A threatening letter sent to District Attorney Buron Fitts before he was shot while driving by a mystery assailant. It reads, "Keep your eyes on the road to liberty." Buron Fitts regularly received such threats, and all these letters were studied extensively after the assassination attempt.
Followers of Robert Noble, whom he has promised "$25 every Monday morning" as part of a pension plan. Noble's supporters were very loyal to him, even though he did not follow through on many of his promises. He was arrested on suspicion of grand theft bunko and also several misdemeanor charges including parading without a permit, blocking the road, and refusing to disperse. Noble spent five days in jail and was planning a gubernatorial campaign upon his release.
Harlan Bunker lays next to the body of his murdered daughter, Marilyn Bunker. Marilyn was shot by 17-year-old Donald Rogers, also known as Donald Fehrenschild, while she was playing on a hill with her little brother and other children. Rogers shot at the children from the upstairs window of his home. However, Rogers insisted that he was trying to shoot doves he had seen on the hillside.
Walter A. Smith sits in court during his trial for negligent homicide. Smith was involved in the traffic death of Charles M. Daneri. The charges against Smith were dismissed when the judge ruled the accident was unavoidable.
Walter A. Smith in court during his trial for negligent homicide. Smith was involved in the traffic death of Charles M. Daneri. The charges against Smith were dismissed when the judge ruled the accident was unavoidable.
Ray Splivalo and Harriet Jordon sit with Rheba Crawford during the preliminary trial for her criminal libel case. Crawford accused Dan McNally, editor, and Jonathan Perkins, writer of criminal libel. Crawford was known as the "Angel of Broadway" due to her Salvation Army work in New York City. She was an associate of Aimee Semple McPherson and served as the director of the State Department of Social Welfare.
Jack "Diamondfield" Davis, a Nevada prospector who stuck it rich after being pardoned for an Idaho murder in 1902. When he was working for a cattle company, Diamondfield was accused of the murder of two sheepherders. He was sentenced to hang, but his execution date was postponed and then changed to life inprisonment after two other men confessed to the crime. Diamondfield was pardoned by Idaho Governor Frank W. Hunt in December of 1902.
Juror Harold Harby (bottom left) lifts his foot in the air to break the tension during the Albert Dyer trial. Fellow jurors (left to right) Shirley Angranoff, Butler E. Shaw, George Ritchie, and James D. Kelly laugh. The trial was for Albert Dyer, a 32 year old W.P.A crossing guard who confessed to the murders of three Inglewood girls. Dyer admitted to luring the girls; Madeline Everett (9), Melba Everett (7), and Jeanette Stephens (8) into the woods on the pretense of helping them catch rabbits and then strangled them in succession. Dyer was sentenced to death after the jury's two day debate. On September 16, 1938 at San Quentin Prison, Dyer was one of the last people to be hung in the state of California
Ruth Reis and Stanley G. Reis wait to provide testimony during the murder trial for Dr. George K. Dazey who was accused of murdering his wife. The married couple testified that Dr. Dazey often treated his wife cruelly. Mrs. Dazey was found dead as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning and her death was originally ruled a suicide. However, Dr. Dazey was later indicted by a county grand jury for the murder of his wife. Dr. Dazey was eventually acquitted of the charge of slaying his wife.
Ruth Reis and Stanley G. Reis wait to provide testimony during the murder trial for Dr. George K. Dazey who was accused of murdering his wife. The married couple testified that Dr. Dazey often treated his wife cruelly. Mrs. Dazey was found dead as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning and her death was originally ruled a suicide. However, Dr. Dazey was later indicted by a county grand jury for the murder of his wife. Dr. Dazey was eventually acquitted of the charge of slaying his wife.
Mrs. Eva Sparks waits to provide testimony during the murder trial for Dr. George K. Dazey who was accused of murdering his wife. Mrs. Dazey was found dead as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning and her death was originally ruled a suicide. However, Dr. Dazey was later indicted by a county grand jury for the murder of his wife. Dr. Dazey was eventually acquitted of the charge of slaying his wife.
