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Inventory of the Los Angeles Police Department Records of the Robert F.
Kennedy Assassination Investigation, ca. 1968-1978
Processed by The California State Archives staff; machine-readable finding aid created by Xiuzhi Zhou
California State Archives
1020 "O" Street
Sacramento, California 95814
Phone: (916) 653-2246
Fax: (916) 653-7363
Email: [email protected]
URL: http://www.sos.ca.gov/archives/
© 1999
California Secretary of State. All rights reserved.
1
Inventory of the Los Angeles Police Department Records of the Robert F. Kennedy
Assassination Investigation, ca. 1968-1978
California State Archives
Office of the Secretary of State
Sacramento, California
Contact Information:
California State Archives
1020 "O" Street
Sacramento, California 95814
Phone: (916) 653-2246
Fax: (916) 653-7363
Email: [email protected]
URL: http://www.sos.ca.gov/archives/
Processed by:
The California State Archives staff
Encoded by:
Xiuzhi Zhou
© 1999 California Secretary of State. All rights reserved.
Descriptive Summary
Title: Los Angeles Police Department Records of the Robert F. Kennedy Assassination Investigation,
Date (inclusive): ca. 1968-1978
Creator: Los Angeles (Calif.). Police Dept.
Extent: ca. 50,000 pages
Repository: California State Archives
Sacramento, California
Language: English.
Publication Rights
For permission to reproduce or publish, please contact the California State Archives. Permission for reproduction or
publication is given on behalf of the California State Archives as the owner of the physical items. The researcher assumes
all responsibility for possible infringement which may arise from reproduction or publication of materials from the California
State Archives collections.
Preferred Citation
[Identification of item], Los Angeles Police Department Records of the Robert F. Kennedy Assassination Investigation,
California State Archives, Office of the Secretary of State, Sacramento, California.
Introduction
When the California State Archives received the Kennedy assassination investigation records in August 1987, it was
apparent that the records would require special treatment. In examining the material, one is immediately struck by both
the magnitude of the investigation and the size and types of records generated by it. Among the 50,000 pages created by
Special Unit Senator (SUS) may be found a card index of over 8,200 entries, over 4,800 interviews, nearly 2,900
photographs, 155 items of physical evidence, and a bewildering number and variety of audio and videotapes. In all, the
investigation consumed over 6,400 personnel hours during a thirteen-month period and cost in excess of $289,000.
To a great extent, the records have been organized following the filing system and order established by SUS, as is
customary in archival practice. Series titles have been retained except in a few cases when they seemed confusing or
misleading. Significant duplication shows up throughout the records. That is, a particular report or interview may appear in
several aspects of the investigation. In order to document this practice, such duplication has not been eliminated unless it
occurred within the same file unit.
2
The records are divided into four distinct groups. The largest group by far consists of the records of Special Unit Senator,
1968-1969, which conducted the investigation. The bulk of the SUS records relate to the interview process -- Interviews
(series #11), Transcripts (series #22), or Tape Recorded Interviews (series #30). Other large series exist on conspiracies -Conspiracy Investigation Files (series #27), and on the Final Reports (series #12). The second group is relatively small in
comparison, but significant. These are the Re-investigative Files, 1974-1978, which focus on many of the "second-gun"
theories that surfaced after Sirhan's trial. The third body of materials comprise the exhibits found in Sirhan's trial in Los
Angeles County Superior Court, The People of the State of California v. Sirhan Bishara Sirhan (A233421). The fourth group
of records are the Wolfer Board records which constitute an internal investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department
into allegations against DeWayne Wolfer who conducted the ballistic studies in the case.
A researcher should be aware that, with few exceptions, access to the records will be provided through a user version of a
16mm microfilm copy. Microfilm roll numbers are printed next to each microfilmed series described in the guide. This has
been done not only to preclude use of information excluded from public access by state law, but also to ensure
preservation of the originals. A number of items have been copied to facilitate use of the records. All motion picture film
and U-matic videotapes have been transferred to a cassette format with, in some cases, enhanced sound qualities. Copy
negatives have been produced for all photographs where none existed previously. The entire collection has been
microfilmed for security purposes.
From the beginning, every effort has been made to provide the fullest possible disclosure of the records. In many instances,
though particular series contained sensitive information, a decision was made to open the records for examination. These
decisions were made through a determination that the historical significance of the investigation and the "public's right to
know" outweighed an "individual's right to privacy". As a result, in the few places where restrictions are noted, the
justification is firmly rooted in California statutory law. This is true for the following categories: all records relating to arrests
and convictions created by the State Department of Justice, Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation; fingerprint
records; records with any information about the arrest or conviction of juveniles; school records containing student names;
autopsy photographs; and selected personnel documents from the aforementioned Wolfer Board records. In addition, two
other types of records are restricted: FBI records; and police records from agencies other than the Los Angeles Police
Department noted as "confidential". Researchers who desire access to these latter records should contact the FBI or
appropriate originating jurisdiction directly.
A body of related information may be found elsewhere. The Robert F. Kennedy Assassination Archives at Southeastern
Massachusetts University (North Dartmouth, Massachusetts 02747) contains a large collection of materials on the case.
Included among these records are files donated by several writers and researchers and materials purchased from the
National Archives and Records Administration-Pacific Southwest Region, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office,
and the FBI. Another source of information is the Assassination Archives and Research Center (918 "F" Street, N.W., Suite
510, Washington, D.C. 20004). The Center maintains an extensive collection of government documents, interviews,
unpublished manuscripts, photographs, audio tapes, and secondary works. These materials may be regarded as
supplementing the records described in this guide, although doubtless some minor duplication exists. The California State
Archives also maintains other records of interest, including Sirhan's appeal to the State Supreme Court (Case No. 14026).
Most researchers and, in particular, those unfamiliar with the investigation, will find a review of the ten-volume, uncensored
version of the final report to be a useful starting point. The report summarizes in much detail the work of the investigation
and draws heavily from records to be found in almost every other series. A table of contents for this report may be found in
Appendix B of the guide. In addition, a number of indices are interspersed throughout the collection which, in some cases,
provide detailed information concerning the contents of the series in question. Whenever present, these indices will be
located at the beginning of the microfilmed series.
Questions about restricted materials, use and availability of materials, and other matters related to the records, should be
addressed in writing to Nancy Zimmelman at the California State Archives.
Appendix A: List of Physical Evidence
* Note: All items of RFK's clothing are in the possession of the Los Angeles County District Attorney.
Appendix B: The 1969 Final Report: Table of Contents
See the master finding aid available on the California State Archives website for more information
Special Unit Senator composite film:
"Senator Kennedy Assassination", June 5, 1968
Pat Paulsen (prior to Kennedy speech) Produced by Group One Productions
Ambassador Hotel, June 4, 1968
Note: no audio
3
Kennedy Speech and Shooting Aftermath
Embassy ballroom, Ambassador Hotel, June 4-5, 1968
Note: no audio
Kennedy Shooting Aftermath
Ambassador Hotel pantry, June 5, 1968
Note: no audio
Kennedy Shooting Aftermath
Ambassador Hotel, NBC News film, June 5, 1968
Note: no audio
Kennedy Shooting Aftermath
Ambassador Hotel, KNXT News film, June 5, 1968
Kennedy Shooting Aftermath
Ambassador Hotel, CBS News film, June 5, 1968
Good Government Kennedy Rally
Produced by TRW Systems Group, May 16, 1968
Note: no audio
Kennedy Rally
Ambassador Hotel, June 2, 1968
Note: no audio
Re-enactment of the Assassination; Reviewing Polka-dot Dresses
Ambassador Hotel; other unspecified locations, June ?, 1968 and other unspecified dates.
