Bow Street Runners

The Bow Street Runners were among the first organized law enforcement groups in London, established in the mid-18th century. Founded by magistrate Henry Fielding, they functioned as a detective force, investigating crimes, gathering evidence, and apprehending suspects. Operating out of Bow Street Magistrates' Court, they laid the groundwork for modern policing by professionalizing crime investigation and emphasizing preventive measures. Their work marked a shift from informal community-based responses to a more structured, official approach to maintaining public order.