Leon Don Richardson

Abstract

The kidnap and release of Leon Don Richardson taught so many valuable lessons that it will be recounted here in more depth than the other case studies. The American-born head of a company based in Hong Kong and Australia, was kidnapped in Guatemala. His partner and son-in-law Tom Dundon (also American-born, based in Australia) negotiated for his release. Don Richardson displayed remarkable courage and perception in his ordeal, matched by that of Tom Dundon and his office manager in Sydney, Gloria Donaldson. Negotiations were conducted by telephone, first to Sydney, then to Mexico city. The case also illustrates the role of the consultant who assisted Dundon throughout the crisis.