An intensified search for Rene Bolduc, alleged ringleader of the anti-Jewish riots which occurred in the summer resort town of Plage Level five weeks ago, has been ordered by Recorder Desire Des Bois, who is hearing the charges against 18-year-old Andre Bigras, who was also involved in the disturbances.
Describing the riots as not merely an “accidental outburst,” but “in reality a racial war between French-Canadians and Jews,” Recorder Des Bois criticized Plage Laval police chief Bolduc, father of the fugitive, for not making any serious efforts to apprehend his son. When Chief Bolduc protested that he had been unable to find Rene, the recorder told him to enlist the aid of the provincial police, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, if necessary.
Several defense witnesses, in attempting to exonerate Bigras of any guilt in connection with the riots, freely admitted that they were instigated by Rene Bolduc. Their testimony indicated the existence of a band of hoodlum youths organized to molest the Jews in the neighborhood. It was revealed at the trial that Moe Hersovitch, former Canadian Olympic champion, who may lose the sight of an eye as a result of injuries suffered during the riots, was still too ill to appear in court.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
