† = Tapes initially denied to requesters under Freedom of Information Act. All now currently available from FBI

# = Tapes currently available through this website. All are available for cost of duplication and postage.

* = (Symbol in original FBI documents)

To read Tape Summary, click here.
To read Tape Transcript, click here.

Date of transcription: 6/27/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 29, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B70-27. This tape was found to contain the following:

Agriculture Meeting

# Q 241 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Aug 27 News"

Date of transcription: 6/27/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 29, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B70-28. This tape was found to contain the following:

Twenty-six minutes of news briefings by Reverend JIM JONES.

# Q 242 — Jones Speaking

Date of transcription: 6/27/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 29, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B70-29. This tape was found to contain the following:

Side Number 1: Reverend JIM JONES talks about the conspiracy against the PT and the alleged use of two U.S. Air Force men by Senator JOHN STENNIS against the PT in San Francisco. JONES also talks about arming his body guards with weapons.

Side Number 2: JIM JONES talks about CHRIS LEWIS at 31:30 minutes and his dealings with the MERTLE’s and threatening them in a supermarket.

# Q 243 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "10/13/78 Suicide 10/14/78"

Date of transcription: 6/27/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 29, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B70-30. This tape was found to contain the following:

Lectures by JONES re the physical surroundings of Jonestown, world current events, and the ramifications of personal suicide and subsequent reincarnation.

# Q 244 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "8/8/78 News 7 ½"

Date of transcription: 6/27/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 29, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B70-31. This tape was found to contain the following:

JIM JONES reading news and announcements.

# †Q 245 — Identified Individuals Speaking

To read Tape Summary, click here.
To read Tape Transcript, click here.

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 29, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B70-32. This tape was found to contain the following:

The following individuals giving their reasons for committing revolutionary suicide.

1. HUE FORTSON

2. LARRY SCHACHT

3. ETTA THOMPSON

4. CHRISTA AMOS (Age 11)

5. SHARON AMOS

6. MARTIN AMOS (Age 10)

7. HELEN SWINNEY

8. LISA LAYTON

9. EDITH ROLLER

10. KAY NELSON

11. JIM JONES

12. DEANNA WILKINSON

13. VALERIE JONES

14. RICHARD TROPP

15. LEMUEL THOMAS GRUBBS

16. LIAN HARRIS

17. BILL OLIVER

18. MIKE PROKES

19. HARRIET TROPP

20. JAMES EDWARDS

21. GENE CHAIKIN

22. LEE INGRAM

23. JOHN HARRIS

24. SHANOA JAMES

25. REBECCA BYKEMAN (phonetic)

26. TERESA KING

27. PAULINE SIMON

28. LORETTA COOMER

29. STEPHEN JONES

30. TISH LEROY

31. PAULA ADAMS

32. EARNEST JONES

33. JEFF CAREY

34. DONALD JACKSON

35. JACK BERN (phonetic)

36. PENNY KERNS DUPONT

37. MARTHEA HICKS

# Q 246 — Identified Individuals Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "BCST"

Date of transcription: 6/27/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 29, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B70-33. This tape was found to contain the following:

DICK TROPP and SARAH TROPP interviewing people re the medical treatment they received at the PT.

The rest of the tape consists of two recordings of JIM JONES which are on seperate [sic] tracks. One recording is news and commentary by JIM JONES while the other recording by JIM JONES is about interrogations in Chile.

# Q 248 — Jones Speaking

To read Tape Summary, click here.
To read Tape Transcript, click here.

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "10/1/78 News"

Date of transcription: 5/29/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 29, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B70-34. This tape was found to contain the following:

News of the day and commentary by JAMES JONES.

# Q 249 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Sept 7 News"

Date of transcription: 6/27/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 29, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B70-35. This tape was found to contain the following:

JIM JONES reading news and announcements.

# Q 250 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "7/14/78 News"

Date of transcription: 5/29/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 29, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B70-36. This tape was found to contain the following:

News of the day and commentary by JAMES JONES.

