A home invasion incident from his childhood played a significant role in shaping Mal Lanyon's career as a police officer.
At the age of 14, Lanyon returned home from skipping school to find a stranger in his house, claiming to be there to paint. Lanyon recalled the encounter, saying:
"I asked what he was doing here and he said 'I'm here to paint the house', and I said 'no, mum would have told me'"He attempted to call his mother, prompting the intruder to flee. This incident inspired Lanyon to pursue a career in law enforcement, driven by the desire to prevent similar experiences for others.
"I decided I didn't want that to happen to anyone,"As the newly appointed NSW Police Commissioner, Lanyon remains committed to community-based crime reduction.
Author's summary: Commissioner Lanyon's past inspires his policing approach.