Reggie Kray: The Notorious Kingpin of London’s Post-War Organized Crime

Reggie Kray, renowned as one of the most notorious figures in the history of British organized crime, rose to infamy during the post-war era when he and his brother, Ronnie, dominated the underworld in London. This article delves into the life, crimes, and ultimate downfall of Reggie Kray, highlighting his influence on London's organized crime scene during the 1950s and 1960s.

Early Life and Rise to Power

Reginald Richard Kray, better known as Reggie Kray, was born on 24 April 1934. At a young age, Reggie demonstrated a propensity for violence and anti-social behavior. His life took a turn when he and his older brother, Ronnie, formed the Kray twins, a notorious duo in London's criminal underworld. The Kray twins quickly gained notoriety for their ruthless approaches to protection rackets, extortion, and other criminal activities.

The Kray Twins and Their Rise to Prominence

The Krays were involved in a wide range of criminal activities from the 1950s to the early 1960s. They famously owned the car hire business Krays, Hire Cars in Dagenham and had a nightclub named the Empire Cinema. These ventures provided a legitimate cover for their extensive criminal network. Reggie and Ronnie's connections extended to celebrities, politicians, and underworld figures, allowing them to maintain a veneer of respectability in society.

Organized Crime and Celebrity Connections

Reggie Kray's influence extended beyond London. The Krays were known to have connections with American and Italian organized crime syndicates. Their criminal activities included protection rackets, extortion, and the forceful acquisition of businesses. The Krays' notoriety grew as they encountered numerous victims and witnesses, leading to increasingly severe legal repercussions.

Arrest and Conviction

The Kray twins' activities eventually caught the attention of law enforcement. In 1968, both Reggie and Ronnie were arrested and charged with numerous offenses including murder, attempted murder, and affray. They received harsh sentences, with Reggie and Ronnie both being sentenced to life imprisonment. Ronnie died in Broadmoor Hospital in 1995, a mental health facility for the criminally insane. Reggie, however, was released on compassionate grounds two months before his death in 2000.

Legacy and Historical Impact

The legacy of Reggie Kray remains a significant part of British criminal history. His role in shaping the post-war criminal landscape of London and his influence on contemporaries and subsequent generations of criminals cannot be overstated. The term "Kray" has become synonymous with organized crime and ruthless criminal behavior, capturing the public imagination for decades.

Conclusion

The story of Reggie Kray is a testament to the social and economic factors that can give rise to organized crime. It highlights the complex relationship between legitimate business ventures and criminal activities, as well as the consequences of a life of violence and crime. The Kray twins' example continues to serve as a cautionary tale about the power of criminal networks and the resilience of the criminal underworld.

Further Reading and Resources

For a deeper dive into the Kray twins' history and their impact on London's criminal scene, consider exploring the following resources:

The official biography The Krays by David G Medicott The documentary film series Notorious London on BBC iPlayer The book The Kray Twins and London's Underworld by Anne Seple

With these resources, you can gain a more nuanced understanding of the Kray twins and their role in the history of organized crime in London.