London has been in existence for over 2,000 years - from the Roman city of Londinium to the present day metropolis. And over all of this time it has been witness to the acts of criminals committing crimes ranging from robbery to mass murder. Although it can be shown that the streets of London have never been safer, criminal behaviour is still a relatively common occurrence in all its forms. This book will open up the stories behind not only some of the well-known crimes and criminals but will delve into the lesser known but still fascinating and horrific events from London's history. To bring a sense of balance to the discussion, there is a chapter on the history of the police in London - how they were formed and their role in society. We shall witness their triumphs and some of their failures in catching the perpetrators. There is also a chapter on prisons which over the years have played very different roles depending on whether you were rich or poor at the time of your incarceration. It could be relatively comfortable or the very vision of hell itself. London is now safer than it has ever been. But we do not have to go back very far to witness the brutality of living in a crowded city with a large, mostly poor population. It bred jealousy and crime was largely the result. We can always learn lessons from history and we do not have to travel too far back to understand just how thin the "blue line" really is.