# Q 251 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9/5/78 News"

Date of transcription: 6/12/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 29, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B70-33. This tape was found to contain the following:

JIM JONES starts off the tape by stating that "It’s Tuesday, this is going to be a big day for us this evening." JONES goes on to state that a news conference that evening includes GOODLETT (Phonetic), Dr. FRIED and MARK LANE. Furthermore, the news conference will deal with STOEN and conspirators; and that they will get a strong link into the conspirators with Interpol, CIA, Treasury Department, San Francisco Police Department, and the Los Angeles Police Department.

JONES then goes into the news of the day with commentary.

# Q 252 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9/15/78"

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B70-38. This tape was found to contain the following:

A reading of current world events by JONES, interposed with his personal views of Freedom of Speech, neutron bombs and nuclear wastes.

# Q 253 — Jones Speaking

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B70-39. This tape was found to contain the following:

REV JIM JONES with news of world events. At approximately 6:30 minutes into this tape JIM JONES remarks about telling PAUL TIDDIMAN, Guyana Council of Churches, something that JONES had learned about him through his intelligence sources to get him to support a July 10 referendum in Guyana. Book review of W.E.B. Dubois book of "Importance of Africa on World History."

This tape was reviewed and nothing was contained thereon which was considered to be of evidentiary nature or beneficial to the investiation [sic] of the murder of Congressman RYAN.

# Q 254 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Special News"

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B70-40. This tape was found to contain the following:

JIM JONES reading news and announcements.

(Handwritten note underneath: special news?)

# Q 255 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9/3/74 [78] News"

Date of transcription: 6/12/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-1. This tape was found to contain the following:

News, commentary, and announcements by JIM JONES. During the commentary, JONES states, "Nobody is capable of being a socialist until they are not afraid" of death - it’s just a quiet rest. It’s good for people to not be afraid to die for what they believe."

News items included topics such as:

1. Israel

2. Lebanon

3. Pope JOHN PAUL

4. FBI files re Dr. MARTIN L. KING

5. JOHN MITCHELL

6. DETENTE

7. RONALD REAGAN

8. Korea

The back of the tape also contains some news and commentary by JIM JONES.

# Q 256 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9-17-78 News"

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-2. This tape was found to contain the following:

JIM JONES giving news briefings and sermonizing to People’s Temple members in Jonestown.

This tape was reviewed and nothing was contained thereon which was considered to be of evidentiary nature or beneficial to the investigation of the murder of Congressman RYAN.

# Q 257 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9/22/78 News"

Date of transcription: 6/13/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-3. This tape was found to contain the following:

World news and remarks from JIM JONES, in which JONES advises that visitors were due the day of this broadcast, the DUNCAN’s, the PARR’s and the wife of JOHN HARRIS were expected. Later, on the same tape JONES advises that Russians are scheduled to visit, as well as a MARY BLACK, who has authority to assign $1/4 million United States dollars, hopefully for the Jonestown project. All listeners are advised to speak favorably of the project to all outsiders, or be banned to "public service". Further, Mrs. GARCIA and possibly a Mrs. STANSFIELD will visit.

# Q 258 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "News 9/27/78"

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-4. This tape was found to contain the following:

JIM JONES reading news and announcements.

# Q 259 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Aug 16 News"

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-5. This tape was found to contain the following:

An introduction to the movie, "For Whom the Bells Toll", by JAMES JONES.

A commentary and politicized reading of the news by JAMES JONES.

# Q 260 — Jones Speaking

To read Tape Summary, click here.
To read Tape Transcript, click here.

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "News Oct 10"

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-6. This tape was found to contain the following:

A recorded message to the workers at Jonestown to step up productions and the news of the day by JIM JONES.

Q 261 — Music

# Q 262 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Peoples Ralley [sic] 7-9-78"

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-8. This tape was found to contain the following:

JIM JONES at "People’s Rally" with questions, answers, and criticisms. Announcements follow concerning the TIM STOEN law suit, the death of Rockefeller and a "New Times" magazine article on HUEY NEWTON, the Black Panther Party (BPP) and ELAINE BROWN.

