THE BIG BEN and THE BIG FRAUD

Summary

1001 Radio Crime Solvers: Episode Summary – "THE BIG BEN and THE BIG FRAUD"

Host: Jon Hagadorn
Release Date: December 15, 2024

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Welcome to another gripping episode of 1001 Radio Crime Solvers, where host Jon Hagadorn brings you enthralling detective stories from the golden age of radio. In this episode, titled "THE BIG BEN and THE BIG FRAUD," listeners are transported into a meticulously crafted tale of robbery, deceit, and relentless police work set against the backdrop of mid-20th century Los Angeles.

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Case 1: The Robbery and Attempted Murder of Harvey Kimbrough

Timestamp: 02:09 – 27:43

The episode opens on a warm Monday morning in Los Angeles, July 9th. Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner Sergeant Ben Romero, under the leadership of Chief Thad Brown, are assigned to a robbery detail at the Stacy Hollywood Department Store. The victim, Harvey Kimbrough, recounts the harrowing experience of being ambushed and attacked by an assailant while on his way to work.

Key Events:

• Harvey's Encounter:
  At 5:00 AM, Harvey stops to assist a fellow motorist whose car appears stalled on Commercial Street. However, this act of goodwill takes a sinister turn when the man, armed with a gun, forces Harvey out of his car, robbing him of $14 and violently assaulting him. Harvey describes the brutality of the attack:

  "He bent down and he hit me in the face. It bled pretty heavy." (04:07)

• Investigation Begins:
  Joe Friday and Ben Romero arrive at the scene, gathering crucial information including descriptions of both the assailant's vehicle—a blue 1948 Dodge sedan—and the getaway car, a two-tone green late-model Chevrolet.

• Interview with Sidney Ferguson:
  A key witness, Sidney Ferguson, who helped Harvey after the attack, provides additional details and an elusive clue: a slip of paper with the getaway car's license number discarded in his vehicle upon returning home. Ferguson's cooperation proves vital:

  "I believe I told them everything." (05:39)

• Stakeout and Breakthrough:
  Utilizing the license number, Friday and Romero trace the vehicle to Jack B. Grant at 19112 Beacon Street. Monitoring efforts initially yield no results until Grant makes a critical mistake, attempting to escape and leading to his capture after a tense stakeout.

• Suspect Apprehension and Trial:
  Despite Grant's attempt to flee, he is apprehended and later tried. The trial culminates in his conviction on multiple counts, including first-degree robbery and assault to commit murder. Ferguson's cooperation and the evidence gathered play pivotal roles in securing justice.

Notable Quotes:

• Harvey Kimbrough on the Attack:

  "I thought at first he might have been crazy, was going to kill me." (06:00)

• Joe Friday Reflecting on the Investigation:

  "A police department goes all out, doubles its efforts to run down a criminal who attacks a police officer." (19:08)

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Case 2: The Murder of Hazel Gray

Timestamp: 30:53 – 55:31

Transitioning to a stormy Tuesday night, the second case delves into a chilling homicide involving Leonard Gray and the murder of his wife, Hazel Gray. The investigation unravels layers of personal turmoil, strained relationships, and hidden motives.

Key Events:

• Crime Scene:
  At 1627 Oxford Place, Leonard Gray discovers his wife Hazel dead in their dining room, with signs of a violent struggle. The initial investigation led by Friday and Romero uncovers that Hazel was likely strangled, indicated by the evidence:

  "Some red around the throat. Strangled? Yeah, could be." (34:43)

• Interrogation of Leonard Gray:
  Leonard, visibly distraught and intoxicated, provides a disjointed account of the evening. He mentions an altercation with his friend, Earl Anderson, and an incident where Hazel's car tires were slashed, complicating the narrative.

  "I feel terrible. Just terrible. When we got in the house, the first thing Hazel asked me was if I'd looked at the car." (36:25)

• Involvement of Sidney Ferguson:
  Sidney Ferguson, a close friend of Leonard, becomes a person of interest. His attempts to vouch for Leonard's character and occasional evasiveness raise suspicions.

  "He knew Len and Hazel were wonderful people. Very good friends of mine." (43:13)

• Emerging Evidence:
  The crime lab's analysis reveals a palm print at the scene that doesn't match Leonard's or Earl's. Additionally, a piece of blue cloth found near Hazel's body becomes a crucial clue.

  "The killer of Hazel Gray had left behind him a clue to his identity about which there could be no mistake. His palm print." (50:02)

• Confrontation and Revelation:
  In a dramatic turn, Sidney Ferguson confronts Leonard Gray during interrogation, leading to a confession where Ferguson admits to killing Hazel out of a twisted sense of love:

  "I killed Hazel because I loved her more than you did." (54:39)

• Resolution:
  Ferguson's confession secures the case, resulting in his conviction and the tragic unraveling of friendships and trust within their circle.

Notable Quotes:

• Sidney Ferguson's Confession:

  "I killed Hazel because I loved her more than you did." (54:39)

• Harvey Kimbrough's Reaction to the Confession:

  "You don't kill someone because you love them." (54:56)

• Joe Friday on the Complexity of the Case:

  "We intertwined personal relationships and hidden motives to uncover the truth." (Not directly quoted, inferred from narrative)

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Conclusion and Trial Outcomes

Both cases culminate in their respective trials, highlighting the thoroughness of the Los Angeles Police Department's investigative procedures and the unwavering commitment of Sergeant Joe Friday and Sergeant Ben Romero. The episodes underscore themes of trust, deception, and the relentless pursuit of justice, hallmarks of the golden age of radio detective storytelling.

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Closing Remarks

Join 1001 Radio Crime Solvers every Sunday at 5 PM ET to immerse yourself in the best of radio detective stories, meticulously curated and narrated to bring you the essence of classic crime-solving tales. For more episodes and information, visit 1001 Stories Network.

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Notable Quotes from the Episode:

• "He bent down and he hit me in the face. It bled pretty heavy."
  — Harvey Kimbrough (04:07)

• "A police department goes all out, doubles its efforts to run down a criminal who attacks a police officer."
  — Joe Friday (19:08)

• "I killed Hazel because I loved her more than you did."
  — Sidney Ferguson (54:39)

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This episode masterfully intertwines detailed character interactions, authentic police procedures, and unexpected twists, delivering a captivating experience for fans of classic radio crime dramas.

Transcript

[Joe Friday]

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[Ben Romero]

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[Ben Romero]

Welcome back everyone to 1001 Radio Crime Solvers. This is your host, John Hagedorn. And be sure to catch our other brand new podcast, 1001 True Crime from Another Time. As 1001 True Crime from Another Time. Wherever you get your favorite podcast.

[Joe Friday]

The.

[Narrator]

Story you are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed. To protect the innocent, you're a detective sergeant. You're assigned a robbery detail. A man is pulled from his car on a deserted street. He's robbed. Beaten viciously. His car is stolen. The criminal makes good. He's escaped. Escape your job. Find him.

[Dragnet Announcer]

Dragnet the documented drama of an actual crime. For the next 30 minutes, in cooperation with the Los Angeles Police Department, you will travel step by step on the side of the law through an actual case. Transcribed from official police files. From beginning to end, from crime to punishment, Dragnet is the story of your police force in action.

[Ben Romero]

It was Monday, July 9th. It was warm in Los Angeles. We were working the day.

[Joe Friday]

Watch out.

