Read more
''Takes the reader on a fascinating, deeply personal journey inside of some of the most high-profile and grotesque crimes of the past four decades ... a rare insight into the darkest recess of human nature.'' - Paul Williams, Irish Independent Christy Mangan knows how hard it is to solve a murder. A former chief superintendent, he was involved with over 100 murder investigations over a forty career. Now, in Cracking the Case, he takes a deep dive into how investigations are run. The book includes infamous and iconic cases such as that of the priest whose violent death after a high society wedding became a source of feverish conspiracy theories; the notorious ''Scissor Sisters'' case in which two sisters killed and dismembered their mother''s abusive lover; and the tragic murder of a teenager as part of a gangland turf war in a small Irish town. It also includes detailed accounts of murder investigations the headlines forgot, such as the tragic killing of Brian McGrath, and the mysterious death of Nancy Smyth. Mangan details the care investigators take in trying to give victims'' families answers and to see justice done. He also shows a deep understanding of the complex reasons people are drawn into crime or commit unthinkable acts. Gripping, insightful and sometimes harrowing, Cracking the Case is a remarkable insight into the mind of a gifted police officer working at the highest level, and offers a rich picture of the work of an investigator. ''Thrilling and insightful'' - Ray D''Arcy, RTE ''Intriguing ... a great read ... it''s the story of Ireland in a way'' - Nicola Tallant ''Important and compassionate'' - Irish Times
About the author
Chief Superintendent Christy Mangan joined the Irish police force, An Garda Síochána, upon leaving school in 1980 and over the course of his forty year career, he was involved in more than 100 murder investigations. He twice received the Scott Medal for valour in the performance of his duties. Mangan established the Serious Crime Review Team in 2007, investigating historic cold cases. He retired in 2022. Cracking the Case is his first book.