(left to right) Attorney Joseph Scott, Angelus Temple business manager Giles Knight, Angelus Temple founder and pastor Aimee Semple McPherson, and Rolf Kennedy McPherson, son of Aimee. All are at a trial in which Aimee's daughter Roberta Semple has brought a $150,000 slander suit against Willedd Andrews, attorney for Aimmee McPherson and Angelus Temple. Miss Semple claims that Andrews had made untrue statements about her, including that Semple and her husband Jacob Moidel (former Temple attorney) had kidnapped Aimee and forced her to sign several documents. Joseph Scott acted as attorney for Andrews while Rolf and Aimee McPherson stood as witnesses. Roberta Semple was ultimately offered $2000 in damages. This trial was the latest in a series of tumultuous family relations which began with Aimee's decision to retain Giles Knight as business manager against Roberta's wishes
William Bioff (left) with Judge Isaac Pacht at an investigation of the affairs of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees. Bioff, IATSE's business agent was questioned regarding suspicions of organized crime within the alliance.
Captain of Police Earle E. Kynette (center) was charged with conspiracy to commit murder after the vehicle of Harry J. Raymond was bombed on January 14, 1938. Kynette was in charge of a special police intelligence unit that had been conducting surveillance on Raymond’s home from a nearby bungalow. Before the car bombing, Raymond had been conducting investigative work on Mayor Shaw and his possible connections with illegal gambling. Two other officers, Fred Browne and Roy J. Allen, connected with the intelligence unit were also charged with conspiracy to commit murder. However, Fred Browne was eventually acquitted. Kynette and Allen were both found guilty.
Captain of Police Earle E. Kynette (center) was charged with conspiracy to commit murder after the vehicle of Harry J. Raymond was bombed on January 14, 1938. Kynette was in charge of a special police intelligence unit that had been conducting surveillance on Raymond’s home from a nearby bungalow. Before the car bombing, Raymond had been conducting investigative work on Mayor Shaw and his possible connections with illegal gambling. Two other officers, Fred Browne and Roy J. Allen, connected with the intelligence unit were also charged with conspiracy to commit murder. However, Fred Browne was eventually acquitted. Kynette and Allen were both found guilty.
Captain of Police Earle E. Kynette was charged with conspiracy to commit murder after the vehicle of Harry J. Raymond was bombed on January 14, 1938. Kynette was in charge of a special police intelligence unit that had been conducting surveillance on Raymond’s home from a nearby bungalow. Before the car bombing, Raymond had been conducting investigative work on Mayor Shaw and his possible connections with illegal gambling. Two other officers, Fred Browne and Roy J. Allen, connected with the intelligence unit were also charged with conspiracy to commit murder. However, Fred Browne was eventually acquitted. Kynette and Allen were both found guilty.
Captain of Police Earle E. Kynette was charged with conspiracy to commit murder after the vehicle of Harry J. Raymond was bombed on January 14, 1938. Kynette was in charge of a special police intelligence unit that had be conducting surveillance on Raymond’s home from a nearby bungalow. Before the car bombing, Raymond had been conducting investigative work on Mayor Shaw and his possible connections with illegal gambling. Two other officers, Fred Browne and Roy J. Allen, connected with the intelligence unit were also charged with conspiracy to commit murder. However, Fred Browne was eventually acquitted. Kynette and Allen were both found guilty.
A clerk taking bets in a casino. Hawthorne, Compton, Monterey Park, and Long Beach closed several gaming places after Attorney General Webb found games of chance unlawful.
Jury and alternate jurors chosen for the William Bonelli liquor license bribe trial. Bonelli, along with at least six other government officials, is linked to a liquor license pay-off scandal to extort money from liquor retailers under threat of causing them to lose their liquor license
Mary Plettner (left), juror for the Helen Wills Love (right) murder trial, and Vada Sullivan, apparently a court officer (center). Mrs. Plettner was excused from her juror duties when she was found to be drunk on grain alcohol. Judge Smith found Plettner in contempt of court but delayed her sentence until the next day because of her condition.
A view of the courtroom in which Albert Dyer's murder trial began. Dyer lured three Inglewood girls to the hills, where he strangled them to death with his hands as well as rope. From left to right is Chief Deputy District Attorney William Simpson, Chief Investigator Eugene Williams, Public Defender William Neeley, Albert Dyer, and Public Defender Ellery Cuff.
Public defender William Neeley conferring with his colleague Ellery Cuff in court at their client Albert Dyer's murder trial. Dyer lured three Inglewood girls to the hills, where he strangled them to death with his hands as well as rope. From left to right is Albert Dyer and public defenders Neeley and Cuff.
