Hawley Harvey Crippen Convicted of Poisoning
Hawley Harvey Crippen was convicted for the murder of his wife, Cora, after a dramatic manhunt that utilized radio communication. Crippen fled from England to Canada in 1910, where he was apprehended aboard a ship. His trial brought international attention to the case, highlighting the role of emerging technology in crime-solving.
First felon captured using radio technology
Crippen attempted to flee to Canada
Cora Crippen's remains found in the home
Trial captivated the public and media
What Happened?
In July 1910, Cora Crippen, a music hall singer, disappeared from her London home, igniting a complicated case of suspected murder. Her husband, Hawley Harvey Crippen, was suspected due to suspicious circumstances surrounding her disappearance, including his behavior and a lack of clarity regarding her whereabouts. Meanwhile, while Crippen fled to Canada with his new lover, Ethel Le Neve, police began piecing together the evidence against him. The final breakthrough came when a wireless message was sent to the ship he boarded, prompting authorities to intercept it upon arrival in Quebec. This marked the first instance in which radio technology played a critical role in apprehending a fugitive. The trial, held in October, showcased a range of forensic evidence, including the discovery of human remains in the couple’s home, believed to be that of Cora. Following a sensational trial that captivated the public and press, Crippen was found guilty of murder and sentenced to death, despite claims of innocence.
Why Does it Matter?
The conviction of Hawley Harvey Crippen is noteworthy as it exemplified the intersection of crime and technology during the early 20th century. It showcased how emerging methods of communication, particularly radio, began to shape law enforcement and criminal investigations. This case also set a precedent for how similar cases would be handled in the future, highlighting the potential for technology in modern policing.