# Q 263 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9/16/78"

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-9. This tape was found to contain the following:

Today’s news by Rev. JIM JONES to People’s Temple members in Jonestown, Guyana.

This tape was reviewed and nothing was contained thereon which was considered to be of evidentiary nature or beneficial to the investigation of the murder of Congressman RYAN.

# Q 264 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Aug 31 News"

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-10. This tape was found to contain the following:

Music by "Black Velvet."

A commentary and politicized reading of the news by JAMES JONES.

JONES advises visitors will be arriving soon and no negative references will be made to the United States Government during this time. JONES instructs people to tell the visitors the reason they left the United States was because of racism and not socialism.

# Q 265 — Jones Speaking

To read Tape Summary, click here.
To read Tape Transcript, click here.

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Oct. 17, 1978, Comments"

Date of transcription: 6/18/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On June 4, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-11. This tape was found to contain the following:

Comments and a lecture from JIM JONES regarding physical security and the problems of runaways from the community.

# Q 266 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9/27/78 News"

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-12. This tape was found to contain the following:

News reports on current events by Rev. JIM JONES to members of People’s Temple, Jonestown, Guyana.

This tape was reviewed and nothing was contained thereon which was considered to be of evidentiary nature or beneficial to the investigation of the murder of Congressman RYAN.

# Q 267 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9/28/78 News"

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-13. This tape was found to contain the following:

A recording of JIM JONES giving a lesson on Soviet History and also the current news events.

# Q 268 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Sept. 9, 1978 Questions to ask informer"

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-14. This tape was found to contain the following:

JAMES JONES speaking to the people advises that four people have been selected by him [to] return to the United States for assignments of great responsibility. (They are: TERRI BUFORD, MARCELINE JONES HUGH FORTSON, and PAULA ADAMS).

JONES also poses questions for people to ask Moser [Mazor] when he visits Jonestown. (i.e., conspiracies against People’s Temple).

# †Q 269 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "6/14/78 T-1 Wed News"

Date of transcription: 7/3/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-15. This tape was found to contain the following:

Quotes and instructions by JIM JONES to his people in Guyana.

JONES was talking about shooting some birds that were destroying their crops when he said, "We can use our licensed guns, we have no weapons if anybody ever asks you, if we have guns, no-no. Guyana has licensed some, but we to not admit that to anybody coming in…" "So you see no guns, we don’t have them".

JIM JONES then goes on to give instructions to his people in the event they receive any visitors, "If asked, did you get your mail, you say yes and if you answered and did some one help you write it, you answer, yes you answered and no help was needed to write it…" "You better not say anything else now…" "Some of you, like the end of the world, then make a mistake…" "We don’t beat people…" "We do not let people know that we have someone presently locked up…" "We do not have sermons on the air…" "We don’t bury babies…" "You better get this in your brains…" "You better not complain, damn you, not one"… "I’ll haunt your ass wherever you hide." … "I found one of them suckers in West Germany and nobody is hearing from these days either"… "Now you seniors better wake up and you better give the right answer" "I better not have nobody, when somebody comes and asks you how you fell say, "I fell off the top bunk of the bed, we’ll see if you can fall off two bunks next time."

The rest of the tape concerns basically electrical problems that they were having at the PT in Guyana and personality conflicts among themselves.

Q 270 — Blank Tapes

# Q 271 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Tues 19 News"

Date of transcription: 6/12/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-18. This tape was found to contain the following:

News and commentary by JIM JONES.

In the tape, JONES discusses mail censorship at Jonestown. Furthermore, he makes the statement, "Security can be involved in that now you have these new long range things that can protect us," at the middle of the tape.

JONES also states, "Have those surveillance protections all stationed throughout the entire project and don’t let anybody, don’t let anybody try to cause us harm.

