Daily Review (Hayward, California) - February 8, 1957
Modesto Sex
Gang Smashed
MODESTO, - A police crack-down on an alleged homosexual ring known as the "Lavender Gang" was revealed today with the arrest of two Modestoans, including a former department store manager.
Police Chief James Neel announced 15 to 20 persons, including some bay area, Salinas and Merced desidents, are believed to be members of the ring. He said more arrests are planned.
Charged with lewd and lascivious conduct is Elmer J. Kreuger, 55, who resigned from his managerial post Saturday after being employed by the chain store for 24 years.
Accused of sodomy as well as lewd and lascivious conduct is William Howard Moore, 26, office worker for a dairy products distribution firm.
Neel said the charges against Kreuger involved a 22-year-old Modesto junior college student who worked at the department store. Neel said Kreuer was not connected with the "Lavender Gang".
The chief reported Moore admitted he had associated with known homosexuals in Modesto and the bay area and had hosted all male parties. He was arrested on the complaint of a 14-year-old Modesto boy who told of being present at the parties.