[Ben Romero]

A robbery detail. My partner's Ben Romero. The boss is Thad Brown, Chief of Detectives. My name's Friday it was 9:55am when we got to the Stacy Hollywood Department Store Personnel Department.

[Store Employee]

Stacy Hollywood. That would be the yardage department. Yes, ma'am, I'll connect you. Yes, sir, can I help you?

[Joe Friday]

Police officer.

[Store Employee]

Yes, sir.

[Joe Friday]

I'd like to speak to one of your employees, Harvey Kimbrough.

[Store Employee]

Just a moment, I'll page him for you.

[Ben Romero]

You got a match?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, I hear you.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Thank you.

[Joe Friday]

When I was a kid, I never could figure out what that was. What's that? The auto call system to call employees to the phone rings all over the store. You know?

[Ben Romero]

I know.

[Store Employee]

Office. Yes, Mr. Kimbrough, there are two policemen waiting to see you on the 10th floor. All right. That was Mr. Kimbrough. He's on his way out.

[Ben Romero]

Thank you very much.

[Joe Friday]

Did I give you the crime report on this thing?

[Ben Romero]

No, I think you kept it, didn't you?

[Joe Friday]

Let's see. Oh, yeah, yeah, here it is. Oh, say one name, what do you got there? They call them Pepto Pals. They're good. What are they for? And goat. To stomach. For stomach. It's not good.

[Ben Romero]

Well, I haven't got a stomach ache.

[Joe Friday]

Oh, these gentlemen here. Stella.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Yes, that's right.

[Ben Romero]

You Harvey Kimbrough?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir, that's right.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I sure appreciate you people coming over here. I don't like to take time off from work. It makes it tough on my partners. Clyde and Warren?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, for Wednesday, Janitor.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Work in a big store like this.

[Joe Friday]

Keeps you hopping.

[Store Employee]

Beautiful.

[Joe Friday]

Mom, you haven't got any idea who the holdup men are yet, have you? No, sir, we haven't.

[Ben Romero]

We'd like to get a little more information on what happened.

[Joe Friday]

Can't you talk to the two officers in the police car?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, we did, but it's customary for us to make a follow up for any additional information.

[Joe Friday]

You fellas are playing closed ones, that it? Yeah, we're from Central Robbery. Oh, I see.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Well, I never knew I'd get this much service.

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir? Wonder if we might step outside the office here. I don't imagine you want to discuss your personal business here in the office.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

That's very considerate of you.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Thank you.

[Joe Friday]

Fine.

[Ben Romero]

Go ahead.

[Joe Friday]

I wonder if you'd mind going over to gan for us, Mr. Kimbrough? Maybe something you didn't think of when the other officers talked to you?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I believe I told them everything. I was on my way into work.

[Joe Friday]

This morning about 5am you live out in Alhambra?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir, that's right.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I take the freeway in.

[Ben Romero]

It was on Commercial street that you.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Were held up that's right Commercial. Right near Alameda. Almost to the corner where they're tearing those buildings down. Man flagged me down.

[Joe Friday]

Looked like his car was stalled.

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Always make it a habit to stop when I see somebody in trouble. I know how it is that time in the morning. No gas stations open. Figured maybe the fella needed a shove or something.

[Joe Friday]

So you stopped to give him a hand, is that right?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

That's what I had in mind. I'd no more stop the car. He came over.

[Joe Friday]

He pointed a gun at me and told me to get out. What'd you do?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Well, I asked the fellow what'd he want. I told him I didn't have any money. Told him I was on my way into work.

[Joe Friday]

What did he say to that?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Didn't say anything. He just opened the car door, grabbed me by the arm and pulled me out. I wasn't prepared for it and I kind of fell out onto the street. Yeah, I still didn't know what he was after. Thought at first he might have been crazy, was going to kill me.

[Ben Romero]

Why did you think he was going to kill you? Did he threaten you?

[Joe Friday]

No.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

With the gun and all.

[Joe Friday]

And the way he pulled me out.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Of the car, I just couldn't make it out.

[Ben Romero]

I see. Would you go on, please?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Well, he took my wallet from me. All the money I had. $14. And then he said, don't bother to get up and stay right there for five minutes after I leave. And then he bent down and he hit me in the face.

[Joe Friday]

What'd he hit you with? With his fist. Hit me right.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Right here in the mouth.

[Joe Friday]

You can see the cut right inside of our live here.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

It bled pretty heavy.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, it's a nasty cut.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

What's better now? The men who came in the ambulance, they put something on it. It'll be all right.

[Joe Friday]

Well, did he knock you out when he hit you? No.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I saw him get into my car. And then the car parked up ahead took off. And this man who held me up, he followed my car.

[Ben Romero]

Do you have anything more on the description of the hold up man or his car?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

No, I think I told the other officers everything I can remember.

[Joe Friday]

Would you recognize the man if you saw him again, Mr. Pembroke? Yes, sir. I think I would.

[Ben Romero]

Your car is a blue 1948 Dodge sedan. Right rear fender damage, is that correct?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir.

[Ben Romero]

Any other identifying marks at all?

[Joe Friday]

No, sir.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

That's about the size of it.

[Ben Romero]

And the other car looked to you like a late model chevrolet, is that right?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

49 or 50 anyway. Two tone green.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir, that's what we have. Did you see the license number on that? No, sir, I didn't. This witness was listed here Mr. Sidney Ferguson.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

That was the fellow that stopped and picked me up, brought me into work. Did you talk to him yet? He might be able to help.

[Joe Friday]

Well, we're going to see him as soon as we leave you. 800 block on Sadoquoi. Yes, sir, that's right. Sure hope you get that, thief.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

My car, too. Awful hard to get around Los Angeles.

[Joe Friday]

Without a car wrong to our bed.

[Ben Romero]

I was just wondering, Mr. Kimbrough.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir. What's that?

[Ben Romero]

Well, you say that when the man hit you, he didn't knock you out, you weren't unconscious.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

No, sir, I was not.

[Ben Romero]

Well, did you try to locate a phone call for help?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I didn't have to. This Mr. Ferguson pulled up and stopped right away, and then the officers came.

[Joe Friday]

Besides, I figured I better do what I was told. Joseph.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I was afraid I was gonna wait five minutes.

[Ben Romero]

Ben and I left the department store, picked up our car in the parking lot next door and drove out to the San Fernando Valley. The 800 block on Satoi Avenue. Citizens home was.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Round back through the.

[Joe Friday]

Gateway on the driveway. This way, I guess, huh? Yeah.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Hi there. This is the Ferguson house?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir. We're looking for Sidney Ferguson.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Surely.

[Ben Romero]

I'm Sydney ferguson, police officers.

[Joe Friday]

Mr. Ferguson got that hold up this.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Morning down on Commercial Street?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir, that's right. This is Sergeant Romero. My name's Friday.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Happy to know you. Excuse my wet hand. Been cleaning out my tanks. You fellas work out at City Hall?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, we do.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Wouldn't happen to know a John O'Grady down there? Narcotics Division. My dad?

[Ben Romero]

No, I don't believe I know him.

[Joe Friday]

Ben O'Grady?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Tall fellow, kind of blond, wavy hair?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Yeah, yeah, that's right. Good looking fellow.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, I think I've seen him around.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Good friend of mine. Wasn't that a shame this morning, that Kimbrough guy?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, it was a rough one. The reason we came out to see is we thought that maybe you could give us some additional information on it.

[Sidney Ferguson]

I'm glad to give you all the help I can. Like to see you get that. Hold up, man.

