Hawley Harvey Crippen

American homeopath convicted of murder

Hawley Harvey Crippen (September 11, 1862 – November 23, 1910) was an American homeopath and ear and eye specialist who gained notoriety for being convicted of the murder of his wife, Cora Henrietta Crippen, better known by her stage name, Belle Elmore. His trial and subsequent execution were widely publicized and remain a significant case in the history of criminal justice.

Early Life and Career

Hawley Harvey Crippen was born in Coldwater, Michigan, United States. He studied medicine at the University of Michigan and later at the Cleveland Homeopathic Medical College. Crippen initially practiced as a homeopath in New York City before moving to London in 1900.

Marriage to Cora Crippen

Belle Elmore, Crippen's wife

Crippen married Cora Turner, a would-be music hall singer who performed under the stage name Belle Elmore. The couple moved to London, where Crippen worked for a patent medicine company. Their marriage was reportedly troubled, with Cora often being unfaithful and Crippen having an affair with his secretary, Ethel Le Neve.

Disappearance of Cora Crippen

In January 1910, Cora Crippen disappeared. Crippen claimed she had returned to the United States, but suspicions arose when he and Ethel Le Neve began living together openly. Friends of Cora reported her missing, prompting an investigation by Scotland Yard.

Investigation and Arrest

Chief Inspector Walter Dew, who led the investigation

Chief Inspector Walter Dew of Scotland Yard led the investigation. A search of the Crippen home revealed human remains buried in the cellar. The remains were identified as Cora's through a piece of skin with a scar that matched her medical records.

Trial and Conviction

The trial of Dr. Crippen

Crippen was arrested on board the SS Montrose while attempting to flee to Canada with Ethel Le Neve, who was disguised as a boy. The trial began on October 18, 1910, at the Old Bailey. The prosecution presented evidence of the remains and Crippen's purchase of poison. The defense argued the remains were not Cora's, but the jury found Crippen guilty of murder.

Execution

Crippen was executed by hanging at HM Prison Pentonville on November 23, 1910. His case was one of the first to involve the use of wireless telegraphy in his capture, marking a significant moment in the history of forensic science and criminal investigation.

Legacy

Hawley Harvey Crippen

The Crippen case remains a topic of interest due to its sensational nature and the questions it raised about forensic evidence. In recent years, DNA testing has cast doubt on the identity of the remains found in Crippen's home, leading to ongoing debates about his guilt.

Related Pages

• Forensic science
• Capital punishment in the United Kingdom
• History of criminal justice