Female spectator uses binoculars to view court proceedings during the trial of Police Captain Earle E. Kynette. Captain of Police Earle E. Kynette was charged with conspiracy to commit murder after the vehicle of Harry J. Raymond was bombed on January 14, 1938. Kynette was in charge of a special police intelligence unit that had been conducting surveillance on Raymond’s home from a nearby bungalow. Before the car bombing, Raymond had been conducting investigative work on Mayor Shaw and his possible connections with illegal gambling. Two other officers, Fred Browne and Roy J. Allen, connected with the intelligence unit were also charged with conspiracy to commit murder. However, Fred Browne was eventually acquitted. Kynette and Allen were both found guilty.
A sign detailing policies hanging inside of a casino. Hawthorne, Compton, Monterey Park, and Long Beach closed several gaming places after Attorney General Webb found games of chance unlawful.
A photograph of Sidney T. Graves, covering his face with a newspaper as he is transferred from L.A. County Jail to San Quentin Penitentiary. Graves was convicted of bribery a year before, after accepting a sum of $80,000 in connection with the high San Gabriel dam project. At that time, Graves had been a county Supervisor. He was sentenced to one to fourteen years imprisonment for his crime.
The nineteen members of the Los Angeles County Grand Jury for the year 1934. The jury first met on February 20, 1934, after some trouble in the selection process.
Frank E. Walker, father of murder victim Frances Walker, sits in a crowded room. Her murder was connected to an affair with former deputy Sheriff Archie Carter.
Photographic portrait of Harry Dunlap, convicted in 1924 of a series of holdups and assaults that took place over a two year period and ultimately sentenced to 60 years in prison. Dunlop was known as the "badge bandit" because he would dress as a police officer and hold up and assault people parked in their cars.
Photograph of the infant Charles Augustus Lindbergh Jr., first child of famed aviator Charles Lindbergh. Later the subject of infamous 1932 kidnapping case.
The jury for the murder case against Busby Berkeley convenes to debate the issues. Berkeley was purportedly at fault for a three-car-collision that resulted in two deaths, possibly because of alcohol he had imbibed at a cocktail party beforehand. To the far right is J.H. Silverstone, presumably the jury foreman.
Nola Hahn pictured during the grand jury trial on gambling operations in Los Angeles County. Hahn was summoned as a witness due to his role as the operator of Club Continental.
Detective Lieutenant Joseph Filkas appears at a press conference involving the murder of Mrs. Celia L. Holmes. He is probably announcing his discovery of new evidence which was a small white button found near the murder scene.
Cafe operator Agnes O'Brien who was a witness at the liquor license bribe trial. O'Brien testified that she had paid money to the Board of Equalization in the hopes of having her liquor license reinstated, but never received the reinstated license. Defendants in the bribe trial included several high-ranking officials such as state board of equalization member William G. Bonelli and chief liquor control officer Merle Templeton.
Widower Robert S. James sitting in a courtroom. James had lost his pregnant wife Mary Emma James after she drowned in their fish pool. A jury was unable to discern whether her drowning was accidental or intentional.
Mrs. Antibus sued Mr. Warner Sr. after her home was raided by Buron Fitts and several of his deputies at the request of Mr. Warner. The raid of Mrs. Antibus' home was conducted in order to search for Mr. Warner's son, Thomas W. Warner, Jr. Mr. Warner, Jr. was found hiding inside the home with his girlfriend Mrs. Jean MacDonald. The pair had been hiding in the home from Mr. Warner, Sr. who was opposed to their relationship and was seeking to end all contact between the pair. Mrs. Antibus served as a private detective for Mr. Warner, Jr. and had previously conducted an investigation into the life of Mrs. MacDonald in attempt to determine whether she was truly in love with Mr. Warner, Jr. Mrs. Antibus alleged that the raid left several of her visitors injured and was unnecessarily violent.
Captain of Police Earle E. Kynette was charged with conspiracy to commit murder after the vehicle of Harry J. Raymond was bombed on January 14, 1938. Kynette was in charge of a special police intelligence unit that had been conducting surveillance on Raymond’s home from a nearby bungalow. Before the car bombing, Raymond had been conducting investigative work on Mayor Shaw and his possible connections with illegal gambling. Two other officers, Fred Browne and Roy J. Allen, connected with the intelligence unit were also charged with conspiracy to commit murder. However, Fred Browne was eventually acquitted. Kynette and Allen were both found guilty.
