RACKETEER GROUP

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 80, Issue 281, 26 November 1937, Page 7

RACKETEER GROUP

DISCOVERY IN HOLLYWOOD EXTRAS PAYING “TRIBUTES” ECHO OF GANGSTER CRIMES (By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright) Received Nov. 25, 7.9 p.m. HOLLYWOOD, Nov. 24. The existence of a racketeer group to which the cinema industry's 12,000 extras are compelled to pay "tribute” is indicated by in vesligations of the police in connection with gangster activities as cabled on November 16. District Attorney Buron Fittes has ordered the detention of the assistantcasting director employed by a major studio, who allegedly used his position to coerce extras to contribute to racketeers a percentage of a daily wage. The police believe that hundreds of extras, owing to fear of loss of work, physical injury or damage to clothes which are essential equipment, joined “clubs” organised for lhe purpose of collecting "tribute,” A message from Los Angeles, dated November 15 and published on November 16. stated: An epidemic of violent crimes has roused the fear that Los Angeles is becoming a gangster stronghold. It is believed Mr. Thomas E. Dewey's vigorous campaign as special prosecutor has caused a wholesale influx of desperadoes from NewYork. Gambling houses are flourishing and are supported by film stars and other affluent people who wager fantastic amounts. A noted screen actress, who is an associate of a notorious gangster is suspected of using her friendship with a high public official to warn the gambling ring of impending raids. The authorities are most alarmed and are planning to establish a special rackets bureau similar to that of Mr. Dewey’s. Emissaries of the district attorney are at present in New York endeavouring to recruit detectives in gangster methods.