FOR WANT OF A CHANCE

(Continued from page 13)

S.F. STEP-UP IN FELONY CONVICTIONS REVEALED

In the Sunday session devoted to projects being conducted in the homophile movement, the Mattachine Society reported on the trend of the San Francisco police department in conjunction with the courts to stop up arrosts and convictions where homosexuality is involved.

Most of the cases prior to 1960 were misdemeanors, though now there is an obvious push for felony convictions. During the first five months of 1960 there were no convictions whatsoever. From Juno 1960 to December 1960 there were 29 convictions and $3000 collected in fines. During this period only one person was found not guilty. From January 1961 to June 1961 there were 77 cases and $19,675 in fines. Again only one person was found not guilty. Sentences meted out wore six months suspended and one to three years probation with $100 to $350 fine depending upon which of the three Judges heard the case. An actual jail sentence was not given unless a minor was involved.

All of these figuros represent felony charges where sodomy was involved. Most of the arrests were made from the public rest rooms in department stores or bowling alloys where the police maintained "legal peoping toms" behind two-way mirrors.

It is estimated that some 40 to 60 arrests are made per week on misdemeanor charges, there being more of the so stemming from the "gay bars".

Obviously homosexuality has become "big business" to the city of San Francisco.

ONE, INC., PLANS NEW BOOK

Bill Lambert of One, Inc., announced that a new book would be published soon based on research studies on famous peoplo in history who wore homosexuals. He said that more attention should be paid to history by all the homophile groups.

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