On the Lam: A History of Hunting Fugitives in America

Fugitives have a unique place in the American criminal justice system, often becoming iconic characters in culture. They are chased by a variety of individuals, including FBI agents, federal marshals, and police officers, and the most-wanted posters and true-crime television shows have made them ubiquitous figures of fear and fascination. Jerry Clark and Ed Palattella's book "On the Lam" traces the history of fugitives in the US, examining the characters who have played the roles of the hunter and the hunted and the origins of legal tools designed to prevent flight.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2019
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Fugitives occupy a unique place in the American criminal justice system, a realm where they can run and hide, but ultimately, every chase ends. And in many cases, history is made along the way. The capture of notorious criminal John Dillinger by J. Edgar Hoover, and the subsequent establishment of the modern FBI, is a prime example. The 1960s saw the rise of violent student radicals who went on the lam, reflecting the turbulent times of the era. The sixteen-year disappearance and sudden arrest of gangster James "Whitey" Bulger in 2011 captivated the nation, showcasing the enduring fascination with fugitives.

While fugitives have become iconic figures in American culture, they also pose significant threats to public safety and the smooth operation of the justice system. These individuals are constantly on the run, seeking to evade the long arm of the law. Alongside the fugitives themselves, there are a host of individuals who dedicate their lives to tracking them down: FBI agents, federal marshals, police officers, and bounty hunters. A significant aspect of the justice system is dedicated to finding those on the run, and the most-wanted posters and true-crime television shows have made fugitives seemingly ubiquitous figures of fear and fascination for the public.

In their book, "On the Lam," Jerry Clark and Ed Palattella delve into the history of fugitives in the United States by examining the characters—both real and fictional—who have played the roles of the hunter and the hunted. They also explore the origins of the bail system and other legal tools, such as most-wanted programs, designed to prevent flight. Through their comprehensive analysis, Clark and Palattella shed light on the complex dynamics of fugitive pursuits, highlighting the challenges and rewards of capturing those who have evaded the law.

Fugitives have captivated the American public for generations, and their stories continue to intrigue and fascinate us. Whether it's the daring escapes of notorious criminals or the relentless pursuit of law enforcement, these individuals remind us of the enduring power of the human spirit and the complexities of the criminal justice system. As we continue to follow the stories of fugitives and the individuals who hunt them, we gain a deeper understanding of the human condition and the importance of upholding the rule.

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 160 x 237 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781442262584