003. Organised police forces

What was the population increase?

2.5 mill in 1500, 4 mill 1600, 5 mill 1700, 10 mill by end of 1800

What did the population increase cause?

Strain on the medieval self policing system, esp in large urban centres like London

Give an example of how an increased population caused strain on the system?

Watchmen in london proved no match for increased organised crime

What happened as a result of dramatic increases in population?

Forced a change in methods to enforce law and order

What was Merthyr’s population and when? How many JPs?

30,000 by 1800 but only 2 JPs

How many people lived in London in 1700?

500,000

Where did 500,000 live and when?

London in 1700

Describe why the old system was becoming outdated?

Population had grown, System unchanged since anglo saxon tmes

Why was the old system ineffective?

JPs only armed with stick, watchmen were old

What are 2 famous thief taker?

Charles Hitchen and Jonathan Wild

What were thief takers?

Private individuals who captured individuals and claimed reward money

Why were thief takers controversial?

Corrupt, demanded money and protection from crooks

What position did Charles Hitchens have?

Under City Marshal for London

How was Charles Hitchens corrupt?

Abused his power -> demanded bribes from brothels and pickpockets, Pressured thieves to fence their stolen goods through him

How and when did Charles Hitchens die?

1727 he was arrested for sexual crimes and died soon after

Who was Jonathan Wild?

Hitchen’s assistant (1713) but started his own crime

How was Jonathan Wild corrupt?

Planned roberies, trained burglars, blackmailed criminals and tricked victims of theft into offering rewards

How and when did Jonathan Wild die?

Arrested and hanged in Tyburn 1725