Portrait of Sir John Fielding (1721-1780), English magistrate and social reformer of the 18th century. Despite being blinded aged19, John studied law with his half-brother and chief magistrate Henry Fielding. John Fielding was known as the "Blind Beak" for his ability to identify criminals by the sound of their voices. He root out corruption and improved justice in London. They formed the first professional police force, the Bow Street Runners, circulated the Police Gazette with descriptions of known criminals and established the first police criminal records department.
Portrait of Sir John Fielding (1721-1780) a notable English magistrate and social reformer of the 18th century. Despite being blinded in a navy accident at the age of 19, John set up his own business and, in his spare time, studied law with his half-brother and chief magistrate Henry Fielding. John Fielding was known as the "Blind Beak" for his ability to identify criminals by the sound of their voices. Appointed Henry's personal assistant in 1750, John helped him to root out corruption and improve the competence of those engaged in administering justice in London. They formed the first professional police force, the Bow Street Runners. Through the regular circulation of a police gazette containing descriptions of known criminals, Fielding also established the basis for the first police criminal records department.
Size: 3231px × 3573px
Location: City of London, England
Photo credit: © De Luan / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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