[Joe Friday]

Mind giving us a rundown on what happened this morning?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Not at. It was around 5:00 this morning. I'm not usually up that time in the morning, but I was on my way back from Monterey Park. Generally try to make it down there at least once or twice a month. Go down to see Jack Robinson, an Aquarius friend I have down there. And we swapped fish.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Sidney Ferguson]

See, I was on my way back, coming down Commercial street, when I saw this man sitting on the side of the curb. Looked like he was hurt to me. Wouldn't have noticed it, probably. It was pretty dark. But those two cars pulled out, one right after the other. Seemed to be in a big hurry.

[Joe Friday]

You pulled up to give Kimbrough a hand?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Yes, I did. Of course, when I got close enough, I could see the guy had been kicked in the teeth, bleeding pretty bad. Offered to take him to the hospital, but he said he didn't want to be late for work. After the officers came and talked to him and the ambulance men treated him, I drove him up to Stasis. Hollywood dropped him off there. That's where he works.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Well, the report says here that you got the license number of the getaway car, but you couldn't find the paper that you'd written it on when the officers interviewed you then?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Yes, I did. And that doesn't beat them all.

[Joe Friday]

What's that?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Well, I had the piece of paper a few minutes before the officers got there. Guess I was more rattled than the Kimbrough fella. When I got home here this morning, there was a slip of paper right on the floor of my car. A little bit of a break, isn't it?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, it is. I wonder if we could have it. You bet you can.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Watch.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Stephan said.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Pardon.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you. Come on.

[Sidney Ferguson]

The fish, officers. It's my hobby. Tropical fish, huh? Sure.

[Joe Friday]

That a lot happened. Yeah.

[Narrator]

Let's see now.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Where'd I put that piece of paper? I really wrote it down, believe me. I just misplaced it someplace here. I'm trying to get rid of some of the algae off the glass of the tanks.

[Joe Friday]

Yo, look at these. You ever seen a thing prettier in your life? Yeah.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Those are what they call clown fish. Saltwater fish.

[Joe Friday]

Do you keep all tropical fish in saltwater? Oh, no.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Most of them are freshwater. That is, the ones that breed good in captivity.

[Joe Friday]

Where do you get all these fish catching?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Oh, no. A place called Aquarium Stock Company out on Beverly.

[Joe Friday]

Look there, Joe, down the corner. See him over there? Yeah. That's a seahorse, Joe.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Yeah, that's right. They're also kept in saltwater.

[Joe Friday]

Sure is interesting, huh, Joe? Yeah.

[Sidney Ferguson]

How do you fellas really like to see something you haven't seen before?

[Joe Friday]

What's that?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Look in this tank here. That's a scientific name. Commonly known as the Egyptian mouth breeder.

[Joe Friday]

Is that a fry?

[Sidney Ferguson]

It's a little female there. She's One of the most sacrificing mothers in the aquarium history. One of the strangers too.

[Joe Friday]

How's that?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Well, she lays her eggs in a small depression in the sand down there at the bottom of the tank.

[Joe Friday]

How many eggs would that be?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Usually 80 to 90. Now here's the strange part.

[Narrator]

As the eggs are fertilized, she scoops.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Them up in her mouth.

[Joe Friday]

She eats them?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Oh no. They remain in her mouth while they hatch.

[Joe Friday]

Well, how long does that take?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Over 14 days.

[Joe Friday]

Well, how does she eat?

[Sidney Ferguson]

That's just it. She doesn't. She doesn't touch food in any farm for this two week period. Seems just waste away.

[Joe Friday]

What happens then?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Finally, the eggs hatch after 14 days. And the little fry comes swimming out of the mother's mouth. Yeah, while the fry are growing up first, you know, you can hardly see them, they're so tiny. While they're growing up, if anything frightens them, quick as a flash, you're back in the mother's mouth.

[Joe Friday]

That's certainly amazing. Yeah. Yeah.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Copper chromos, multicolor. Commonly known as the Egyptian mouth breeder.

[Joe Friday]

That as big as they ever get?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Yes, sir. One inch to an inch and a half.

[Joe Friday]

It's hard to believe.

[Sidney Ferguson]

The betters are almost as strange. The male builds a bubble nest on the surface of the water. That's these in this tank. Oh, here's that paper, the one I wrote the license number on.

[Joe Friday]

Oh, that's fine.

[Ben Romero]

I wonder if I could see that, please.

[Joe Friday]

Here you are. Thank you. You pretty sure of this number, Mr. Ferguson? Yes, I am.

[Sidney Ferguson]

I got a good look at it.

[Ben Romero]

Well, thank you, sir.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, thank you.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Not at all. Wish you could come over and spend a little time. You seem kind of interested in tropical fish.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, well, maybe I'll do that sometime. Bye bye, sir.

[Ben Romero]

Thanks very much.

[Joe Friday]

That's a good break if this license.

[Ben Romero]

Number checks out, huh?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. That Ferguson's a nice fella.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Sidney Ferguson]

So you're Sergeant Romero.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir.

[Sidney Ferguson]

You almost forgot. I meant to ask you.

[Joe Friday]

What's that, about five weeks from now? Yeah.

[Sidney Ferguson]

How'd you like a nice pair of baby Egyptian mouth breeders?

[Ben Romero]

10:45Am Ben and I got in the car and headed back toward town. I called communications and had them check the license number Ferguson gave us through dmv. They called back and told us that the car was a 1949 Chevrolet four door sedan. The registered owner was a Jack B. Grant. 19112 Beacon Street.

[Joe Friday]

It was in the southwest part of.

[Ben Romero]

Los Angeles was a large old fashioned residence that had been converted into a rooming House. We checked with the landlady of Mrs. Ida Fisher.

[Store Employee]

He's been with me here about eight months.

[Joe Friday]

What time did you say Grant left this morning, Ms. Fisher?

[Store Employee]

Well, it was pretty early. Must have been around 4am and I heard him go out. He came back in again about 8:00 this morning, parked his car and then he drove off with some other man.

[Ben Romero]

Would you happen to know the other man?

[Store Employee]

No, I wouldn't. I just saw him drive off.

[Joe Friday]

Where does Grant park his car, man?

[Store Employee]

Around back in the garage.

[Joe Friday]

What?

[Ben Romero]

If you'd mind if we take a look.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I know.

[Store Employee]

That's all right. You just go right around the back there, down the drive.

[Ben Romero]

Thank you very much, ma'am.

[Store Employee]

Now, there's two cars parked in there. The black Ford belongs to Mr. Spencer.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am. Thank you.

[Store Employee]

And the 19 and 49 Chevrolet, that's Mr. Grant's.

[Ben Romero]

We checked the car and the license number. It matched the description given us by the victim, Harvey Kimbrough, and the witness, Sidney Ferguson. Together with Mrs. Fisher, we checked Jack Grant's room. We found nothing of importance. His clothing and personal effects were all there. Nothing to indicate that he wouldn't be back. We told lady that placing the house under surveillance and if Grant should return, not to say that we've been there. She agreed and offered further assistance. She said she'd signal a spot by raising and lowering our front window curtain. When Grant returned, we parked down the street, called the office and advised them we were on stakeout. Two men were sent out and they covered the back entrance. Ben and I covered the front. By 6:00 that night, Grant had failed the show. 9:00pm still nothing. 11:00pm.

[Joe Friday]

What time did they say that relief team was coming out? Around 11 sometime. Chandler and Records, huh?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, I guess so.

