Paul Maleary's Ex-Job Downloaded Podcast

Paul Maleary
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Personal Journals
  • Weekly

I served with Essex Police for 30 years, a chapter of my life filled with both haunting memories and exhilarating moments. Throughout my career, I had the privilege of interviewing a number of high-profile suspects—each encounter a vivid snapshot of human nature, revealing both darkness and resilience. The aim of this podcast is to delve deeper into the lives of former members of the Police and Military from across the globe. This is not just a collection of stories; it's a tribute to the extraordinary journeys of these remarkable individuals, often overlooked but never forgotten.Our contributors hail from diverse backgrounds, each with a unique story etched into the fabric of history. Picture this: a soldier landing on the Normandy beaches, adrenaline pumping in a chaotic backdrop, recounting the camaraderie that emerged amidst the chaos. Or a military operative sharing a heart-stopping tale of survival after being shot by the Taliban, offering insights into not just the battles fought but the battles within. We’ll hear from the man who carried the radio at the 1966 World Cup Final, a moment that united a nation, and the manager of the mortuary following the devastating 7/7 bombings, who witnessed humanity at its most fragile. These men and women are heroes of our time, and their stories are committed to this podcast for eternity!But there is also a narrative of transition—stories that weave through the fabric of public service into new realms of entrepreneurship and creativity. From authors penning the tales of their experiences to innovators launching successful businesses, the contributions of Police and Military personnel extend far beyond their uniforms. They are not one-dimensional figures; they are multifaceted individuals, and you will be amazed at the diverse lives they lead following their honorable careers.With each episode, we aim to illuminate the profound impact these experiences have had on their paths. If you have a Police or Military background and would like to take part in this enriching journey, I invite you to connect with us. Please email admin@ex-job.co.uk. Your story, like so many others, deserves a platform to be shared and celebrated. Join us as we explore courage, resilience, and the unbreakable human spirit, one story at a time. Together, we will honor these incredible journeys that shape not just the individuals but the very essence of our society. If you have a Police or Military background and would like to take part in my podcast please email admin@ex-job.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Oct 20

    Costa Del Drugs and Exit

    Podcast Précis: "Paul Maleary's Downloaded" (Part 4 with Steve)In this final instalment of Paul Maleary's podcast, host Paul (a former Essex Police interviewer with 30 years of service handling major crimes like murder and extortion) This episode features guest Steve, who recounts high-stakes, international undercover operations and reflections on policing. Key Highlights & OperationsOperation Hole: Steve details a temporary secondment where he teamed up with Johnny "Monkey" to run a joint operation targeting major smuggling rings, using a veneer business as a front with a 20-tonne truck load. The Journey to Spain: The operation involved navigating treacherous logistics across France and into Spain, featuring mechanical failures, tight border deadlines, navigating low-hanging tree branches in Madrid suburbs, and encounters with local law enforcement. Surreal Encounters: While lost in the docks of Valencia late at night trying to find directions, Steve and his team inadvertently walked into a transvestite bar full of bearded men in women's clothing. Drug Busts and Surveillance: The operation successfully culminated in tracking down and transporting massive quantities of cannabis and resin (hashish) from Southern Spain back to the UK alongside international customs task forces. Medical Retirement and Pension: Steve reflects on the severe psychological toll and stress of undercover work, noting he used multiple aliases (Charlie, Steve, Terry, Levi). Following counselling, he was medically discharged with an 80% disability duty pension, receiving double-rate support. Changing Landscape of Policing: Both men discuss how modern police work has shifted heavily toward computers, digital charging, and tech reliance compared to the old days of handwritten logs and traditional methods. Hashtags#TrueCrime #PolicePodcast #UndercoverOperations #LawEnforcement #EssexPolice #CriminalInvestigation #PodcastPrécis Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Costa Del Drugs and Exit

