21st Precinct - The Platform

Captain Frank Kennelly, in command of the 21st Precinct, was working the night shift, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 AM. It was a busy night in the precinct. At 9:20 PM, Patrolman Joseph McGill rang in stating that he had reason to believe there was a dice game in progress in the rear of a barbershop on his post. The desk officer, Lieutenant Harry Snyder, conveyed this information to Kennelly, who instructed him to notify the 6th Division plainclothes men whose job it is to enforce the laws relating to gambling. With the assistance of Patrolman McGill, two men from Sector Car number two, and Captain Kennelly, the suspected premises were raided. Seventeen men were placed under arrest. The patrol wagon was summoned, and they were brought to the station house for booking. The muster room was swarming with suspects and police officers. Meanwhile, a lady had arrived at the precinct and was waiting to speak with a police officer. Sergeant Waters, who is answering the phones, says "It will be just a minute, lady". Kennelly says "You take the calls, Sergeant, I'll talk to the lady". He turns to her and says "I'm Captain Kennelly". She says "How do you do?" Kennelly says "It's awfully busy here. Supposing you step into my office". She says "All right. I don't mean to be any bother". Kennelly says "In here, please". She asks "Is it like that all the time? So busy?" he says "Not all the time, no. Would you sit down, uh ...." She says "Mrs. Tarpan, Mrs. Eva Tarpan". Kennelly says "Ah, would you sit down, Mrs. Tarpan?" Eva says "Thank you". Kennelly asks "Well, what can we do for you?" Eva says "I've been married for fifteen years, but if I tell you, I might as well move out, or get kicked out". Kennelly asks "Is it something about your husband?" Eva says "Yes. And no, it's about his brother". What's the trouble with him?" Eva says "He's crazy, insane". Kennelly says "Well, Mrs. Tarpan, that's not our job". Eva says "He shot his wife, killed her". Kennelly asks "When did this happen?" Eva says "Six or seven weeks ago at his home in Brooklyn". Kennelly asks "Has he been arrested?" Eva says "No, they're looking for him".