The buzz about Bezzina

By Bree Harding

Oct 31, 2024

Former Melbourne Homicide Squad detective Charlie Bezzina speaks to a full room at Shepparton Greyhound Racing Club last week. Photo by Bree Harding

More than 100 true crime enthusiasts packed the Shepparton Greyhound Racing Club rooms on Friday, October 25, to hear a veteran of the Melbourne Homicide Squad talk about some of the more infamous cases he worked on during his time with Victoria Police.

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Charlie Bezzina was a member of the force for 38 years and spent a couple of decades investigating crimes including the underworld murder of Alphonse Gangitano and the manslaughter of international cricketer David Hookes.

He worked on Taskforce Purana for a few years, investigating those tied up in the city’s ‘gangland war’ that saw a pile-up of more than 36 bodies.

Now a private investigator, security and risk consultant, media commentator and corporate speaker, Mr Bezzina was also contracted to establish the Integrity Unit of Investigators for Greyhound Racing Victoria after retiring in 2009.

With more than a few grisly stories to tell, he barely took a breath during his 90 minutes at the lectern while captivating the crowd.

Mr Bezzina worked on around 150 homicide investigations and fatal police shootings during his time with Victoria Police, as well as investigating more than 300 suspicious deaths.

He has been awarded a National Police Service Medal, Victoria Police Service Medal, Blue Ribbon Community Service Medal and four commendations for dedication and commitment to duty; management and leadership; professionalism, diligence and initiative; and devotion to duty.

He remained on the floor after the event officially ended to field further questions from the straggling crowd and smile for selfies.