Queensland’s Sliding Doors Moment: Wiretap City

In the 1970s, a gripping arm wrestle was unfolding behind closed doors. Would corruption prevail, or could the anti-corruption forces reclaim the heart and soul of Queensland policing?

The fightback took shape in the early 1970s with the formation of the Whitrod-led CIU (Criminal Intelligence Unit). Their weapon of choice: the wiretap.

The years that followed would prove to be an incredible lost opportunity—what we might now call a sliding doors era. For a time, the anti-corruption forces had successfully neutralised key members of the infamous Rat Pack who were running the Vice Squad’s corruption rackets—either forcing them into retirement or banishing them to remote Queensland country outposts where they could do no harm.

Wiretapping had proven to be a valuable weapon. But despite having what seemed like unlosable, ironclad, open-and-shut cases—backed by wiretap evidence—several high-profile prosecutions were lost.

Wiretapping in Vice City Fortitude Valley

By 1976, the relationship between Commissioner Whitrod and Premier Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen had completely broken down. The Premier was increasingly interfering in police affairs, demanding the use of the police force as a bulwark against critics and political opponents. Then came the tipping point: Joh recalled one of the rats from the wilderness of country QLD and appointed him Assistant Police Commissioner—directly under Whitrod.

It was intolerable. Whitrod resigned in protest. The end result? The Premier promoted head rat Terry Lewis one more rung to take on the newly vacated top policing job in the state—appointing Terry Lewis as the new Police Commissioner. Like a pied piper, Lewis played his tune—and the rats returned en masse.

The sliding doors moment wasn’t just missed; it was slammed shut. Political corruption was now entrenched at every level, fusing police, underworld, and cabinet interests to a scale never before achieved. Fortitude Valley became further entrenched as the vice capital of Queensland.

But as history would record, the corruption of this era would eventually come crashing down—almost by accident—a decade later. It wouldn’t fall in a single blow—but once the first domino tipped, the downfall of Vice City was unstoppable.

Discuss On Substack

To uncover more Brisbane Crime History, please consider booking tickets to Vice City Fortitude Valley’s True Crime Tour here @ https://darkstories.com.au/vice-city-fortitude-valley-true-crime-tour/.

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On This Day in True Crime History – 7th December

On this day in True Crime History, December 7th has witnessed a series of startling and somber events throughout history, marking it as a day of infamy in the annals of true crime. From notorious bank heists by legendary outlaws to chilling abductions that captivated nations, let us delve into the next batch of dark and complex tales from criminal history.

0043 BC: 📜 The Famous Roman Orator Cicero Assassinated

On this day in 43 BC, Cicero, one of the most celebrated figures in Roman history and renowned for his eloquence and oratory skills, met a tragic end. He was assassinated on the orders of Marcus Antonius, marking the conclusion of a turbulent chapter in Rome’s political landscape.

Cicero’s last months were marked by his reentry into politics, advocating for a general amnesty and attempting to use Octavian (the future emperor Augustus) as a political tool. He vehemently opposed Mark Antony’s control over Rome following Julius Caesar’s assassination.

Octavian learned of one of Cicero’s unfortunate remarks that “the young man should be given praise, distinctions—and then be disposed of.” The formation of the Second Triumvirate in October sealed Cicero’s fate. He was captured and killed near Caieta on December 7, 43 BC, with his head and hands displayed on the speakers platform at the Forum in Rome. 🌟🗡️🏛️

This Day in True Crime History

1869: 🤠 Jesse James Infamous Bank Robbery and Revenge Killing

On this day in 1869, Jesse James, and very likely his brother Frank, perpetrated a notorious bank robbery at the Daviess County Savings Association in Gallatin, Missouri.

The target of their heist yielded only a modest sum of money. However, the robbery took a violent turn as Jesse James fatally shot the cashier, Captain John Sheets, in a case of mistaken identity.

Jesse believed Sheets to be Samuel P Cox, a militia officer responsible for the death of Bloody Bill Anderson, one of the most fearsome leaders of Confederate guerrillas in Civil War Missouri, who Jesse strove to emulate.

This bank robbery and daring ride out of town from a chasing posse catapulted Jesse James into notoriety, making him one of the most infamous outlaws of the Wild West. 🤠💰🔫

This Day in True Crime History

1972: 👠 Philippine First Lady Survives Bold Assassination Attempt

On this day in 1972, a brazen assassination attempt was made on Imelda Marcos, the First Lady of the Philippines 🌺.

