Jim Morrison

Printed document accomplished in manuscript and typescript, 6 pages (14 x 8 1/2 in.; 355 x 215 mm), Miami, Florida, 20 September 1970, signed by Morrison, the Deputy Sheriff, and the Attorney, stamped as "Filed" by J.F. McCracken, clerk, 21 & 25 September 1970; formerly folded, corners creased. Accompanied by a color photographic portrait of Morrison, 16 3/4 x 11 in.; 425 x 280 mm.

formerly folded, corners creased.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Bail Bond for "The Miami Incident", the most controversial performance of his career

Morrison came on stage at the Dinner Key Auditorium, 1 March 1969, by all reports, more inebriated than usual, but with a theatrical strategy in mind. He had recently attended a performance of Julian Beck's Living Theatre at USC and was thunderstruck by the audience response, resolving to try to accomplish something like it in his own performance. Arriving hours late, he spoke incoherently into the microphone, an aimless sermon about revolution and having a good time. He later proceeded to curse the audience, and after getting drenched with champagne he removed his shirt and taunted the audience about removing his trousers.

An arrest warrant was issued four days later as the authorities needed time to gather film and taped evidence from "public minded inviduals." When the news of his arrest warrant spread from Miami, the remaining concert halls on his tour began to cancel, and radio stations dropped air play of his records. Morrison turned himself in to the FBI in Los Angeles on 4 April 1969, he entered a plea of "not guilty" in Miami on 9 November, but the trial did not start until 12 August 1970. On 20 September 1970 a jury found him guilty on the misdemeanor charges of indecent exposure and profanity. He was released on bond the same day and sentenced on 30 October. After filing an appeal he was freed, only to die eight months later, before the matter could be resolved.

The present document is his bail bond, signed on the date of his conviction, given by Richard S. Gladwell, bail bondsman, for the sum of $40,000 for the charge of "Indecent Exposure and Open Profanity."