Created by Special Unit Senator
Note: very poor quality; at times, no picture and/or poor audio quality
Appendix D: Index to the Transcripts
See the master finding aid available on the California State Archives website for more information
Appendix E: Robert F. Kennedy Assassination Investigation Records Audio Tapes
*Note: Unless otherwise noted, all audio tapes are recordings of interviews who were not witnesses to the shooting.
People v. Sirhan Sirhan
The following tapes were part of the evidence in the case, People v. Sirhan Sirhan. The tapes were transferred to the
California State Archives from the National Archives, Pacific Southwest Region in Laguna Niguel, California.
Interview by John F. Burns
The following tape is an oral history interview conducted by California State Archivist, John F. Burns.
Appendix F:Index to Photographs
See the master finding aid available on the California State Archives website for more information
Appendix G:Microfilm Index
See the master finding aid available on the California State Archives website for more information
Appendix H:List and Description of Trial Exhibits
See the master finding aid available on the California State Archives website for more information
Appendix I: Policies and Procedures for Use of Collection
1. Documents from the Los Angeles Police Department records of the Robert F. Kennedy assassination investigation are
available only on microfilm. In addition, the collection contains copies of audio tapes, video tapes, and photographs.
2. Copies of microfilm, audio tape, video tape, and photographs may be purchased. All orders for microfilm and audio tape
must be prepaid.
3. Microfilm. Rolls of microfilm can be purchased at a cost of $25.00/roll or $600.00 for the complete set (24 rolls). Included
with the complete set is a finding aid. The finding aid may be purchased separately for $22.50. Checks should be made
payable to "California Archives Foundation". Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are also accepted.
4. Photographs. Copies of photographs may be purchased at a cost of $10.00/image for order preparation plus applicable
reproduction charges. Check with Archives staff for additional details.
5. Audio and Video Materials. For copies of selected audio tapes and video tapes, contact the California State Archives.
4
Appendix J: Selected Bibliography
Blumenthal, Sid and Harvey Yazijian, eds. Government by Gunplay: Assassination Conspiracy Theories from Dallas to
Today. New York: New American Library, 1976.
Committee to Investigate Assassinations. American Political Assassinations: A Bibliography of Works Published 1963-1970,
Related to the Assassination of John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Robert F. Kennedy. Washington [distributed by Special
Collections Division, Georgetown University Library], 1973.
Freed, Donald. The Killing of RFK. New York: Dell, 1975.
Goode, Stephen. Assassination. New York: F. Watts, 1979.
Gorey, Hays. Robert Kennedy, The Last Campaign. New York: Harcourt Brace, 1993.
Houghton, Robert A. Special Unit Senator: The Investigation of the Assassination of Senator Robert F. Kennedy. New York:
Random House, 1970.
Jansen, Godfrey H. Why Robert Kennedy Was Killed: The Story of Two Victims. New York: Third Press, 1970.
Joesten, Joachim. New Light on the Robert Kennedy Murder Fraud: How the True Facts of the RFK Assassination Were
Covered Up. Gutenberg, Germany: Joesten, 1972.
Joesten, Joachim. Trilogy of Murder. Gutenberg, Germany: Joesten, [1967]-1969.
Kaiser, Robert Blair. "R.F.K. Must Die!": A History of the Robert Kennedy Assassination and Its Aftermath. New York: E.P.
Dutton and Co., Inc., 1970.
Klaber, William and Philip H. Melanson. Shadow Play: The Murder of Robert F. Kennedy, the Trial of Sirhan Sirhan, and the
Failure of American Justice. New York: St. Martin's Press, 1997.
Knight, Janet. Three Assassinations: The Deaths of John and Robert Kennedy and Martin Luther King. 2 vols. New York: Facts
on File, 1971-1978.
Kurland, Gerald. The Assassination of Robert F. Kennedy. Charlotteville, NY: SamHar Press, 1973.
Mehdi, Mohammed Taki. Kennedy and Sirhan: Why? New York: New World Press, 1968.
Melanson, Philip. The Robert F. Kennedy Assassination. New York: Shapolsky Publishers, 1991.
Moldea, Dan E. "Who Really Killed Bobby Kennedy?", (Regardie's, June 1987).
Moldea, Dan E. The Killing of Robert F. Kennedy. New York: W.W. Norton, 1995.
Noyes, Peter. Legacy of Doubt. New York: Pinnacle Books, 1973.
Scheim, David E. Contract on America: The Mafia Murders of John and Robert Kennedy. Silver Spring, MD: Argyle Press,
1983.
Scott, Peter Dale, Paul L. Hoch, and Russel Stetler, eds. The Assassinations-- Dallas and Beyond: A Guide to Cover-ups and
Investigations. 3rd edition. New York: Random House, 1978.
Shihab, Aziz. Sirhan. San Antonio: Naylor Co., 1969.
Steinbacher, John. Robert Francis Kennedy, the Man, the Mysticism, the Murder. Los Angeles: Impact Publishers, 1968.
Steinkellner, Hans. A Very Gentle Person: A Play in Three Acts About the Robert Kennedy Assassination. Kensington, CA: H.
Steinkellner, 1975.
Time-Life Books, eds. True Crime: Assassination. Alexandria, Virginia: Time-Life Inc., 1994.
Turner, William W. and Jonn G. Christian. The Assassination of Robert F. Kennedy: A Searching Look at the Conspiracy and
Cover-up 1968-1978. New York: Random House, 1978.
United Press International. Assassination: Robert F. Kennedy, 1925-1968. New York: Cowles, 1968.
