Throttled! The Detection of the German and Anarchist Bomb Plotters

by Thomas J. (Thomas Joseph) Tunney

"Throttled! The Detection of the German and Anarchist Bomb Plotters" by Inspector Thomas J. Tunney is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles Tunney’s experiences leading the Bomb Squad of the New York Police Department as they worked to thwart terrorist activities during World War I. It delves into the challenges faced by law enforcement as they tackled the threat posed by German spies and domestic anarchists in the turbulent period leading up to the United States' entry into the war. At the start of the book, Tunney introduces the formation of the Bomb Squad in August 1914, emphasizing its role in maintaining order amidst the growing menace of violence in New York City. He shares his extensive background in bomb detection and describes the operational methods and teamwork needed to confront the increasingly aggressive activities perpetrated by German agents and anarchistic groups. The opening portion sets the stage for detailed accounts of investigations, undercover work, and the inner workings of law enforcement during a time of national crisis, revealing the complexities of crime detection in a city rife with enemy agents.