A discovery of lost historical crime files has recently been unearthed in a local shop, shedding light on crimes that took place over a century ago. These intriguing documents detail various offenses, some of which may seem trivial by today’s standards but were taken very seriously at the time. For instance, one case mentioned an individual running a house of prostitution, a crime that carried a penalty of a $100 fine back then. In contemporary terms, such an offense could result in up to a year of imprisonment or a fine of up to $1,000 in states like New York.
Interestingly, riding a horse while intoxicated on horseback was also considered a punishable offense, with violators facing a fine of $4.10. Other violations highlighted in the files include disturbing the peace and carrying a deadly weapon. Adam Flack, the Community Engagement Coordinator at the Wyoming Rescue Mission, expressed the significance of these discoveries to Fox News Digital, emphasizing the historical value they hold.
The docket containing these historical records has since been returned to the City of Casper and the Casper Police Department for preservation and further examination. Flack praised the insights provided by these documents, stating that they offer a unique window into the challenges that law enforcement officers of the past encountered in their daily duties. While societal norms and laws have evolved over time, Flack noted that certain challenges remain constant, albeit in different forms.
Chief Keith McPheeters of the Casper Police Department also recognized the importance of preserving this historical record, acknowledging that an organization’s history is vital in shaping its culture and future trajectory. The police department, along with the Wyoming Rescue Mission, shared the discovery on social media, drawing attention to the rich historical heritage embedded in these old case files.
Brad Hopkins, the Executive Director of the Wyoming Rescue Mission, commended the staff at the Rescued Treasures Thrift Store for their keen eye in identifying this valuable piece of history. The National Archives, which maintains a vast collection of historical Law Enforcement Records, plays a crucial role in preserving such artifacts dating back to the early days of federal law enforcement agencies.
In this digital age, uncovering tangible relics of the past like these crime files serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of law enforcement and the ever-changing nature of justice and societal norms. The saga of these historical crimes from 1904, now brought to light through diligent efforts, offers a glimpse into a bygone era where horseback riding while intoxicated was a punishable offense and running a house of prostitution could land you in legal trouble.
