Victorian Crimes Revealed Through Chester Police Mugshots

Research conducted by Big Heritage has unveiled the tough justice system in Victorian Chester, focusing on the police cells at Chester Town Hall. Among those imprisoned was Elizabeth Handley, a widow, and her daughter Martha, who were sentenced to 14 days of hard labor in 1870 for stealing a spirit level valued at three shillings.

Another notable case involved James Preston, an army deserter, who was caught stealing clothing shortly after being released from Chester Castle. Richard Norcott, arrested in 1872 for stealing whiskey from Chester Railway Station, was also sentenced to six months in jail. The conditions in the cells were harsh, with minimal facilities and a diet that initially consisted only of bread and water.

Big Heritage plans to offer tours of the historic site, which has not been open to the public before, allowing visitors to learn more about the penal history of the area.