The years 1926 and 1927 marked the beginning of an anti-obscenity campaign in Philadelphia. According to news accounts many publishers and distributors of illicit literature had relocated to Philly from other major cities. Despite the support of Catholic leaders and others New York City didn't approve measures to shutdown theatrical productions and plays, Neither did Gotham authorities initiate controversial efforts to clampdown on "obscenity". Ironically the crusade to stamp out smut in Philadelphia was led by the first Jewish District Attorney elected by the city. DA Charles Edwin Fox was assisted by school superintendents and principals.