The Real Ted Hastings: The True Story of the Copper at the Heart of Line of Duty

Line of Duty's Ted Hastings is the beating heart of the series, inspired by Robert Mark's battle against Met corruption. His speech established the need for a dedicated team to investigate corruption, which lives on today.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 11 May 2023
Publisher: Ad Lib Publishers Ltd

Line of Duty, a groundbreaking TV crime drama, has firmly established itself as the epitome of its genre. The series' central theme of conspiracy resonates with a society that has lost trust in public institutions and representatives. At the heart of this compelling drama is the character of Ted Hastings, the head of the anti-corruption unit, who has become the beating heart of the series. This captivating book delves into the intricate ways in which the series reflects real crimes, events, and figures, with a particular focus on the story of Robert Mark and his courageous battle against Met corruption.

Ted Hastings' arrival at the Met was marked by a bold statement: "I'll put you all back in uniform. His first words to his team set the tone for a relentless pursuit of justice. Inspired by the real-life New Met Commissioner Robert Mark, Hastings' character embodies the determination and integrity needed to tackle institutionalized corruption within the detective branch.

During his four years and eleven months as commissioner, Mark witnessed a staggering 478 men leave the force, either following or in anticipation of criminal or disciplinary proceedings. This departure rate was a significant increase compared to the previous decade, where departures averaged around 16 per year. Mark's extraordinary career not only exposed the depth of corruption within the Met but also established the urgent need for a dedicated team to investigate and combat corruption that continues to thrive today.

Line of Duty's portrayal of Robert Mark and his fight against corruption serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of justice in our society. The series has captivated audiences worldwide, shedding light on the darker corners of law enforcement and inspiring a renewed commitment to fighting corruption wherever it may exist. As we navigate a world where trust in institutions is fragile, Line of Duty continues to be a testament to the resilience and determination of those who strive to uphold the law and protect the public.

Weight: 206g
Dimension: 127 x 198 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914451188