  2. Oct 20

    Steve H - The Sweeney et al

    Podcast Precis: "Ex-Job Downloaded" – Part 3 with Steve H.Host: Paul Maleary - former Essex Police officer with 30 years of serviceGuest: Steve H. Episode Focus: Part 3 of the interview series with Steve H. Key Highlights & DiscussionsTraditional Policing vs. Crime: Discussion on how traditional squads operated independently of strict crime books, providing supplementary support across various pavement and robbery jobs. Notable Cases & Figures: Insights into historical investigations, high-profile arrests involving armed robbers, and interactions with notorious underworld figures (such as Linda Calvey, "Tough Ted," and others). Undercover and Specialist Operations: Anecdotes detailing the intricate, high-stakes nature of Regional Crime Squad (RCS) operations, surveillance, gun/weapon recoveries, and large-scale cash stashes involving the Bank of England. The Reality of Law Enforcement: Exploring the fine lines between crime and enforcement, operational pressures, and humorous or tense encounters during international and domestic deployments. #ExJobDownloaded #TrueCrime #PoliceStories #PodcastPrecis #TrueCrimePodcast #EssexPolice #UndercoverOperations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Steve H - The Sweeney et al

  3. Oct 20

    Steve H - Is There Life On Mars

    Podcast PrécisHost: Paul Maleary Guest: Steve H. Series: Ex-Job Downloaded Overview In this second part of his interview with host Paul Maleary (former Essex Police officer), guest Steve H. takes listeners back to an earlier era of policing in the Metropolitan Police Service, sharing vivid anecdotes about colourful characters, internal corruption scandals, and complex homicide investigations. Key Discussion Points & Narrative Highlights Tales from the Squad Room & Resignations: Steve recalls unusual departures from the force, including an officer who resigned to become a professional Las Vegas gambler and ultimately died on the streets of New York. "Shaft" & Internal Corruption: Steve details the story of a mixed-race Detective Chief Inspector nicknamed "Shaft". He discusses an internal corruption scandal involving alleged bribes, bail-fixing for a robber’s son, and money extortion schemes involving senior officers. The "Trilby" Era & "Monkey" Mansfield: An inside look into traditional Met CID culture, complete with officers wearing classic trilby hats. Steve shares a humorous story involving Detective Inspector "Monkey" Johnny Mansfield, a night out that led to trapped contact lenses, and a trip to Moorfields Eye Hospital. Harry Clement BEM & The "Taser" Howard Case: Steve describes working under Detective Chief Inspector Harry Clement (awarded the British Empire Medal for gallantry). He explains the Assistant Commissioner's C-Department Consolidated Instructions (ACCI) list for dangerous individuals and recounts arresting Anthony "Taser" Howard—a criminal driving a stolen London black cab with a fake badge. Courtroom Drama at Snaresbrook: During "Taser" Howard’s trial, the defendant attempted to bluff the court by claiming he held an Oxford degree. Steve details the dramatic moment the judge sent out the jury and instructed Steve to call the college dean live from court, completely unravelling the defence's strategy. Child Murder Investigations: Steve touches upon a harrowing investigation into the murder of an eight-year-old boy whose body was dumped near a traveller site. He explains how precise TV commercial-break timestamps (during Coronation Street) and traffic drive times were used to dismantle the suspect's alibi, leading into a broader discussion about connected child murder cases. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Steve H - Is There Life On Mars

  4. Oct 20

    Steve H -Who Would Have Thought!

    Podcast PrécisThis episode of Ex-Job Downloaded features host Paul Maleary interviewing Steve H, a former undercover officer who served with the Metropolitan Police and Essex Police. The conversation traces Steve’s life and law enforcement career, blending rich historical context with colourful personal anecdotes from policing in London and Essex. Early Life and Family HistorySteve was born in 1955 at the City of London Maternity Hospital in-and-out of Bartholomew's Hospital, growing up as a "city person" with deep ancestral roots stretching back generations. He shares fascinating historical insights about his family, including ancestors who were Huguenot refugees, bookies' runners, wigmakers (peruke makers), and community figures in London and surrounding areas. Steve recounts the colourful characters in his family tree, such as a grandfather who was a bookie's runner and rumoured to have severed his own finger to avoid World War I, and a grandmother who was continually pregnant between 1905 and 1927, giving birth to 21 children. Entering the Police ServiceSteve initially joined the police force out of sheer boredom, triggered by a recruitment poster featuring a copper pointing and declaring "Dull, it isn't". Before joining the Met, he worked various jobs, including in a butcher's shop in Murray Grove, Islington, where he crossed paths with colorful local figures like Bobby Leonard, an art thief and furniture handler. He joined the Metropolitan Police at 19 years and six days old, navigating early training days at Hendon, dealing with strict routines, and encountering legendary characters and rigorous testing systems like "knowledge and reasonings". Undercover Work and Specialised RolesSteve discusses his transition into specialized squads, moving from local policing beats to working undercover and intelligence-gathering roles. He shares vivid stories of dealing with notorious local elements, neighbourhood dynamics, and the unique realities of policing during eras marked by intense social changes, gang cultures, and East End characters. The episode highlights his later service moving up through postings in Edmonton, where he worked alongside pre-war cop veterans, handled complex investigations, and encountered extraordinary administrative and operational hurdles within the force. Hashtags#ExJobDownloaded #TrueCrime #PoliceHistory #UndercoverPolice #MetropolitanPolice #EssexPolice #PolicePodcast #TrueCrimeCommunity #LawEnforcementHistory #LondonHistory Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Steve H -Who Would Have Thought!