Captain of Police Earle E. Kynette was charged with conspiracy to commit murder after the vehicle of Harry J. Raymond was bombed on January 14, 1938. Kynette was in charge of a special police intelligence unit that had been conducting surveillance on Raymond’s home from a nearby bungalow. Before the car bombing, Raymond had been conducting investigative work on Mayor Shaw and his possible connections with illegal gambling. Two other officers, Fred Browne and Roy J. Allen, connected with the intelligence unit were also charged with conspiracy to commit murder. However, Fred Browne was eventually acquitted. Kynette and Allen were both found guilty.
Captain of Police Earle E. Kynette (center) was charged with conspiracy to commit murder after the vehicle of Harry J. Raymond was bombed on January 14, 1938. Kynette was in charge of a special police intelligence unit that had been conducting surveillance on Raymond’s home from a nearby bungalow. Before the car bombing, Raymond had been conducting investigative work on Mayor Shaw and his possible connections with illegal gambling. Two other officers, Fred Browne and Roy J. Allen, connected with the intelligence unit were also charged with conspiracy to commit murder. However, Fred Browne was eventually acquitted. Kynette and Allen were both found guilty.
Captain of Police Earle E. Kynette (center) was charged with conspiracy to commit murder after the vehicle of Harry J. Raymond was bombed on January 14, 1938. Kynette was in charge of a special police intelligence unit that had been conducting surveillance on Raymond’s home from a nearby bungalow. Before the car bombing, Raymond had been conducting investigative work on Mayor Shaw and his possible connections with illegal gambling. Two other officers, Fred Browne and Roy J. Allen, connected with the intelligence unit were also charged with conspiracy to commit murder. However, Fred Browne was eventually acquitted. Kynette and Allen were both found guilty.
The jury selected for the trial of Police Captain Earle E. Kynette and his subordinate officers Roy J. Allen and Fred A. Browne. The captain and his officers were charged with the bombing of the car of private investigator Harry Raymond. Kynette was in charge of a special police intelligence unit that had been conducting surveillance on Raymond’s home from a nearby bungalow. Before the car bombing, Raymond had been conducting investigative work on Mayor Shaw and his possible connections with illegal gambling.
Captain Robert C. Burdett, skipper of Tony Cornero’s newly refurbished gambling ship, the Bunker Hill (also known as the Lux), which was meant to operate offshore of Los Angeles. After the Bunker Hill’s opening night, however, Cornero and five of his aides were arrested on felony charges of criminal conspiracy to conduct gambling games and serve alcohol without a license. After his arrest, Cornero announced that he was ready to go to the United States Supreme court to keep the Bunker Hill running. Cornero was also “admiral” of the Rex, another gambling vessel which was forced to suspend operations in 1938.
Bar on Tony Cornero’s newly refurbished gambling ship, the Bunker Hill (also known as the Lux), which was meant to operate offshore of Los Angeles. After the Bunker Hill’s opening night, however, Cornero and five of his aides were arrested on felony charges of criminal conspiracy to conduct gambling games and serve alcohol without a license. After his arrest, Cornero announced that he was ready to go to the United States Supreme court to keep the Bunker Hill running. Cornero was also “admiral” of the Rex, another gambling vessel which was forced to suspend operations in 1938.
Robert Noble in County Jail awaiting bail. Noble, a self-proclaimed benefactor of the elderly, was arrested as he entered court to face misdemeanor charges, on a warrant that officers had been trying to serve for days. He was seized and booked and went to jail to await his $1000 bail to be made. Noble was a radio personality who gained loyal followers from an old age pension plan he promoted. Noble and his followers were originally arrested on October 17, 1937 while staging a demonstration near radio station KMTR. Noble was charged with holding a parade without permit, blocking the sidewalk and refusing to disperse on police command. After a lengthy trial, Noble spent five days in jail, he planned to use the time to prepare speeches for a gubernatorial campaign. He said he was pleased that he would have a captive audience at this time
Jurors Dorothy Deel, Jackson Collins, Winifred W. Howard, Beatrice Hard, and Charles M. Truax in court for the murder trial of crossing guard Albert Dyer. Dyer had lured three Inglewood girls into the hills, where he strangled them with rope and his hands. He was eventually found guilty and executed. In the front from left to right, Dorothy Deel and Jackson Collins. In the back, Winifred W. Howard, Beatrice Hard, and Charles M. Truax.
