Vanderbilt Television News Archive

(Studio) Report on methods and weapons police use.
REPORTER: Harry Reasoner

(New York) Hidden sniper fires shots in Police car. Damage cited. 2 officers had multiple cuts. Police sergeant ducked after 1st shot. Patrolman says he'd say extra prayers. Shooting occurred close to site where 2 other police shotgunned from ambush. Some militants declare war on police.
REPORTER: John Laurence

(Summit, Illinois) Shots fired at police in car. Car damaged; police only cut.
REPORTER: John Laurence

(Los Angeles, California) Gun battles between police and Negroes common in riots. City Council discusses Watts riot, where 3 blacks killed; 5 police hurt and 42 citizens hurt. As result of such incidents, some hate police. Witnesses testify with regard to police savagery. [Black MAN - says because women, children and selves beaten and shot at while on sts. will shoot at every policeman he sees. He is mad, sick and fed up and he'll shoot any cop, no matter what color.]
REPORTER: John Laurence

(Cleveland, Ohio) 3 officers killed in Jul. in gun battle with Negroes.
REPORTER: John Laurence

(Cleveland, Ohio) [POLICEMAN - says we bought our own equipment. We want something heavier to help us.] Police car involved in chase shown. [2nd POLICEMAN - declines to say what gun is and why he bought it. It's his own personal gun and he bought it for personal protection. Can't fight hi-powered rifle with 6-shooter. Feels safer; has fire power of 3 police. It's rapid fire weapon.]
REPORTER: Josh Darsa

(Cleveland, Ohio) Weapon shown is the Universal 30 caliber M-1 pistol. It's semi-automatic and costs $120. Police Department regulations forbid carrying of such weapons. Specialized squad may be organization to fight well-armed snipers. Police and ghetto don't trust each other.
REPORTER: John Laurence