LOS ANGELES GANGSTERS

Greymouth Evening Star, 12 June 1943, Page 5

LOS ANGELES GANGSTERS

“ZOOTSUITS” AND SERVICEMEN

LOS ANGELES, June 11

According to District Attorney Howser, a state of near-anarchy exists in Los Angeles. Police and Sheriffs’ reserves in Los Angeles have been armed for riots. They are attempting to stem antagonism whicn has embroiled servicemen and “Zootsuiters” in bloody battles. Trouble began at last week-end, when gangs of hoodlums, wearing “Zootsuits,” began pushing around servicemen and their girl friends. “Zootsuits,” which were first affected by “jitterbug” fans, consist of a coat reaching almost to the knees, with the trousers very full at the knees, tight around the ankles, and worn high, almost to the armpits. Gangs of Zootsuiters largely consist of Mexicans, their ages ranging from 14 years to 25 years. They have been terrorising some districts, and are held to have been responsible for three slayings. Gangs fought among themselves, until, recently, when they declared war against servicemen. Many affrays have occurred in the city. Parts of Los Angeles have bcm declared out of bounds for the servicemen.

The “Zootsuiter” gangs have girl auxiliaries, who are as tough as the youths themselves. They are known as the “Black Widow Gang.” They have been battling with women and girls on the outskirts of the city. The situation is reported to be growing progressively worse, with civilians breaking into private homes in quest for “Zootsuiters.” Scores of “Zootsuiters” have been arrested. Judges have been ordei'ed to ixnprison for 30 days anyone wearing “ankle choker” pants, and kneelength coats. The spokesman at the Mexican Embassy at Washington has protested against mob violence used against Mexicans who are not charged with any crime. Senator Hull (Secretary of State) has reported that the State Department is investigating these outrages.