The armed robber, a man with a distinctive walrus mustache and thinning hair, had just finished testifying at the Old Bailey when he was unexpectedly serenaded by his co-defendants with a rendition of the blues song “Whispering Grass.” The lyrics, particularly “Why tell them all your secrets?” and “We’ll Meet Again,” were a clear message to the former criminal, Derek “Bertie” Smalls, who had turned informant against his former criminal associates, breaking the code of silence among criminals.
Smalls, a prominent figure in London’s criminal underworld, had become the first supergrass by providing crucial evidence in exchange for immunity from prosecution. This decision stemmed from his arrest in connection with a bank robbery in Wembley in 1972. Over the course of several trials at the Old Bailey, Smalls’ testimony led to the conviction of 28 individuals, totaling 414 years in prison. Despite admitting to his involvement in multiple robberies, Smalls avoided prosecution by cooperating with authorities.
Law enforcement officials hailed Smalls as a valuable asset in combating organized crime, with Chief Supt Jack Slipper emphasizing his significance in bringing down numerous criminals. Among those arrested based on Smalls’ information was Mickey “The Pimpernel” Green, who later transitioned to drug smuggling and evaded capture for many years before facing legal consequences.
The concept of supergrasses, individuals providing insider information to authorities, has a long history, dating back to biblical times. However, it was Smalls who revolutionized the use of informants in the UK, setting a precedent for future cases involving individuals turning against their criminal associates for leniency.
Subsequent cases, such as Maurice O’Mahoney’s cooperation in the 1970s and 1980s, further highlighted the role of supergrasses in criminal investigations. These informants played a crucial role in convicting numerous criminals involved in armed robberies, with their testimonies often forming a significant part of the prosecution’s case.
Despite the controversial nature of supergrass agreements, law enforcement agencies continued to leverage informants like Micky “Skinny” Gervaise and Roy Garner to gather evidence against criminal networks. The use of supergrasses, while effective in securing convictions, also raised ethical concerns within the criminal justice system.
In the case of Smalls’ ultimate nemesis, Mickey Green, another supergrass played a pivotal role in his apprehension, leading to his capture in Spain and subsequent legal proceedings. Meanwhile, Smalls lived a relatively peaceful life in London for decades, despite facing threats from vengeful former associates.
The story of Derek “Bertie” Smalls, the notorious supergrass, serves as a testament to the complex dynamics of crime, betrayal, and justice within the realm of organized criminal activities. His legacy, marked by his pivotal role in dismantling criminal networks, underscores the intricate interplay between law enforcement, informants, and the criminal underworld.