Abo, Dr. StanleyCSA-K114
Almond, CharlesCSA-K181
Altenbaugh, CharlieCSA-K42
Altfillisch, BertCSA-K34
Arnot, LarryCSA-K67, CSA-K68
Aubry, RichardCSA-K86
Azirian, StepanCSA-K115
Ballantyne, NinaCSA-K54
Barry, WilliamCSA-K6 (Part 2)
Behunin, RuthCSA-K81 (A)
5
Bobbitt, Danny G.CSA-K19
Booth, LucyCSA-K81 (A)
Braden, JimCSA-K14
Breslin, JamesCSA-K140
Buck, DavidCSA-K43
Buck, DorothyCSA-K43
Buckner, Everett, Sr.CSA-K40 (A), CSA-K51, CSA-K126, CSA-K127
Burba, Harold L.CSA-K24 (A)
Burns, Frank, Jr.CSA-K10
Carreon, HenryCSA-K100 (A) & (B)
Casden, RobinCSA-K76, CSA-K80
Cesar, ThaneCSA-K7, CSA-K8, CSA-K24 (A) & (B)
Charach, TheodoreCSA-K29 (B), CSA-K97 (A) & (B), CSA-K146 (A) & (B)
Christian, JonnCSA-K145, CSA-K174
Clark, AlvinCSA-K98
Cordero, HumphreyCSA-K141 (A)
Corey, BeverlyCSA-K89, CSA-K90
Crabbendam, J.G.CSA-K168 (A) & (B), CSA-K169
Crowe, MargaretCSA-K45 (A)
Crowe, Walter, Jr.CSA-K59 (A) & (B), CSA-K60 (A) & (B), CSA-K61
Crowe, Walter, Sr.CSA-K45 (A)
Cuccia, VickiCSA-K111 (A)
Curtis, Lloyd W.CSA-K24 (A)
Davis, GeorgeCSA-K130, CSA-K131, CSA-K175
Deeb, Dr. PaulCSA-K34, CSA-K103 (B)
DeNier, VeronicaCSA-K81 (A)
DiPierro, VincentCSA-K4, CSA-K5, CSA-K12, CSA-K122, CSA-K125
Dirks, CharlesCSA-K133
Droz, FredCSA-K29 (A)
Duarte, JoseCSA-K53, CSA-K69, CSA-K70 (A) & (B), CSA-K71 (A) & (B), CSA-K116
Duffey, EstelynCSA-K19
Dunsay, M. DeniseCSA-K111 (B)
Dutton, FrederickCSA-K6 (Part 2), CSA-K167
Endersby, VictorCSA-K186 (A) & (B)
Enyart, ScottCSA-K19
Erhard, GeorgeCSA-K22, CSA-K52, CSA-K94, CSA-K120
Evans, ElizabethCSA-K128
Fahey, JohnCSA-K32 (A) & (B), CSA-K50, CSA-K56 (A) & (B), CSA-K162, CSA-K164 (A) & (B), CSA-K165 (A), (B), & (C)
Farr, GloriaCSA-K82
Farrell, ThomasCSA-K109 (B)
Fisher, AlfredCSA-K47 (B)
Fisher, JoelCSA-K29 (A)
Fontanini, SteveCSA-K84
Frankenheimer, JohnCSA-K163
Fraser, TerryCSA-K109 (B)
Freed, EvanCSA-K16
Fulmer, Cathy SueCSA-K91
Gallivan, J.W.CSA-K6 (Part 1)
6
Gearhart, JohnCSA-K57, CSA-K58
Gilbert, KeithCSA-K187 (A) & (B)
Goldstein, IraCSA-K75, CSA-K134
Grant, MauriceCSA-K9
Grecco, EvaCSA-K81 (A)
Grier, RooseveltCSA-K6 (Part 1)
Griffin, BookerCSA-K11
Grijalva, RichardCSA-K42, CSA-K72
Grijalva, RobertaCSA-K42, CSA-K72
Groves, JudyCSA-K29 (A), CSA-K84
Groves, SanfordCSA-K29 (B)
Grugan, ClarenceCSA-K24 (A)
Gugas, ChrisCSA-K37
Gutierrez, FrankCSA-K152
Guy, VirginiaCSA-K92
Hager, LloydCSA-K40 (A)
Haggerty, MichaelCSA-K83
Hall, Melvin S.CSA-K6 (Part 1) & (Part 2)
Hansen, EveCSA-K54
Hanson, LelandCSA-K109 (A)
Haraden, ParkerCSA-K42
Harrington, WesleyCSA-K188
Havalla, BassamCSA-K99
Heacock, MargaretCSA-K101
Heinemann, LarryCSA-K103 (A)
Herrick, DonnaCSA-K149, CSA-K150
Herrick, JeanneCSA-K78
Hogue, Lt.CSA-K176
Holgate, MichaelCSA-K109 (A)
Holmes, MiltonCSA-K148
Howard, JohnCSA-K73
Hubbard, CoraCSA-K79
Iqbal, KhalidCSA-K111 (B)
Jacobs, MabelCSA-K109 (B) & (C)
Jalalipour, RezaCSA-K71 (A) & (B)
Jennings, TrudiCSA-K77
Jensen, Officer D.CSA-K110
Johnson, RaferCSA-K85
Jones, JamesCSA-K108
Keenan, JamesCSA-K130
Kendall, CharlesCSA-K40 (B), CSA-K109 (A)
Khan, KhaibarCSA-28 (A)
Khoury, BarbaraCSA-K89, CSA-K90
Khoury, JohnCSA-K142
Khoury, NabilCSA-K90
Kouchan, MaryamCSA-K28 (A) & (B)
Kovack, MichaelCSA-K111 (A)
Kovack, RosemaryCSA-K111 (A)
7
Kowalec, StanleyCSA-K24 (A)
Kramer, PatriciaCSA-K103 (A)
Kristastamo, Mrs.CSA-K174
Laemmle, RaquelCSA-K53
Laemmle, RobertCSA-K114
LaHive, Joseph A.CSA-K19, CSA-K82
Lahmer, VirginiaCSA-K113
Lane, MarkCSA-K147
LaScola, Dr. RayCSA-K37
Lee, HarryCSA-K42
Licher, RobertCSA-K180
Long, JamesCSA-K168 (A) & (B), CSA-K169
Lowe, LoisCSA-K113
Lubic, RichardCSA-K118 (A) & (B), CSA-K119
Ludlow, JohnCSA-K46 (A) & (B)
Lynch, CecilCSA-K48, CSA-K108
Mankiewicz, FrankCSA-K6 (Part 2), CSA-73
Marcus, Michael D.CSA-K6 (Part 1)
Mardigani, CarlCSA-K20 (A) & (B)
Martin, RaymondCSA-K108
Martin, RhodaCSA-K186 (B)
Martinez, FrankCSA-K152
McChesney, GroveCSA-K42
McKay, RoderickCSA-K182
Midby, Glen H.CSA-K19
Miller, Dr. MiltonCSA-K103 (B)
Minasian, EdwardCSA-K9, CSA-K87
Mitchell, CharlesCSA-K101
Montellano, DavidCSA-K100 (A)
Morse, BertCSA-K109 (B)
Mundell, Rev. JamesCSA-K106
Murphy, Fred A.CSA-K24 (A)
Murray, BarbaraCSA-K132
Nagin, LarryCSA-K179 (A) & (B)
Nilsson, Dr. PaulCSA-K103 (A) & (B)
Noyes, PeterCSA-K170, CSA-K171 (A), (B), & (C), CSA-K172
Osterkamp, PeggyCSA-K34
Owen, JerryCSA-K23, CSA-K55 (A) & (B), CSA-K130, CSA-K153
Parsons, RussellCSA-K17, CSA-K33
Patrusky, MartinCSA-K9
Perez, JesusCSA-K8
Perez, ThomasCSA-K24 (A)
Perkins, Rev. JonathanCSA-K173
Peters, HenryCSA-K160 (A) & (B)
Peters, LawrenceCSA-K159
Pilger, JohnCSA-K124
Plimpton, FreddyCSA-K6 (Part 1)
Plimpton, GeorgeCSA-K19
8
Powers, WilliamCSA-K185
Price, WilliamCSA-K52
Pruszynski, StusCSA-K123
Rabago, EnriqueCSA-K141 (A)
Radabaugh, JackCSA-K95
Rathke, Walter ThomasCSA-K35
Reddin, Chief ThomasCSA-K15
Reinke, DonaldCSA-K19
Richtel, MurrayCSA-K179 (A) & (B)
Ripp, JamesCSA-K42
Rivercomb, GeorgeCSA-K172
Rogers, WarrenCSA-K151
Romero, JuanCSA-K9
Rothberg, JamesCSA-K24 (A)
Royer, JudyCSA-K117
Rutledge, Queen E.CSA-K9
Saccoman, MichaelCSA-K109 (A) & (B)
Schnepper, Dr. JohnCSA-K34
Schulman, DonaldCSA-K13
Scott, DianeCSA-K109 (B)
Sem, KennyCSA-K42
Serrano, SandraCSA-K1, CSA-K2, CSA-K3, CSA-K4, CSA-K5, CSA-K6 (Part 1)
Sheets, MillardCSA-K144
Sher, PaulCSA-K34
Shields, LesterCSA-K109 (B)
Sirhan, AdelCSA-K25 (A) & (B), CSA-K41, CSA-K88, CSA-K102, CSA-K154 (A) & (B), CSA-K155, CSA-K157
Sirhan, MaryCSA-K25 (A), CSA-K41, CSA-K107, CSA-K154 (A) & (B), CSA-K155, CSA-K157
Sirhan, MunirCSA-K22, CSA-K25 (A), CSA-K26 (A) & (B), CSA-K27, CSA-K49, CSA-K52, CSA-K154 (A) & (B)
Sirhan, SaidallahCSA-K25 (A), CSA-K44, CSA-K45 (A) & (B), CSA-K47 (A), CSA-K136 (A) & (B), CSA-K137
Sirhan, SharifCSA-K25 (A), CSA-K41, CSA-K104
Sirhan, SirhanCSA-K21
Sirhan, Sirhan (as John Doe)CSA-K62, CSA-K63, CSA-K64, CSA-K65 (A) & (B), CSA-K66 (A), (B), & (C)
Sirhan, Sirhan (psychiatric interview): F3906:89 (A), (B) & (C), F3906:91, F3906:93 (A) & (B), F3906:94 (A) & (B), F3906:95
(A) & (B)
Smith, RonCSA-K135
Smith, StephenCSA-K92
Stephens, MerlaCSA-K183
Steward, RichardCSA-K42
Strathmann, John HenryCSA-K38
Strathmann, PatriciaCSA-K113
Stroll, IrwinCSA-K129
Swanson, EllisCSA-K74
Taylor, GenevieveCSA-K30 (A) & (B)
Teresa, VirginiaCSA-K105 (A) & (B)
Thornbrugh, JamesCSA-K100 (B), CSA-K109 (A), CSA-K143
Tingley, JakeCSA-K43
Trout, OrieCSA-K42
Trower, BenCSA-K42
9
Tuck, RichardCSA-K92, CSA-K138
Turner, WilliamCSA-K147
