TLS, four pages, 8 x 10.5, FBI letterhead, February 2, 1939. Letter to Congressman Hampton P. Fulmer regarding the termination of Special Agent Joseph Andrew Berry. In part: “On the afternoon of December 28, 1938, Special Agents of the Memphis Office attempted to bring about the apprehension of Sam Guidetti, who was being sought in connection with a bank robbery…they noticed the automobile of the fugitive…The other Special Agent ran to the fugitive’s automobile, pointed a gun at him and advised him that he was under arrest. The fugitive started his car and drove away under fire. The agent who had approached his car fired with his shotgun and shattered the windshield…As the car started forward, he fired a second time. Special Agent Berry, who was in close proximity to this entire occurrence, took no action toward bringing about the apprehension of the fugitive. He did not even draw his pistol…He took no positive action to assist his fellow agent and did not attempt to halt the fugitive by gunfire…Either he was physically unable to move more rapidly or he was not sufficiently mentally alert to grasp the situation. His failure to function might have caused the death of his fellow agent.” Hoover goes on to cite a poor attitude and misuse of paid leave as other reasons for his termination. In fine condition, with staple holes and rust marks to the upper left corner, and a trivial pencil notation to the lower right. An exciting tale of cops and robbers. RR Auction COA.
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