THE BIG PARROT and THE BIG BETTY

Summary

1001 Radio Crime Solvers: THE BIG PARROT and THE BIG BETTY

Episode Release Date: February 12, 2025
Host: Jon Hagadorn
Network: 1001 Stories Network
Website: www.1001storiespodcast.com

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Introduction

In this gripping episode of 1001 Radio Crime Solvers, host Jon Hagadorn delves into two intertwined crime stories from the golden age of radio. Featuring authentic transcripts from the iconic Dragnet series, this episode, titled "THE BIG PARROT and THE BIG BETTY," unravels complex murder investigations and a cunning bunco racket that exploited tragedy for criminal gain.

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Case 1: The Guthrie Murders

Timeline: Wednesday, April 2
Location: Los Angeles Rooming House on 7th Street

Overview: Detective Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner, Sergeant Ben Romero, are called to investigate the mysterious deaths of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Guthrie in their Los Angeles rooming house. The scene suggests murder with a subsequent arson to obliterate evidence.

Key Events & Discussions:

1. Initial Investigation ([00:53] - [06:56]):

   • Joe Friday arrives at room 42, finding both victims dead, with a dead parrot beside them.
   • Signs of arson indicate an attempt to cover up the murders. Chief Sullivan from the arson squad assists in examining the fire setup.
   • The detectives discover that the fire was meticulously planned using kerosene-soaked rags and an automatic timer connected to a heater, revealing the killer's knowledge of timing devices.

   Notable Quote:

   Chief Marshman ([06:08]): "Whoever set it up was no amateur, as the chief said."

2. Interviews and Evidence Gathering ([09:02] - [12:55]):

   • Ms. Clara Stedman, the landlady, is interviewed and provides alibis for both victims. She mentions a recent visitor, Jack Marshman, an employee of Mr. Guthrie.
   • Fingerprints and blood evidence link Jack Marshman to the crime scene, indicating his direct involvement in the murders.

   Notable Quote:

   Joe Friday ([10:38]): "What you got? This hammer mounted over in the corner under some of the rubble."

3. Confrontation and Confession ([17:12] - [27:38]):

   • Jack Marshman is brought in for further questioning. Initially calm, his demeanor shifts as evidence mounts against him.
   • Under pressure, Marshman confesses to the murders, revealing his motive rooted in financial disputes and personal grievances with the Guthries.
   • The confession details how he killed Mr. Guthrie and attempted to murder Mrs. Guthrie, followed by setting the room ablaze to mask his crimes.

   Notable Quote:

   Jack Marshman ([23:03]): "Why did you kill Mr. And Ms. Guthrie? I didn't know what I was talking about. I didn't kill him."

4. Trial and Conviction ([28:55] - [60:22]):

   • John Everett Marshman is tried and convicted of first-degree murder, receiving a life sentence without parole.
   • The case concludes with Marshman's sentencing, highlighting the thoroughness of Friday and Romero's investigative work.

   Notable Quote:

   Ben Romero ([58:34]): "You must have felt pretty sharp cheating them out of a few bucks. Maybe you don't remember, mister, but we do."

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Case 2: The Obituary Racket

Timeline: December 14 - December 31
Location: Various locations in Los Angeles

Overview: Detectives Friday and Romero shift their focus to a string of bunco operations exploiting obituary listings to con grieving relatives into purchasing fake merchandise. The gang, led by Betty McGraw, operates under the guise of offering personalized gifts for recently deceased loved ones.

Key Events & Discussions:

1. Identifying the Racket ([33:30] - [38:31]):

   • Multiple reports emerge of individuals being swindled by a con man posing as a friend of the deceased, selling overpriced and counterfeit goods.
   • The detectives trace the operations to Fred G. Norris, who manages the logistics of the racket, distributing fake items sourced from the Midwest.

   Notable Quote:

   Ben Romero ([37:11]): "It's a lucrative racket for the public. A vicious one."

2. Stakeouts and Arrests ([40:01] - [44:46]):

   • Utilizing informants and stakeouts, Friday and Romero gather evidence against Fred Norris, Wesley Fisher, and Raymond Breen.
   • The trio is arrested and interrogated, eventually leading to further revelations about the gang's operations and the involvement of Betty McGraw.

