Surprising Facts About Crime and Law

In ancient Rome, crossing a bridge without paying the toll was considered a crime and could result in fines.

In the United States, more than 300,000 books are housed in prison libraries across the country.

The concept of a jury trial dates back to Ancient Greece, where juries could be as large as 500 members.

In Victorian England, stealing a handkerchief was considered a serious crime and could result in transportation to Australia.

The word 'penitentiary' comes from the Latin word for 'repent,' emphasizing the idea of reform rather than punishment.

In the Middle Ages, animal trials were held in Europe where animals could be tried and sometimes executed for crimes.

The first recorded bank robbery in the United States took place in 1798 in Philadelphia, and the amount stolen was $162,821.

Pickpocketing was such a problem in 19th century London that public hangings of pickpockets were sometimes used as a deterrent.