  5. May 1

    Graham Paul Roberts - The Echoes in the Silence:

    This podcast summary features the experiences of Graham Roberts, a former member of the Welsh Guards, whose service record and subsequent transition to civilian life offer a raw look at the realities of modern military duty. Military Service and TransitionGraham Paul Roberts served as a soldier in the Welsh Guards. His transition to civilian life was marked by extreme psychological distress, leading him to the brink of suicide. He recounts a harrowing moment where he planned to take his own life in the woods, only to be stopped by a sudden, overwhelming emotional breakdown that resulted in him seeking help instead. He eventually found support through North Wales Veterans and a dedicated medical team, which he credits with saving his life. Candor Regarding Service in KenyaRoberts speaks with significant candor about the trauma he carried from his deployments, specifically highlighting the moral and emotional toll of his time in Kenya. Environmental Trauma: He describes vivid, recurring nightmares involving the faces and bodies and events he witnessed or dealt with during his service. The Weight of Silence: He explains that for years, he "bottled up" the things he had seen, including the smuggling of goods and other "stuff" that he felt unable to discuss with his family or peers. Emotional Detachment: He admits to purposely detaching himself emotionally from his experiences to survive the scenarios he was placed in, a tactic that later contributed to his mental health struggles. The "Bravado" Myth: Roberts is critical of the military "bravado" that prevents soldiers from seeking help, noting that he initially refused medication and support because he wanted to handle it alone. Recovery and ReflectionTo process his trauma, Roberts turned to writing as a form of therapy. His book, "Echoes in the Silence," was written over several months as a way to "explore" the elements of his past that he had previously blocked out. He emphasizes that while medication (such as quetiapine and anti-depressants) helped stabilize him, the act of documenting his experiences was vital to his recovery. #WelshGuards #VeteranMentalHealth #PTSDAwareness #EchoesInTheSilence #MilitaryTransition #KenyaService #VeteransSupport Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Graham Paul Roberts - The Echoes in the Silence:

