Former Roscommon Garda launches new book on his life in CSI
Ciaran Prior after giving a talk at the National Museum of Ireland with the priceless Coggalbeg Horde, recovered after a robbery at Sheehan's Pharmacy, Strokestown in 2009.
On October 6th, 2022, Ciaran Prior left a career as a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI), with An Garda Siochana, having spent 23 years working in the Roscommon Garda Division.
Now his first book, ‘Traces of Truth-A CSI Investigates Life and Death’ offers a glimpse behind the scenes into the fascinating world of crime scene investigation, recounted with the perspective gained after having feared death as a child.
Published by Gill Books, Ciaran explains that the book “is at heart a reflection and contemplation of an exposure to death from both a personal and professional viewpoint”.
Carefully and at times imperceptibly, it weaves a second narrative thread that offers a profound reflection on life and the inevitable outcome we all must face, that of our own mortality.
‘Traces of Truth’ is described by award-winning author and Irish Examiner special correspondent Mick Clifford, as “a great read”.
“His writing takes the reader right onto the scenes as he sifts through tragedy with forensic precision to find clues in pursuit of justice for the deceased. His writing reconstructs the final hours and minutes of lives lost, yet always retaining humanity and a sense of duty to those who died,” noted Mick Clifford.
On January 12th, 1999, Ciaran transferred to Castlerea where he paused at the memorial plaque to Detective Garda John Morley, and Garda Henry Byrne outside the station.
There, he was joined by a colleague also transferring from Dublin and they exchanged greetings. Struck by the warmth and integrity in the handshake of Garda Colm Horkan, little could anyone have thought that Colm, too, would be shot dead just a couple of hundred yards away from where they stood.
This event is recounted in the book from Ciaran’s personal viewpoint.
A lifetime dealing with death, trauma and tragedy has given him a deep insight into the fragility of this life and a first-hand knowledge of how suddenly and violently it can be taken away.
His career journey has given him a profound perspective and grounding on the trials and tribulations of life and has led to the publication of this, his first, book.
With such a strong Roscommon connection featured and a lifetime of work in the area, the book will interest many local readers.
His father, retired Detective Sergeant Pat Prior, served most of his 31 years attached to Roscommon Station.
His ability to connect with people saw him change course in 2022, launching a new career capitalising on his public speaking strength. He now works delivering presentations, training and seminars on leadership, wellbeing, resilience and study skills across the educational and corporate sectors.
‘Traces of Truth - A CSI Investigates Life and Death’ will have its Roscommon book launch on Friday, September 20th at Roscommon Golf Club and all are invited.