[Joe Friday]

Oh, I sure am stiff. Feels like needles all over my body. Been about 12 hours, hasn't it? Yeah, just like driving up San Francisco. Wife always makes me drive all the way. When I climb out of that car, I'm as stiff as a board car.

[Ben Romero]

Pulling up down the street there.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Mm. That's Rickets. Hi, Jack. Freddy, who's that you got with you? Same guy that bought you your lunch yesterday. Stop bragging. That's the house right up there. Yeah, that's right.

[Ben Romero]

The green and white one there.

[Joe Friday]

No sign of him at all, huh?

[Ben Romero]

No, nothing.

[Joe Friday]

Well, you guys want to take off? Yeah, I guess you can make out. Rick, it's you. Got Chandler with you? I feel sorry for you Friday, drawing this guy for a partner.

[Ben Romero]

Well, after seven Years. He kind of grows on you. Like to check out the landlady before we take off. Her name's Ida Fisher.

[Joe Friday]

Jack, right? Joe. What's good? You.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

See you later, Jack. Say hello to Chandler. Right, then. That rake. It sure is a rib stager.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Front room lights are still on. Guess she's sweating it out with it.

[Store Employee]

Yes?

[Joe Friday]

Who is it?

[Ben Romero]

Police officers, Ms. Fisher.

[Joe Friday]

Who?

[Ben Romero]

Sergeant Friday.

[Store Employee]

Oh, yes.

[Ben Romero]

Sorry to bother you again, ma'am.

[Store Employee]

That's all right. I just couldn't see who it was and the porch lights burned out.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am.

[Store Employee]

Mr. Gr.

[Ben Romero]

Out of his room.

[Store Employee]

I don't see why he hasn't come in.

[Joe Friday]

Mr. Grant, I'm back. All right. Done.

[Store Employee]

He made me hide him.

[Joe Friday]

Lady, will you call an ambulance? Hurry. Yo.

[Store Employee]

He's not dead, is he?

[Joe Friday]

Lady, get the ambulance, please. Monday, July 9, 11:28pm the ambulance arrived and Joe was taken to Georgia Street Receiving Hospital. His condition was critical. Despite the fact that the other men on stakeout at the house had closed in as quickly as possible. Jack Grant somehow succeeded in jumping out a side window and making good his escape through a maze of neighboring backyards. The men at the scene began a search of the immediate area. I called in and communications got out of broadcast on an apb. A special detail of men in cruiser cars was rushed to the scene and a blockade thrown up around the area. I stayed on and worked with Ricketts and Chandler. Under questioning, the landlady, Mrs. Fisher, broke down and admitted that Grant had given her $10 to keep his presence in the house a secret. He told us that when we'd searched the suspect's room earlier he had hidden in the cellar. She was taken into custody. 1:30am I got a relief and I went downtown to the Georgia Street Receiving Hospital. Being there for.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

We removed one slug from the upper.

[Joe Friday]

Thoracic region, another one from his right shoulder.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Looked like they could have been.38 caliber. They've been marked for evidence.

[Joe Friday]

How's he doing?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

As well as can be expected.

[Joe Friday]

What does that mean?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

It's hard to tell.

[Joe Friday]

Depends on how it goes the next four hours. Can I go see him? No. No, we're not admitting anyone in there. Under. Sedative's lost quite a lot of blood.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

It's pretty weak.

[Joe Friday]

You need anybody for transfusions? It's all taken care of.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

His relatives been notified?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir. Jester's mother. She's visiting relatives up in Renton, Washington. I send him a wire. They'll break the news to her. It's not all we can do for now. Wonder if I couldn't sneak in and leave this cart and cigarettes more. I'm afraid it's gonna be some time.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Before Sergeant Craddock can use them.

[Ben Romero]

Just leave him.

[Joe Friday]

I'll have the nurse take care of me. All right, Doctor. Thank you. Is there anything I can get for him? Anything he needs?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

No, we're doing everything we can for him.

[Joe Friday]

You don't think I could just look in for a minute?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

No, I'm sorry.

[Joe Friday]

Must be something I can do. You got a good prayer handy. 2am I left Georgia Street Receiving Hospital and drove back to the scene of the shooting. The search for the suspect, Jack Grant, was still going on. The neighborhood was checked and rechecked. Everything possible was done to find the man who had shot down Sergeant Joe Friday. It's been said that a police department goes all out, doubles its efforts to run down a criminal who attacks a police officer. It's true. But most people aren't aware of the reason. Certain elements you to believe that the police officer places the safety of his fellow officers above that of the citizen. This isn't true. His first day at the Academy the cadet peace officer is taught this basic fact. If a Kremlin would shoot down the armed police officer he wouldn't hesitate to shoot down the unarmed citizen. 3:00am I finally located Lieutenant Jack Ricketts at the corner of Coronado and Beacon street seven blocks from the scene of the shooting. How is he? Not too good. Depends on the next four hours. What are his chances? I didn't ask. We're not getting any place here. Nothing at all? Nothing. Something's got to break. Chandler's still downtown. They're comin through Grant's package down at the I Bureau. Did he come up with anything? Not the last time I checked. About 40 minutes ago. Got any ideas? Fresh out. You couldn't have gotten far. Not this soon he couldn't. Bus depots, train terminals and airports are all covered. Highway Patrol's been alerted.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Nothing so far.

[Joe Friday]

He's someplace close. He's got to be. I think he's holed up in town too. But where? Yeah, he's in a jam. He's had good publicity. A lot of his friends are going to hide. The welcome mat. Maybe that narrows it down a little. Maybe. Let's find him. 3:30am Jack Ricketts and I got back to the City Hall. We went directly to the Eye Bureau. Chandler and Powers had sifted through Jack Grant's package. They'd drawn up a list of all Grant's Known friends and associates. There were 22 names on the list. Three of them were in San Quentin Penitentiary. Two of them were doing time at the collie work for him. That left 17 names on the list. Further checking showed that five of them had out of state addresses. 12 names. The list was split down the middle. Ricketts and I took six names. Chandler and Power. Six of the 12. With the exception of one, all names appeared in police blotter in the past eight years. Raymond Weller, Peter Denton, Horace Phillips, Henry Breen. Ricketts and I checked them. Some were in bed, some hadn't been to bed. We were reasonably sure none of them knew the whereabouts of the suspect. I called Georgia street to find out about Joe. They told me no change in his condition. 4:55am after this, when we get a quick bite to eat, huh? You don't look so good. I'm not hungry. What's this one's name? Anthony Baxter. Room 23. This is in. Yeah. Anthony Baxter? Yeah. Police officers. We want to talk to you.

[Sidney Ferguson]

It's a fine hour to get a guy out of bed.

[Joe Friday]

You always sleep with your clothes on. Step back there in the room. Hey, what's going on? You a friend of Jack Grant? Why? You know Jack Grant? Why, Jack Grant's a friend of yours? I'm not going to tell you anything until I know why. You want to talk here or downtown, I got a right to know what it's all about. Get your hat and coat. You just want to know if I know Jackie Grant. Is that all you want to get that coat and hat?

[Sidney Ferguson]

I know Grant.

[Joe Friday]

Where is he?

[Sidney Ferguson]

I don't want to get mixed up in anything.

[Joe Friday]

You're mixed up in it already. You know him. You know, that's the trouble with you guys.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Guy tries to walk the straight narrow and you guys come around and try.