  6. Apr 13

    Alka Mistry - What life was like in Leicestershire Police for a girl from Kenya

    Early Life and Cultural BackgroundBorn in Kenya in 1969, Alka moved to Leicester as a toddler. Raised in a strict Hindu household, she grew up with defined gender expectations: girls were encouraged to pursue education only as a precursor to arranged marriages within their caste. Despite an early interest in crime and pathology sparked by Agatha Christie novels, Alka initially followed a conventional path, working in insurance for nine years. The Turning Point: Defiance and DutyAlka’s entry into the police was a profound act of personal rebellion and courage. Facing an unwanted arranged marriage to a man living abroad, she chose to break the engagement. This decision, coupled with her desire to join the police—a profession her family deemed unsuitable for a woman—resulted in her being asked to leave her family home and a long-term estrangement from her father, who was himself a traffic warden. In 1997, without knowing where she would live, Alka posted her acceptance to Leicestershire Police. Career Highlights and ChallengesAlka joined the service in 1998, training at Ashford during a time when Asian female officers were a "rarity". Her career spanned several diverse roles: Frontline Policing: She served in rural areas like Ashby and Coalville, where she faced significant racial abuse from the community.Specialized Units: She spent time in the Youth Offending Team, which allowed her to balance work with raising her children.Detective Work: Alka eventually became a detective, working in child abuse investigation, serious and complex crime, and a secondment in Counter Corruption, which she described as her toughest role due to the emotional weight of investigating colleagues.Mutual Aid: Near the end of her career, she assisted in Merseyside following the tragic murders of three children. Legacy and RetirementThroughout her 27-year career, Alka balanced the "heavy lifting" of being a mother, wife, and professional. She remains a staunch believer in meritocracy, refusing to join identity-specific police associations and instead focusing on her skills as an investigator. Upon retiring, she transitioned into her "second vocation": sports safeguarding. She currently works with the Leicester City Football Club Academy, aligning her professional expertise with her lifelong passion for sport. Despite the personal sacrifices, Alka maintains that she would do it all again "100%" The Story & Inspiration#BreakingBarriers #CulturalIdentity #ResilienceStory #WomenWhoInspire #PersonalGrowth #OvercomingObstacles #CourageousConversations #Trailblazer Police & Detective Life #PolicePodcast #ThinBlueLineUK #DetectiveWork #WomenInPolicing #LeicestershirePolice #LawEnforcement #TrueCrimeCommunity #BehindTheBadge Culture & Representation #SouthAsianExcellence #BritishAsian #RepresentationMatters #Leicester #ShatteringGlassCeilings #EmpoweredWomen Career & Transition #CareerPivot #SportsSafeguarding #LCFC #SecondAct #ProfessionalDevelopment #WorkingMoms Niche & Catchy #FromPatrolToPitch #DefyingExpectations #DetectiveAlka #PodcastSpotlight Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Alka Mistry - What life was like in Leicestershire Police for a girl from Kenya

  7. 10/10/2025

    Janet Percival - Who is Alex Belfield? Part 2

    Alex Belfield  is a former radio presenter for BBC Radio Leeds who was dismissed for misconduct. He was convicted of stalking charges in September 2022 and imprisoned. Belfield worked at Mansfield 103.2 FM in the early 2000s. He presented the mid-morning show on BBC Radio Leeds. In 2010 he made lewd comments about weather presenter Keeley Donovan's broadcasts at home that resulted in complaints from listeners. As punishment, Belfield was suspended from the station for a day and strongly reprimanded by BBC bosses. On 18 June 2021 Belfield was summonsed to appear at Nottingham Magistrates' Court, where he was charged with 12 counts of stalking "involving fear of violence or serious alarm or distress" on 1 July.On 29 July 2021, Belfield appeared at Nottingham Crown Court accused of stalking eight people between November 2012 and March 2021, including BBC staff members Stephanie Hirst and Jeremy Vine. Belfield was convicted in September 2022 for four of eight stalking charges at Nottingham Crown Court. He was sentenced to five and a half years in prison; before sentencing "he was allowed to deliver a closing speech deriding the case as a 'BBC and police witch-hunt' based on five arrests and 3 invasions of his home, without a warrant and any evidence of any crime, and describing himself as 'the No 1 anti-BBC journalist'". He told the jury "I am offensive... My human right allows me to speak words that are not to everyone's taste". The judge said that while Belfield acknowledged the distress he caused the victims, he showed more concern during the proceedings about being treated unfairly and how the process impacted him (Belfield) personally. A bid for leave to appeal was refused in February 2023. In May 2024, the Nottinghamshire police detective who had led the stalking investigation into Belfield won a libel case against him. Belfield had falsely accused the detective of being corrupt, lying in court and colluding with the BBC in a witch hunt against him. Belfield was released from prison in June 2025, after 2 years and 9 months. He will serve the remainder of his sentence on licence. Janet has her own channel on Ticktok #AlexBelfield #StalkingInvestigator #CriminalConviction #TrueCrime #JusticeServed #CrimeDocumentary #CyberStalkingAwareness #LegalSystemInsights #PrisonSentence #VictimAdvocacy #InvestigativeJournalism #CrimeNewsUpdate #SocialMediaSafety #CourtCaseAnalysis #PublicInterestStory Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Janet Percival - Who is Alex Belfield? Part 2