Uecker, KarlCSA-K8
Unruh, JesseCSA-K79
Van Antwerp, EdwardCSA-K186 (A)
Velazco, AlbertoCSA-K152
Wall, MaryCSA-K74
Warshaw, CarmenCSA-K139
Wayne, Michael L.CSA-K9, CSA-K18, CSA-K29 (B)
Weaver, DennisCSA-K84
Weaver, RussellCSA-K109 (A)
Weatherly, JohnCSA-K184
Weidner, JohnCSA-K112, CSA-K177
Welch, TerryCSA-K161
Westerfield, RexCSA-K156
Weston, DonCSA-K178, CSA-K179 (A)
Wheeler, Robert L.CSA-K159
Wheeler, ?CSA-K159
White, William Walker, Jr.CSA-K103 (B)
Williams, ClaudiaCSA-K36
Williams, RalphCSA-K84
Williams, RonCSA-K36
Williman, L.C.CSA-K6 (Part 1)
Wolf, Dr. JeromeCSA-K121
X-Ray TechnicianCSA-K159
Yaroslavski, BorisCSA-K20 (A)
Yorty, Mayor SamuelCSA-K93
Yoshio, NiwaCSA-K9
KABC-TV News BroadcastCSA-K39 (A), (B), & (C)
KLA-Radio BroadcastCSA-K31
Tempo II, Channel 9CSA-K116
10
Records of Special Unit Senator
Series 1Card Index 1968-1969
Records of Special Unit Senator
Scope and Content Note
Special Unit Senator (SUS), the LAPD task force that carried out all aspects of the
investigation, was created on June 11, 1968 under the direction of Chief of Detectives Robert
Houghton. The need for an independent, special task force arose from the Department's
realization that the nature of the investigation would overtax resources normally available to
the Detectives Division. Accordingly, the case received top priority and SUS staff were
handpicked from throughout the Department based on the quality of their previous work and
particular skills, including investigative experience, knowledge of foreign languages and
scientific applications, and records-keeping systems. Initially, staff included Task Force
Commander, Captain Hugh Brown, three lieutenants, 18 detective sergeants, and two
clerical personnel. Within one week, 37 additional officers and seven civilians were added to
the work force.
The investigation itself was divided into three basic areas: case preparation, in cooperation
with the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office; Sirhan's background; and conspiracy
leads. The scope and size of the investigation necessitated a close coordination not only with
other LAPD divisions, but also with the FBI, U.S. Attorney General's office, Los Angeles
County Sheriff's office, and the U.S. Secret Service.
Special Unit Senator was disbanded in July 1969.
All juvenile and school records throughout the collection have been withheld from disclosure
pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code, sections 389, 781, 827, and 828, and Education
Code, sections 49076(b) (2), 49061(b), and 49073.
Microfilm Roll Nos.
1-3
Series 1 Card Index 1968-1969
Physical Description: Approximately 8,250 cards
Arrangement
Arranged alphabetically by surname or topic.
Scope and Content Note
A master card index of all individuals interviewed or contacted during the investigation.
Each card may contain name and address of individual, dates and time of interview,
summary of interview, interview number, and name(s) of interviewer(s). Some cards may
also contain reference to FBI reports (see series #8) and occupation of individual. An
alphabetical card index to audio tapes may be found at the end of the series containing
names of individuals interviewed by Special Unit Senator. Logs that summarize much of
this information are found at the end of roll number 3.
11
Records of Special Unit Senator
Series 2Office Files 1968-1969
Microfilm Roll No.
4
Series 2 Office Files 1968-1969
Physical Description: 25 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged topically by record type.
Scope and Content Note
Records created and received by Special Unit Senator (SUS) during its investigation.
These include: a roster of SUS personnel containing a description of individual
assignments and a biographical summary with photograph of each officer involved in the
case; intradepartmental correspondence; correspondence outside of SUS; evaluation of
investigation prepared by SUS staff, including a summary evaluation by Lt. Roy Keene;
daily summaries of activities, a chronological report of case progress, status of current
areas of investigation, administrative activities, meetings attended, and liaison with other
agencies, relating to four major SUS officers --Capt. Hugh Brown and Lts. Roy Keene,
Manuel Pena, and Charles Higbie; outline of final report; indices of tape recorded
interviews, progress reports, and Kassab investigation (see series #27, Conspiracy
Investigation Files); manual of SUS records and operations; memoranda and special
orders from Chief of Police; monthly overtime assignment sheets and reports; personal
expense statements; personnel complaints; expenditures and requisitions, telephone
logs; traffic accident reports; vehicle assignment sheets; miscellaneous reports; and SUS
forms.
Microfilm Roll No.
5
Series 3 Arrest Reports1968
Physical Description: 1 file folder
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by report number.
Scope and Content Note
Reports created at time of Sirhan Sirhan's arrest or, later, during his booking or
investigation. File includes arrest reports, booking slips, and investigator's final reports.
Information contained in reports includes booking number, location where booked, type
of offense, arrestee's name, sex, ethnicity, age, social security number, hair and eye
color, height and weight, birth date and place, time arrested and booked, address,
clothing, victim's name, names of witnesses, circumstances of arrest, name(s) of
reporting officer(s), arrestee's occupation and place of employment, credit references,
names and addresses of relatives and associates, action taken, right thumb print, and list
of arrestee's property.
Index included at beginning of series.
Microfilm Roll No.
5
Series 4 Broadcasts and Teletypes1968-1969
Physical Description: 4 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by document number.
Scope and Content Note
Messages sent and received by LAPD requesting or transmitting information concerning
the investigation. In addition to broadcasts and teletypes, a log of data released to other
agencies is included. Messages include the following information: date of message;
names of parties receiving and sending message; and nature of message.
Index included at beginning of series.
12
Records of Special Unit Senator
Series 5Crime Reports1968.
Microfilm Roll No.
5
Series 5 Crime Reports1968.
