In 1984, one of the largest and most intense police manhunts in modern British history was launched to capture a dangerous criminal who would become known as 'The Fox'. Malcolm Fairley, a sex predator and burglar, terrorised communities across several counties before his eventual arrest.
The Reign of 'The Fox'
For six months in 1984, Malcolm Fairley instilled fear across Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and Hertfordshire. His modus operandi was as brazen as it was terrifying. He would break into his victims' homes and patiently wait for their return, often armed with a shotgun.
During these waits, Fairley would create makeshift 'dens' from blankets and furniture. He felt so comfortable in the homes he invaded that he would consume their food, watch their television, and rummage through their personal belongings. This behaviour earned him the infamous nickname 'The Fox' in the press, a moniker that captured his cunning and invasive nature.
His crime spree culminated in September 1984 when he was finally apprehended. By that time, he had been linked to a staggering 81 offences, which included rape and indecent assault.
Justice and a Life Behind Bars
Malcolm Fairley faced justice at St Albans Crown Court in February 1985. The court handed down six life sentences for his catalogue of crimes, which included sexual offences, numerous burglaries, and possession of a firearm.
The presiding judge, Justice Caulfield, did not mince his words during sentencing. He told Fairley, "There are degrees of wickedness beyond condemnatory description. Your crimes fall within this category. You desecrated and defiled men and women in their own homes... You are a decadent advertisement for evil pornographers."
Fairley remained in prison for the rest of his life. In October 2023, his application for parole was considered but ultimately rejected by the parole board.
Where is Malcolm Fairley Now?
Malcolm Fairley died in custody in May 2024 at the age of 71. He was found alone on the floor of his cell at HMP Hull. An inquest into his death concluded that he died of natural causes, specifically a heart attack.
The inquest heard that Fairley had a history of heart problems, having been diagnosed with angina in 2019 and being on regular medication for the condition.
His disturbing story is the subject of a new two-part true crime documentary series titled 'Manhunt: Chasing The Fox'. The series was released on Netflix on Sunday, November 23, 2025, and is now available for streaming.
