Crime Fighting Poker Goes Behind Bars

Thursday, 26 July 2007

Officials in Florida have distributed a crime solving deck of cards amongst local prisoners. The deck features the faces of missing persons and the murder victims whose cases are unsolved.

Officials in Florida have distributed a crime solving deck of cards amongst local prisoners. The deck features the faces of missing persons and the murder victims whose cases are unsolved. It is hoped that prisoners may come forward with information about the cases.
The move was inspired by the ‘most wanted’ playing cards distributed amongst poker playing American soldiers shortly before the US invasion of Iraq in 2003. These showed the faces of Saddam Hussein, who was the ace of spades, and other figures thought to threaten US national security.
Putting fugitives on the Florida decks was considered, but cold cases were thought to be better as most fugitives are caught quickly while cold cases usually stay cold.
Special Agent Tommy Ray said.
‘What better way to get them talking than to have cards with the cases on them? These are people who have been in there for years. That's the best source of information. There are a couple of high-profile cases I think we'll get solved.’
The cold case team released a trial deck in Polk County which led to the resolution of one unsolved case. This success has led to the scheme going state-wide.
Special Agent Ray has had enquiries from officials interested in launching similar initiatives from other states and even Australia.



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