The Death of Old Man Rice: A True Story of Criminal Justice in America - Tapa dura

Sensational trials like those of the Menendez brothers and Rodney King are not unique to the age of television. Even more dramatic was one that occurred in 1900, described at the time as 'one of the most remarkable trials in all history.'. When William Marsh Rice, founder of Rice University, was found dead in his New York City quarters, suspicion immediately fell on a young lawyer, Albert Patrick. Apparently Rice had been murdered by chloroform poisoning and his will had been forged to give Patrick his vast estate. Patrick was immediately arrested and tried for first-degree murder, a crime then punishable by electrocution. In fact, the case was not quite so straightforward. Martin Friedland skillfully recounts the trial and the events leading up to it, the various appeals, and the eventual outcome. He sheds new light - and casts doubt - on a seemingly ironclad case. The Death of Old Man Rice is more than a gripping tale of murder and intrigue. Its elements resonate today: the influence of the popular press, the purchase of expert witnesses, the problems of multiple appeals, the inadequacy of penal institutions, the issue of the death penalty, and the advantage of wealth. Friedland combines a tale of high suspense with scholarship in his trademark 'whodunit' style. Over sixty photographs and illustrations, including many courtroom drawings and examples of evidence, capture the circumstances of the trial and the mood of New York City at the turn of the century. The Death of Old Man Rice is a murder mystery and a murder history, a glimpse into the world of forensic science, and that rare book that can engage any reader.

'Friedland has woven a fascinating account of a case that vividly demonstrates the frailty of the criminal justice process. Extensive use is made of transcripts, newspaper accounts and correspondence of the leading players. With this review of the public and private record, the book blends scholarship with mystery. The strong, apparently justifable suspicions about the accused turn to doubts as disturbing questions arise about the quality of the evidence, the role of experts, the fairness of procedure and the influence of wealth and power.'

'A fascinating, engrossing, riveting book about a most remarkable murder case.'