Historical Events tagged with "crime"
Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.
Machine Gun Kelly's Surrender to FBI
Gangster George 'Machine Gun Kelly' Barnes surrenders to the FBI in Memphis, Tennessee, during a tense standoff. As he emerged from hiding, he famously shouted, "Don't shoot, G-Men!" This phrase quickly became a nickname for FBI agents across the nation, symbolizing the burgeoning conflict between organized crime and law enforcement during the Prohibition era. His surrender marked a significant moment in the fight against gangsters who thrived during this time.
Continue ReadingGangster Attack at Union Station in Missouri
Gangsters attempted to free fugitive Frank Nash from custody at Union Station, resulting in a deadly shootout that claimed the lives of four FBI agents. The incident unfolded in a public space, shocking the nation as it highlighted the ongoing battle against organized crime. The gunfight left a deep mark in the annals of law enforcement history.
Continue ReadingAttempted Assassination of FDR in Miami
On February 15, 1933, Giuseppe Zangara attempted to assassinate President-elect Franklin D. Roosevelt while he was speaking in Miami, Florida. Zangara fired multiple shots at Roosevelt but missed, instead hitting Chicago Mayor Anton J. Cermak, who was seated near Roosevelt. Cermak succumbed to his injuries several weeks later, raising questions about political safety during a time of national transition.
Continue ReadingFBI Crime Lab Officially Opens in Washington, D.C.
The FBI Crime Lab opened its doors in Washington, D.C., marking a significant development in forensic science. Designed to enhance the Bureau's investigative capabilities, the lab housed cutting-edge technology and a variety of forensic disciplines. This facility allowed for sophisticated crime scene analysis which had been previously lacking. The establishment of the lab symbolized a shift towards modern law enforcement practices in the United States and underscored the FBI's commitment to scientific approaches in solving crimes.
Continue ReadingDiscovery of Charles Lindbergh Jr.'s Body
Charles Lindbergh Jr., the infant son of aviator Charles Lindbergh, was found dead near Hopewell, New Jersey. He had been missing for ten weeks after being kidnapped from his family's home. The discovery followed an extensive search and investigation which had captured nationwide attention. The location of the discovery was just a few miles from the Lindberghs' estate, heightening the media frenzy surrounding the tragic incident. The case involved ransom demands and a public appeal for information, drawing the efforts of law enforcement and investigators at every turn.
Continue ReadingAl Capone Transferred to Federal Penitentiary
Al Capone, having been incarcerated at Cook County Jail since his sentencing on October 24, 1931, is moved to the federal penitentiary in Atlanta after the U.S. Supreme Court denies his appeal for tax evasion. This transfer follows Capone's conviction that marked the downfall of one of America's most notorious mobsters, and it highlights the government's determination to prosecute organized crime figures vigorously.
Continue ReadingKidnapping of Charles Lindbergh Jr.
Charles Lindbergh's 20-month-old son was kidnapped from the family's home in East Amwell, New Jersey, attracting national attention. The crime was characterized by its audacity and the high profile of the family involved. Despite extensive search efforts and investigations, the child's body would not be discovered until May 12. This incident shook the nation and raised concerns about safety and crime in America.
Continue ReadingMichele Schirru Executed for Attempting to Kill Mussolini
Michele Schirru, an American citizen and anti-fascist, was captured in Italy after attempting to assassinate Benito Mussolini. He was executed by a firing squad of the Royal Italian Army during a period of escalating fascist repression. Schirru's actions were motivated by his opposition to Mussolini's regime, which he viewed as oppressive and authoritarian. The execution took place in a climate of fear and political turmoil, reflecting the harsh penalties imposed on dissenters in Italy at the time.
Continue ReadingFrancis Crowley's Apartment Standoff
A tense standoff occurred when criminal Francis Crowley barricaded himself in his fifth-floor apartment on West 91st Street in New York City. Armed with a submachine gun and surrounded by law enforcement, specifically 300 members of the New York Police Department, the situation rapidly escalated. Crowley was wanted for robbery and suspected of murder, leading to the police encircling his location. Negotiations ensued, but the standoff captured public attention due to its dramatic nature and the involvement of such a large police presence.
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