Rum-Runners Rallied at the Governor’s Gate-This Day In Norwood History-May 5, 1933

FOUR TAKEN ON TIP FROM ALLEN HOME

May 5, 1933 — A high-stakes bootlegging operation met a sudden end in Norwood yesterday afternoon, following an unexpected intervention from the estate of a former Commonwealth leader.

A telephone call placed from the home of Ex-Gov. Frank G. Allen alerted local authorities to suspicious activity in the immediate vicinity of the Allen estate. Norwood police acted swiftly on the tip, leading to the interception and arrest of four men believed to be part of a professional rum-running ring.

The Interception

According to police reports, the operation involved a coordinated hand-off between two separate crews. Investigators believe two of the men arrived from Providence, Rhode Island, transporting what is described as a “substantial load of liquor.” Upon reaching Norwood, they were met by the remaining two members of the quartet, who took over the transport to complete the final leg of the journey into Boston.

The trap was sprung when the men returned to the Norwood area with their truck. Norwood officers moved in, apprehending all four suspects without further incident.

Evidence and Custody

During a search of the vehicles, officers discovered a police revolver. One member of the group reportedly admitted to being in possession of the weapon.

Given the cross-city nature of the crime, the suspects were turned over to Sergt. Leo Masuret and Special Officer Frederick Deady of the Boston Police Department. The men were transported to Boston late last night to face further questioning.

Investigation Ongoing

At this hour, the four individuals are being held as “suspicious persons.” While the primary load of liquor is believed to have already reached its destination prior to the arrest, officials are conducting a thorough investigation into the origin of the shipment and the source of the recovered police firearm.

The swift action by the Norwood police, sparked by the alert from the Allen residence, marks another significant blow to the illegal liquor trade moving through the region.

Micro-Context: The Death of Prohibition In May 1933, the 21st Amendment was already in the process of ratification. While “the noble experiment” was nearly over, the illegal trade remained lucrative and dangerous until the very end.

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Note: This article is based on historical records from May 1933, during the final months of Prohibition in the United States.