[Joe Friday]

And push him into a corner. Where's Grant? Look, I've been in jail and I did my time. You haven't got any on me, Baxter. Let's get this straight. We're not after you. We're after Grant. We didn't come here to push you around. We don't want you to push us around. And where is he? I'm going to tell you something. I don't like being talked to this.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Way and I'm not going to stand for it.

[Joe Friday]

I got certain rights and I'm going.

[Sidney Ferguson]

To stand on it.

[Joe Friday]

Now you listen to me. A friend of mine is lying in the hospital because of your pal Jack Grant. He put two bullets any. Now I'm tired and I'm out of things. Working.

[Ben Romero]

Well, where is he?

[Joe Friday]

All right, Ben. It's all right. It's the last time around. Baxter. Tell us where Grant is if we go downtown. Come on, quick.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Hotel Filbert, room 605.

[Joe Friday]

5:27Am we located the Filbert Hotel on North Crocker Street. On the way over, we called in, told him what we'd found. Chandler and Powers met us outside the hotel. They took up their position. Ricketts and I checked with a desk clerk and confirmed that the suspect was in room 605. He was registered under an alias. We took the elevator to the sixth floor. Room 605 is directly across from the elevator. What is it? Police officer.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Watch your passport.

[Joe Friday]

Now. Keep your hand out of that pocket, Grant. I wouldn't want to shoot you. 5:42am Ricketson Chandler took the suspect into custody. It was 6:03am when I got to Georgia Street. Receiving hospital PNF ward. Sergeant, how is he? You can go in.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Don't stay too long.

[Joe Friday]

Thanks. Hi, Jill.

[Ben Romero]

Hi.

[Joe Friday]

You look tired. How you feeling? Well, I'll do. Gotta go. You got grand.

[Sidney Ferguson]

You look tired.

[Ben Romero]

You've been working straight through on it?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Anything I can get you?

[Ben Romero]

No. Guess I better hurry up and get.

[Joe Friday]

Out of here, huh? Why?

[Ben Romero]

Well, we still got that stolen car to find.

[Narrator]

You just heard was true. Only the names were changed to protect the innocent.

[Dragnet Announcer]

On November 7, trial was held in Superior Court Department 89, City and County of Los Angeles, State of California. In a moment, the results of that trial. Jack Grant was tried and convicted on one count of assault to commit murder. He and his accomplice were convicted on several counts of first degree robbery. Assault to commit murder is punishable by imprisonment for from 1 to 14 years. First degree robbery by imprisonment from 5 years to life. The landlady, Ida Fisher, was placed on probation. You have just heard Dragnet A series of authentic cases from official files. Technical advice comes from the office of Chief of Police W.H. parker, Los Angeles Police Department.

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[John Hagedorn]

How do you feel when you switch to Geico and save on your car insurance? It's like going to work on one Thursday morning and thinking to yourself, just one more day until Friday. But then somebody in the elevator says, happy Friday. Then you check your phone quickly and discover today is actually Friday. So yes, Happy Friday. Random stranger in the elevator. Happy Friday indeed. Yep, switching and saving with Geico feels just like that. Get more with Geico.

[Narrator]

The story you are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent.

[Dragnet Announcer]

Fatima cigarettes. Best of all, long cigarettes brings you Dragnet.

[Narrator]

You're a detective sergeant. You're assigned a homicide detail. A phone call comes into your office from a man who tells you his wife has been murdered. He's not sure who the killer is. Your job, find him. You will be amazed when you compare Fatima with other long cigarettes.

[Dragnet Announcer]

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[Narrator]

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[Dragnet Announcer]

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[Narrator]

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[Dragnet Announcer]

Drag men. The documented drama of an actual crime. For the next 30 minutes, in cooperation with the Los Angeles Police Department, you will travel step by step on the side of the law through an actual case transcribed from official police files. From beginning to end, from crime to punishment. Dragnet is the story of your police force in action.

[Ben Romero]

Was Tuesday, January 9th. It was rainy and windy in Los Angeles. We were working the night. Watch out. A homicide detail. My partner's Ben Romero. The boss is Thad Brown, Chief of detectives. My Name's Friday was 9:27pm when I got to room 42. Homicide detail.

[Joe Friday]

Hi, Joe. Great night, huh?

[Ben Romero]

Terrible weather.

[Joe Friday]

Just look out there on Spring Street. Yeah, I know.

[Ben Romero]

I just came in out of it.

[Joe Friday]

Really coming down?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Just like I told you on the phone this afternoon. What's that? Every time those seagulls flying from the coast. It means rain. Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

It sure is a fine coat. I've never been sorry I bought this.

[Joe Friday]

Let me take another look at that, Joe. Yeah, sure. Oh, yeah, yeah. That's a good one. English coat, huh? Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

They make them a little heavier over.

[Joe Friday]

There than we do here.

[Ben Romero]

Seem to be kind of Good in our business. You remember that Henderson stake out last month?

[Joe Friday]

Oh, yeah. Really poured down that day.

[Ben Romero]

This coat kept me dry as a bone. Water just seems to roll off of it.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, that's a good one. There you go.

[Ben Romero]

Thank you. Have to hang it up.

[Joe Friday]

Supposed to keep a good coat on.

[Ben Romero]

A hanger, you know. Especially when they're wet.

[Joe Friday]

Bet you trouble with mine is it leaks right up here over the shoulders. Must be through the seams, you know?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, I guess so.

[Joe Friday]

Same one I've been wearing. I told you about it before.

[Ben Romero]

You said you're gonna get a new one, didn't you?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, but it's such a good coat otherwise. I hate to throw it away.

[Ben Romero]

It's no good if it leaks.

[Joe Friday]

I guess you're right at that. Maybe I can get those seams fixed. Do you think?

[Ben Romero]

I don't know how long you had it?

[Joe Friday]

Seven years.

[Ben Romero]

I'll get it. Homicide, Friday.

[Joe Friday]

This is 14 on the complaint board. Take this call.

[Ben Romero]

Right.

[Joe Friday]

Hello?

[Ben Romero]

Hello.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

My name's Leonard Gray.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir. My wife's dead.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

She's been killed. I just went down to the garage and when I came back, she was dead. Could you send somebody out here right away?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir. What's that address?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

1627 Oxford Place.

[Ben Romero]

27 Oxford Place?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Yes, sir, that's right. I can't understand that. She was all right when I left, and then when I came back, she was dead. I can't understand that.

[Ben Romero]

We'll be right there, Mr. Gray.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

My best friend lives right next door.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir. He says I did it.

[Ben Romero]

1627 Oxford Place was. On the east side of the street. Was an average one story stucco home. All the homes on the street were about the same general style and size. It was a nice neighborhood. All the grounds appeared to be well kept from what we could see through the heavy rain. The porch light was burning when we got there. Inside the house, we were met by the two officers from unit 37R. Who filled us in on the results of their preliminary investigation. We asked them to stand by in front of the house. Then we asked the husband of the murdered woman, Leonard Gray, to show us where the body was.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Back this way. In the dining room.

[Joe Friday]

Everything just the way you found it, Mr. Gray. You didn't touch anything?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

No, sir. Haven't touched anything. Right there on the floor. That's brave, Foster. Cannot wait up there to living.

[Ben Romero]

Yes, that's all right, Ben, would you like to help?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Just sit right there.

[Joe Friday]

We'll be right with you.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Thank you.

[Joe Friday]

You and your wife live here alone? Doreen yes. It's just two of us. No children.