An assailant, concealing a bolo knife in his left coat sleeve, made a sudden and violent lunge at Mrs Marcos, striking her twice. The attacker then went on a rampage, hacking at bystanders until he was fatally shot by security 🗡️🚑.

Imelda Marcos would go on to become better known for her extraordinary collection of 3000 thousand pairs of shoes, a stark contrast to her nation’s turmoil and an enduring symbol of her lavish lifestyle. 🥿👠

Imelda Marcos

1982: 📅 The December Murders in Suriname

On this day in 1982, in Dutch-speaking Suriname, fifteen prominent young Surinamese men who had voiced criticism against the military dictatorship then ruling the country became victims of the event known as The December murders.

Thirteen individuals were forcibly taken from their homes during the early hours between 2 am and 5 am, according to accounts provided by their families. The remaining two victims already in detention due to their involvement in an attempted countercoup in March 1982.

Soldiers loyal to Dési Bouterse, who held dictatorial power in Suriname at the time, transported these individuals to a sham “trial” presided over by sergeants who had assumed the roles of judges. Following these dubious “hearings,” the victims endured brutal torture and were ultimately shot dead. The exact circumstances surrounding their deaths remain shrouded in ambiguity.

A few days later the country’s dictactor Bouterse made a national television announcement asserting that all detainees had been shot dead while purportedly attempting to flee.

The December Murders sparked international outrage, and many Surinamese civilians fled their homeland for the Netherlands in fear for their safety. 🕯️🌍

In November 2019, President Bouterse was sentenced to 20 years in prison by a military court. Bouterse, sentenced in absentia, filed an appeal which, in August 2021, which concluded in the sentence being upheld.

Suriname

1982: 💉 First Lethal Injection Execution in the U.S

On this day in 1982, Charles Brooks Jr made history by becoming the first person in the United States to be executed by lethal injection 💉.

This execution in Texas marked a shift in the methods of capital punishment, introducing lethal injection as a supposedly more humane alternative.

The condemned man’s final meal before his execution included a t-bone steak, french fries with ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, biscuits, peach cobbler, and iced tea 🥩🍟🍑🍹.

Lethal Injection

2003: 🚍 Tragic Abduction in Queensland

On this day in 2003, a heartbreaking incident shook Australia when Daniel Morcombe was abducted from under an overpass on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland while waiting for a bus. This case remained a mystery for many years, casting a shadow over the region and capturing national attention.

An extensive undercover operation led to the arrest of Brett Peter Cowan, who had been previously interviewed by police in 2006. He was charged after leading undercover detectives to Daniel’s remains in 2012, bringing a somber closure to the case. 🕵️‍♂️🔍

This Day in True Crime History

As we close the chapter on December 7th’s true crime history, let these historical events serve as solemn reminders of the past, guiding lights for the present, and cautionary tales for the future. Hope to see you on a Dark Stories True Crime Tour soon!

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Unleash Your Inner Detective: Order Novelty Mugshot Crime Cards Today!

Ready to unlock your inner detective and add a playful twist to your gatherings? Say hello to our Novelty Mugshot Crime Cards and our Custom Labelled Mugshot Crime Cards!

To start, let’s introduce you to the ‘I Regret Nothing Police Department’ Novelty Cards. From smooth operators to life-of-the-party types, these cards guarantee a laugh at every event. Get ready to dive into the world of Mugshot Crime Cards, and don’t forget; that you can order them through our website to elevate your party game.

Smooth Operator – this person has a knack for sliding into conversations and making everyone feel at ease. Their charm is undeniable, and they’ve been known to steal a few hearts along the way.

Bye Felicia – Known for dramatic exits and unforgettable one-liners, this party-goer definitely leaves their mark.

Thirst Trap – Always the centre of attention, this individual knows how to turn heads and keep the drinks flowing.

Life of The Party – With a knack for livening up any event, this character is the one who keeps the party going till the break of dawn.

Party Princess – Every party’s royalty, this lady knows how to make an entrance and leave everyone in awe. Here’s to another year of reigning supreme!

Gift Wrapped – Always bringing gifts that are as delightful as his presence, this gentleman is a welcome guest at any event. A very Happy Birthday to our Gift Wrapped!

Danceaholic – With moves that can steal the spotlight, this individual is a true dance floor magnet. Happy Birthday, Danceaholic!

Social Flutterby – Flitting from conversation to conversation, this social butterfly keeps the party buzzing. Wishing her another year of delightful social interactions!

