Episode 2- June 15, 1933- Kidnapping (William Hamm Jr.)

In this thrilling episode of In Time Crime, host Robin Bagayoko explores the infamous 1933 kidnapping of William Hamm Jr., heir to the Hamm's Brewery.

The episode delves into the dramatic events of June 15th, 1933, when Hamm Jr. was abducted while walking home for lunch by notorious gang, the Baker Karpis gang. His abduction sparked a frantic ransom negotiation, demanding $100,000 in unmarked bills - a sum equivalent to around $2.4 million today. Despite the kidnapper's warnings against involving the police, his anxious family engaged law enforcement in their desperate search.

Covering every thrilling twist and turn, Robin discusses the suspense-filled ransom drop-off, police wiretapping, the aftermath of Hamm's eventual release, and the transformative impact this high-profile case had on criminal justice tactics during the Depression era. This included invoking the Lindbergh Law, instigating a comprehensive government war on crime, and the iconic ending of the gang's reign post the arrest of main suspect Alvin Karpis.

Robin discusses Hamm's life post abduction, detailing how he transformed from a publicly-known figure to a more introverted personality, impacted by his harrowing ordeal. Despite his ordeal, Hamm sought to live a meaningful and successful life.

Immerse yourself in this gripping narration of true crime history that underscores the audacity of gang crimes in the time, the determined efforts of law enforcement, and the poignant resilience of a man thrown unwillingly into the spotlight.

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Music by- Jeremy Blake