George Jeffreys
Jeffreys, George, First Baron Jeffreys of Wem (1648–1689), an English jurist. Jeffreys became a barrister in 1668. In 1678 he was made a judge, and soon became known for his harshness against critics of Charles II and his brother, who became James II. He was made lord chief justice in 1682 and a baron in 1685.
In the summer of 1685 Jeffreys presided over the assizes (special trials) of persons accused of aiding the Duke of Monmouth's unsuccessful rebellion against James II. Jeffreys' treatment of the defendants was abusive and brutal. In these so-called “bloody assizes” 320 prisoners were sentenced to death and 851 sold into virtual slavery in the West Indies. As a reward, Jeffreys was made lord chancellor.
When James II was overthrown in 1688, Jeffreys tried to flee England, but was captured. He died in the Tower of London.