Jurors Grace A. Calvert, Harold Harby, and Shirley Angranoff in court for the murder trial of crossing guard Albert Dyer. Dyer had lured three Inglewood girls into the hills, where he strangled them with rope and his hands. He was eventually found guilty and executed. From left to right, Grace A. Calvert, Shirley Angranoff, and Harold Harby.
Kynette can be seen wearing eyeglasses. Captain of Police Earle E. Kynette was charged with conspiracy to commit murder after the vehicle of Harry J. Raymond was bombed on January 14, 1938. Kynette was in charge of a special police intelligence unit that had been conducting surveillance on Raymond’s home from a nearby bungalow. Before the car bombing, Raymond had been conducting investigative work on Mayor Shaw and his possible connections with illegal gambling. Two other officers, Fred Browne and Roy J. Allen, connected with the intelligence unit were also charged with conspiracy to commit murder. However, Fred Browne was eventually acquitted. Kynette and Allen were both found guilty.
Kynette can be seen wearing eyeglasses. Captain of Police Earle E. Kynette was charged with conspiracy to commit murder after the vehicle of Harry J. Raymond was bombed on January 14, 1938. Kynette was in charge of a special police intelligence unit that had been conducting surveillance on Raymond’s home from a nearby bungalow. Before the car bombing, Raymond had been conducting investigative work on Mayor Shaw and his possible connections with illegal gambling. Two other officers, Fred Browne and Roy J. Allen, connected with the intelligence unit were also charged with conspiracy to commit murder. However, Fred Browne was eventually acquitted. Kynette and Allen were both found guilty.
Captain of Police Earle E. Kynette was charged with conspiracy to commit murder after the vehicle of Harry J. Raymond was bombed on January 14, 1938. Kynette was in charge of a special police intelligence unit that had been conducting surveillance on Raymond’s home from a nearby bungalow. Before the car bombing, Raymond had been conducting investigative work on Mayor Shaw and his possible connections with illegal gambling. Two other officers, Fred Browne and Roy J. Allen, connected with the intelligence unit were also charged with conspiracy to commit murder. However, Fred Browne was eventually acquitted. Kynette and Allen were both found guilty.
Police Chief James E. Davis testifying before the grand jury during the investigation into the bombing of the car of private investigator Harry Raymond. Police Captain Earle E. Kynette and his subordinate officers Roy J. Allen and Fred A. Browne were charged with the bombing. Kynette was in charge of a special police intelligence unit that had been conducting surveillance on Raymond’s home from a nearby bungalow. Before the car bombing, Raymond had been conducting investigative work on Mayor Shaw and his possible connections with illegal gambling.
John Frank Reavis (seated center), 26-year-old trombone player and candy salesman, in the court anteroom awaiting the jury’s decision to indict him in the murder of 17-year-old B-girl Alice “Jerry” Burns. With him are investigating officers in the case, Detective Lieutenant Miles Ledbetter (left) and Det. Lt. Lloyd Hurst (right), and Captain Edgar Edwards (center). Reavis was indicted and after trial received a second-degree sentence of five years to life in San Quentin. His eye and left hand are bandaged as the result of a fight he had prior to his arrest
Left to right: Detective Lieutenant R.S. Hamilton, Adolfo Campos, Det. Lt. E.J. Henry, and Det. Lt. E.C. Biffle, with a suitcase full of smuggled marijuana. Campos is the suspected smuggler.
Police on foot at the L.A.P.D. parade route, which led to the Coliseum where a four-hour entertainment program was presented. Forty-thousand persons were in attendance.
A group of unknown women pictured at the murder trial for Dr. George K. Dazey who was accused of murdering his wife. They may be witnesses or members of the jury. Mrs. Dazey was found dead as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning and her death was originally ruled a suicide. However, Dr. Dazey was later indicted by a county grand jury for the murder of his wife. Dr. Dazey was eventually acquitted of the charge of slaying his wife.
Dr. George K. Dazey with his attorney, Jerry Giesler, at the trial in which Dr. Dazey is accused of murdering his second wife, actress Doris S. Dazey, in 1935. Doris Dazey's death was originally believed to be suicide by monoxide poisoning. However, witnesses claimed that Dr. Dazey had been boasting about committing the "perfect crime" and a night watchman testified to witnessing Dazey carry a woman's body from the house to the garage on the night of the murder. Other factors complicating the trial were the paternity of Doris and George Dazey's child, Doris Dazey's possible mental illness, and false testimonies from some of the witnesses. Dr. Dazey was ultimately acquitted of the crime.