It is noted that JONES repeatedly states that people are supposed to follow the letter writing rules and states, "Every person is to write letters as she says, as they say, because we’ve been told to by the Guyanese Government how to do it."

Further into the tape, he (JONES) makes the statement, "You’ve got the equipment to take care of the enemy."

On the back side of the tape, JONES makes the statement, "We are quite capable of protecting ourselves, but all alert now look to see if anyone is approaching from any angle."

# Q 272 — Unidentified Individuals Speaking

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-19. This tape was found to contain the following:

A russian [sic] language lesson.

# Q 273 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "7-1-78 Peoples Rally"

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-20. This tape was found to contain the following:

Rev. JIM JONES’ presentation to PT members in Jonestown, Guyana, about the problems of the community. JONES talks about revolutionary death and dying at 22 minutes into the tape. He continues to talk about "committing suicide over his child as is his right to do." JONES admonishes the people "to raise a lot of hell if anybody comes for him, JOHN or anybody else then raise a lot of hell". This was at 24 minutes into this tape. Tape ends with JONES in mid-sentence claiming that "none of them that they have come for were any of his relatives, other than his adopted…"

# Q 274 — Unidentified Individuals Speaking

Date of transcription: 6/12/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-21. This tape was found to contain the following:

Statement by an old man in what appears to be an American Indian dialect interspersed with English telling about how glad he is to be in "this place".

Q 275 — Music

# Q 278 — Jones Speaking

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 30, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-23. This tape was found to contain the following:

A recording of a lecture on the good of socialism and the evil of capitalism. Also instructions on what to discuss when the important guests arrive. JIM JONES names DON FREED as the individual who is going to visit. His purpose is to make a movie of the People’s Temple.

Also a lecture on current new events.

#278a — Jones Speaking

To read Tape Summary, click here.
To read Tape Transcript, click here.

Date of transcription: 6/12/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-24. This tape was found to contain the following:

Commentary and announcements by JIM JONES. JONES specifically talks about personal images, behavior, and tests. Total time for the news and commentary is approximately two minutes with the rest of the tape being blank.

# Q 279 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Sat Aug 19"

Date of transcription: 6/13/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-25. This tape was found to contain the following:

JAMES JONES speaking and quizzing members of Jonestown on questions and answers which may be asked by visitors to Jonestown.

Questions and answers deal with topics of:

1. Schools in Jonestown

2. Entertainment in Jonestown

3. Food and Housing in Jonestown

4. Health care in Jonestown

5. Weather in Jonestown

6. Life in general in Jonestown

# Q 280 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Tues Nite news 29-8-78"

Date of transcription: 6/13/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-26. This tape was found to contain the following:

News and commentary of the day by JIM JONES along with a question and answer period regarding news events. News items included such topics as:

1. South Africa

2. Chinese Chairman HUA

3. China/Viet Nam Border Clashes

4. Govenor [sic] Brown

5. Russia

6. Women’s Lib

# Q 281 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Aug 14 News"

Date of transcription: 6/13/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-27. This tape was found to contain the following:

A review by JIM JONES of world news and other messages to People’s Temple members.

This tape was reviewed and nothing was contained thereon which was considered to be of evidentiary nature or beneficial to the investigation of the murder of Congressman RYAN.

# Q 282 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9-23-78 Sat News"

Date of transcription: 6/11/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-28. This tape was found to contain the following:

A recording of JIM JONES lecturing on current events.

# Q 283 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "19 Aug News Sat"

Date of transcription: 6/13/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-29. This tape was found to contain the following:

JIM JONES reading news, commentary, and announcements.

# Q 284 — Jones Speaking

Date of transcription: 6/13/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-30. This tape was found to contain the following:

Reverend JIM JONES lectures to People’s Temple members on the subject of Marxism-Leninism. JONES also gave the news of the day.

This tape was reviewed and nothing was contained thereon which was considered to be of evidentiary nature or beneficial to the investigation of the murder of Congressman RYAN.

# †Q 285 — Jones Speaking

To read Tape Summary, click here.
To read Tape Transcript, click here.

