The Badge

The Badge, by radio and television star Jack Webb (first published in 1958), provides an in-depth look at the Los Angeles Police Department of the 1950s - its organization from the Commission and Chief to the officer on the beat, to the various records, forensic, and research departments. Also included are detailed accounts of infamous crimes, criminals and scandals that rocked Los Angeles during that time, including behind-the-scenes accounts of the Black Dahlia murder, the Brenda Allen confessions, Stephen Nash's "thrill murders," Donald Bashor's "sleeping lady murders," and problems with narcotics, gangs, prostitution, and gambling. Webb offers an sympathetic look at the men and women of the LAPD, and provides insight into problems still affecting the department today. Included are 35 pages of photographs.