CRIME IN CHICAGO

Evening Star, Issue 20057, 24 December 1928, Page 5

CRIME IN CHICAGO

SOCIETY OF TERRORISM THREATENING witnesses. Press Association— By Telegraph—Copyright NEW YORK, December 21. News from Chicago states that a society of terrorism, aimed at the obstruction of justice, to-day closed its talons about ten persona who were to be State witnesses m the Raniere kidnapping case. These witnesses • have disappeared, either having been driven to cover by fear of vengeance or kidnapped. Lieutenant Paul Riccio reported to the Assistant State Attorney (Mr Hoffman) that these ten persons had been subpoenaed to testify about , the extortion practices of Angelo Petitti, who, with Andrew and Tony Cappallano, -are on trial before Judge Gentzel on charges of kidnapping Billy Raniere. Incidentally Judge Gentzel reefived a letter threatening death to him. The judge showed little concern ever the threat. He handed the letter to Mr Hoffman, with the remark that, it should ’be filed for possible use, then

mounted the bench to continue the case. Mike Devito, whom Petitti yesterday told the court bailiff would be the next one killed, explained from the witness’s stand, after the jury was taken out, why the Italians who got unsigned “ If lack Hand” letters always went to Petitti. " Everybody 1 down there knows that Petitti is head of tlie gang.” ffe said in answer to the cross-examina-tion question why he had gone to Petitti - after he got four letters demanding money and threatening the bombing of bis house, the kidnapping of his children, and murder if he did i>it comply.—United Service.