Physical Description: 1 file folder
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by report number.
Scope and Content Note
Reports relating to investigations made by LAPD concerning all victims at Kennedy
assassination site and complaints of Sirhan's family and others in response to threats or
criminal activities carried out against them. Information includes victim's name, weapon,
force, or means used, type of crime, apparent motive, location of crime, number of
suspects and their sex and ethnicity, dates and times occurred and reported, suspect's
trademarks, type of premises, investigative division or unit notified and person
contacted, vehicle used by suspect, related reports, victim's condition, occupation, sex,
ethnicity, birth date, address, home and business phone numbers, suspect identification,
reconstruction of crime and description, location found, and disposition of physical
evidence.
Index included at beginning of series.
Microfilm Roll No.
5
Series 6 Rosters1968.
Physical Description: 3 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by record number.
Scope and Content Note
Rosters of Kennedy campaign workers and individuals present in the Colonial Room the
night of the assassination. Campaign worker rosters include name of worker, address,
and telephone number; Colonial Room rosters include name of individual present,
affiliation, brief summary of their activities just prior to and at time of shooting, and, in
some cases, interview number (see series #11, Interviews).
Index included at beginning of series.
Microfilm Roll No.
5
Series 7 Evidence Files1968.
Physical Description: 5 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by record number.
Scope and Content Note
Records created during investigation to document the receipt and evaluation of physical
evidence. Files include evidence reports, property reports and receipts, search warrants,
statements relating to a history of the gun used in the assassination, a copy of Sirhan's
notebook and related papers, and materials relating to FBI investigation of items found in
Sirhan's car and room. For physical evidence used in Sirhan's trial, see Trial Exhibits,
series #35. For evidence not used in the trial, see Physical Evidence, series #33.
Index included at beginning of series. See Appendices A and H for a list and description of
all physical evidence, whether used in Sirhan's trial or not.
13
Records of Special Unit Senator
Series 8FBI Indexes and Report1968-1969
Series 8 FBI Indexes and Report1968-1969
Physical Description: 4 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically by report date.
Scope and Content Note
Eight indexes to reports prepared by the FBI during its investigation. Each index
alphabetically lists the names of individuals and other topics that appear in the report
with a corresponding page number. Copies of the actual reports received by Special Unit
Senator were taken apart and interfiled with the interview or particular investigation to
which they related. An intact copy of the eighth report is included with the last index.
These records are restricted.
Microfilm Roll No.
5
Series 9 Polygraph Reports and Charts1968-1969.
Physical Description: 3 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by report number.
Scope and Content Note
This series consists of two record types: polygraph reports, which contain narrative
summaries of polygraph examinations administered by Special Unit Senator, including
dates of report and examination, names of examinee and examiner, and conclusions; and
polygraph charts, containing a copy of the report, a list of questions asked, and the chart
itself.
Index included at beginning of series.
Microfilm Roll No.
6
Series 10 Logs1968.
Physical Description: 14 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged by type of log and then chronologically by date of recording.
Scope and Content Note
Chronological summaries created by various divisions within LAPD concerning aspects of
the investigation. Records relate to the following areas: LAPD activities at the
Ambassador Hotel and Good Samaritan Hospital immediately after shooting; Kennedy
itinerary; unusual occurrences surrounding the assassination, including arrest summaries
and number and location where officers were assigned; sick or injury reports for officers
assigned to investigation; employee reports prepared by officers prior to shooting or by
officers assigned to investigation, including date of report and narrative summary of
events; summaries of LAPD sergeants regarding events prior to or immediately after
shooting; divisional watch lists; radio communications; press passes; Kennedy motorcade
on 5-29-1968; activity reports of LAPD officers for 6-4/6-5-1968; and verbatim
transcriptions of telephone and radio transmissions on 6-5-1968.
Index included at beginning of series.
14
Records of Special Unit Senator
Series 11Interviews1968-1969
Microfilm Roll Nos.
8-11
Series 11 Interviews1968-1969
Physical Description: 64 file folders.
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by interview number.
Scope and Content Note
Interviews conducted by LAPD and FBI to obtain an eyewitness account of what occurred
at the Ambassador Hotel and to gather information about Sirhan's background and
activities prior to his arrest. Each interview has a statement and summary report. Among
those interviewed were medical personnel who attended to the shooting victims; LAPD
officers on duty that evening; media personnel, correspondents, reporters, and
technicians covering the California primary election; campaign workers and volunteers;
hotel guests and employees; Sirhan's friends, neighbors, former teachers, classmates,
and employers; patrons of the San Gabriel Valley Gun Club; and civic-minded citizens
who reported what they saw or heard that might be related to the case. Cross references
are made to other interviews within the series.
All FBI interviews are restricted.
Although no separate index is available, the Card Index (see series #1) provides
alphabetical access to individuals and topics to be found in the interviews.
Microfilm Roll Nos.
12-1
Series 12 Final Reports1969, 1985-1986
Physical Description: 70 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically by date issued and then numerically by volume number.
Scope and Content Note
Final reports about the investigation prepared by Special Unit Senator. Three separate
reports exist: a ten-volume, 1969 edition, for in-house use only, covering all facets of the
investigation (two copies present in the files plus a "printer's copy"); a ten-volume edition
used by LAPD to indicate expurgated portions of the 1969 report (three copies present in
the files -- one is a "clean", duplicate copy of the 1969 report, one shows "highlighted"
areas suggested for redaction, and one shows the "masked" portions of the report as the
final stage in the redaction process); and a three-volume, 1986 redacted edition released
to the public (one copy present in the files). Page 736 of the 1969 report was not
microfilmed due to statutory restrictions.
All three reports cover the same general areas and include the following: events
surrounding the assassination itself; information concerning Sirhan's activities and
background; investigations of possible conspiracies; case preparation for trial; legal
processes; related events occurring after the assassination; conclusions; appendices,
principally relating to crime reports, physical evidence, coroner's autopsy, medical
treatments, and interviews; an alphabetical index; and a supplemental report that
concerns investigative activities concluded after the 1969 report had been issued. There
is no index to the 1986 edition.
For a more comprehensive description of the 1969 report's contents, see Appendix B.
15
Records of Special Unit Senator
Series 13Investigative Field Notes1968
Microfilm Roll No.
6
Series 13 Investigative Field Notes1968
Physical Description: 4 file folders.
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by interview number.
Scope and Content Note
Records prepared by case preparation team during investigation to determine progress of
Special Unit Senator's (SUS) activities and the relationship to Sirhan's impending trial.
The field notes consist largely of rough, hand-written materials prepared by investigators
during interviews (see series #11). A chart is included which shows a time-line of SUS
activities from the time of shooting to trial date.
Microfilm Roll Nos.
6-7
Series 14 Letters1968-1972
Physical Description: 8 file folders.
Arrangement
Arranged numerically.
Scope and Content Note
Correspondence from general public to LAPD concerning possible leads in the
investigation (e.g. girl in the polka dot dress); nature of the investigation itself; threats
directed at Sirhan, President Johnson, families of victims and witnesses, and Sirhan's
attorney, Russell Parsons; and numerous other facets involving the case.
Microfilm Roll No.
7
Series 15 Medical Reports1968
Physical Description: 3 file folders.
Arrangement
Arranged into three sub-series relating to Kennedy, other shooting victims, and Sirhan
respectively. Each sub-series is arranged numerically.
Scope and Content Note
Reports and interviews prepared by Special Unit Senator concerning the medical aspects
of the investigation. Records include crime reports, interviews with physicians or nurses,
and medical treatment reports. In addition, Kennedy's file has copies of the ambulance
call record, Central Receiving Hospital ambulance call log, death certificate, and following
investigation concerning procedures at Central Receiving and Good Samaritan hospitals.