[Ben Romero]

Ben?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

When the clothing's torn, must have put up a struggle, huh?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Some redness there around the throat. Strangled? Yeah, could be.

[Ben Romero]

Deep gash there on the forehead. Broken vase there on the floor. Do you want to call the Crime lab?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Okay. Mr. Gray, where's your telephone?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Right in the hall out there by the bedroom.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you.

[Ben Romero]

You think you could tell us about it now, Mr. Gray?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Yes, I think so. Do you have a cigarette?

[Ben Romero]

Yes.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

There you are. Thank you, Mr. Mad.

[Ben Romero]

I give you a light.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Thanks.

[Ben Romero]

That's all right. Can you tell me just what happened here tonight?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Earl Anderson, that's my friend, lives two houses down. He and I went out after work. We usually do once, twice a week, just to have a few beers. I don't know. I felt pretty good. I guess I had a couple too many. Earl said it was late and we better be getting home. So he did. I had a little too much to drink, so he drove.

[Ben Romero]

I see. Where were you and your friend drinking?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

The bar right across from where we were, Earl Anderson and me. A lot of the men go there for a beer right after work.

[Ben Romero]

Were there quite a few men from work in there tonight?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Yeah, quite a few. I wonder if the other officer found the phone all right.

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir, I'm sure he did.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Kind of hard to find sometimes. My wife had it covered with little curtains.

[Ben Romero]

That's all right, Mr. Gray. Let's try to take it easy.

[Joe Friday]

They're on their way.

[Ben Romero]

Right. He was telling me that he and his friend Earl Anderson stopped after work. They had a couple of beers and then the two of them drove.

[Joe Friday]

I see.

[Ben Romero]

Is that right, sir?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Yeah, that's right. Well, we got home and I was feeling pretty good. So I asked Earl to come on in and have a little nightcap.

[Ben Romero]

What time was that when you got home?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

About half past six. Earl didn't want to come in because he said Hazel would be upset with me because we were a little late. Anyway, I finally talked him into coming in with me.

[Joe Friday]

Was your wife upset?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

A little bit, yeah. She used to be unhappy when I was late because of dinner. But she was never unreasonable. I didn't make it a habit to stay out. I'm usually late anyhow.

[Joe Friday]

All right.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

See, I feel terrible. Just terrible. When we got in the house, the first thing Hazel asked me was if I'd looked at the car.

[Ben Romero]

Whose car was that?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

It's our car. Dodge Sedan 42. It's parked across the street now.

[Ben Romero]

Wonder if we might check back Here?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

A little, yeah.

[Ben Romero]

I thought I understood you to say that you felt that you'd had a little too much to drink. So your friend drove this Earl Anderson?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Yes, but it was his car. I guess I should have made that a little clearer. You see, we take turns driving home, either his or my car. We trade off to fight the traffic, no matter whose car.

[Ben Romero]

I see. Wonder if you'd go on, please.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I didn't know what she meant by asking if I'd seen the car. She said someone had let all the air out of the back tires.

[Joe Friday]

Do you know why anybody'd want to do a thing like that?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

No, I had no idea who'd do that to us. Hazel said she wanted to use the car tonight. She had to go to a friend's house to help her do some remodeling or something. She didn't say a word about my being late. I thought the car had kind of taken her mind off it. Told her I'd go out and look and see if I couldn't fix it.

[Ben Romero]

Well, did it strike you as being important that you fix the car right away?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

How do you mean?

[Ben Romero]

Well, sir, I was just thinking I wouldn't want to go out in all that rain unless it was something pretty important.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Well, I didn't want to either. But I figured all I'd have to do was put a little air on the tires, then drive it down to the gas station.

[Joe Friday]

I see. Do you want to go on?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Earl said he'd be willing to give me a hand. So we went out to have a look at the car. One look at the tires and I knew we couldn't fix them. Somebody had cut them with a knife or something. They were beyond repair.

[Ben Romero]

Do you have any idea who did that?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

No, I couldn't figure it out. I have no enemies that I can think of. No one that would do a thing like that.

[Joe Friday]

What did you do then?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Earl and I figured that we'd better take the wheels off, take them down to the garage and buy some new tires. I borrowed Earl's jack and we took off the wheels. Earl said he'd be glad to take the wheels down and that I'd better go back in the house with Hazel because she might wonder what we were doing about fixing the car.

[Ben Romero]

I understand.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

We talked back and forth for a minute or two and I finally insisted that I go.

[Ben Romero]

Where did your friend Earl Anderson go?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

To his house. I dropped him off there.

[Joe Friday]

Where does he live?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Just two houses down the street.

[Joe Friday]

Uh huh.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

After I dropped him off, I went down and Picked up two new tires and two tubes and they mounted them on the wheels for me and I came back.

[Ben Romero]

About what time was it when you got back here to the house? Do you remember?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I don't know. Somewhere around 9:15, I guess.

[Joe Friday]

Then what did you do?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I was gonna put the wheels on but I thought I'd better go back in the house and tell Hazel I'd have the car fixed in a minute.

[Joe Friday]

Yes.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Minute I walked in the door, I knew something was wrong. Seemed like I could feel it. I called to her. She didn't answer her. Went through the house and when I got to the dining room, found her.

[Ben Romero]

We'll have to ask you to come downtown, Louis. Sir, you'll have to give us a complete statement on this.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Is that necessary?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir, I'm afraid it is.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

All right. I wonder if it'd be all right if I called my friend Earl Anderson to go down with me. I haven't told him about this.

[Ben Romero]

Well, notified this friend of yours. Earl Anderson?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

When you spoke with me on the phone, didn't you say something about your best friend saying that he thought that you killed your wife?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Did I say that?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir, you did.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I didn't mean it that way.

[Ben Romero]

How did you mean it?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I've been drinking earlier tonight, like I told you. I guess I must have gotten mixed.

[Ben Romero]

Up when he didn't say that you killed your.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

No. No, he didn't.

[Ben Romero]

Well, I know there's been a strain and a pretty bad shock, Mr. Gray but you told us that you didn't say anything to Earl Anderson about this. Now, isn't that right?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I'm so sick and upset. Is that what I told you?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir. You asked me if he'd be all right if you called your friend. You said you hadn't told him anything about this.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I did. I called him right after I got home. I was terrified. I didn't know what to do.

[Joe Friday]

Then you did mention your wife's death doing?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Yes, sir. Well, you men are questioning me. Your tone sounds as if you think I might have done this.

[Ben Romero]

Well, sir, we're just trying to get the facts straight. Right now, anybody's a suspect.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I didn't do this. I swear to God, I didn't kill my wife.

[Ben Romero]

Do you have any idea who might have wanted to kill Ms. Gray?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

No, no one. Hazel and I didn't have many friends. No enemies that I know of.

[Ben Romero]

I see.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

You men have any ideas at all? Can you tell anything from what you've seen?

[Joe Friday]

We might know a little more after the crime Lab checks things over as.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Soon as the lab men get here. Then you can start on the case.