The Uninvited – Despite never being on the guest list, this individual always finds a way into the party. Here’s to another year of crashing parties!

Diva – The star of any event, this lady’s presence is always felt and appreciated. Wishing our Diva a year full of glamour and glitz!

Chatterbox – The lifeblood of any gathering, this individual keeps the energy high with their endless tales and anecdotes. Happy Birthday, Chatterbox!

As we raise our glasses, we celebrate these unforgettable characters and their ‘crimes’ that make every party a memorable event.

Purchase your set of Novelty Party Mugshot Crime Cards or create your own Custom Labelled Mugshot Crime Cards through the Dark Stories website today. Perfect for spicing up your next party or surprising your friends and family with a unique gift.

Here’s to another year of laughter, fun, and unforgettable memories!

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Meet the Actor – A Night With The Villains

This Halloween, Mira Ball Productions, in association with Our Yakka and the Salad Bowl Collective, brings you a sinister night of villainous melodies through their concert A Night With The Villains.

But only for two unforgettable nights – Tuesday 31st Oct and Wednesday 1st Nov. Here we meet one of the concert’s principal performers – Georgia Leigh – whom we chatted to for the insider’s view of A Night With The Villains.

About Georgia Leigh

A Night With the Villains

 

What do you enjoy most about acting?

I love the way being an actor can transport you to so many different places and be a completely different person to yourself. It’s so fun being able to play different characters. I personally love going out after the show and meeting the audience, hearing what they think and interacting with them as myself.

What productions have you acted in before?

I have worked mainly in Musical Theatre, with most of my professional experience in Children’s Theatre, starring in roles such as Sophie in Mamma Mia and Nancy in Oliver! And Rosalie Mullins in the QLD Amateur Premier of School of Rock. I have performed at the Adelaide Fringe Festival with JALLY Entertainment, performing as Snowy in Snowy and the 7 Cool Dudes by A.J. Bailey and have performed this show in 6 states and territories.

What has been your favourite role so far in your career?

I met my husband playing Sophie in Mamma Mia, so I am probably slightly biased in thinking that’s my favourite role. In terms of the most challenging, I think that would have been Rosalie Mullins from School of Rock, she is very different to who I am, so it was hard being a tight arse, but that’s what made it so enjoyable.

What do you think makes a performance most believable?

I think that a believable performance has heart. I find performances most believable when I can sense the deep connection to the character and can feel and see myself in those moments.

Are there any particular genres or types of roles that you prefer or feel most comfortable in?

I love working in the Children’s Theatre. Although physically demanding, it brings me joy knowing that I could potentially influence future young actors. I remember watching shows at my school and thinking how amazing it was, and I hope I am bringing that same feeling to others.

 

About A Night With The Villains

A Night With the Villains

 

What is this Production about?

A Night With The Villians is the amazing brainchild of Elodie Boal and Trent Sellars, with help from Jennifer B Ashley and Jackie Fredericksen along the way. Imagine having all the best villains in the world returning for just one night (in our case, 2!) and tormenting you with fabulous song and dance. Truly, it is a match made in Halloween heaven, but you can’t just take my word for it!

What character are you playing, and what can you share with us about them?

I am playing the Wicked Witch character. As soon as I was posited with going green for this show, I was all in! Some of the best roles are painted green, so I am actually honoured to be doing it for this one! Everyone in this show has a unique character, and it is so wicked and fun to see them transform at rehearsals.

Why did you want to be involved in this production?

I spent a year in America in 2019, and the difference between American Halloween and ours cannot be understated! When Elodie approached me about being a part of a Halloween show, you bet I was ready brooms-a-blazing. Being a part of a supportive cast and crew was also a major draw card. These guys have been the BEST to work with.

What sort of person is going to love this show?

Everyone who loves a bit of a spook and something quirky will love this show—bringing a little bit of Musical Theatre, Film and Television together in one jam-packed 2-hour thrill. Everyone has their moment to shine and tell their own unique story with iconic songs and amazing dancing.

What’s going to surprise people about this show?

How amazing the talent is in Brisbane (though we already knew it!), the cast is so solid in their performances and deliveries I think that people will be amazed.

Georgia can be seen in A Night With The Villains from 31st Oct to 1st November in the Ron Hurley Theatre in the spooky Seven Hills Hub.

Other interviews can be viewed in Our Meet The Actor Series, or check here for the latest Dark Stories True Crime Tours.

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