"Murph the Surf" and his "Parole Board"

East Coast Legends Jack Murphy and Dick Catri. Photo: Sharon Marshall

Jack Roland Murphy or "Murph the Surf" (or "Murf the Surf") (born 1938) is a surfing champion, musician, author, artist, and convicted murderer, who was involved in the biggest jewel heist in American history at the American Museum of Natural History. Today Jack Murphy is an ordained minister, working with inmates in the field of prison ministry. (quote from Wikipedia)

The Hobie "Parole Board", shaped by Phil Edwards, was presented to Murph upon his release from prison, after finishing up his 21-month sentence for his part in the famous Star of India jewel heist. It's signed by Phil, Ronald Patterson, Sandy Banks, Danny Brawner, and Flea, who all had a hand in the board's production. The board is now part of our collection and is currently on display at SHACC. (Disclaimer: SHACC in no way condones or wishes to glorify criminal behavior, we are merely presenting one aspect of surfing history in this instance)

The 563.35-carat, nearly flawless Star of India Sapphire.

More on Murph, including an article written by Nora Ephron in 1965:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Roland_Murphy

http://oceandrive.com/living/articles/the-cool-thief?page=2

http://blogs.villagevoice.com/runninscared/2009/08/clip_job_nora_e.php