The Captive City

Newspaper editor and co-owner who begins investigating bookmaking after a detective’s death. He endures harassment and bribery as he chronicles events, aiming to bring the truth to light for a Senate Crime Commission hearing.

Jim’s wife and steadfast ally. She accompanies him as danger mounts, supporting the crusade for truth while facing the risks of a town steeped in corruption.

The major bookmaker whose gambling empire finances and fuels the town’s underworld. He attempts to manipulate events with bribes and uses his influence to shield the operation from exposure.

Wife of Sirak who becomes entangled in the case; she is murdered after agreeing to reveal Fabretti’s role, highlighting the peril faced by whistleblowers.

The Police Chief who represents the upholding of order and the complicity of authorities with criminal activity; his stance influences the investigation and its risks.

A law enforcement figure involved in the town’s struggle with illegal gambling; his role reflects the tension between police action and political pressure.

A town figure connected to the investigation; his exact role is part of the broader social fabric of Kennington as the case unfolds.

A gangster associated with Fabretti, representing the criminal muscle behind the gambling operation and its protection rackets.

A minister who becomes involved in the community’s response to crime, offering moral perspective amid political and criminal pressure.

A resident of Kennington tied to the Harding family; his presence grounds the community impact of the investigation and its repercussions.

Wife of Phil Harding; she reflects the personal toll of crime and corruption on families within the town.

A town resident who participates in the unfolding events; his involvement highlights the broader social network surrounding the case.

A local resident who intersects with the investigation; her role underscores the collective impact of crime on ordinary citizens.

Duplicate entry kept for cast completeness; see above for Marge Austin.

A younger member of the community connected to the case; her perspective illustrates the social dynamics surrounding the investigation.

A town figure whose role intersects with the investigative milieu; his actions contribute to the fabric of Kennington’s crime-and-cover-up plot.

A minor character in the town’s social circle; represents the everyday people drawn into the investigation’s orbit.

The coroner who participates in the aftermath of the crimes; his presence underscores the legal and medical processes surrounding the case.

Private detective who uncovered police complicity with illegal gambling before his death; his findings set the investigation in motion.