Donald L. Smith

Not Released Unharmed: Kidnap Victims Donald L. Smith

Rich with little-known details in the infamous Lindbergh kidnapping case, the day Machine-Gun Kelly coined the term "G-Men", and the events and trails-of-evidence in a variety of kidnappings, Not Released Unharmed- Kidnap Victims offers a fascinating look at historical highlights of American crime and investigation. Written by retired FBI Special Agent Donald L. Smith, the book is a survey of tragedy juxtaposed with rescue and relief; of pursuit and capture; of justice and injustice. In these stories, some kidnap victims survive, some do not. Some of the characters are scarred for life, others find forgiveness and redemption. But, just as Smith entitles his book, none are released unharmed. A preview of actual FBI cases covered in this book: Wood evidence (the ladder) in the Lindbergh case trial and some previously undisclosed evidence. Kidnap of a wealthy Oklahoma oil man, his captivity and release nine days later. Machine Gun Kelly captured unarmed and afraid, shouting the famous line "Don't shoot G-men! Don't shoot G-men". Kidnapping of a 9-year-old boy who was released after seven days. Years later he gave a job to one of his kidnappers because he credited him with saving his life. Also included is an account of a recent telephone interview between this victim (now over 80) and the author. A 72-year-old businessman who was kidnapped. A $50, 000 ransom was paid but he was not released. About a week afterward, one of the kidnappers shot him, then turned and shot his own partner. He buried both in the same grave. A boy kidnapped from his school by a woman claiming to be his aunt. Ransom was paid, but the boy had been killed right after his abduction. The kidnappers were apprehended, tried and executed. The kicker-over half of the $600, 000 was never found, though one vehemently claimed the money was in his possession when he was arrested by two police officers. The officers were tried and sent to prison. The mone