Newspaper clipping from the N. Y. Evening Graphic featuring a picture of Mata Hari, a Dutch exotic dancer and courtesan who was accused of being a spy for Germany during World War I. Because of this charge, she was executed in France on October 15, 1917. Review of official case documents in 1985 revealed that Mata Hari was most likely innocent. Mata Hari was the stage name for Margaretha Geertruida "Grietje" Zelle
Key made by Alcatraz inmate Joseph Cretzer in an escape attempt. Cretzer was sentenced to life for murder and sent to Alcatraz in August 1940. He was involved in the bloody standoff known as the "Battle of Alcatraz."
William G. Bonelli (center), member of the State Board of Equalization, who is accused of soliciting and accepting bribes from local liquor retailers, standing between A. Brigham Rose (left) and Judge Carlos S. Hardy (right). A. Brigham Rose is the attorney for Ed Levine, a lobbyist also accused of involvement in the liquor license bribe scandal. It is unclear how Judge Hardy is involved with Bonelli, as he is not the judge for this trial.
Assemblymen Jack Tenney (left) and Sam Yorty at the hearings for charges of Communist activity in the Los Angeles County State Relief Administration (S.R.A.). Both were on the "little Dies committee" which questioned various members of the S.R.A. The hearings lasted only one day and ended with a recommendation that action be taken against some of the witnesses for perjury, but no one was immediately fired.
The grand jury during a case against Racine Oil Co. President Jack Allen. Allen, along with three others originally, was accused of evading the state gasoline tax by insisting that gas had been exported out of state, when it was really sold to local retailers. The case was eventually dismissed
Mrs. Zella Jeffers on the witness stand in the courtroom of Judge Charles W. Fricke. She is accused of performing immoral acts with her husband, Reverend Joseph Jeffers, in front of guests in their home. Mrs. Jeffers claimed that on the night of her arrest she was drugged by neighbor Vincent Higgins, a District Attorney’s detective, and didn’t remember the events that were supposed to have taken place. A film reviewed by the prosecution showed Reverend and Mrs. Jeffers disrobing in front of their guests. Behind Mrs. Jeffers is a floor plan of her home, which she described for the jury.
Mrs. Zella Jeffers on the witness stand in the courtroom of Judge Charles W. Fricke. She is accused of performing immoral acts with her husband, Reverend Joseph Jeffers, in front of guests in their home. Mrs. Jeffers claimed that on the night of her arrest she was drugged by neighbor Vincent Higgins, a District Attorney’s detective, and didn’t remember the events that were supposed to have taken place. A film reviewed by the prosecution showed Reverend and Mrs. Jeffers disrobing in front of their guests. Behind Mrs. Jeffers is a floor plan of her home, which she described for the jury.
A view of the courtroom in which Albert Dyer's murder trial began. Dyer lured three Inglewood girls to the hills, where he strangled them to death with his hands as well as rope. From left to right is Chief Deputy District Attorney William Simpson, Chief Investigator Eugene Williams, Public Defender William Neeley, Albert Dyer, and Public Defender Ellery Cuff.
A view of the courtroom in which Albert Dyer's murder trial began. Dyer lured three Inglewood girls to the hills, where he strangled them to death with his hands as well as rope. From left to right is Chief Deputy District Attorney William Simpson, Chief Investigator Eugene Williams, Public Defender William Neeley, Albert Dyer, and Public Defender Ellery Cuff.
Public defender Ellery Cuff indicating a point on a map at his client Albert Dyer's murder trial. Dyer lured three Inglewood girls to the hills, where he strangled them to death with his hands as well as rope. Albert Dyer is seated wearing a white shirt.
Confessed child-murderer Albert Dyer in court. Dyer lured three Inglewood girls to the hills, where he strangled them to death with his hands as well as rope. He was eventually found guilty and executed.
"Rattlesnake" murderer Robert S. James on his way to court while handcuffed to an unidentified man. James had tied down his pregnant fifth wife and forced a rattlesnake to bite her, and then later drowned her in their fish pond. He was supposedly helped by his friend, ex-sailor Charles H. Hope, who was also charged with murder.
