Bio

Frank A. Pedrini was born in 1908 in Los Gatos, California. He grew up in a time when America was facing many changes. The Great Depression, which started in 1929, affected many families, leading to hardships and struggles.

As he grew older, Pedrini developed a pattern of criminal behavior. He had a history of arrests and was known to be involved in various crimes. He eventually found himself in Folsom State Prison in California, where he met Leroy L. Linden. They became cellmates during their time there and formed a bond.

Pedrini's life took a turn when he was released from prison. After his release, he continued to engage in criminal activities, including robbery and hitchhiking. By the time of his involvement in the murder case, he was 45 years old.

The events that later led to his arrest began on October 23, 1953, when Pedrini, along with Linden, committed a violent crime. This crime would ultimately lead to significant legal consequences for both men. They were arrested and faced trial for their actions. On July 15, 1954, they were executed together in the Nevada State Prison.

Murder Story

Frank A. Pedrini committed murder on October 23, 1953. His victim was Clarence Dodd, a carpenter from Lancaster, California. Dodd had just visited his mother in Winnemucca and was driving home when he picked up Pedrini and Leroy Linden, who were hitchhiking. They traveled about 150 miles west on Highway 40.

As they approached Mustang Station, Dodd was forced to drive into an isolated canyon. It was there that Pedrini and Linden strangled him. They used a 30-inch length of binder twine to pull equally hard, ending Dodd's life.

After their arrest, both Pedrini and Linden faced trial for the murder. They had been cellmates at Folsom State Prison in California, and both had long criminal records. Their execution took place on July 15, 1954, at the Nevada State Prison. It was a significant event because it was the first double execution at the Nevada Gas Chamber.