Subject
Crime -- United States Books
Best books
Thomas Furlong
Fifty Years a Detective: 35 Real Detective Stories
"Fifty Years a Detective: 35 Real Detective Stories" by Thomas Furlong is a collection of true detective stories written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the remarkable career of Thomas Furlong, a seasoned detective and former Chief of the Secret Service of the Missouri Pacific Railway, sharing previously unpublished accounts from his extensive experience in crime prevention and criminal investigation. The narratives provide insights into the complexities of real-life detective work, aiming to reveal the inner workings and details of cases that have shaped his career. The opening of the book sets the tone for Furlong's memoir, establishing his credibility and extensive background in the field of detection. He emphasizes that the stories within are based on actual events and unique cases he handled, detailing how he solved them and uncovered the truth behind various crimes. Furlong also addresses the public's perception of detectives, contrasting it with the reality of the profession and outlining the vital traits that contribute to effective investigative work. This foundational section beckons readers into the world of detective work by blending personal anecdotes with general insights about the field, promising an engaging exploration of real crime-solving stories.
Arthur Cheney Train
Courts and Criminals
"Courts and Criminals" by Arthur Cheney Train is a collection of essays written between the years 1905-1910 that explores the complexities of the American legal system, particularly concerning criminal law and the rights of individuals. The book delves into the practical application of laws and the often conflicting responsibilities of the police and judiciary, revealing the intricate balance between maintaining public safety and preserving individual liberties in a society that prides itself on its just legal framework. The opening of the work introduces a case in New York involving a young man named Duffy, who was subjected to police procedures without lawful cause, inciting a debate about the presumption of innocence and the rights of citizens. Train discusses the implications of such abuses, highlighting a pattern of "mugging" individuals who have not been convicted, and critiques the hypocrisy within the legal system that allows such practices to persist under the guise of necessity. He argues that while laws are intended to protect the citizenry, they are implemented by fallible individuals, leading to inconsistencies and ethical dilemmas in law enforcement. Overall, the beginning of "Courts and Criminals" sets the stage for an incisive examination of the failings of the criminal justice system and the fundamental rights that underpin American democracy.
Arthur Cheney Train
The Prisoner at the Bar: Sidelights on the Administration of Criminal Justice
"The Prisoner at the Bar: Sidelights on the Administration of Criminal Justice" by Arthur Train is a nonfiction account written in the early 20th century. The book aims to provide a detailed and engaging exploration of the criminal justice system, highlighting the processes from arrest to conviction and examining the perspectives of the various participants, including the police, lawyers, and the accused. At the start of this work, Train introduces the complexities surrounding the concept of crime, emphasizing that public perception is often shaped by sensational media coverage rather than an understanding of the legal processes involved. He argues that many commonly held beliefs about crime and criminals are oversimplified or erroneous, and he seeks to provide clarity on the administration of criminal justice. The opening discusses the definition of a crime and highlights the intricacies of legal terminology, illustrating differences between various types of crimes and their implications. Train sets the stage for a comprehensive discussion on how individuals can be categorized as criminals and the societal implications of such classifications.
Cleveland Moffett
True Detective Stories from the Archives of the Pinkertons
"True Detective Stories from the Archives of the Pinkertons" by Cleveland Moffett is a collection of historical crime narratives written in the late 19th century. The book explores real-life detective cases handled by the famous Pinkerton National Detective Agency, which was known for its innovative investigative techniques and involvement in many high-profile criminal cases of the time. The overarching topic revolves around thrilling accounts of robberies, investigations, and the cunning criminal minds that the Pinkertons aimed to outwit. The opening of the book draws readers into the harrowing tale of the Northampton Bank Robbery in 1876, setting the stage for a gripping account of masked bandits who invade the home of bank cashier John Whittelsey to seize the keys and combination to the bank vault. The narrative vividly depicts the brutal tactics employed by the robbers to extract compliance and details the eventual involvement of the Pinkertons as they sift through various leads and witness accounts. This introduction not only foreshadows the intense and often morally complex world of crime and detection but also highlights the painstaking effort required to bring justice in the face of organized crime.
V. M. (Vincent Myron) Masten
Criminal Types
"Criminal Types" by Col. V. M. Masten is a semi-technical examination of the nature of crime and criminals, written in the early 20th century. The work aims to address misconceptions about crime and offers insights into the psychological and societal factors that shape criminal behavior. Masten explores various types of criminals, emphasizing that there is no single archetype, but rather a spectrum of motivations and circumstances that lead individuals down the path of crime. The opening of the text introduces the author’s intent to reform societal views on crime prevention and rehabilitation. Masten argues that while some criminals may be born into a life of crime, many are shaped by their social circumstances and individual choices. He critiques current penal systems for failing to hold criminals accountable for restitution and instead calls for a system that emphasizes deterrence and the necessity of social responsibility. The author suggests that understanding the complex motivations behind criminal behavior is essential in developing effective strategies for crime reduction and rehabilitation.
Josiah Flynt
Notes of an Itinerant Policeman
"Notes of an Itinerant Policeman" by Josiah Flynt is a non-fiction narrative written in the late 19th century. This work recounts the author's firsthand experiences and observations while serving as a police officer, primarily focusing on interactions with tramps, criminals, and various offenders within the American socio-legal landscape. Through his explorations, Flynt sheds light on the complexities of crime, the nature of criminal classes, and societal attitudes toward them, making it a compelling study for those interested in crime and law enforcement. The opening of the narrative sets the stage for Flynt's unique police experience, highlighting his initial desire to understand the criminal underworld from an official standpoint. He describes his role as a patrolman for a railroad police force, where he was assigned a vast beat that allowed him to encounter a myriad of criminals. Flynt’s reflections capture his motivations—driven not by vendetta but by a genuine curiosity about the criminals and their lifestyles. As he discusses his interactions with various offenders, including the classification of criminal types, the narrative promises an insightful exploration of the psychology behind criminal behavior and the societal structures that inform crime, establishing a rich context for the ensuing chapters that delve deeper into these themes.
Recently surfaced classics