  8. 10/10/2025

    Janet Percival - is 38 too old to join the police Part 1

    "Janet always wanted to be a police officer. Growing up, she would sit beside her uncle, who had been chief constable, listening intently to his tales of the job—stories filled with bravery, camaraderie, and the occasional humour that only those in law enforcement could appreciate. The desire to don the uniform and protect her community coursed through her veins. However, when she turned 18 and applied for the Surrey Police, she faced disappointment as she failed the selection process. Undeterred, she joined the special constabulary in Nottinghamshire, where she learned the ropes of policing, even though the ongoing failures in her applications for the regular service felt like a persistent shadow looming over her aspirations. It was during a heartfelt conversation with her brother that the spark of hope reignited. He informed her that Sussex Police were seeking recruits. The excitement bubbled up inside her as she envisioned herself wearing the badge she so dearly coveted. In 2003, after rigorous training and determination, she finally passed the fitness test. Her first posting at Brighton was a blend of nostalgia and novelty, where she was immersed in old-school processes—making tea for her colleagues as a rite of passage before stepping into a police car. Each sip of that tea felt like a connection to those stories from her uncle, a small reminder of where she came from and the journey ahead. Yet, as she transferred to Nottinghamshire, the reality hit hard. The stark contrast between her experiences in Brighton and Nottinghamshire was shocking. The lack of staff and resources forced her into situations where she had to rely solely on her instincts and skills. Unlike Brighton, where support was always a radio call away, here she had to navigate the challenges independently. It was a steep learning curve, but Janet was resolute. With grit, she took her detective exams, transforming her into a competent investigator. Each case was not just a job but a puzzle she was determined to solve—a testament to her dedication. Despite the challenges, Janet’s transition to Nottinghamshire often felt like a backward step. The outdated practices she encountered were immensely frustrating. While Sussex embraced modern techniques, Nottinghamshire seemed entrenched in the past, making her feel out of place. She often reflected on how different things could be, fuelling her drive to advocate for change in policing methods. As she tackled high-profile cases that captured public attention, including one notorious suspect who received a staggering 32-year prison sentence , Janet found her true calling. It was a particular case involving stalkers that struck a chord with her. Drawing on her empathy and understanding, she successfully obtained the first non-domestic stalking protection notice in the UK. It was a landmark achievement that made headlines, but she was not just a figurehead; she was deeply involved, reviewing investigations meticulously. Her recommendations led to actionable outcomes that resulted in prosecutions, giving a voice to victims who often felt powerless. Each successful case reinforced Janet’s commitment to ensuring justice, leaving an indelible mark on her career and the community she served. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Janet Percival - is 38 too old to join the police Part 1
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About

I served with Essex Police for 30 years, a chapter of my life filled with both haunting memories and exhilarating moments. Throughout my career, I had the privilege of interviewing a number of high-profile suspects—each encounter a vivid snapshot of human nature, revealing both darkness and resilience. The aim of this podcast is to delve deeper into the lives of former members of the Police and Military from across the globe. This is not just a collection of stories; it's a tribute to the extraordinary journeys of these remarkable individuals, often overlooked but never forgotten.Our contributors hail from diverse backgrounds, each with a unique story etched into the fabric of history. Picture this: a soldier landing on the Normandy beaches, adrenaline pumping in a chaotic backdrop, recounting the camaraderie that emerged amidst the chaos. Or a military operative sharing a heart-stopping tale of survival after being shot by the Taliban, offering insights into not just the battles fought but the battles within. We’ll hear from the man who carried the radio at the 1966 World Cup Final, a moment that united a nation, and the manager of the mortuary following the devastating 7/7 bombings, who witnessed humanity at its most fragile. These men and women are heroes of our time, and their stories are committed to this podcast for eternity!But there is also a narrative of transition—stories that weave through the fabric of public service into new realms of entrepreneurship and creativity. From authors penning the tales of their experiences to innovators launching successful businesses, the contributions of Police and Military personnel extend far beyond their uniforms. They are not one-dimensional figures; they are multifaceted individuals, and you will be amazed at the diverse lives they lead following their honorable careers.With each episode, we aim to illuminate the profound impact these experiences have had on their paths. If you have a Police or Military background and would like to take part in this enriching journey, I invite you to connect with us. Please email admin@ex-job.co.uk. Your story, like so many others, deserves a platform to be shared and celebrated. Join us as we explore courage, resilience, and the unbreakable human spirit, one story at a time. Together, we will honor these incredible journeys that shape not just the individuals but the very essence of our society. If you have a Police or Military background and would like to take part in my podcast please email admin@ex-job.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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