Frank Farrell, a Sydney legend, was born in Surry Hills, brought up in Redfern, Tempe and Marrickville, and educated at Marist Brothers Kogarah.
Farrell ruled Darlinghurst and Kings Cross from 1938 - 1976, dishing out punishments which would not be tolerated today. He arrested anyone who did not fit his stereotype as "normal", to fill his cells and boost his arrest rate. Two of his most notorious enemies were underworld queens Kate Leigh and Tilly Devine, who as well as being sworn enemies of each other, were enemies of Bumper. While slicing a spit roasted pig at her 50th birthday party, Kate was heard to say "I wish this was Bumper".
As Farrell rose through the Police Force ranks he earned a reputation as a feared and revered detective. His harassment and intimidation by use of fists and boots is still remembered today, by many in the community.
As a representative and Newtown football player his football playing was the same style - fists, boots, thuggery.
I could not finish this book, a glorified story of a protected bully.
1 comment:
Sorry Wendy, Disagree, as one who has policed the mean streets. What about the rights of the victims. Bumper was an honest cop, who let minor crimes slid to stop the worst of Crimes. I can see you have never been on the front line, protecting someone.
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