Decoy

For several years, a prolific predator haunted Bristol. Avon and Somerset Police had tried all their usual tactics to catch the 'Clifton Rapist', and public pressure was mounting. In 1979, a daring new plan was introduced, unlike anything previously attempted by a UK police force. A small group of young female officers—some aged just 18—put their lives on the line, walking the quiet residential roads late at night, acting as bait. Drawing on in-depth research and first-hand interviews with the women at the heart of the operation, is a dramatic retelling of one of the most groundbreaking agent provocateur stings in British history. Robert Murphy's Decoy is a riveting exploration of law enforcement's innovative approach to crime prevention in the late 70s. It's a top-notch historical biography that delves into the lives of the women who dared to stand against assault and harassment. For fans of Steven Keogh (Murder Investigation Team), Robin Jarossi (The Real Ted Hastings), David Wilson (Murder at Home), Graham Bartlett (Babes in the Wood), and Gregg Olsen (American Black Widow). HarperCollins 2024