   Notable Quote:

   Ben Romero ([43:32]): "He's part of one of the filthiest rackets going. Gentlemen, you're making a bad mistake."

3. Uncovering the Mastermind ([55:38] - [60:22]):

   • On New Year's Eve, under continued pressure, Wesley Fisher admits to Betty McGraw being the true leader of the gang.
   • The detectives locate Betty McGraw at a New Year's party, effectively dismantling the obituary racket.

   Notable Quote:

   Joe Friday ([55:52]): "She planned it out. She gathered the men together for the job and it had been planned that she was to stay in the background in case of trouble."

4. Conclusion and Conviction ([58:42] - [60:22]):

   • All members of the bunco gang, including Elizabeth "Betty" McGraw, are apprehended and convicted of grand theft.
   • The case underscores the relentless pursuit of justice by Friday and Romero against sophisticated cons preying on vulnerable individuals.

   Notable Quote:

   Ben Romero ([59:38]): "They didn't want to keep the stuff at the house they were living in. How are they hitting any possibility of stakeouts?"

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Conclusion

"THE BIG PARROT and THE BIG BETTY" showcases the meticulous investigative prowess of Det. Sgt. Joe Friday and Sgt. Ben Romero as they navigate the murky waters of murder and con artistry. From unraveling the seemingly inexplicable Guthrie murders to dismantling a deceptive obituary-based bunco racket, this episode highlights the enduring battle between law enforcement and sophisticated criminals.

Jon Hagadorn masterfully presents these classic tales, enriched with authentic dialogue and timestamps that immerse listeners into the heart of each investigation. For aficionados of true crime and golden-age radio dramas, this episode serves as a compelling journey through justice's tenacity.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Chief Marshman ([06:08]): "Whoever set it up was no amateur, as the chief said."
• Joe Friday ([10:38]): "What you got? This hammer mounted over in the corner under some of the rubble."
• Jack Marshman ([23:03]): "Why did you kill Mr. And Ms. Guthrie? I didn't know what I was talking about. I didn't kill him."
• Ben Romero ([37:11]): "It's a lucrative racket for the public. A vicious one."
• Ben Romero ([43:32]): "He's part of one of the filthiest rackets going. Gentlemen, you're making a bad mistake."
• Joe Friday ([55:52]): "She planned it out. She gathered the men together for the job and it had been planned that she was to stay in the background in case of trouble."
• Ben Romero ([59:38]): "They didn't want to keep the stuff at the house they were living in. How are they hitting any possibility of stakeouts?"

---

Final Thoughts

This episode exemplifies the thrilling depth of 1001 Radio Crime Solvers, bringing to life the intricate cases that captivated audiences during radio's golden era. Whether you're a long-time fan or discovering these stories anew, "THE BIG PARROT and THE BIG BETTY" promises an engaging and insightful experience into the annals of classic radio crime solving.

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Transcript

[Mandy]

If you love chilling mysteries, unsolved cases and a touch of mom style humor, Moms and Mysteries is the podcast you've been searching for. Hey guys, I'm Mandy. And I'm Melissa. Join us every Tuesday for Moms and Mysteries, your gateway to gripping, well researched true crime stories. Each week we deep dive into a variety of mind boggling cases as we shed light on everything from heists to whodunits. We're your go to podcast for mysteries with a motherly touch. Subscribe now to Moms and Mysteries.

[Melissa]

Wherever you get your podcast.

[Joe Friday]

The story.

[Narrator]

You are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent.

[Commercial Announcer]

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

[Narrator]

You're a detective sergeant. You're assigned a homicide detail.

[Joe Friday]

A man and his wife are found.

[Narrator]

Dead in a rooming house.

[Joe Friday]

A dead parrot lies on the floor beside them.

[Narrator]

The killer set fire to the room to cover his tracks.

[Ben Romero]

Your job?

[Narrator]

Get him. You'll be amazed when you compare Fatima with other long cigarettes.

