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Hard Stop: A Life of Violence, Crime and Deception
Jack Dawe is an unconventional street cop. His ability to not act or look like a ‘Copper’ enabled him to infiltrate the drug networks of the UK. This no holds barred, explosive and at times humorous account of undercover policing takes the reader through a journey of crime, violence and deception.
This memoir is a true story of poacher turned game keeper. A veteran of 30 years’ service as a soldier and police officer, Jack reveals how he grew from a young thief into a soldier in search of danger and adventure across the world. This journey would see Jack have scrapes with the law and constantly fall foul of the strict codes of military discipline.
Jack's thirst for adventure led him to a career in the Police where he took on the role of ‘street cop’ and ‘Thief Taker’ with tenacious vigour. During the early 2000’s the UK was gripped in a war on drugs, Yardy gangs ruled the heroin and crack trade that was destroying communities across Britain, the constant threat of firearms and punishment beatings held communities locked in fear. Organised Crime Groups ran illegal raves and flooded the streets with cocaine and ecstasy pills which were often sold to children. This illegal trade was spreading misery and addiction across the country. Jack's skills and willingness to take risks resulted in him be being recruited as an undercover police officer. This exciting role took Jack across the country as he took on some of the most dangerous drug gangs in the UK.
This memoir is a true story of poacher turned game keeper. A veteran of 30 years’ service as a soldier and police officer, Jack reveals how he grew from a young thief into a soldier in search of danger and adventure across the world. This journey would see Jack have scrapes with the law and constantly fall foul of the strict codes of military discipline.
Jack's thirst for adventure led him to a career in the Police where he took on the role of ‘street cop’ and ‘Thief Taker’ with tenacious vigour. During the early 2000’s the UK was gripped in a war on drugs, Yardy gangs ruled the heroin and crack trade that was destroying communities across Britain, the constant threat of firearms and punishment beatings held communities locked in fear. Organised Crime Groups ran illegal raves and flooded the streets with cocaine and ecstasy pills which were often sold to children. This illegal trade was spreading misery and addiction across the country. Jack's skills and willingness to take risks resulted in him be being recruited as an undercover police officer. This exciting role took Jack across the country as he took on some of the most dangerous drug gangs in the UK.
227 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 16, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
July 9, 2022
I found Jack Dawe’s adventures with the British military and police force to be a good read for wild stories from his life. I just wish someone would remove his exclamation point key, yikes! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 24, 2022
Gritty, fact based military, true life account of Jack Dawe (false name). We see the maturing of this young child right through to his last days in the police. A young Marine cadet placed in situations that were unlawful due to being led by poor example but managed to get the boundaries and guidance at the right time to lead him to a life of service.
His vivid description and recollection of events that led to his final career are shocking and yet addictive. Was a great read- I couldn’t put it down and read in one sitting.
It’s fact, it’s dark, it’s gritty, it’s shocking but it’s honest and sometimes- we all need our eyes opening just that little more!
I was fortunate enough to have been given an advanced copy of this book by Netgalley and the publisher in return for an honest review. Thanks to both.
His vivid description and recollection of events that led to his final career are shocking and yet addictive. Was a great read- I couldn’t put it down and read in one sitting.
It’s fact, it’s dark, it’s gritty, it’s shocking but it’s honest and sometimes- we all need our eyes opening just that little more!
I was fortunate enough to have been given an advanced copy of this book by Netgalley and the publisher in return for an honest review. Thanks to both.
August 11, 2022
Wow this was such a brilliant book. If you have ever wondered what it is like working undercover buying illegal drugs then this book is definitely for you. The authors life in the army and then the police was a real eye opening and fascinating story. I just couldn't put this book down and had to binge read it. I was so engrossed in this book I just lost track of time and before I knew it it had ended. This book was so well wrote and it just flowed seamlessly. He certainly tells the true, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. I just love these books that give us an insight into what it is like working in a sometimes difficult job. It was definitely a roller coaster ride. There was also some heart stopping moments. Also so really dumb criminals that I just had to laugh at. I would like to thank the author for his service and for writing this book that was such a delight to read as it was so exciting. I really can't recommend this book enough. If you love reading books about people working in the front line services then this book us a must read.
Only the highest of praise goes out to the author and publishers for telling us about his dangerous and edge if your seat career .
Only the highest of praise goes out to the author and publishers for telling us about his dangerous and edge if your seat career .
August 11, 2023
Hiding behind a splendid nom de plume, Jack Dawe pledges his memoir is the truth. As he is neither a politician or a celebrity (nor even a prince) one is bound to take him at his word. In fact he seems to like being candid about his past whilst using integrity to avoid naming and shaming colleagues.
Late teenage years and early twenties are a bit of a 'Boy's Own' adventure with petty theft and drunkenness giving way to some rude awakenings as a young soldier in a troubled Northern Ireland.
Then, as a young covert police officer, drug dealers bring danger closer to home.
The author doesn't shy away from speaking his mind, showing strength of character, and boundless courage in the face of danger and adversity.
Late teenage years and early twenties are a bit of a 'Boy's Own' adventure with petty theft and drunkenness giving way to some rude awakenings as a young soldier in a troubled Northern Ireland.
Then, as a young covert police officer, drug dealers bring danger closer to home.
The author doesn't shy away from speaking his mind, showing strength of character, and boundless courage in the face of danger and adversity.
July 7, 2022
I received an ARC of, Hard Stop, by Jack Dawe. I found this book to be a bit traumatic. Jack's mindset or life is not like the rest of us. This book was to dark and warped for me.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews