True Stories of the Evergreen State's Most Infamous Crooks, Culprits, and Cutthroats

From the rugged peaks of the Cascade Mountains to the misty shores of Puget Sound, the Evergreen State of Washington has a rich and storied history that includes its fair share of infamous criminals. From bank robbers and serial killers to con men and counterfeiters, the annals of Washington's criminal underworld are filled with tales of greed, violence, and deception.

In this article, we will delve into the lives and crimes of some of the most notorious crooks, culprits, and cutthroats who have plagued the Evergreen State. From the legendary bank robber Lester Gillis, better known as "Baby Face Nelson," to the serial killer Ted Bundy, whose crimes sent shockwaves across the nation, these stories will provide a glimpse into the dark side of Washington's history.

Outlaw Tales of Washington: True Stories Of The Evergreen State's Most Infamous Crooks, Culprits, And Cutthroats

by Elizabeth Gibson

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1777 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	240 pages

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Lester Gillis (Baby Face Nelson)

Lester Gillis, better known by his alias "Baby Face Nelson," was one of the most notorious bank robbers of the 1930s. Born in Chicago in 1908, Gillis began his criminal career as a small-time thief but quickly escalated to bank robbery. He earned his nickname due to his youthful appearance, which belied his ruthless nature.

Gillis and his gang robbed numerous banks across the Midwest and Great Plains, often using violence and intimidation to subdue their victims. In 1934, he became a member of John Dillinger's gang, participating in some of their most audacious heists. After Dillinger's death, Gillis became the target of an intense manhunt by the FBI.

On November 27, 1934, Gillis was ambushed and killed by FBI agents in a shootout in Barrington, Illinois. He was just 25 years old at the time of his death.

Ted Bundy

Ted Bundy is one of the most infamous serial killers in American history. Born in Burlington, Vermont, in 1946, Bundy exhibited a charming and charismatic personality that masked his dark and twisted nature.

Bundy began his killing spree in 1974, targeting young women in Washington, Oregon, Utah, Colorado, and Florida. He lured his victims with his charm and good looks, often abducting them from public places like beaches and universities.

Bundy's crimes were characterized by their extreme violence and brutality. He often strangled, beat, and sexually assaulted his victims before dumping their bodies in remote locations. He also possessed a morbid fascination with his victims' bodies, often revisiting their gravesites and engaging in necrophilia.

Bundy's reign of terror came to an end in 1978 when he was arrested in Florida. He was convicted of multiple murders and sentenced to death. Bundy was executed in the electric chair on January 24, 1989.

Belle Starr

Belle Starr was a notorious outlaw who roamed the Indian Territory (now Oklahoma) during the late 1800s. Born Myra Maybelle Shirley in Carthage, Missouri, in 1848, Starr became a legend in her own lifetime.

Starr's life was marcado by violence and tragedy. Her family was killed during the Civil War, and she was forced to fend for herself at a young age. She became involved in crime as a teenager, participating in bank robberies and horse theft.

In 1867, Starr married Cole Younger, a member of the notorious Younger Gang. Together, they robbed stagecoaches and banks across the Indian Territory. However, Starr's criminal career came to an end in 1889 when she was killed by a deputy marshal.

Belle Starr's legacy as a fearless and independent woman has made her a popular figure in American folklore. She has been the subject of numerous books, movies, and television shows.

William Paul "Shorty" Shea

William Paul "Shorty" Shea was a con man and counterfeiter who operated in Seattle during the early 20th century. Born in Portland, Oregon, in 1875, Shea began his criminal career as a small-time pickpocket.

Shea's big break came in 1907 when he met a counterfeiter named Joe L. Moore. Together, they established a

Outlaw Tales of Washington: True Stories Of The Evergreen State's Most Infamous Crooks, Culprits, And Cutthroats

by Elizabeth Gibson

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1777 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	240 pages

FREE