[Commercial Announcer]

You'll find they now cost the same. But in Fatima, the difference is quality.

[Narrator]

You see, Fatima is the quality king size cigarette because it contains the finest Turkish and domestic tobaccos, superbly blended. And Fatima is extra mild with a much different, much better flavor and aroma than any other long cigarette. Because of its quality, its extra mildness, its better flavor and aroma, Fatima has more than doubled its smokers coast to coast.

[Commercial Announcer]

So try comparing Fatima yourself. Fatimas now cost the same as other long cigarettes, but your first puff will.

[Narrator]

Tell you, ah, that's different. Yes, in Fatima, the difference is quality. Ask your dealer for Fatima, the quality king size cigarette. Best of all, long cigarettes. Start enjoying Fatima tomorrow.

[Commercial 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 Wednesday, April 2. It was windy in Los Angeles. We were working the early morning watch out of homicide. My partner's Ben Romero. The boss is Thad Brown, Chief of Detectives. My name's Friday. I was on the way back from communications and it was 5:25am when I got to room 42. Homicide.

[Joe Friday]

Hello?

[Ben Romero]

Is this Ms. Jones?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, who is it?

[Ben Romero]

This is Joe Friday. I'm sorry to bother you, Ms. Jones. Is Lee there?

[Melissa]

Oh, yes, Joe. Just a minute, I'll wake him.

[Narrator]

Lee?

[Joe Friday]

Lee, honey?

[Ben Romero]

Yes.

[Melissa]

It's Joe Friday.

[Narrator]

He Wants to talk to you.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, Joe, what is it?

[Ben Romero]

I'm sorry to wake you. Can you come down right away?

[Joe Friday]

What's the trouble?

[Ben Romero]

Got a call from fire headquarters a couple of minutes ago.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah?

[Ben Romero]

They had a fire in a roaming house over on 7th Street. They found two dead bodies in one of the rooms.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, they said okay.

[Ben Romero]

Well, the battalion chief doesn't think so. They found both bodies on the bed. There was evidence of arson in the room.

[Joe Friday]

What kind of proof?

[Ben Romero]

They got the victims. That's why we called you.

[Joe Friday]

What you got?

[Ben Romero]

Fire department thinks they were dead before the fire started. 5:30am Romero and I drove out to the rooming house on 7th Street. It was a two story building in the middle of the block between south grand and Toledo Avenue. On one side of it was a small transient hotel, on the other, a building which housed a bookbinding firm and studios for an acrobatic dancing school. When we got there, the salvage crew was still working. We were directed to the second floor where we met with a man in charge from the fire department. Battalion Chief Sullivan.

[Joe Friday]

It's right down the hall here. Watch your step there. Oh, yeah.

[Ben Romero]

You have the names of the victims, Chief?

[Joe Friday]

We think it's Guthrie. Mr. And Mrs. Charles Guthrie. Old couple lived here for some time, I understand. Here we are. We figure that's where it started. Right under the bed over there. Heat must have been terrific. Look at the walls. Yo.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. This is where most of the damage was done, Chief.

[Joe Friday]

No rooms on both sides. Got it, too. Not as bad as this, though. Guthrie's had two rooms. This and the one adjoining. Through the door there.

[Ben Romero]

When'd the fire start? You got any idea?

[Joe Friday]

About quarter to five, I'd say. Landlady smelled the smoke about 10 to five. Put in the alarm. Fire was out three minutes after five. Any other casualties? Besides the Guthrie's, I mean. No, just the two.

[Ben Romero]

Okay.

[Joe Friday]

Over on the bed here.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Well, the worst I've seen.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, it's pretty bad, Ben. You can see from the position of the two bodies. Doesn't look to me like they suffocated.

[Joe Friday]

Mm. Mm.

[Ben Romero]

No evidence that they tried to get out of the room. Both relaxed. Looks like somebody did them in, then tried to cover with arson, huh?

[Joe Friday]

Archie? Yeah? On the floor there. Oh, yeah, a parrot. Somebody rung its neck, looks like to me, and then threw it there on the floor. There's the empty cage there in the corner and doors open. Chief?

