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According to IMBD, "Toma" was based on the real-life exploits of Newark, New
Jersey narcotics detective Dave Toma, who in the late 1960's and early 70's, made a name for himself by using unorthodox techniques
to get the goods on criminals. He would often dress up as a nun, rabbi, homeless person or any other average citizen in order
to blend in and get the drop on pushers.
This TV series started off with good intentions and was a hard-hitting, realistic
urban police drama. But star Tony Musante was worried it was going to go the route of every other cop show and just become
formulaic. When he pushed for creative changes, producers pushed back and the show ended after just one season. The concept
re-emerged the following year as "Beretta" starring Robert Blake.” Toma
authored two books, “Toma: The Compassionate Cop” and “Airport Affair.”
According to the book description of
Turning Your Life Around: David Toma's Guide for Teenagers, “The former vice detective
turned inspirational teen speaker presents the hard facts about drugs and alcohol, suicidal feelings, self-hatred and depression,
anorexia and bulimia, and many other common teen concerns.”
Publisher’s Weekly said of Turning
Your Life Around: David Toma's Guide for Teenagers, “Ex-narcotics detective, anti-drugs speaker and
actor Toma has drawn upon his thousands of hours on the front to put together a useful, informative self-help manual. The
book consists mostly of extensive fill-in questionnaires; those motivated to systemically follow through with them may well
gain substantial insight. Topics include parents, depression, drugs, suicide, Satanism, self-hatred, seeking healing through
closeness to God. Typical fill-ins include: "The advice I have for myself about tomorrow is . . ."; "The best/worst
memories I have of my mother/father are . . ." When telling a story, Toma asks, "Is there anything you can identify
with?" Using methods that suggest those of a wise therapist, he advises thoughtful looks at past influences on the present
and builds readers' confidence as they go along. The philosophy is sound and encouraging, and Toma concludes with a reassuring
list of 50 ways "to start living a new life.”
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