This pleasant state of affairs is abruptly altered when Clyde Nelson, a local private detective, working on an apparently harmless divorce case, discovers the existence of a big-time gambling syndicate operating with the knowledge and consent of the city fathers, the local police, and the respectable elements of the community. Austin takes up the investigation, but finds himself harassed by the police. An attempt is made to tap his phone. The paper's press privileges are revoked. His photographer is brutally beaten.
Businessmen refuse to renew advertising contracts.
Another informant is murdered, and Austin and his wife are constantly threatened. But his determination to continue his sleuthing leads to a break with his partner, who believes is it wiser to lay off. Despite the many pressures, Austin continues his probing. However, he is powerless to do anything. An attempt to form a citizen's committee fails, and the police chief, though basically honest himself, has been ordered by higher-ups to look the other way.