[Jack Marshman]

Yeah?

[Joe Friday]

Wyatt Schubert. Still talking to the landlady. He hasn't come back. Clyde. Like you to Meet Friday and Robello. No, sorry. Friday and Romero, Homicide detail. This is Clyde Wyatt from the arson squad. Hi.

[Ben Romero]

How are you?

[Joe Friday]

You want to show him that setup, Clyde, how it was touched off? Glad to.

[Jack Marshman]

You can take a look under the bed there.

[Joe Friday]

Tells most of the story. Seen directly underneath there. Let me see.

[Jack Marshman]

Mm.

[Joe Friday]

What is that? Why, it's pretty charred. Rags and papers had a good soaking in kerosene before they were touched off. Strung out all under the bed here.

[Ben Romero]

Couldn't miss, huh?

[Joe Friday]

Thorough guy.

[Jack Marshman]

Whoever set it up, most of the.

[Narrator]

Carpeting in the room was doused with kerosene, too.

[Joe Friday]

This much you can count on. The man who touched it off knew something about timing devices. Want to show them that rig climb right here?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Ordinary electric heater.

[Narrator]

This automatic timer was connected to it, then plugged in.

[Joe Friday]

Heater was placed under the bed right next to the rags and papers. Timer was set probably for about 4:45am Timer let go on schedule. Heater warmed up. Rags and papers caught fire. Then the mattress. You can see the rest for yourself that time. A pretty intricate way. The man who put it together was no amateur, as the chief said.

[Jack Marshman]

Must have known something about clockwork. Why, why'd see a minute.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Jack Marshman]

Mac, Excuse me.

[Joe Friday]

I'll be back in a minute.

[Ben Romero]

You bet. Thanks very much.

[Joe Friday]

You find anything else that might tie in, Chief? Not in this room. No dead parrot there. Door of the cage open.

[Ben Romero]

Probably a pet. Might have been out of the cage at the time of the fire. Is it possible the parrot could have suffocated, Chief?

[Joe Friday]

Not from what I can see, no. As I say, it looks to me like somebody wrung the bird's neck. A few green feathers on the floor there. That's the adjoining room in there. Okay. I figure the Guthrie's used it as a sitting room.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

You can see the fire didn't wipe out everything in here. Hey, Joe. Come here, man.

[Ben Romero]

Right.

[Joe Friday]

This carpet here with a door. Dark stains.

[Ben Romero]

Let me see.

[Joe Friday]

What do you think? Could be blood. Heavy stains. Sure. Enough of them. Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Looks like more of them. Are that desk there. Some on the wall, too.

[Joe Friday]

Desk drawers open here.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, I see that.

[Joe Friday]

That's about it. You know as much as we do so far. Yeah. We know how the fire was touched off. We're satisfied it didn't kill those two people in there.

[Ben Romero]

The boys from Larson squad talking to the other rumors in the building right now.

[Joe Friday]

You can check with them.

[Ben Romero]

Okay. Well, thank you very much, Chief.

[Joe Friday]

I certainly appreciate it. Not at all. The usual breaks, isn't it? How's that this is fire prevention week.

[Ben Romero]

5:53Am, Lt. Lee Jones and the crew from the crime lab arrived. Davis, the photographer, Dean Bergman from Leighton Prince. Pictures were taken of both rooms, which made up Mr. And Mrs. Guthrie's living quarters. Photographs of the bodies were taken. Bergman processed for fingerprints while Lee Jones continued his investigation. Ben and I went down the hall to the landlady's apartment, where we met with Ray Shubert, one of the men from the arson squad.

[Joe Friday]

These men are from Homicide Division. Sergeant Friday, Sergeant Romero. Mrs. Stedman, that right?

[Ben Romero]

Yes.

[Melissa]

Clara Stedman. How do you do? I manage the house here. Would either of you care for a cup of tea?

[Joe Friday]

No, thank you.

[Ben Romero]

I wouldn't care for any. When did you last see Mr. And Ms. Guthrie, ma'am?

