Who is Fred Hale from Brighton Rock and what is their importance? Brighton_Rock_(novel) English & Literature Fred Hale | Brighton Rock

Fred Hale, sometimes called Charles Hale, is a journalist for the Daily Messenger. He has written an article on the mob control of Brighton track betting that gets Pinkie's mentor, Kite, killed. Hale is also the Kolley Kibber of the Messenger: he travels through resort towns during the holiday season. The first person to recognize him from the Messenger ad gets a prize. In Brighton, Hale is convinced he will be killed. He is hounded by Pinkie and his men. In desperation, Hale finds Ida Arnold and begs her to stay with him. When she goes to the bathroom, though, he is seized by Pinkie's men and killed - presumable by blocking his airway with Brighton rock candy.