The NYPD detective who earned the title of one man riot squad

The One Man Riot Squad · 13:49 · Video: Today I Found Out · Watch at the source

In short: John "Johnny" Broderick was a legendary figure in the New York underworld. This video explores his career as a detective who became so formidable that even his enemies gave him a begrudging respect.

Serving with the NYPD for over two decades between 1923 and 1947, Broderick was known for his aggressive, physical approach to policing. He was notorious for his willingness to engage in hand-to-hand combat, famously kicking criminals through windows to apprehend them.

Despite his controversial methods, his effectiveness was undeniable. He received over half a dozen medals for valor and a formal nod from the president of the United States. His reputation was so significant that the criminal underworld nicknamed him "the one man riot squad."

Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.

Sources

To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/ideas-the-one-man-riot-squad.

How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?

Related

Finding something worth knowing…