In this episode, we hear how Paul Reynolds embedded himself inside Launceston’s youth car scene befriending young men, adding them on Facebook, and slowly shifting from friendly banter to explicit messages. Through Mike, a former friend who has never spoken publicly until now, we trace Reynolds’ grooming pattern step-by-step exactly as later exposed in the Weiss Report. As Mike remembers the late-night visits, the boundary-testing conversations, and the uneasy comments dismissed as “just banter,” the episode reveals how a senior police officer managed to present himself as a mate, a mentor, and a hero all while hiding a far darker intent.

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If this episode has raised difficult feelings for you, support is available:

• Lifeline: 13 11 14 — https://www.lifeline.org.au

• Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 — https://kidshelpline.com.au

• 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 — https://www.1800respect.org.au

A Parliamentary Inquiry has now been established into Tasmania Police's responses to allegations of officer misconduct, including the handling of the Paul Reynolds matter.

The Committee is inviting submissions from members of the public, current and former police officers, victims, witnesses and anyone with information relevant to the inquiry. Submissions close on 4 September 2026.

For more information or to make a submission, visit:

https://www.parliament.tas.gov.au/committees/house-of-assembly/standing-committees/government-administration-committee-b/inquiries/inquiry-into-tasmania-police-responses-to-allegations-of-officer-misconduct

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