On the outside, Jack Davis appeared to be an honest businessman in the Virginia City, Nevada area. But in November 1870, he showed his true colors. He led a gang in robbing the Central Pacific Railroad between Verdi and Reno. The outlaws made off with about $40,000—but not for long. One of the bandits began spending his take, which alerted the law. All of the robbers, including Davis, were taken into custody within four days of the crime; most of the money was also recovered. Davis was sentenced to 10 years in prison.
True West September/October 2024