Episode Summary: "I Led the Manhunt for a Killer Who Lived Like a Hermit"

Podcast: What It Was Like
Host: Julian Morgans
Guest: Former Detective Inspector Ricky Hennessey
Release Date: May 23, 2025

Introduction

In this gripping episode of What It Was Like, host Julian Morgans delves into the harrowing seven-year manhunt for Malcolm Naden, one of Australia's most elusive criminals. Through an in-depth conversation with former Detective Inspector Ricky Hennessey—the lead investigator responsible for Naden’s capture—listeners gain an intimate understanding of the complexities involved in tracking a serial killer who chose to live as a hermit in the vast wilderness of New South Wales.

Background on Malcolm Naden

Malcolm Naden became infamous in Australia between 2005 and 2012 for evading the police while suspected of the disappearance and murder of two young women. After the murder of his cousin, Leticia Nolan, in January 2005, and the subsequent killing of Christy Scholes six months later, Naden vanished into the bush, successfully avoiding detection for seven years by adopting a reclusive lifestyle.

Ricky Hennessey’s Journey into Law Enforcement

Ricky Hennessey’s fascination with criminal psychology and forensic science began in his childhood, where he was captivated by stories of serial killers and investigative documentaries. "[09:44] Ricky Hennessey: I remember writing stories about serial killers when I was in second class and grew up watching documentaries and had a real, real interest in how the police catch criminals."

This early interest propelled him into a career in law enforcement, eventually leading him to the homicide squad where he would become instrumental in the pursuit of Malcolm Naden.

The Elusiveness of Malcolm Naden

Naden’s ability to remain undetected stemmed from his meticulous efforts to disconnect from modern society. He avoided using phones, credit cards, and maintained minimal interactions with others. Living in primitive conditions, primarily scavenging for food and supplies, Naden managed to conceal his presence despite the expansive search efforts by the police.

"[15:32] Ricky Hennessey: Police use methods that rely a lot on humans being pretty normal, living a mainstream sort of life, an attachment to technology. With Malcolm, none of that applied. He didn't use a phone, he wasn't on the grid."

Naden’s decision to reside in the roof of the Dubbo Zoo provided him with access to food and shelter, allowing him to sustain his reclusive existence for years.

Challenges of the Manhunt

The vastness of the New South Wales bush and Naden’s deliberate avoidance tactics posed significant challenges. Traditional police methodologies, which depend on tracing digital footprints and regular social interactions, were ineffective against someone who had severed all conventional ties.

"[16:50] Ricky Hennessey: He was underestimated a lot... No one expected someone to survive like that for so long."

Ricky Hennessey recounts the difficulty of searching an area "the size of a small European country," emphasizing the frustration and exhaustion experienced by the search teams.

The Turning Point: December 7th Incident

The manhunt took a dramatic turn on December 7th when Naden spotted police officers approaching his campsite. Anticipating confrontation, he attempted to ambush the tactical team. A gunshot was fired, striking an officer in the shoulder. "[35:29] Ricky Hennessey: As soon as the shot rang out, they all dropped to the ground." This incident heightened the urgency and pressure on the investigation team to capture Naden swiftly.

The Final Capture

Utilizing advanced surveillance technology and intelligence support, Hennessey and his team were able to narrow down Naden’s potential locations. On March 21st, a surveillance trigger at a property in Gloucester led to the tactical team surrounding Naden. "[43:17] Ricky Hennessey: He was terrified of the dog and what the dog could do... he sat there and blind him up and shot him from the campsite."

Naden attempted to flee but was cornered and ultimately subdued by the tactical unit. "[46:53] Ricky Hennessey: We got the radio call that he was... someone in custody and... that's it finally was."

Psychological Insights and Motivation

Throughout the investigation and subsequent interrogation, Ricky Hennessey explored Naden’s psychological state. Naden admitted to his actions but exhibited a complex relationship with his crimes. "[54:39] Ricky Hennessey: He was trying to shock the reader... something like evil looks like."

Naden’s motivations appeared to be rooted in sexual compulsions rather than sheer desire to kill. His isolation was partly a coping mechanism to prevent further violence, illustrating the intricate balance between his mental health issues and criminal behavior.

Impact on Ricky Hennessey

Investigating such a case profoundly affected Ricky Hennessey personally and professionally. He reflects on how exposure to the darker aspects of humanity has shaped his approach to parenting and his outlook on life.

"[66:51] Ricky Hennessey: It's a generation apart. I think everyone parents different now for obvious reasons."

His transition to working with the Children's Guardian in New South Wales underscores his commitment to preventing abuse and protecting vulnerable populations, a testament to his dedication forged through challenging investigations.

Concluding Thoughts

The episode concludes with Ricky Hennessey expressing a sense of closure achieved through the successful capture of Malcolm Naden, despite the lingering challenges in providing complete closure to the victims’ families. "[67:20] Ricky Hennessey: Knowing the prevalence of offending, particularly sexual offending against children, makes me very, very cautious for my kids around anyone, literally anyone."

Julian Morgans wraps up the discussion by highlighting the resilience and relentless pursuit embodied by law enforcement professionals like Hennessey in bringing justice to complex and prolonged criminal cases.

Notable Quotes

• Ricky Hennessey [09:44]: "I remember writing stories about serial killers when I was in second class and grew up watching documentaries and had a real, real interest in how the police catch criminals."

• Ricky Hennessey [16:50]: "He was underestimated a lot... No one expected someone to survive like that for so long."

• Ricky Hennessey [35:29]: "As soon as the shot rang out, they all dropped to the ground."

• Ricky Hennessey [54:39]: "If you read the letter in isolation, you would absolutely... it's designed to shock."

• Ricky Hennessey [66:51]: "I think everyone parents different now for obvious reasons."

Conclusion

This episode of What It Was Like offers a compelling narrative of endurance, strategy, and psychological complexity in the pursuit of justice. Through Ricky Hennessey's firsthand account, listeners gain a profound appreciation for the challenges faced by law enforcement in tracking and apprehending elusive criminals, as well as the personal toll such cases can take on those involved.