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FO-350 (Rev. 7-16-63) NEWARK (®—The state accused Frank Sinatra Wednesday of putting himself above the law while lawyers for the sing- er retorted the state was on a "fishing expedition" in ordering him to testify in an investigation of or- ganized crime in New Jersey, The exchange occurred in U.S. District Court, where Sinatra's attorneys convening of a three-judge f federal pune] (Mount Clipping in Space Below} Sinatra’s Lawyers Ask Ruling on Crime Panel to consider whether the State Investigations Com- mission is constitutional. Federal Judge James A. Coolahan reserved deci- sion, He said he wanted more time to study the motion. It was disclosed at the hearing that Andrew Phe- lan, the executive director af the commission, sent a Memorandum to Coolahan Mriday complaining that dinatra was "snubbing his nose" at attempts to com- pel him to testify and ignoring a warrant for his arrest. "If anybody can come before the court with more filthy hands and Jess clean hands than this. indivi- dual it is beyond me," said Phelan at the hearing. "It is beyond belief. No - court could sanction such conduct." Phelan emphasized he was referring to procedur- al tactics designed to block the singer's appearance in New Jersey. "Frank Sinatra is saying T am above the jaw, Phelan said. . Bruce Kauffman, a Phi- ladelphia attorney repre- . senting Sinatra, rejoined that Sinatra was merely seeking equul protection under the law. He said the sIC was harassing him to faneraie, publicity and headlines. PIER (Indicate page, name of newspaper, city and siate.} Date: 12/18/69 Edition: Thursday Final Author: Editor: Title: Character: SPcsfeil Classification: Los Angel Submitting Office: ‘| Being Investigated