Crime and Punishment in Sherburne County 1900

Recently reading the newspaper columns from a century ago, I gained a greater appreciation for the hard work of the police and law enforcement in Sherburne County.  In 1900, crime seemed prevalent in the county. Perhaps because the residents held onto a small-town sense of security, while criminals capitalized on Sherburne County’s proximity to the metropolitan area of Minneapolis and St. Paul.  More than once, the newspapers noted the ease in which thieves preyed upon Sherburne County residents.  Even before thefts were discovered, the bandits sold stolen goods in the twin cities.  It must have been frustrating for law enforcement in Sherburne County.  Yet, the County Sherriff and local police noted significant apprehension of thieves and criminals in the county.  At the turn of the twentieth century, criminals often preyed upon Sherburne County residents, and police stepped up to provide protection.  

100 years ago, the newspaper columns provide interesting detail and appreciation for crime and law enforcement in Sherburne County.