4. The Illustrious Criminals of the 40 Elephant Gang operated for more than 75 years
Exactly when the all-female criminal gang known as the 40 Elephants Gang formed is unknown; organized female shoplifting gangs operated in the Elephant and Castle area in the late 18th century. Associated with another gang, the Elephant and Castle Mob, the women’s gang drew increasing notoriety beginning in the Victorian Age, and operated well beyond the end of the Second World War. Initially, they concentrated on shoplifting in the high-end stores and shops in the West End. Eventually, they expanded into other British cities, particularly the port cities and seaside resort areas. They often worked in teams. One of more members would deploy feminine wiles on unwary shopkeepers, distracting them as other members lifted thousands of pounds worth of goods. Organized transport systems, storage facilities, and a network of fences enhanced their criminal enterprises.
During the early Victorian Age, the 40 Elephant Gang expanded their thefts into private homes. Young women were recruited to serve as cooks, maids, housekeepers, and secretaries in the homes of the affluent. This allowed the gang to obtain information as to the wealth within a particular home, the habits of its occupants, and the inquisitiveness of neighbors. It also established relationships with the constables patrolling the neighborhoods. Bright, fetching young servant girls became friendly with local merchants and policemen, establishing themselves as a harmless presence. They also entered into illicit relations with employers as a means to blackmail them for further profit. The 40 Elephant Gang’s reputation with the police did not persuade the courts to treat members appearing before them harshly. Instead, they skillfully manipulated the press to gain the court’s sympathy.