In a shocking turn of events, a St. Louis courtroom witnessed a dramatic bid for acquittal in the high-profile case of Storrs Babcock on February 18, 1878. The prosecution’s failure to present sufficient evidence left the defense with an open door to victory. Ex-Judge Porter rose to address the court, delivering a lengthy and labored speech that left the jury’s attention wavering. As he droned on, three jurors succumbed to the temptation of a mid-morning snooze, while the rest of the panel struggled to remain alert. Babcock’s family, including his father-in-law, the affable Mr. Krum, exuded confidence, with the elder Krum already toasting to a forthcoming acquittal.
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Key Facts
- State: Missouri
- Category: Public Corruption
- Era: Historical
- Source: Library of Congress — Chronicling America ↗
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