Grave Digger's partner and a black detective who is quick on the trigger and has a scarred face from acid. He is dedicated to protecting the innocent people of Harlem while working cases like the Back-to-Africa hijacking.

A charismatic conman who operates under a preacher persona, involved in a scheme to scam families through a Back-to-Africa movement. He is manipulative and self-serving, hiding a criminal past under the guise of religion.

A femme fatale character who is the lover of Deke and uses her sexuality to manipulate others. She is driven by self-interest and alternates allegiances as she seeks personal advantage.

An ardent follower of the Back-to-Africa movement and Deke's supporter, who is easily deceived and unshakeably loyal. Her misplaced faith highlights religious hypocrisy and personal betrayal.

A resourceful junkman who finds a bale of cotton linked to the case and cleverly navigates the chaos to his benefit. His actions drive significant plot developments as he outwits others in the search for money.

An exotic dancer affiliated with Iris, whose involvement provides critical links in the plot. She represents the novel’s emphasis on hypersexualized women and helps facilitate various character interactions.

A white Southern racist orchestrating a hijacking to lure black families back to the American South. His actions set him in opposition to the protagonists as he pursues a twisted agenda.

A worker in Mr. Goodman’s junkyard who inadvertently becomes involved in the case surrounding the bale of cotton. His interactions help uncover clues crucial to the detectives' investigation.

The Jewish owner of a junkyard who buys a crucial bale of cotton and becomes a witness in the investigation. His involvement underscores the diverse community dynamics in Harlem.

The white lieutenant who oversees Grave Digger and Coffin Ed, providing guidance and support while maintaining cautious oversight of their investigation. He represents the systemic challenges faced by the detectives.