The Purple Gang had almost complete immunity from police, due to fear of retaliation. That didn't stop FBI director J. Edgar Hoover from trying.
Files obtained from the FBI show that between 1933 and 1945, Hoover continually investigated tips on the whereabouts of the Purple Gang.
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The files include written letters to the bureau offering evidence and other information to the illegal activities of the Purples, including murder, kidnappings and bootlegging.
MORE: When the 'Purple Gang' ruled Detroit
Read the official FBI documents on the Purple Gang below:
FBI vs. Purple Gang (aka Sugar Hill Gang) Part 1
FBI vs. Purple Gang (aka Sugar Hill Gang) Part 2
FBI vs. Purple Gang (aka Sugar Hill Gang) Part 3
FBI vs. Purple Gang (aka Sugar Hill Gang) Part 4