The short stories presented in this section which will henceforth be published every Saturday, and concerning criminal acts of common law at the time of the Revolution, propose to take readers to various places in the Hérault where were committed, between 1792 and 1800, assassinations – consummated or not. Here are only the facts and, very briefly, court decisions if they are known.
Salelles (Le Bosc), February 1800 – April 1800
In this affair, there is something that reminds us of the stories that were spread in the cottages during the vigils of yesteryear: stories of brigandage and which bring us back here to the bandits of the highways.
The facts take place near Lodève, a sector very feared by the couriers of funds. Indeed, individuals dressed in white shirts – about forty – rage with impunity by violently attacking those who transport the funds of the State.
Such is the case, on February 11, 1800. The carrier Bruel, who left Cantal at the beginning of the month, sends, under good escort, a sum of 20,000 francs intended for the Toulon Navy, a nice jackpot which must pass through the Montpellier treasury. But the “white shirts” are on the alert! The criminals attack the convoy at the height of the hamlet of Salelles: exchanges of gunshots, gendarmes who no longer control the situation, one of them fatally wounded, and the funds which pass into the hands of the bandits! Once again it is total success for the bandits who, according to rumors, distribute part of their loot to the inhabitants, like real Robin Hood!
Very reassured, the paying treasurer Boutarel asks that justice be done. However, the investigation was unsuccessful. And for good reason: the looters, who are scattered in the surrounding villages – citizens often very appreciated -, benefit from a certain protection.
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