Hue and cry

Someone discovering a crime was expected to raise the hue and cry, and those who heard it had a duty to help pursue the culprit. Communities therefore had responsibilities for maintaining order rather than leaving everything to royal officials.

The hue and cry was the community’s immediate response to a crime. A victim or witness shouted for help, and those who heard were required to join the pursuit of the suspect. Failure to take part could lead to a fine.

The hue and cry was the community’s immediate response to a crime. A victim or witness raised the alarm by shouting, and local people were expected to join the pursuit. Failure to help could leave the village liable for a fine.