Crime

Infamous Bank Robber, Willie "The Actor" Sutton, Signed Prison Record

A famous apocryphal story is that Sutton was asked by reporter Mitch Ohnstad why he robbed banks. According to Ohnstad, he replied, "Because that's where the money is".

William Sutton (June 1901-November 1980) partially printed document signed representing his Prison Record from the New York State Department of Corrections 8" x 5" card stock [top edge is chipped and worn], stapled with two 2" x 8" supplemental records, with entries dated from 1945-68. This official document notes his numerous court appearances with dispositions, transfers, hospitalizations, and probation orders. Some sample entries: "There are 4 warrants logged against this inmate"; "3/5/52, re-sentence, 15-20 years state prison..."; 12/2/69, Dec 10, 1969 to meet parole board". Signed "William Sutton" mid right, with a small black and white prison mug shot, and a fingerprint.

One of the most storied criminals of modem times, Sutton was known as "The Actor" for the many disguises he used in holding up banks. while on his capers, which netted him an estimated $2 million over 35 years, he masqueraded as a postman, messenger, window cleaner, even a bank guard and police officer. Although he committed numerous crimes from the age of 10 to 25, he managed to stay out of prison until 1926, when he was sent to Sing Sing for four years on a burglary conviction. He achieved even greater fame over the years for his elaborate prison escapes. In 1941, he fashioned a self-portrait plaster head which he planned to leave in his bunk while he escaped (this plan was subsequently foiled by alert guards). Returning to a life of crime after his release, he was placed on the FBI's 10 Most Wanted list in 1951, was captured, and sentenced to 60 years in prison. It is from this last stint in jail that this piece dates.

A unique piece of criminal lore.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.