just been trawlling through some old UK records on crime and punishment ,
it's interesting to note it didn't deter folk from committing crime ,and indeed they were violent times ,
but putting it into perspective folks were staving on the streets,

"Bring back the good old days ?
---------------------------------------------------------------
When hanging was too good for some

Stephen Comber, accused in 1850 of "unlawfully laying his hands on a cow with intent", 

(I reckon I would keep quiet about that   I've been framed  the cow led me on  )

In 1835 John Alberson was indicted for breaking into the Lambeth home of his former employer, stealing coats, trousers, waistcoats and handkerchief, a pair of gloves and a memorandum book.
Found guilty of burglary, he was sentenced to death - at the age of just 13.

caught clipping the edges off silver coins in the 17th Century.
Ann Petty of Holborn turned to this crime after her husband hanged himself. Found guilty, she was sentenced to be drawn on a hurdle to Smithfield and "there to be burnt to death".

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/7361701.stm

Yeah it makes grim reading ,




 

Didn't stop them then, and wont stop them now. People in general are just plain stupid.

At least a quick rope toss lessens the spread of some of the gene's.   

Gotta start somewhere.