On 11 February 1818, George Tomkins was tried at the Old Bailey for stealing three sixpences from his employers on Holborn Hill. Caught in the act by a shopman and found guilty, the 36-year-old porter was sentenced to one month’s confinement, highlighting how even small thefts were prosecuted in Georgian London.
Tag Archives: historical crime
This Day in History – 22 July 1850
The Bread Coiner – This Day in History (22 July 1850)
On this day in 1850, Frances Henesey was tried at the Old Bailey for passing a fake shilling at a bakery, grabbing a loaf of bread, and fleeing into the London streets.
This Day in History – 21 July 1751
Horse-Turnpike Highway Robbery – This Day in History (21 July 1751)
On this day in 1751, William Elkins stood trial at the Old Bailey for highway robbery after allegedly holding up travellers at a turnpike while on horseback.