Minnesota's Most Notorious: Where Blood Runs Cold The Barker-Karpis Gang & Big Tom Brown w/ Tim Mahoney - A True Crime History Podcast
May 20, 2019
In this engaging discussion, journalist Tim Mahoney dives into the murky depths of organized crime in 1920s and 30s Saint Paul, focusing on the infamous Barker-Karpis gang and their associate, Big Tom Brown. He reveals the shady alliances between mobsters, corrupt law enforcement, and local breweries. Mahoney also unpacks the audacious staged kidnappings and grave outcomes for infamous criminals. The evolution from bootlegging to bold bank heists illustrates a treacherous world where crime thrived amidst chaos.
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Crime Thrived on Corruption
- The gangster era in St. Paul thrived due to a corrupt intersection of politics, police, and crime.
- The police and city administration enabled criminals to operate openly, impacting the city's law enforcement reputation.
Gleckman: Shadow Mayor of St. Paul
- Leon Gleckman ran St. Paul's gambling rackets from a hotel office and franchised speakeasies.
- He was a major power broker until federal tax evasion charges weakened his influence in the late 1920s.
The Green Lantern's Role
- The Green Lantern Saloon was the infamous criminal headquarters where gangsters secured police protection.
- It was a known safe haven where criminals paid bribes to avoid extradition and police interference.
