Case 058: John William Hagenson | Gunpoint, Glamour, and a Legendary Gem

It was one of the most famous diamonds in the world.He took it at gunpoint.In this episode of Fugitive Files, we revisit the glittering and violent saga of the 1959 Krupp Diamond theft — a heist that stunned high society and launched a nationwide manhunt.At the center of it all: John William Hagenson, a career criminal and alleged mastermind behind the armed robbery of Vera Krupp, the wealthy German heiress and ex-wife of steel magnate Alfried Krupp. The thieves stormed her Nevada ranch, held her at gunpoint, and ripped the 33.19-carat “blue-white” Krupp Diamond off her finger before disappearing into the desert.The FBI launched an intensive investigation, tracking leads across state lines. Eventually, the Krupp Diamond was recovered, and multiple arrests were made — including Hagenson. Though convicted, his conviction was later overturned, adding another twist to a case already dripping in mystery, glamour, and legal intrigue.And the diamond? It went on to be purchased by Richard Burton as a gift for Elizabeth Taylor, cementing its place in Hollywood and jewelry legend.We explore:The heist, step by stepVera Krupp’s chilling accountThe FBI takedown and courtroom dramaAnd how a diamond stolen in the desert became one of the most iconic jewels in the worldThis is Fugitive Files. Let’s get into it.