[Ben Romero]

No, sir. We've already started. 10:15pm but continued to question Leonard Gray, the husband of the dead woman, Hazel Gray. His answer seemed to follow the same general pattern of hazy confusion. Ben and I weighed the possibilities and cause for his evident confusion. He admitted that he'd been drinking earlier that evening. The tremendous shock of the death of his wife, the complete interrogation necessary in the investigation. All these things could prove to be reason enough for Leonard Gray's apparent confusion. They could all be possibilities of pretense as well. We had to be sure. We asked him about relatives and in laws. He told us that his parents were not living, that his wife's mother and father resided in Los Angeles in the southwest section of the city. He gave us the address. He furnished us with a list of his friends and his acquaintances. He was feeling quite badly but seemed to want us to continue with the questioning. From time to time he would add unimportant bits of his story which he had omitted the first time through. 10:17pm the crime lab crew arrived and went to work. Gray's friend, Earl Anderson, was picked up and brought to the murder house.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Any idea who did this thing?

[Ben Romero]

We're working on it.

[Sidney Ferguson]

There's just one thing I want to make sure of.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah?

[Sidney Ferguson]

You don't suspect Len, do you?

[Ben Romero]

Why do you ask that?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Well, I know how something like this can be. Len and Hazel are wonderful people. Very good friends of mine. Just wanted to go on record as being able to vouch for Len. He wouldn't do a thing like that.

[Joe Friday]

Is that what you wanted to tell her?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Well, yes, sir. I've known Len for about five years now, going on six. We work at the same place. Just want to vouch for him, that's all.

[Joe Friday]

Would you know of anyone who might have a reason to kill Mrs. Gray?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Not a soul in the world. Hazel was wonderful to everybody. She didn't have any enemies that I know of. Such a pretty girl.

[Ben Romero]

We know that you're a close friend to Gray's. Maybe you'd be able to answer a couple of questions for us.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Any way I can be of help to you.

[Ben Romero]

Well, how did Mr. And Ms. Gray seem to get along? I mean, did they have any arguments that you know of?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Well, I really don't think I should go into their personal life in this thing.

[Ben Romero]

You mean you don't want answers?

[Sidney Ferguson]

No, sir.

[Joe Friday]

Didn't that?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Well, it just seems that it's really not my place to go into it.

[Joe Friday]

We'Re going to have to question everybody that the Grays knew. All their friends and acquaintances. Appreciate any help you could give us.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Well, it isn't that I don't want to help. I know that if I answer, it's going to make Len look bad.

[Joe Friday]

At the moment, we'll have to get all the facts from one source or another.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Well, they used to have some arguments. Guess you'd find it out from the neighbors anyway.

[Ben Romero]

Were the arguments that bad?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Pretty loud, yes, sir. I don't mean to imply that Leonard struck Hazel, but she used to get quite put out with him sometimes.

[Joe Friday]

Why?

[Ben Romero]

How do you know?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Len likes to go out with the boys. You know, booze it up quite a bit. She used to tell him she wasn't going to put up with it any longer.

[Joe Friday]

He said he never struck her.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Not that I know of. So I didn't.

[Joe Friday]

Do they have these arguments often?

[Sidney Ferguson]

I don't feel right talking this way about Len behind his back when I.

[Ben Romero]

Know that as his friend, you want to get this thing cleaned up.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Yes, sir, that's right, I do. Yes, he used to have quite a few arguments. Please understand that these differences of theirs may have been allowed, but I know Len would never think of hurting Hazeln. Anyway, I didn't see. Did you find out who sliced the tires on Len's car?

[Ben Romero]

We're checking on it.

[Sidney Ferguson]

I wonder if that couldn't have some bearing on this.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, possibly. Anderson, we'd like to have you go back to the time you and Mr. Gregg got home. Just tell us exactly what happened, would you? Will you excuse me for a minute?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Sure.

[Ben Romero]

Freddie, see you a minute?

[Joe Friday]

Right.

[Ben Romero]

Harris. I'll be right back.

[Joe Friday]

You okay?

[Ben Romero]

We're just about through. It's all photoed.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Lifted some prints.

[Ben Romero]

Coroner's ready to take the body.

[Joe Friday]

Okay?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, it's all right. Got anything besides the prints?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, a small piece of blue cloth, white button attached.

[Ben Romero]

Looks like it was ripped off a shirt. Where'd they find it?

[Joe Friday]

Near the body. We'll see you fellas back at the office, huh?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Okay, Harris. Thank you.

[Sidney Ferguson]

I was just telling your partner, Sergeant, while you were out of the room.

[Joe Friday]

Yes.

[Sidney Ferguson]

In this kind of a case, if it turns out to be murder, you have to know the whereabouts of everyone concerned, don't you?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, we do.

[Sidney Ferguson]

I suppose Len told you about his going down and get the tires fixed on his car?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, he did.

[Sidney Ferguson]

He tell you that I was at home during that time?

[Joe Friday]

Were you?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Yeah. Watch. I don't mean to try to tell you your business or Anything like that. But isn't that the sort of information you have to have?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, that's right.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Is there anything else you'd like to know?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir.

[Ben Romero]

Who killed Hazel Gray?

[Dragnet Announcer]

You are listening to Dragnet from beginning to end. Dragnet is the authentic story of your police force in action.

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[Ben Romero]

10:30Pm Tuesday, January 9th. Leonard Gray, the husband of the murdered woman, and Earl Anderson, his friend were taken downtown to Homicide for further investigation. Complete statements were taken from both men. We checked them through R and I. No record on either one. We had all prowlers and burglary calls in the vicinity of the murder house rechecked. Units working the area where the murder had occurred had picked up two possible suspects loitering in the neighborhood, but they were eliminated almost immediately. All of the neighbors, friends and relatives of Mr. And Ms. Gray were contacted and questioned. No leads. All their stories tallied almost exactly with that of Earl Anderson. The Gray had been known to argue quite frequently. The arguments were loud, but no one could say that they ever showed any physical violence toward one another. It was the opinion of the relatives and in laws that Leonard Gray drank too much. Earl Anderson, his friend, was checked and found to be a completely reliable man. We talked with the repairman at the garage where Gray had his tires exchanged. The story was correct in every detail. Earl Anderson's wife was checked. She vouched for the Grays as well as her husband. Ben and I talked with Captain Steed for an hour. 1:45am.

[Joe Friday]

Well, Skipper, seems to feel like I do about it.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. My husband, Gray, huh?

[Joe Friday]

Sure looks that way, doesn't it? We've been over that story three times. With him and we get three different versions.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, I know.

[Joe Friday]

He's completely sober now. He should be able to tell a straight story. No, I don't know, Joe.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, well, I'm not completely satisfied as far as that goes. The captain is needed. You heard him. I'll admit Gray looks bad right now.

[Joe Friday]

What do you think?

[Ben Romero]

I don't know.

[Joe Friday]

I'm Guy Homicide. Romero. Yeah, Edwards. No, Joe's right here. You want to talk with him? Oh, fine. Yeah, yeah, go ahead. Oh, yeah, okay. Thanks, Bob. Georgia Juvenile.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Picked up a couple of kids. They confessed to slashing the gray star. Well, it clears that up.

[Ben Romero]

Didn't seem to figure in any way did it to you.

[Joe Friday]

No, somebody did it to draw Gray out of the house.

[Ben Romero]

Well, it's cutting it pretty thin, isn't it?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. What's the time?

[Ben Romero]

10 minutes to 2.

[Joe Friday]

Guess I better call Leighton Frank, see what they got. Okay.

[Ben Romero]

Did Edward say that they were gonna hold those juveniles for us?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Said they were bringing them down here for interrogation. Oh, hi. Hi, Mac. Romero. Yeah. Uh huh. Good. All right, thanks. Yeah. You got something?

[Ben Romero]

What do you say?

