SHELL, Francix - Blackmail Charge
Francis SHELL – blackmail charge
Source: Indianapolis Star, 9 October 1921
Anderson, Ind Oct 8- William H. Thomas of Lapel today filed an affidavit in Circuit Court charging Francis M. Shell, postmaster at Yeddo, Fountain County with blackmail. A warrant was sent to Yeddo for the postmaster’s arrest. Thomas says that he roomed at the Shell home 14 years ago while he was a school teacher in Yeddo but has not bee in Yeddo for 12 years. Thomas alleges Shell approached him at Lapel in July and threatening to kill him if he did not turn over $1,000 accused him of ruining his home 14 years ago. Thomas says that he feared Shell and gave him $200. Since July Mr. Thomas alleges that he has received many threatening letters from Shell. Those letters were shown to the prosecuting attorney and resulted in the blackmail charge. Thomas denies any improper relations with Mrs. Shell. - kbz