[Melissa]

Well, now, at least he. Ms. Guthrie? I saw her just before dinner last night, a little before six. I went in to borrow an egg and a cup of flour. She was all right then.

[Joe Friday]

Was there anyone with her?

[Melissa]

No, no, she was alone.

[Ben Romero]

What about Mr. Guthrie? When did you last see him?

[Melissa]

About 7:30. I looked out my window and I saw him closing up the parking lot.

[Ben Romero]

Did the Guthrie's have any visitors at all yesterday? Do you remember that?

[Melissa]

Oh, just one I know of. Jack Marshman. He's working for Mr. Guthrie about a year now.

[Ben Romero]

When did Marshman visit the Guthrie's, do you know?

[Melissa]

Around four yesterday afternoon. Yes, I was there too. Mrs. Guthrie and Jack and I had a cup of tea together. Then Jack left to go back to work and then I left.

[Joe Friday]

You didn't notice anyone else in or near the Guthrie's rooms after that?

[Melissa]

No. I had my dinner and listened to a radio play, and then I went off to bed.

[Ben Romero]

I know you're upset, Mrs. Stedman, but can you think of anybody who might have wanted to do away with the Guthrie's? Anybody who had a reason to do them harm?

[Melissa]

Oh, as far as I know, Sergeant, they didn't have an enemy in the world. I guess I was wrong. It's terrible, terrible thing.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am. We'll leave our card here. Waiting.

[Melissa]

All right.

[Joe Friday]

If you want to contact us, don't hesitate to call anytime.

[Melissa]

All right. Thank you.

[Ben Romero]

Thank you, Miss Steadman. Goodbye, ma'am.

[Melissa]

Goodbye.

[Ben Romero]

What time again?

[Joe Friday]

6:15.

[Ben Romero]

It's pretty early. They ought to be able to post the bodies for us this morning.

[Joe Friday]

Say Friday. Oh, yes, Chief Jones, Your crime lab man's looking for you.

[Ben Romero]

Thank you. Ben. You called the coroner, didn't you?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, he's on his way over. Lee. Hi. I'm looking for you got a few things.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. What's that?

[Joe Friday]

This hammer mounted over in the corner under some of the rubble. These stains on the metal handle here on the head. Gave it the benzidine test. It's blood. You figure it's a murder weapon? I know more when I get the Connor's report. Bergman lifted a lot of nice prints. Lot of them all over everything.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

On the handle of this hammer. On that timing contraption over there. The one that touched off the fire. Even left some in the next room. On that metal box in the drawer of the desk. How do they look? Got good prints from each room. They match. They're in the next room. Something else. Look at this stuff. Yeah. Those stains on the carpet by the door. The stains on the carpet by the desk. Those on the wall. Blood stains. All of them. You can see here. Pair of stains. All leading through the door into the murder room.

[Ben Romero]

You figure they were murdered in here and then the killer took the bodies in the next room and put them on that bed.

[Joe Friday]

Then he set fire to cover up. That's my guess. How about the prints on the box on that desk, Lee? Might have been money in the box.

[Ben Romero]

Possible burglary.

[Joe Friday]

That's an angle. I'll take scrapings from these stains from a biological precipitant. When I get back to the lab, I'll let you know how it comes out. Better start finishing up here.

[Ben Romero]

Right, Lee. Thanks very much. Looks like we're in fair shape. A hammer, couple of fingerprints. Righty.

[Joe Friday]

Romero. Yes, Huber. That fellow that worked for Mr. Guthrie in the parking lot. Jack Marshman just got here.

[Ben Romero]

Did you talk to him?

[Joe Friday]

Why am I having one of the empty rooms? Down the hall.

[Ben Romero]

Thanks. Which way?

[Joe Friday]

Down there. Seems pretty well broken up. He talked to anyone besides you since he got here? No. I told him the Guthrie's were dead, that's all. Taking it pretty hard.

[Ben Romero]

Which one?

[Jack Marshman]

Right here. Best friends I had, Charlie. Bar. I knew I should have stayed with him. I knew I should have.

