It’s a scandal that’s left the small town of Panama reeling. In a brazen daytime heist, the State Bank of Panama was robbed of a staggering $31,000. But what’s even more shocking is that the masterminds behind the crime were some of the town’s most trusted officials. Ten men, including Sheriff Wilson and Constable Ben Battleson Johnson, were indicted by a Montgomery County grand jury on January 10, 1922. The indictments also named three St. Louis men whose identities were kept under wraps until they’re apprehended. But one man was initially thought to be the culprit, only to be cleared in a stunning twist.
Related Federal Cases
- Peoria’s Poisonous Pill: School Official Embroiled in $61,500 Heist · Illinois
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- Cook County Tax Scam: Golf, Grub & Graft · Illinois
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- ComEd Execs & Lobbyists Guilty in Bribery Scheme · Illinois
Key Facts
- State: Illinois
- Category: Public Corruption
- Era: Historical
- Source: Library of Congress — Chronicling America ↗
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