Detroit Free Press • May 19, 1884

Oxford Safe Blowers Escapes

A Witness Against the Oxford Safe Blowers Escapes From The Elmwood Ave. Station.


Charles Winship, who was detained in the Elmwood Avenue Police station was a witness in the case of Curtis and O;Neil, the Oxford Safe Blowers, escaped custody on Thursday night last. He was first arrested for complicity in the crime and made a statement showing how it was committed and by whom. He offered to take the stand against Curtis and O'neil, but did not wish to be taken to Pontiac Jail, where the latter was confined. It was decided to keep him here at the above named station, and on account of his turning witness, he was given certain liberties. These he made use of by walking out of the station on the night mentioned, and has since not been recaptured. Winship is an important witness in the case, but the evidence against the accused is considered strong enough to secure a conviction without his testimony. Curtis and O'Neil will be tried in the Oakland County Circuit Court.