Growing up in inner-city Manchester in the 1970s and 80s was no easy feat-especially for a strong-willed Black kid navigating peer pressure, overt racism, and a system that often looked the other way. Paul Bailey had two choices: fight or flee. He chose to stand his ground.
From his early days as a determined student and talented athlete to a 30-year career as a police officer, Paul's journey is one of resilience, defiance, and an unshakable commitment to justice. As the founder and first Chairperson of the Black and Asian Police Association (BAPA), he fought for fair recruitment, police reform, and equality within an institution resistant to change.
But policing in the real world isn't like TV dramas. Behind the badge, Paul encountered not only criminals on the streets but also corruption and bigotry within the force. He took on Greater Manchester Police in legal battles that reached the Court of Appeal, challenging misconduct and discrimination at the highest levels.
'I Did That' is an unfiltered, unapologetic account of a career spent on the front lines-investigating serious crimes, interviewing dangerous criminals, and standing up when others stood down. A compelling memoir of courage, conviction, and the uncomfortable truths of law enforcement, this book will leave you questioning where true justice lies.
Read Paul's story and decide for yourself: did he talk the talk or walk the walk?