Ep 7. Ray Bennett - The Criminal Mastermind

Australian Crime Stories is a gripping true-crime series that focuses on high-profile criminal cases that have made history in Australia. In the seventh episode of the first season, we delve into the life of Ray Bennett, a man who dubbed himself the “Criminal Mastermind” of Queensland.

The episode opens with a chilling reenactment of one of the most sensational crimes committed in the state’s history. In 1978, Ray Bennett orchestrated the kidnapping of a wealthy businessman and demanded a monumental ransom of $500,000 for his safe return. The victim was eventually released unharmed, but the crime sparked a nationwide manhunt for Bennett, who had successfully evaded authorities for years.

The episode then delves into the fascinating life of Ray Bennett, a man who grew up on the wrong side of the tracks and quickly turned to a life of crime. From an early age, Bennett was drawn to the thrill of the heist and quickly earned a reputation as one of the most audacious and daring criminals in Queensland.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given a glimpse into the cunning and calculated mind of a master criminal. Bennett was known for his meticulous plotting and attention to detail, often spending months planning and researching every aspect of a crime before executing it flawlessly. He was also infamous for using a range of disguises and aliases, making him almost impossible to track down.

Despite his criminal activities, Bennett was a charismatic and well-liked figure in the community, and the episode features interviews with some of his closest friends and associates, who speak candidly about his personality and his impact on their lives.

The episode also explores some of the pivotal moments in Bennett’s criminal career, including his involvement in the infamous 1973 Whiskey Au Go Go nightclub bombing, which claimed the lives of 15 people. While Bennett was never charged with the crime, many believe he played a critical role in its planning and execution.

The final part of the episode focuses on the events leading up to Bennett’s eventual capture in 1980. Despite his best efforts to evade the law, Bennett was eventually caught by a group of determined detectives who had been tracking him for years. In a dramatic showdown, Bennett was finally apprehended and charged with a string of crimes, including the 1978 kidnapping.

Overall, this episode of Australian Crime Stories provides a fascinating insight into the life and crimes of Ray Bennett, a man who became a legend in the criminal underworld of Queensland. From his daring heists to his intricate planning and execution, Bennett’s story is not only riveting but also gives viewers a unique glimpse into the mind of a master criminal.