Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Teen-aged Anti-semites Arrested in Virginia; Linked to Neo-nazi Group

October 15, 1959
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

The existence of a “Nazi Storm Troop” of about 20 high school boys was disclosed here today as police made known the arrest of three teen-aged anti-Semites. The group was suspected of recent activities involving defacement of property with anti-Jewish slogans, arson and theft of rifles and ammunition.

Police said some of the youths were linked with George Lincoln Rockwell, self-styled commander of a neo-Nazi organization in nearby Arlington. Rockwell, a former naval officer, has spread anti-Jewish propaganda in the nation’s capital area for about two years. Youths aged 14, 17 and 18 are accused in the fire bombing of the home of the Vice-Mayor of Alexandria. Anti-Jewish and Nazi slogans were pasted on the doorway.

At a Juvenile Court hearing today, the 14-year-old pleaded guilty to arson charges. Sentencing was postponed for two weeks. Juvenile Court Jurisdiction was waived on the 17-year-old who was ordered held for Grand Jury action on charges of conspiracy and violation of probation. The 18-year-old, Lloyd J. Conner, was held for the Grand Jury on arson and burglary charges.

The father of the 14-year-old revealed the existence of the Nazi “Storm Troopers” at the local high school. He indicated the movement was inspired by Rockwell. Alexandria school superintendent T. C. Williams announced that he would launch an inquiry. Informants stated the group included Rockwell’s disciples and was supplied with Nazi insignia, swastika arm bands and anti-Jewish material in pamphlet form.

The Vice-Mayor, whose home was the target of arson and anti-Jewish propaganda, is a non-Jew. His wife, also a Christian, is a Juvenile Court Judge.

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement