In this deeply disturbing and forensic-filled episode, Isla walks us through the crimes of George Joseph Smith: swindler, bigamist, serial killer, and general all-around b*stard.
Operating in Edwardian England, Smith preyed on lonely women through Lonely Hearts ads, married them under false names, took out life insurance policies, and then drowned them in athtubs. All within a matter of days.
Dee and Isla discuss:
The social and historical context of Edwardian England
The challenges women faced around marriage, finances, and independence
Smith's manipulative tactics and multiple identities
The suspiciously frequent bathtime deaths of his new wives
The pioneering role of forensic pathologist Bernard Spilsbury, whose demonstration helped secure a conviction
The amateur sleuthing that brought Smith down, and the landmark legal impact of the case
Sources:
"Scotland Yard: A Bloody History" by Simon Read
Murderpedia: George Joseph Smith
Newspaper archives: The Times, Daily Mail, Waterford Observer, Kent Messenger, Daily Sketch (1912-1915)
Old Bailey proceedings archive
Wikipedia: George Joseph Smith
News of the World (January 1915)
Execution records (Maidstone Prison, 1915)
The Brides in the Bath (2003 TV film starring Martin Kemp)
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