[Joe Friday]

These men are from Homicide. Mr. Marshman, Sergeant Friday and Sergeant Romero. Hello, Mr. Marshman. How are you? I. I don't know.

[Jack Marshman]

And I can tell you. I can't understand poor Charlie. And boy. What can I do to help?

[Joe Friday]

We'd like to have you answer a few questions, if you don't mind.

[Jack Marshman]

Certainly. Certainly. Anything to help. Father, please. You. You gotta find out whoever did it. You gotta find out who killed him.

[Joe Friday]

We're gonna try, Mr. Marshman.

[Ben Romero]

Now, would you tell us the last time you saw that Guthrie's alive?

[Jack Marshman]

Sure.

[Joe Friday]

Maude.

[Jack Marshman]

Mrs. Guthrie about 4:15 yesterday afternoon. Me and Mrs. Stedman, she's a line lady, we had tea with her. Then I went back to help Mr. Guthrie at the parking lot.

[Joe Friday]

Mm.

[Ben Romero]

When's the last time you saw him?

[Jack Marshman]

Oh, it was about 6:30. That's when I got off duty at the lot. I said goodbye to Charlie. Never dawned on me it was the last time I'd see him alive. I just can't understand. It's such a vicious thing. Charlie and Marty. It's really terrible.

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir. You want to just sit down there, Mr. Marshman?

[Joe Friday]

Oh, thanks.

[Ben Romero]

Ray. John, are you sure you're the only one who talked to Marshman since he died?

[Joe Friday]

That's right. I met him at the door downstairs.

[Ben Romero]

Well, the only thing you told him was that the Guthrie's were dead.

[Joe Friday]

That's all he got from us.

[Ben Romero]

Any chance he could have been in the room since the fire?

[Joe Friday]

Not a chance.

[Ben Romero]

And how do you know somebody killed him?

[Commercial Announcer]

You are listening to Dragnet Authentic stories of your police force in action.

[Narrator]

You'll be amazed when you compare Fatima with other long cigarettes.

[Commercial Announcer]

Buy a pack, you'll find Fatima's now cost the same lighter. Fatima.

[Narrator]

Ah, that's different.

[Commercial Announcer]

What a difference.

[Narrator]

Yes, friends, in Fatima, the difference is quality. Quality of tobaccos. The finest Turkish and domestic varieties, extra mild and superbly blended to give you a much different, much better flavor and aroma than any other long cigarette.

[Commercial Announcer]

Quality of manufacture, smooth, plump cigarettes rolled in the finest paper money can buy.

[Narrator]

Quality even to the appearance of the bright clean yellow package, carefully wrapped and sealed to bring you Fatima's rich, fresh, extra mild flavor.

[Commercial Announcer]

Try comparing Fatima yourself. Fatima's now cost the same as other long cigarettes, but your first puff will.

[Narrator]

Tell you, ah, that's different. Yes, in Fatima the difference is quality. Ask your dealer for Fatima, the quality king size cigarette. Best of all, long cigarettes. Start enjoying Fatima tomorrow.

[Ben Romero]

Wednesday, April 2, 6:45am Lee Jones and his men completed their investigation and took their findings back to the crime lab for further examination. The deputy coroner arrived and removed the bodies of Mr. And Mrs. Guthrie to the county morgue. Together with Clyde Wyatt and Ray Shubert of the arson squad. Ben and I continued questioning the Guthrie's friend and employee, Jack Marshman. His answers got more confused and he kept contradicting himself. In some ways he seemed childlike, in others, a good deal more complex. We strung along in order to keep up the pretense that he was not a suspect. We asked him to come along with us while we checked his living quarters. A two Room? Basement apartment near Olympic and South Flower. We explained it as a routine check. Marshman was calm and self assured.

[Jack Marshman]

Well, here it is, officers. You save yourself.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Mm. Nice comfortable play.

[Jack Marshman]

I like it. I've been here for about three years. Well, this room's where I do my living. Pull down bed. It's a little gas plate over there. It's handy. Compact.

[Ben Romero]

I see. What do you use this next room for here, Jack?

[Jack Marshman]

It's my shop. I like to put around. You care to see it?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Okay. Mm. It's very nice. What's your hobby?