"Rattlesnake" murderer Robert S. James in his jail cell. James had tied down his pregnant fifth wife and forced a rattlesnake to bite her, and then later drowned her in their fish pond. He was supposedly helped by his friend, ex-sailor Charles H. Hope, who was also charged with murder.
An unidentified detective keeping guard by the jail cell of infamous murderer Robert S. James. James had tied down his pregnant fifth wife and forced a rattlesnake to bite her, and then later drowned her in their fish pond. He was supposedly helped by his friend, ex-sailor Charles H. Hope, who was also charged with murder.
Robert S. James sitting in the witness stand with a plan of his home behind him. An unidentified man is visible in front of him. He was most likely testifying in his own defense for the murder trial of his wife Mary Emma James. He purportedly had an affair with his niece, which spurred him to tie down his wife and have a rattlesnake bite her, and then later drown her in their fish pond. He was supposedly helped by his friend, ex-sailor Charles H. Hope, who was also charged with murder.
Robert S. James standing between two unidentified men in court. He was most likely testifying in his own defense for the murder trial of his wife Mary Emma James. He purportedly had an affair with his niece, which spurred him to tie down his wife and have a rattlesnake bite her, and then later drown her in their fish pond. He was supposedly helped by his friend, ex-sailor Charles H. Hope, who was also charged with murder.
Robert S. James standing between two unidentified men in court. He was most likely testifying in his own defense for the murder trial of his wife Mary Emma James. He purportedly had an affair with his niece, which spurred him to tie down his wife and have a rattlesnake bite her, and then later drown her in their fish pond. He was supposedly helped by his friend, ex-sailor Charles H. Hope, who was also charged with murder.
Robert S. James standing between two unidentified men in court. He was most likely testifying in his own defense for the murder trial of his wife Mary Emma James. He purportedly had an affair with his niece, which spurred him to tie down his wife and have a rattlesnake bite her, and then later drown her in their fish pond. He was supposedly helped by his friend, ex-sailor Charles H. Hope, who was also charged with murder.
Robert S. James standing between two unidentified men in court. He was most likely testifying in his own defense for the murder trial of his wife Mary Emma James. He purportedly had an affair with his niece, which spurred him to tie down his wife and have a rattlesnake bite her, and then later drown her in their fish pond. He was supposedly helped by his friend, ex-sailor Charles H. Hope, who was also charged with murder.
Robert S. James standing between two unidentified men in court. He was most likely testifying in his own defense for the murder trial of his wife Mary Emma James. He purportedly had an affair with his niece, which spurred him to tie down his wife and have a rattlesnake bite her, and then later drown her in their fish pond. He was supposedly helped by his friend, ex-sailor Charles H. Hope, who was also charged with murder.
Mrs. Antibus sued Mr. Warner Sr. after her home was raided by Buron Fitts and several of his deputies at the request of Mr. Warner. The raid of Mrs. Antibus' home was conducted in order to search for Mr. Warner's son, Thomas W. Warner, Jr. Mr. Warner, Jr. was found hiding inside the home with his girlfriend Mrs. Jean MacDonald. The pair had been hiding in the home from Mr. Warner, Sr. who was opposed to their relationship and was seeking to end all contact between the pair. Mrs. Antibus served as a private detective for Mr. Warner, Jr. and had previously conducted an investigation into the life of Mrs. MacDonald in attempt to determine whether she was truly in love with Mr. Warner, Jr. Mrs. Antibus alleged that the raid left several of her visitors injured and was unnecessarily violent.
John Frank Reavis, 26-year-old trombone player and candy salesman, in the court anteroom awaiting the jury’s decision to indict him in the murder of 17-year-old B-girl Alice “Jerry” Burns. Case investigating officers Det. Lt. Miles Ledbetter and Det. Lt. Lloyd Hurst are in the background. Reavis was indicted and after trial received a second-degree sentence of five years to life in San Quentin. His eye and left hand are bandaged as the result of a fight he had prior to his arrest
John Frank Reavis, 26-year-old trombone player and candy salesman, in the court anteroom awaiting the jury's decision to indict him in the murder of 17-year-old B-girl Alice “Jerry” Burns. Reavis was indicted and after trial received a second-degree sentence of five years to life in San Quentin. His eye and left hand are bandaged as the result of a fight he had prior to his arrest
Cowboy extras Joe Phillips and Harry Willingham at an inquest for Jerome (Blackjack) Ward, who is charged with the murder of Johnny Tyke in “Gower Gulch.” Gower Gulch is the name given to the area near the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Gower Street where film extras hang out waiting for work; many of the nearby studios produce westerns so often actual working cowboys come here to break into the film business. Allegedly, Blackjack shot Tyke with a .45, but many of the hundreds of Gower Gulch extras who came to the inquest testified that Tyke had started the fight and was “doped up” at the time.
