The Infamous Case of Dr. Crippen
Who Was Dr. Crippen?
Dr. Hawley Harvey Crippen was an American homeopath who gained notoriety in the early 20th century for being convicted of poisoning his wife, Cora Crippen. Born in Michigan in 1862, Dr. Crippen moved to England where he established a successful practice. His life took a dark turn when he became embroiled in a scandal that shocked the nation.
The Disappearance of Cora Crippen
Cora Crippen, a chorus girl, went missing in May 1910. Her absence raised suspicion, particularly when Dr. Crippen began to exhibit bizarre behavior and introduced his new girlfriend, Ethel Le Neve. Reports from their neighbors indicated that Cora had not been seen for weeks, leading to speculation about her fate.
The Trial and Conviction
The Evidence Against Dr. Crippen
At the Old Bailey, the prosecution presented chilling evidence that Dr. Crippen had killed Cora. A partial dismembered body was found in the basement of their home, identified through dental records as Cora Crippen's. The discovery of strychnine further pointed to foul play, with the jury convinced of Dr. Crippen's guilt.
The Outcome of the Trial
On October 22, 1910, Dr. Crippen was found guilty and sentenced to hang. His trial was one of the earliest cases to receive extensive media coverage, causing public outrage and fascination. The story of Dr. Crippen continues to be a compelling chapter in the annals of true crime.
Fun Fact
Dr. Crippen's Escape Attempt
After being convicted, Dr. Crippen attempted to escape to America by disguising himself as a woman, but he was captured before he could leave the country. This added to the sensational nature of the case.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on Dr. Crippen
For those interested in delving deeper into this infamous case, consider reading The Crime of Dr. Crippen by John Costello, which provides a detailed account of the trial and its implications.
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