The Mind Creative March 2014
Edinburgh were burgled at night and it is reported that many of
these were the handiwork of the Brodie gang. Amidst all this,
Brodie managed to keep up his respectable position in society.
John Brown, one of Brodie’s gang members, lured by the monetary
reward declared by the authorities, came forth in March 1788 and
claimed responsibility of a robbery of a mercer shop. In the process
he also implicated his friend George Brown in other burglaries.
In the meanwhile, Deacon Brodie fled Edinburgh without an
explanation and when this news broke, John Brown implicated
Brodie in all the crimes. Brodie’s trial became the talk of the town
and the entire community of Edinburgh could hardly believe that
an honourable member of society could deceived almost everyone
by leading a life double life of respectability coupled with that of
evil, corruption, deceit and wickedness.
On 8th August 1788, Deacon William Brodie was found guilty and
sentenced to death.
The Execution of Deacon Brodie - A Painting by Alexander Hay Ritchie
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