Other records in Sirhan's file include psychiatric test results, a proposal for a
psychological study of Sirhan, interviews with physicians and officers assigned to Los
Angeles County Jail, Felony Section, and an FBI report of Sirhan's treatment and quarters
at the jail.
Index included at beginning of each file.
Microfilm Roll No.
15
Series 16 News Media Files1968-1969
Physical Description: 18 file folders.
Arrangement
Arranged into three sub-series: publications, arranged numerically by item number;
newspaper clippings, arranged chronologically by date of publication and then
alphabetically by name of newspaper; and a transcript of an NBC interview of Sirhan
conducted on 5-23-1969.
Scope and Content Note
News items and publications collected by Special Unit Senator to develop leads for the
investigation. Major subjects focus on Kennedy's shooting and death, conspiracy theories,
Sirhan and his trial, and Sirhan's family.
16
Records of Special Unit Senator
Series 17Motion Picture Films1968
Series 17 Motion Picture Films1968
Physical Description: 14 films
Arrangement
Arranged into two sub-series: films concerned with events immediately prior to or after
the shooting; other events associated with the Kennedy campaign.
Scope and Content Note
Contains 16mm motion picture film collected or created by Special Unit Senator (SUS) for
use during the investigation. SUS created one composite film that covers the
assassination and its aftermath and was developed using portions of other films found in
the series. Another item, now available only as a VHS videotape, is a reproduction of a
16mm film showing a reinactment of the assassination, witnesses reviewing polka-dot
dresses, and other segments produced by SUS. Researcher Greg Stone received these
tapes in 1987 from the LA County District Attorney's Office. Stone in turn gave them to
Dr. Phil Melanson who transferred them to the State Archives in September 1992. It is
believed the original film has been lost or destroyed. The other films were produced by
television networks, local affiliates, and private organizations.
For public access and use, the films (except the reinactment film) were transferred to one
videotape (VHS cassette format) by the State Archives over a period ending on
1-22-1988.
For a listing of the films, see Appendix C.
Microfilm Roll No.
7
Series 18 Phone Call Summaries1968
Physical Description: 1 file folder
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically by date and time of call.
Scope and Content Note
Summaries of telephone calls received by Rampart Detective Division, LAPD,
6-5/6-11-1968, relating to the Kennedy shooting. Information includes date and time of
call, who received call, identity, address, and telephone number of caller, and summary
of conversation.
17
Records of Special Unit Senator
Series 19Photographs1968-1969
Microfilm Roll Nos.
16-17
Series 19 Photographs1968-1969
Physical Description: 2,876 photographs, 1,189 negatives
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by item number. Photographs have been placed in albums and
negatives are stored separately.
Scope and Content Note
Photographs taken by Special Unit Senator and LAPD during the course of their
investigation and by amateur and professional photographers who were present at the
crime scene. Images depict key figures in the investigation; evidence, the crime scene
before, during, and after the assassination; investigative activities such as trajectory
studies and walk-throughs of the crime scene by officials; and Kennedy campaign
activities. Two groups of photographs, "Case prep. notebook" (Q101-102) and "Complete
set of photos taken by the FBI" (Q85), offer a good overview of the investigation.
Copy negatives are available for all prints except photographs of documents which can
be obtained from the microfilm. Access to copy and original negatives is restricted.
Reference prints for all negatives which were not previously printed by LAPD are also
available at the end of the series. These prints were not microfilmed.
Autopsy and post-operative photographs are restricted per California Code of Civil
Procedure, section 129.
Index included at the beginning of each photograph album. A listing and description of
photographs may be found in Appendix F.
Series 20 Record and Background Check Files1968-1969
Physical Description: 33 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by worksheet number.
Scope and Content Note
Records prepared or received by Special Unit Senator (SUS) during the investigation to
determine criminal background, if any, of witnesses or individuals interviewed. Each
individual was subject to a background check initiated by the following agencies: Records
and Identification Division (LAPD); Intelligence Division (LAPD); Bureau of Identification
and Investigation (California Dept. of Justice); and the FBI. Results were utilized to
evaluate credibility of individuals and to determine their previous involvement with
militant or subversive groups.
Files contain worksheets which include subject's name, address, sex, race, hair and eye
color, height and weight, SUS file number, and birth date, action taken, and notice of
record checks completed by which agency; and the background record itself, including
name of agency, name and aliases of subject, dates arrested or received, identification
number, charges, and disposition. Several numbers are missing.
Restricted per provisions of the California Penal Code, sections 11105, 11140, and 11143.
18
Records of Special Unit Senator
Series 21Progress Reports1968-1969
Microfilm Roll No.
7
Series 21 Progress Reports1968-1969
Physical Description: 3 file folders.
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by report number.
Scope and Content Note
Reports prepared by Special Unit Senator (SUS) on the status of various aspects of the
investigation. Reports were developed by the following SUS sub-units: case preparation
team; background/conspiracy team; record section; and San Gabriel Valley Gun Club
team. Reports include name of reporting sub-unit, date of report, subject, to whom
addressed, narrative summary of activities, period covered by report, and name(s) of
reporting officer(s). Of special interest is the last report regarding dissemination of
information to the public.
Index included at beginning of series.
Microfilm Roll No.
18
Series 22 Transcripts1968-1969
Physical Description: 73 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by transcript number.
Scope and Content Note
Transcripts of recorded interviews prepared by LAPD. Only a small fraction of the
interviews were transcribed. Principally, the transcripts focus on witnesses and victims at
the Ambassador Hotel, Sirhan, and his family, and people that saw Sirhan prior to
6-5-1968.
Transcript #46 is a reporter's transcript of the Los Angeles County Grand Jury
proceedings of 6-7-1968, The People of the State of California vs. Sirhan Bishara Sirhan
(Case No. A233421). For related information, see series #29, Reporter's Daily Transcripts.
Transcript #71 is restricted as it contains FBI information relating to Sirhan's interviews.
See Appendix D for an alphabetical index to transcripts.
Microfilm Roll No.
7
Series 23 Tape Summaries1968
Physical Description: 2 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged alphabetically by name of interviewee and numerically by summary number.
Scope and Content Note
Summaries of taped interviews prepared during the investigation. Only a portion of the
interviews were recorded and only a small fraction of the recorded tapes were
transcribed (see series #22, Transcripts). All the summaries also appear in series #11,
Interviews, arranged by interview number. The summaries include interviewee's name,
sex, race, hair and eye color, height and weight, birth date, residence and business
address, home and business phone numbers, narrative summary of interview, file and
tape numbers, date and time of interview, and name of interviewer. Some summaries do
not have an assigned number.
19
Records of Special Unit Senator
Series 24Vehicle Reports1968
Microfilm Roll No.
7
Series 24 Vehicle Reports1968
Physical Description: 1 file folder
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by report number.
Scope and Content Note
Contains records relating to automobiles owned by Sirhan and Robert Gindroz. File
includes reports, vehicle impound notice and inventory, car registrations, investigation of
Sirhan's driving record, and list of license numbers recorded by LAPD at Ambassador
Hotel on 6-5-1968.
Index included at beginning of series.
Microfilm Roll No.
7
Series 25 Legal Files1968-1969
Physical Description: 2 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by document number.
