The Criminal Father of Criminology

This podcast episode unravels the remarkable story of Eugène Francois Vidocq, widely known as the father of modern criminology. Beginning as a scoundrel and criminal, Vidocq's life took a turn as he transitioned into a top cop in France. His journey includes daring escapes from prison, undercover operations to infiltrate the underworld, and the establishment of the Security Brigade — a group of ex-cons tasked with cleaning up crime. Vidocq is acknowledged for pioneering various techniques in criminology, such as ballistics, crime scene investigation, and criminal profiling. His writings have had a profound impact on literature, inspiring literary giants like Victor Hugo, Honoré de Balzac, and Edgar Allan Poe.