Casino on Tony Cornero’s newly refurbished gambling ship, the Bunker Hill (also known as the Lux), which was meant to operate offshore of Los Angeles. After the Bunker Hill’s opening night, however, Cornero and five of his aides were arrested on felony charges of criminal conspiracy to conduct gambling games and serve alcohol without a license. After his arrest, Cornero announced that he was ready to go to the United States Supreme court to keep the Bunker Hill running. Cornero was also “admiral” of the Rex, another gambling vessel which was forced to suspend operations in 1938.
Tony Cornero’s newly refurbished gambling ship, the Bunker Hill (also known as the Lux), which was meant to operate offshore of Los Angeles. After the Bunker Hill’s opening night, however, Cornero and five of his aides were arrested on felony charges of criminal conspiracy to conduct gambling games and serve alcohol without a license. After his arrest, Cornero announced that he was ready to go to the United States Supreme court to keep the Bunker Hill running. Cornero was also “admiral” of the Rex, another gambling vessel which was forced to suspend operations in 1938.
Extras from Gower Gulch at an inquest supporting their friend Jerome (Blackjack) Ward, who is charged with the murder of Johnny Tyke. Gower Gulch is the name given to the area near the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Gower Street where film extras hang out waiting for work; many of the nearby studios produce westerns so often actual working cowboys come here to break into the film business. Allegedly, Blackjack shot Tyke with a .45, but many of the hundreds of Gower Gulch extras who came to the inquest testified that Tyke had started the fight and was “doped up” at the time.
Claude Parker, former Racing Commissioner, smoking a cigarette and preparing to testify during an investigation of political corruption in the horse racing community. Parker announced that he resigned from his position as commissioner when he found out Hollywood Park was promised winter racing dates after making a $150,000 donation to the Democratic State Central Committee
Betty Flay Hardaker sits during questioning done by Dr. Paul De River, police psychiatrist, at the Los Angeles County Jail. Mrs. Hardaker was convicted of murdering her 5 year old daugher, Geraldine Hardaker, in a Montebello park washroom. The jury convicted her of committing the crime while of unsound mind.
Betty Flay Hardaker on trial at the inquest conducted by Deputy Coroner Frank Monfort. Mrs. Hardaker was convicted of murdering her 5 year old daugher, Geraldine Hardaker, in a Montebello park washroom. The jury convicted her of committing the crime while of unsound mind.
Detectives Joe Filkas and Edward Romero examining the body of Martha Neve, who died unexpectedly in her apartment. The detectives determined that it was not a murder or robbery as suspected.
Myrtle Takaoka and her brother Hal Takaoka in court at a preliminary hearing involving the murder of their dancer sister, Midi Takaoka. Judge Irvin Taplin was presiding. The dancer's throat was cut by her jilted lover, waiter Raymond Johnson. Johnson later was sentenced to life in prison.
Suspects in the Inglewood Everett-Stephens murders (from left to right) John Dobson, Ed Cassidy, Leo Collins, and Ed King standing against a wall. Albert Dyer, a crossing guard, later confessed to the crime.
New York socialite Henry L. Satterlee. Satterlee was brought in for questioning as a suspect for the Inglewood Everett-Stephens murders. Albert Dyer, a crossing guard, later confessed to the crime.
Police officer stands with R.F. McGarry, member of the Black Legion secret society. Black Legion was an organization that had ties to the Ku Klux Klan and operated mainly in Detroit, Michigan in the 1930s. The organization targeted African-Americans and slayed Silas Coleman on May 25, 1935.
Betty Flay Hardaker takes an oath while on trial for murder. Mrs. Hardaker was convicted of murdering her 5 year old daugher, Geraldine Hardaker, in a Montebello park washroom. The jury convicted her of committing the crime while of unsound mind.
Photographed left to right are Karl Holton, Director of the California Youth Authority Robert W. Kenny, California Attorney General and Everett Mattoon, Assistant Attorney General.