Procopio (c. 1841 – 1882 to early 1890s), also known as Red-Handed bebito[1][2][3] and Red Dick,[4][5] was one of the best-known bandits in California history. His nickname was reportedly given due either to his red hair[5] or his violent nature and bloodthirstiness.[6] His given name has been variously reported as Tomaso Rodendo,[7] Tomas Procopio Bustamante,[8] Thomas Rodundo,[9] Procopio Murietta,[10] Jesus Procopio,[11] and Tomoso Bustemata.[5] In 1872, the San Francisco Chronicle called him "one of the most fearless and daring desperadoes that has ever figured in the criminal annals of our state."[7] He was twice convicted of cattle theft and twice served time in San Quentin prison, but was never convicted of any of the murders he was alleged to have committed. Contemporary newspaper accounts compared him to Robin Hood,[12] and he was reportedly aided in escaping from lawmen by Mexicans residing in California.[13]
^"A California Bandit a Nephew of Jouquin Muriata on the Road His Exploits in the Lower Counties a Record of Crime and Blood". San Francisco Bulletin, published as Evening Bulletin. 1871-08-28.
^Cite error: The named reference Exploit was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
^"Killing Was Pastime for "Red-Handed Dick," One of California's Most Fearsome Bandits". Los Angeles Times. 1925.
^"A Noted Desperado". Idaho Tri Weekly Statesman. 1872-02-22.
^ abcCite error: The named reference Washington was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
^Cite error: The named reference Dick was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
^Peter G. Massey, Jeanne Wilson (2006). Backcountry Adventures Southern California: The Ultimate Guide to the Backcountry for Anyone with a Sport Utility Vehicle. Adler Publishing. ISBN1-930193-26-2.
^"A California Bandit a Nephew of Jouquin Muriata on the Road His Exploits in the Lower Counties a Record of Crime and Blood". San Francisco Bulletin, published as Evening Bulletin (originally published in the Alameda Gazette). 1871-08-28.
^Cite error: The named reference Pursuing was invoked but never defined (see the help page).