Scope and Content Note
Records relating to legal proceedings involved in Sirhan's trial. Included are: FBI reports
of legal action and discussion between Jordanian officials and U.S. State Dept. regarding
assistance for Sirhan from Jordan; progress reports from lawyers and the court about the
case; Sheriff's custody file; Sirhan's visitor list; list of reports given to the defense; list of
chief prosecution witnesses; court summaries of trial proceedings; opening statements by
prosecution and defense attorneys; and a court order limiting publicity.
Index included at beginning of series.
Microfilm Roll No.
19
Series 26 Case Preparation Files 1968-1969
Physical Description: 8 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged topically by type of record.
Scope and Content Note
Files compiled by Special Unit Senator's case preparation team to assist the District
Attorney in the prosecution of Sirhan. Team duties consisted of interviewing potential
witnesses, evaluating and preserving evidence, and investigating matters as directed by
legal staff. The files include: interview reports; and related documentation, including
crime, death, and arrest reports, autopsy summary, physical mock-ups of crime scene,
LAPD logs and teletypes, case progress reports, information relating to ballistics,
handwriting, fingerprints, and San Gabriel Valley Gun Club.
Various indices may be found throughout the series.
20
Records of Special Unit Senator
Series 27Conspiracy Investigation Files1968-1969
Microfilm Roll Nos.
19-20
Series 27 Conspiracy Investigation Files1968-1969
Physical Description: 36 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged topically by investigation.
Scope and Content Note
Records of separate investigations conducted by Special Unit Senator to examine
possible conspiracy leads. Investigation topics include: Sandra Serrano and the polka dot
dress; Cathy Sue Fulmer; The Fez restaurant; Khaibar Khan; Theodore Charach; John
Fahey; Fernando Faura; Jonn Christian; Antoine Fouad Khoury; Jerry Owen; Walter Crowe,
Jr.; Jose Duarte; John Khoury; Golden Garter Inn; Michael Vejvoda; San Gabriel Valley Gun
Club; Michael Wayne and Keith Gilbert; Ahmed Rageh Namer; and Michael McGowan and
David Kassab. Files consist mainly of police and FBI interviews, evidence reports,
progress reports, and correspondence.
An index may be found at the beginning of each topic.
FBI interviews are restricted.
Microfilm Roll No.
20
Series 28 Sirhan Family Files1968-1969
Physical Description: 25 file folders
Arrangement
Arranged topically by subject or family member.
Scope and Content Note
Contains information relating to various aspects of Sirhan and his family's life. Records on
Sirhan concern his early years in Jerusalem, education, employment, financial status,
medical history, criminal background, social, religious, and political activities, and
philosophical leanings. Information was also gathered about his father, Bishara; his
mother, Mary; deceased sister, Aida; and brothers, Sharif, Saidallah, Adel, and Munir.
Included in the files are police and FBI interviews and reports, U.S. Immigration and
Naturalization Service records, school records, correspondence, and newspaper clippings.
An index may be found at the beginning of each subject.
Contains some FBI records which are restricted.
Microfilm Roll No.
21
Series 29 Reporter's Daily Transcripts1968-1969
Physical Description: 29 volumes
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by volume number.
Scope and Content Note
Court transcripts prepared during the trial of Sirhan -- Los Angeles County Superior Court
No. A233421, The People of the State of California vs. Sirhan Bishara Sirhan. The
transcripts cover testimony taken in the trail from December 18, 1968 through February
4, 1969.
For a complete record of the case file, contact the Clerk of the Superior Court, Los
Angeles County.
21
Records of Special Unit Senator
Series 30Tape Recorded Interviews1968-1969
Series 30 Tape Recorded Interviews1968-1969
Physical Description: 193 items
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by tape number.
Scope and Content Note
Consists of reel-to-reel and cassette tape recordings of selected interviews. Only a
handful of interviews were tape recorded. For related information, see series #11,
Interviews; #22, Transcripts; and #23, Tape Summaries.
The audio tapes have been reproduced in cassette format by the State Archives. A
summary and index to all audio tapes (except the Wolfer Board tapes) may be found in
Appendix E.
Series 31 Stenotype Notes1968-1969
Physical Description: 22 bundles
Arrangement
Arranged alphabetically by surname.
Scope and Content Note
Shorthand notes prepared from a stenotype machine as an intermediate step in
developing a transcript from a tape recorded interview. Notes are not available for all
transcripts (see series #22, Transcripts). Several sets of notes were not transcribed,
including Virginia Teresi (tape #29244), Evan Freed (tape #29241), George Erhard, Jr.
(tape #29260), and Frank Mankiewicz (tape #29203).
Series 32 Magnetic Tapes1968
Physical Description: 5 reels
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically.
Scope and Content Note
Recorded telephone and radio logs of LAPD for the dates 5-15-1968 and 6-4/6-5-1968.
The tapes cover all telephone and radio messages. Some information relating to the
Kennedy assassination or campaign was extracted by LAPD and created as evidence item
#116 (see series #7, Evidence Files and #33, Physical Evidence).
Because the Archives does not have the specialized equipment necessary to playback the
magnetic tapes, access is currently unavailable.
Series 33 Physical Evidence1968
Physical Description: 73 items
Arrangement
Arranged numerically by item number.
Scope and Content Note
Physical evidence collected by Special Unit Senator (SUS) during the investigation.
Items #55, 116, and 143 (all reel-to-reel audio tapes) were transferred to two cassette
audio tapes by the State Archives on February 9 and 11, 1988 to improve access. The
first cassette tape contains an interview with Jerry Owen conducted by Jonn Christian. The
second cassette tape consists of three items in the following order: a tape recording by
Andy West of Kennedy's speech and shooting on 6-5-1968; an LAPD composite tape of
radio and telephone calls on 6-5-1968; and a KHJ radio interview with Harold Weisberg on
6-19-1968.
See Appendix A for a complete list of all physical evidence.
22
Records of Special Unit Senator
Series 33Physical Evidence1968
Records Relating To Re-Investigations of The Kennedy Assassination
Scope and Content Note
Following Sirhan's trial, numerous questions were raised by various organizations and
individuals concerning LAPD's investigation of the Kennedy assassination. In response to
such questions and other requests, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, the Los
Angeles Superior Court, and LAPD initiated a series of re-investigations into the case. These
investigations, conducted during the period 1974-1978, primarily focused on ballistic and
bullet trajectory studies.
These records were received by LAPD and stored with the Special Unit Senator records until
their transfer to the State Archives in August 1987.
23
Records Relating To Re-Investigations of The Kennedy Assassination
Series 35Re-investigative Files1974-1978
Microfilm Roll No.
22
Series 35 Re-investigative Files1974-1978
Physical Description: 22 file folders, 6 videotapes, 3 audio tapes
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically by date of investigation.
Scope and Content Note
Records relating to re-investigations of the Kennedy assassination. The following
materials are included:
A 1974 hearing of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors relating to Herbert
MacDonell's contention that not all bullets recovered at the crime scene came from one
gun. Included are memoranda and correspondence about jurisdiction in the matter,
transcript of a Supervisor's meeting, diagrams of bullet trajectories, correspondence with
the FBI, and District Attorney Busch's comments regarding the hearing;
A 1974 Los Angeles County Superior Court investigation into the storage of evidence by
the Clerk of the Court;
A 1974 inquiry by Allard Lowenstein concerning a "second gun" theory;
A 1975 request from Paul Schrade to LAPD regarding a personal injury suit he wished to
file against Sirhan;
A 1975 series of articles by Ralph Blumenfield that appeared in the New York Post;
A 1975 investigation of the bullets ordered by the Los Angeles County Superior Court.
