determination to ensure that the suffering of victims and their families was not just swept under the carpet and the perpetrators were hunted down and justice served.
Overall a very interesting read which was well written by the Author who despite often being faced with a serious lack of resources, interference from political figures and general apathy from some individuals he had to work with, continually showed immense determination to ensure that the suffering of victims and their families was not just swept under the carpet and the perpetrators were hunted down and justice served.
August 17, 2022
Absolutely riveting and a fantastic read! That is literally all I need to say.
I loved reading about the cases that Gérard shared, but also his history and how he came to working as a psychologist and for the SAPS. It was incredibly fascinating to read about our South African crime, cases that had happened, our own criminals and their way of operating here within South Africa.
If you enjoy true crime, you'll definitely enjoy this book!
I loved reading about the cases that Gérard shared, but also his history and how he came to working as a psychologist and for the SAPS. It was incredibly fascinating to read about our South African crime, cases that had happened, our own criminals and their way of operating here within South Africa.
If you enjoy true crime, you'll definitely enjoy this book!
September 7, 2022
I think you have to be interested in psychology and crime to truly appreciate this book. It is easy to read and does give a great insight into the workings of police work. Dr Gerard Labuschagne is not only highly qualified in his field, but has a compassionate understanding of how the mind works. He writes about his determination to obtain justice, not just to apprehend suspects but to convict in the courts of law - not an easy task for him and his colleagues.
May 15, 2022
Well written. Very readable, making dense subject matter easily digestible. The author explains the intricacies of profiling and investigation very well. He also seems very victim focused. I don't know how I feel about the crime scene photographs. I've been to similar scenes, so that's not what bothered me, I just don't know what effect it would have on the victims families to see those pictures.
March 20, 2023
Super interesting. I think more shocking than the crimes is an insider look into the state of South Africa's policing and judicial systems. It is however great to see that there are people like Gerard Labuschagne making a difference, even when the victims are those who have been labelled as unimportant by our police.
March 21, 2022
I certainly cannot say that I enjoyed reading this book, but yes, I couldn't put it down. It is a well written account of the cases which stood out to the writer during his highly successful career at SAPS.
September 28, 2025
I’m into my crime era and this book didn’t dissapoint. It was educational kept me in suspense and I struggled to put it down. It started slow with too much of background details (for me) I just wanted to dive straight in and when I did it delivered.
September 13, 2021
This is one I'm going to read again, and again, and probably again. Loved the way the experiences are shared: informative, but yet entertaining.
October 24, 2021
Great read on understanding the South African concept of solving crimes.
April 10, 2023
This is a must read if you are into this genre. Truly fascinating. I will agree that more could've been said re other cases and less about complaints about SAPS.
January 2, 2024
So so so good! So interesting!! I loved it!!
June 9, 2024
Well you're all about disgusting man..
May 20, 2025
I really do enjoy his books so much! The second one is even better! I wish we can expect a third one soon!
July 16, 2025
An okay read
February 28, 2022
This book had me awake at night trying to process it all. Labuschagne has a honest approach to his writing, as he calls out a few ex colleagues, discussing the negligence and mistakes made by the SAPS, without sounding bitter. He mentions things about the South African Police force that the public knows and reads about, not shying away from it - which I appreciated very much.
Labuschagne uses humour here and there to disarm the very tense and serious tone of the cases he discussed.
I particularly liked the credit he gave to some of his colleagues who worked alongside him, and the detail in which he discusses the work the teams does to not only land an arrest, but to get it to sentencing. He repeatedly mentions that the real work starts after an arrest, which is something often overlooked by readers of crime.
I often felt the chaos he must have experienced during these investigations.
This is definitely not a light read. The cases are gruesome and at times hard to get through, so it can take you a minute. But it was worth it! Especially for South Africans wanting to learn more about true crime and the processes used in SA.
Labuschagne uses humour here and there to disarm the very tense and serious tone of the cases he discussed.
I particularly liked the credit he gave to some of his colleagues who worked alongside him, and the detail in which he discusses the work the teams does to not only land an arrest, but to get it to sentencing. He repeatedly mentions that the real work starts after an arrest, which is something often overlooked by readers of crime.
I often felt the chaos he must have experienced during these investigations.
This is definitely not a light read. The cases are gruesome and at times hard to get through, so it can take you a minute. But it was worth it! Especially for South Africans wanting to learn more about true crime and the processes used in SA.
October 24, 2024
I normally really enjoy these types of books as a crime junkie myself, but at first it felt a bit too much like a lecture and I got so frustrated and negative towards the SAPS (not the writer’s fault we have failing systems in South-Africa, I know). I just hoped there would be a bit more focus on the cases near and dear to Gerard.
However, I did enjoy this enough to not be able to put it down and to buy myself the 2nd book in the series. I get the fact that the background is necessary, so I would recommend you read at least up to chapter 3 before you decide if this book is for you or not.
All in all not a bad read if you like the genre and I do recommend it.
I rate it 3 (3.5 rounded down to 3 because I’m stingy).
However, I did enjoy this enough to not be able to put it down and to buy myself the 2nd book in the series. I get the fact that the background is necessary, so I would recommend you read at least up to chapter 3 before you decide if this book is for you or not.
All in all not a bad read if you like the genre and I do recommend it.
I rate it 3 (3.5 rounded down to 3 because I’m stingy).
July 20, 2022
An absolutely amazing book! I loved it for so many reasons. As a 3rd year psychology student I really enjoyed reading about Gérard journey in becoming a psychological profiler. I also really liked the fact that he used the correct psychological terms in his book. The details included in each case were really good too. Sadly, we are attracted to the gruesome and bizarre stories out there and that is certainly another reason why I enjoyed the book. It is easy for many of us to be CSI specialists from the comfort of our sofas but I think it takes special abilities to deal with all this horror in real life. Thanks for sharing!
Starting with The Profiler Diaries 2 this evening!
Starting with The Profiler Diaries 2 this evening!
June 29, 2022
Dr Gerard really explains each situation in detail which allows the reader to fully understand the context in which it is intended. It provides a whole new perspective of his life as a detective and the crimes that take place in SA. And if we didn't know before, we now know how difficult their lives were/are by not having the proper resources to solve these crimes. Frustrating to read and see how they had to struggle. Please provide more detailed info of the murders and crime scenes in your next book, it was truly interesting to go on that journey in this one!
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews