Chief Desmond Brings Fugitive Home

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St. Louis Chief of Detectives William Desmond would be primarily responsible for the security of the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair.  Prior to the fair opening in April 1904, Desmond played a critical role in St. Louis’ boodling investigation. During his boodling investigation, St. Louis Circuit Attorney Joseph “Holy Joe” Folk indicted City Councilman Charles Kratz for taking bribes or

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Would Be Assassin’s St. Louis Roots

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On September 21, 1897, Joseph Bloomfield Jackson attempted to sneak into the White House armed with a loaded revolver.  Jackson had boasted of plans to attack a high government official for days.  Jackson was arrested before he could carry out his plans to attack President McKinley. Police quickly realized Jackson was mentally disturbed.  They sent him to a Washington asylum

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Chief Desmond Nabs Pair of Pants

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William Desmond nabbed many thieves during his 17 year career as St. Louis Chief of Detectives.  He developed a nationwide reputation as “The Thief Taker”.  On Monday, October 15, 1900, Chief Desmond nabbed the pants of a thief but not the thief himself. Jonas Washington entered the yard of Shickle, Harrison and Howard Iron Foundry at 12th and Gratiot Streets

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Chief Desmond Creates Own Mystery

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St. Louis Chief of Detectives William Desmond created a bit of a mystery in January 1903, when he attempted to sneak off and get married.  It was to be the 45-year-old Desmond’s first marriage.  Chief Desmond was to marry Hannah McLaughlin, the daughter of a local builder.  The couple was to honeymoon in Southern California before returning to St. Louis

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Chief Desmond Gets a New Assistant

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On Monday, December 15, 1902, St. Louis Police Assistant Chief of Detectives James H. Smith retired from the police department to take a position in the coal industry.  Chief of Detectives William Desmond attempted to convince Smith to stay but he decided to retire from the force as his fortieth birthday approached. Smith compiled a commendable record as Desmond’s Assistant. 

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St. Louis Police Nab Robber of Policeman

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On Monday, March 5, 1900, St. Louis Police Officers Thomas Meagher and Thomas Degnan apprehended men who robbed an East St. Louis Officer of his gun.  Ed Sullivan, a 22 year-old transient, robbed an East St. Louis Police Officer of his gun, jewelry and possessions in late February 1900. Officer Thomas Meagher observed Sullivan and Harry Davis walking near Olive

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