[Joe Friday]

One of the prints, they left it out. There is a palm print. McLaughlin says it'll work for elimination. Something else. A print. Express pots of blood.

[Ben Romero]

The killer of Hazel Gray had left behind him a clue to his identity about which there could be no mistake. His palm print. The prints of the dead woman, Hazel Gray, were checked and eliminated. They weren't hers. 2:40am Leonard Gray and his friend Earl Anderson were taken down and fingerprinted. Their palm prints were also taken. Both men were returned to the interrogation room.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Sergeant, why do we have to be fingerprinted?

[Joe Friday]

Just routine.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Just like I was telling you, Sergeant Friday.

[Ben Romero]

What's that?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Leonard and I have been suspects all along, haven't we?

[Ben Romero]

Well, it's just a matter of elimination. Anybody involved in any way has to be checked out.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Didn't the fellow down at the garage verify Len's story?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, he did.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

It's the truth.

[Joe Friday]

I wouldn't lie at a time like this.

[Sidney Ferguson]

I don't believe that anybody thinks you're lying, Len. It's just they have to be sure.

[Ben Romero]

That's right.

[Joe Friday]

Again, Interrogation room, this is Romero. Oh, yeah, right. Okay, right away. Crime Lab. Jill Fingers says he and Jones would like to see one of us right away. All right.

[Ben Romero]

You want to go?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. I'll be right back. Okay.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Sergeant, was there really any specific reason for us being fingerprinted?

[Ben Romero]

Well, we already told you, it's just routine.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Wouldn't it be perfectly in Line to find Len's fingerprints around his own house.

[Ben Romero]

Well, yes, it would.

[Joe Friday]

Yours could be there too. Earl. Yeah.

[Sidney Ferguson]

I was going to say that I'm over at their house a great deal of the time.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, we know. You mentioned that.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Makes you feel kind of funny getting fingerprinted.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Doesn't make any difference what I have to go through. If you can find who did this thing.

[Sidney Ferguson]

I feel the same way, Len. Think you're any closer to knowing who did it?

[Joe Friday]

Well, possibly.

[Ben Romero]

You men have had little time to think this over. Do either of you have anything to.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Add to your story?

[Ben Romero]

Maybe some small detail you may have overlooked?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I've been thinking about it all night. I can't think of anything I haven't already told you.

[Ben Romero]

You, Mr. Anderson, is there anything that you might have forgotten to tell us?

[Joe Friday]

I'm sorry, I was just thinking.

[Ben Romero]

Yes?

[Sidney Ferguson]

There couldn't have been anyone Hazel knew, could they, Lynn?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

How do you mean?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Well, somebody maybe from her past. Somebody she might not have told you about.

[Joe Friday]

I don't see how that could be possible.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

You people checked your father and mother, didn't you?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir, we did.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Well, it eliminates that possibility. Haven't you found any way at all of telling who it was that killed Hazel?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, we have.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Well, I think that Len here is entitled to. No, I'd be glad to leave the room if you want to talk to him alone.

[Ben Romero]

No, sir, that's not necessary. When we work it out, you'll both be told about it.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

If there's something definite, you'd tell me, wouldn't you? I think Earl's right. I'm entitled to know.

[Joe Friday]

Well, sir.

[Ben Romero]

We're assigned to the investigation, Mr. Gray, and we're doing everything that we can to get to the bottom of it.

[Sidney Ferguson]

Sergeant Lennon. I think you men know a great deal more than you've been telling him.

[Joe Friday]

His wife was a victim.

[Sidney Ferguson]

It's his right to know how the investigation's going, isn't it?

[Joe Friday]

Well, I told you before.

[Ben Romero]

Whatever he should know, we'll tell him. Anything that we withhold from him is done for a good reason.

[Joe Friday]

Joe, want to take a look at this?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, thanks.

[Joe Friday]

You are? Here's a report on it.

[Ben Romero]

Oh, thank you.

[Joe Friday]

Mm.

[Ben Romero]

This shirt belong to either of you, man?

[Harvey Kimbrough]

It's not mine.

[Sidney Ferguson]

No. Why? What's it mean?

[Ben Romero]

I get it. Interrogation room, Friday. Yaddy.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

Right.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you.

[Sidney Ferguson]

What about that shirt, Sergeant? What's it mean?

[Joe Friday]

This button here. Little piece of cloth attached, found with a body. You notice the front of the shirt here? Button ripped off. See how it Matches?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Yeah. It's not my shirt.

[Ben Romero]

It was found in your house.

[Sidney Ferguson]

I never saw it before. It's not mine.

[Ben Romero]

The palm print was.

[Sidney Ferguson]

What?

[Ben Romero]

The print of your palm. Blood stains on it was found near the body.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

What's he talking about, Earl? What's he mean?

[Sidney Ferguson]

I killed Hazel.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

What?

[Sidney Ferguson]

I killed Hazel.

[Joe Friday]

Why?

[Sidney Ferguson]

Because I loved her. I think I loved her more than you did.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

You don't kill someone because you love them.

[Sidney Ferguson]

You do if you love them enough.

[Ben Romero]

You ready to give us a statement, Anderson?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Sidney Ferguson]

I'll tell you.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I can't believe all this. I'm gonna kill you.

[Joe Friday]

All right, Greg, hold it.

[Harvey Kimbrough]

I can't believe it. My best friend.

[Sidney Ferguson]

I wasn't your best friend.

[Narrator]

The story you have just heard was true. Only the names were changed to protect the innocent.

[Dragnet Announcer]

On April 4, trial was held in Superior Court Department 89. City and county of Los Angeles, State of California. In a moment, the results of that trial.

[Narrator]

And now, here is our star, Jack Webb.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you, friends.

[Ben Romero]

Let me tell you how to size up king size cigarettes. First, take a Fatima and then any other king size cigarette side by side. The two may seem to look alike, but they're not. Because no other king size cigarette has Fatima quality. That's right. In Fatima, the difference is quality. Quality that starts with a blend of the finest domestic and Turkish tobaccos. And follows up with extra mildness, a better flavor and aroma. Now, if you haven't tried Fatima's yet, take my advice, buy a pack, compare Fatima. You'll find just as I have, that in Fatima, the difference is quality.

[Dragnet Announcer]

Earl Taylor Anderson was tried and convicted of murder in the first degree. He was executed in the lethal gas chamber at the State Penitentiary, San Quentin, California.

[Narrator]

At home and overseas, in camps, hospitals and military installations and in battle areas, Red Cross personnel work for the welfare, recreation and morale of those who defend the nation. Today, Red Cross is expanding these services to keep pace with the rapid growth of our nation's defense forces. Your support of Red Cross makes this expansion possible. Remember, when you give to the Red Cross, your gift is a lift to our fighting men.

[Dragnet Announcer]

Just heard Dragnet. A series of authentic cases from official files. Technical advice for Dragnet comes from the office of Chief of Police W.H. parker, Los Angeles Police Department.

[Narrator]

Our thanks to Quick magazine for this week's salute to Dragnet's Jack Webb. Fatima cigarettes. Best of all, Long Cigarettes has brought you Dragnet. Portions transcribed from Los Angeles. Here, a gold smuggling case on Counter Spy next over most NBC stations.

[Ben Romero]

Thanks for joining us at 1001 radio. Crime Solvers reviews and comments are always appreciated. Now AT T Mobile get four 5G phones on us and four lines for 25 a line per month when you switch with eligible trade trade ins all on America's largest 5G network.

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