Iconic figures throughout history have played significant roles in shaping crime and criminal lore. These individuals, whether they were notorious gangsters, cunning con artists, or infamous serial killers, have captivated the public imagination and drawn attention to the darker side of humanity. Here are five of the most famous, along with works of literature that have memorialized them.

Jayne Chard, the multi-award-winning film and TV drama producer, reveals what you need to know about writing a crime book…