The Northwest Enterprise

"Miracle Man" Dupes Dixie Whites

HOUSTON. Tex. (Special) -

Discovery has been made here that scores of green white men and women have been duped by a shrewd Negro confidence man.

As a result, J. Charles, of East 31st Street will be called before the grand jury to answer charges of aggravated assault filed by five white women victims of the so-called "miracle man". Charles made $2000 bond Friday and was released.

A book containing the names of 800 patients about half of them white men and women, was being checked in an effort to identify those who had registered. As no addresses were given in the book it was impossible to locate all of them. Many however. are personally known to members of the district attorney's office.

Among the healer's patients was a man suspected of several robberies. Others occupy responsible positions. Among them is a capitalist, banker and a high school principal. Pressure is being brought to bear on the district attorney's office to suppress information concerning "Doctor" Charles' white clients.

"Doc" Charles, a tall, good looking black man with mustache and goatee, blended religion, mysticism and "medicine" in his treatments. investigators said.

He wore red silk robes and turban in center of which was a large star of brilliants. He performed mysterious rites and he chanted songs before administering to his patients. His medicines were mostly compounded by himself. Materials were purchased from New Orleans, local druggists and in some instances made by himself from roots and herbs.

Many of the white patients are defending "Doctor" Charles, claiming he has miraculous powers.

They say he has healed many persons declared incurable by physicians. located lost articles, found missing persons and saved business reverses by his advice.

Two prominent white women declare Charles told them a certain bank would fail three weeks before it closed and had them withdraw their money.