Former police officer releases unflinching account of abuse, neglect and growing up in care in explosive new book

A former police officer has written a book about his battle against adversity after a childhood marred by abuse, neglect and failures within the care system.

- By Sarah Dale Contributor

In From Trauma to Triumph: The Pocket Sergeant Journey, Paul Cooper, from Wynyard, lifts the lid on the dark realities behind his public success story.

The 40-year-old dad-of-one lost his beloved mother to cancer when he was only seven.

Aged just eight, Paul and his younger brother were put into care and eventually found his “real” family with a foster family who showered him with love, care and attention.

Recalling those early years growing up is raw for Paul, although he is keen to tell his story to others who have survived trauma to offer some hope.

"Writing this book wasn’t easy," says Paul, who spent his policing career helping tens of thousands across frontline policing. "This book is for anyone who has ever felt like giving up and for those who believe that adversity can fuel innovation and purpose.”