Includes reports and worksheets filed by seven LAPD firearms examiners;
A 1975 LAPD investigation of the trajectory issue involving the removal of wood facings
and related materials from the pantry area of the Ambassador Hotel. Included are a
search warrant, lists of items removed from the hotel, evidence reports, field notes,
photographs, interviews, and videotapes. The investigation was based on statements
attributed to two LAPD officers and hotel staff who observed apparent or actual bullet
holes at the crime scene. Note: the six U-matic videotapes were transferred by the State
Archives to six VHS videotapes on February 10, 1988;
1975-1977 correspondence with Los Angeles Unified School District, Los Angeles Board of
Police Commissioners, and Los Angeles City Attorney's office regarding public access to
the final report;
An October 1975 LAPD tape recording of an interview with Don Schulman concerning
statements attributed to him;
A 1976 statement by LAPD in response to Art Kevin's 6-7-1976 editorial, "RFK Report", for
KMC News;
A 1976 inquiry to LAPD from Valley Publications, Inc. concerning access to assassination
records;
A 1977 report by Special Counsel Thomas Kranz on the assassination investigation. Kranz
was appointed by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors to conduct an
independent investigation;
A June 1977 allegation, on audio tape, by Betty Mishell that her ex-husband Beryle Mick,
an LAPD officer, was involved in Kennedy's assassination;
A 1977-1978 inquiry into the storage of the model of the Ambassador Hotel pantry;
A 1978 investigation by the U.S. House of Representatives, Select Committee on
Assassinations;
An 11-21-1978 interview of Allen Globerson;
Miscellaneous court documents relating to inspection of court exhibits; and
An audio tape of a 12-19-1975 interview of Wesley Harrington.
Exhibits From Sirhan's Trial, Case No. A233421
24
Exhibits From Sirhan's Trial, Case No. A233421
Series 36Trial Exhibits1968-1969, 1975
Series 36 Trial Exhibits1968-1969, 1975
Physical Description: 152 file folders, 655 photographs, 67 items
Arrangement
Arranged by category (e.g. Grand Jury, Trial, Special Hearing), then by litigant (People or
Defense), and then numerically or alphabetically by exhibit designation.
Scope and Content Note
Physical evidence collected by Special Unit Senator during the investigation and later
used as exhibits during the Grand Jury and Superior Court proceedings against Sirhan
(No. A233421). Also included are items of evidence not used as exhibits and materials
used during the Special Hearing undertaken by Los Angeles County authorities in 1975.
The exhibits include a wide range of materials: Sirhan's gun; crime scene evidence such
as .22 cartridges; bullet fragments taken from victims; Sirhan's wallet and car keys;
newspapers; books and notebooks found in Sirhan's room; psychiatric tests given to
Sirhan; audio tapes of interviews with Sirhan; ballistic studies; recording tapes from
Sirhan's trial; Sirhan's clothing; a wooden mock-up of the Embassy ballroom and foyer at
the Ambassador Hotel; and a wide variety of photographs.
Physical evidence not used in court proceedings may also be found in series #33
(Physical Evidence). Many of the photographs used as exhibits were originally part of
series #19 (Photographs) -- see Appendix F for missing "Q" numbers.
For a listing and description of exhibits, see Appendix H.
All autopsy photographs are restricted by provisions of the California Code of Civil
Procedure, section 129.
Records of The Wolfer Board of Inquiry
Scope and Content Note
In 1971, LAPD Chief of Police E.M. Davis appointed a board of inquiry to investigate
allegations made against officer DeWayne Wolfer who was being considered for the chief
forensic chemist position within the department. In the course of the investigation, the board
examined three cases in which Wolfer had been involved, including the Kennedy
assassination. Wolfer had been a witness at Sirhan's trial and had conducted the primary
ballistic and bullet trajectory studies related to the case. The board focused on an
examination into the techniques and procedures used by Wolfer, transcripts and evidence
from the cases, and statements of outside authorities.
Although only a portion of these records relate directly to the Kennedy assassination, they
were stored by LAPD with the Special Unit Senator materials until their transfer to the State
Archives in August 1987.
25
Records of The Wolfer Board of Inquiry
Series 37Wolfer Board Files1969, 1971, 1974
Microfilm Roll Nos.
23-24
Series 37 Wolfer Board Files1969, 1971, 1974
Physical Description: 32 file folders, 5 audio tapes, 9 photographs
Arrangement
Arranged alphabetically by addendum which corresponds to the case under investigation:
Doyle Terry, one file folder; Jack Kirschke, 12 file folders; and Sirhan Sirhan, 19 file
folders.
Scope and Content Note
Records relating to an investigation of allegations against LAPD forensic expert, DeWayne
Wolfer. Much of the information centers on presentations of technical ballistics
procedures used by Wolfer in the three cases and whether his actions conformed to
acceptable forensic principles. Types of materials include court transcripts and briefs,
letters, memoranda, declarations, affidavits, newspaper clippings, job announcements,
exhibit and property lists, reports, and publications. The audio tapes, summarized below,
include interviews with Jack Merritt, Thomas Noguchi, Don Schulman, and Baxter
Ward(2). The following photographs, all prints, are available: two of Barbara Blehr, the
attorney who initiated the investigation; four of Sirhan's gun; one of the pantry mock-up;
and two of the bullet trajectory study in the pantry area. Almost all of the materials date
from 1971.
A table of contents is included at the beginning of each addendum which serves as an
index to records included in the file.
Some records within the Wolfer Board files are not open for research. Included in this
group are records originating with the FBI; criminal rap sheets; school records containing
information about individual students; records containing information about the arrest or
conviction of juveniles; and information not related to the Sirhan case which is entirely of
a personal nature or not germane to the Kennedy assassination.
Summary of Wolfer Audio Tapes
Jack Merritt: July 26, 1971
Scope and Content Note
Security guard, Ace Guard Service. Describes entering pantry, drawing gun upon hearing
RFK had been shot. Saw a woman and two men exiting pantry. Woman said either, "We
got him." or "He got him.". Woman appeared happy, waving signs and displaying a
victory sign. Other guards were in pantry, but did not draw their guns to his knowledge.
Merritt believes there was a conspiracy.
Dr. Thomas Noguchi: July 28, 1971
Scope and Content Note
LA County Coroner. Noguchi describes RFK's wounds and concludes that muzzle distance
of gun likely one inch from RFK's right ear. Says assailant was not face to face.
Donald Schulman: July 23, 1971
Scope and Content Note
KNXT News employee. He describes assisting television camera crew and being in pantry
at time of shooting. Says he saw a security guard pull his gun. Not absolutely sure the
guard fired the gun. Investigators suggest Schulman did not see what he thought he saw.
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Summary of Wolfer Audio Tapes
Baxter Ward: July 28, 1971
Baxter Ward: July 28, 1971
Scope and Content Note
Broadcast of television or radio program where Ward is questioning why LAPD used a
second gun for test firing while they had access to Sirhan's gun and why LAPD denied
having access to the actual gun.
Baxter Ward: July 28-29, 1971
Part I:
Scope and Content Note
Ward describes discrepancy between marking on bullet envelope by Coroner Noguchi
and DeWayne Wolfer's comments on the number of grooves on test bullet. Noguchi
wrote "five grooves" and said Wolfer checked bullets. Wolfer later said "six grooves".
Part II:
Scope and Content Note
Duplicate of July 28, 1971 tape described above.
Part III:
Scope and Content Note
Ted Charach responding to Wolfer's attorney who charged there was a conspiracy
against Wolfer. Charach among those charging that Wolfer had concealed evidence.
Charach wants Wolfer to explain why the test bullets didn't match bullets taken from
RFK and shooting victim William Weisel.
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