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "16 Sept 78 Sat News"

Date of transcription: 6/22/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-31. This tape was found to contain the following:

A lecture by JIM JONES on the conditions of the world caused by capitalism.

# Q 286 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Fri Aug 25 Meeting (Russian)"

Date of transcription: 6/13/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-32. This tape was found to contain the following:

Reverend JIM JONES holding a question and answer session in preparation for visit of DON FREED, Director of "Executive Action" and "Parallax View". Group Russian language lesson is also contained on this tape.

This tape was reviewed and nothing was contained thereon which was considered to be of evidentiary nature or beneficial to the investigation of the murder of Congressman RYAN.

Q 287 — Music

# Q 289 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Thurs News 10/5/78"

Date of transcription: 6/13/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-34. This tape was found to contain the following:

JIM JONES reading news, commentary, and announcements.

# Q 290 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9-18-78 Mon News"

Date of transcription: 5/31/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-35. This tape was found to contain the following:

News and commentary by JIM JONES. News items included topics such as:

1. International monetary fund;

2. Rhodesia;

3. Lebanon;

4. MARK LANE;

5. CHARLES BOYER’s death;

6. Calcium deficiencies

# Q 291 — Identified Individuals Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Broadcast with Special Guest"

Date of transcription: 6/13/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-36. This tape was found to contain the following:

A taped interview of DONALD FREED, during his visit to Jonestown.

FREED expresses his views on life in Jonestown.

# Q 292 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9/4/78 News"

Date of transcription: 6/13/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-37. This tape was found to contain the following:

Reverend JIM JONES’ review of world news and current events.

This tape was reviewed and nothing was contained thereon which was considered to be of evidentiary nature or beneficial to the investigation of the murder of Congressman RYAN.

# Q 293 — Unidentified Individuals Speaking

Date of transcription: 5/31/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-38. This tape was found to contain the following:

A recording which describes the readiness of the Jonestown Medical Staff.

# Q 294 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9-14-78 News"

Date of transcription: 6/13/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-39. This tape was found to contain the following:

A politicized reading and commentary on the news by JAMES JONES.

# Q 295 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9-12-78 News"

Date of transcription: 5/31/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-40. This tape was found to contain the following:

Reverend JIM JONES briefing on news and world events of the day. Again implores his members to be on their best behavior for the "visitor" (DON FREED) and to be careful of what they say to him because they have a "wireless mic [sic]," a body recorder, recording his every word.

Q 296 — Music

# Q 297 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9-13-78 News"

Date of transcription: 6/13/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-42. This tape was found to contain the following:

A reading of the news, with commentary, by JAMES JONES.

# Q 298 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "9/8/78"

Date of transcription: 6/13/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On June 1, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-43. This tape was found to contain the following:

News of the day and commentary by JAMES JONES.

JONES urges the people to work hard and be productive, so Jonestown can be a model to the rest of the world. JONES wants the area cleaned up, as the Soviets will be visiting shortly.

JONES advised that a conspirator will be arriving with CHARLES GARRY and MARK LANE. No one is to talk with this person, just smile. If anyone is caught talking with the conspirator they will be dealt with severely.

# Q 299 — Jones Speaking

FBI preliminary tape identification note Labeled in part "Tues Aug 15"

Date of transcription: 6/13/79

In connection with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s investigation into the assassination of U.S. Congressman LEO J. RYAN at Port Kaituma, Guyana, South America, on November 18, 1978, a tape recording was obtained. This tape recording was located in Jonestown, Guyana, South America, and was turned over to U.S. Officials in Guyana and subsequently transported to the United States.

On May 31, 1979, Special Agent (name deleted) reviewed the tape numbered 1B93-44. This tape was found to contain the following:

An eight-and-a-half minute segment by unidentified female and male People’s Temple members about Jonestown, possibly for a broadcast. This was followed by Reverend JIM JONES giving instruction regarding visitors to Jonestown and the conspiracy against him and Jonestown and news of world events.

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