The Crittenden Automotive Library

GANGSTERS IN MOTOR CARS.

Publication: The New York Times
Date: 25 July 1912

If a certificate of good character were required under the Callan law for the licensing of chauffeurs, the police authorities would not be warranted in saying, as they said recently, that at least 200 ex-convicts are duly empowered to drive motor cars in Manhattan. This subject cannot longer be ignored. There have been too many motor car robberies and murders of late. It is reported that members of the “Gopher” gang, the “Monk” Eastman gang, and of the “Gas House” gang have become chauffeurs, and incidentally use their automobiles for the purpose of quick “get-aways” after marauding exploits.

Only when a magistrate will complain against one of these gangsters is Secretary Lazansky empowered to revoke his license. This power should be lodged in the hands of the Police Commissioner and Magistrates, and should be wielded by them on proper occasions. The Aldermen's Committee on Speed Regulations has recommended that drivers residing in this city should file identification cards, including photographs, license numbers, addresses, and signatures, with the Police Department. But the State law should be amended in other ways. In Massachusetts licenses are required of all drivers, but not in New York. Here owners are exempted, and their friends. In these exemptions lie possibilities of mischief.