[Jack Marshman]

Watchmaking.

[Joe Friday]

Huh?

[Jack Marshman]

Used to be a watchmaker. I haven't looked at it lately, though. Job's pretty hard to find. Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

These parts here on the bench. You making something, Jack?

[Jack Marshman]

Just fooling around. Old alarm clock there. I'm fixing it up for a friend.

[Ben Romero]

All these wires and things. They all go into the works, huh?

[Jack Marshman]

More or less, yeah. Just something I was fooling around with. Keeps me busy, you know. I like a hobby. They say it's good for you.

[Ben Romero]

That's what they say. Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Where does this do, gold, Marshman?

[Jack Marshman]

It's my closet. Just some clothes and stuff in there. Just junk.

[Joe Friday]

Don't mind if I let the.

[Jack Marshman]

It's only a closet. They're just closing, Jock. There's nothing to see.

[Ben Romero]

See, Jack, do you usually keep this stuff around?

[Joe Friday]

Huh? Oh, it's.

[Ben Romero]

It's kerosene. And it's pretty dangerous to store like this. There's no cap on it.

[Jack Marshman]

I'm glad you reminded me. I gotta get a cap for that. I use it to wash up. My hands get dirty working around the bench.

[Joe Friday]

This shirt. These trousers are yours, Jeff.

[Jack Marshman]

I wish you wouldn't drag that stuff out. It gets my stuff all mixed up. Yeah, they're mine.

[Joe Friday]

That's what I figured. The stain's here. There's quite a few of them.

[Jack Marshman]

Some kind of paint I was using. I'm pretty sloppy with paint.

[Ben Romero]

That's not paint, is it, Jack? Look like blood to me.

[Jack Marshman]

What difference does it make? The working clothes.

[Joe Friday]

Thanks. Your reason was in a day.

[Jack Marshman]

Why don't you lay off? Who cares what kind of stain it is? You come in here snooping around, looking all around. I invited you in there. I didn't give you the place. This is my apartment and this is my shop. You can get out. You hear me? Both of you. You can get out.

[Ben Romero]

What's the matter, Jack?

[Jack Marshman]

I said you can get out.

[Ben Romero]

All right. You want to tell us before we go?

[Jack Marshman]

I'll tell you. What?

[Ben Romero]

Why you killed the Guthries?

[Jack Marshman]

What do you mean?

[Ben Romero]

Why did you kill Mr. And Ms. Guthrie?

[Jack Marshman]

No reason. I just did it.

[Ben Romero]

9:00Am we put the stained clothing and the materials from the workbench in the car together with the suspect. We headed back for the office. On the way, Marshman was quiet. He asked for some breakfast. We stopped and bought him some ham and eggs. We tried to get him to talk. He refused. After breakfast, we dropped the stained clothing and the other things at the crime lab and then we drove to the city hall. We parked the car in front of the Spring street entrance and started up the stairs.

[Jack Marshman]

Hey, wait a minute.

[Joe Friday]

What's wrong?

[Jack Marshman]

I've been thinking.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah?

[Jack Marshman]

It's all a mistake.

[Ben Romero]

What is?

[Jack Marshman]

I didn't know what I was talking about. I didn't kill him.

[Ben Romero]

9:47Am Ben and I took the suspect into the interrogation room. We checked him through R and I. He had a record of two petty thefts the year before. We went back to the interrogation room and got on the phone we call Latent Fingerprints.

[Joe Friday]

We made them, Joe. The prints on the hammer, the timing device and the metal box on the desk, they all belonged to Marshman.

[Ben Romero]

10:03Am I called the county morgue.

[Joe Friday]

Bodies identified as Mr. And Mrs. Charles Guthrie. Cause of death, Mrs. Guthrie? Multiple depressed fractures of the skull. Subarachnoid hemorrhage. Blunt instrument. Cause of death, Mr. Guthrie? About the same. Compressions of the brain in the occipital area around the brain stem.

[Ben Romero]

10:25Am I put in a call to Lee Jones at the crime lab.

[Joe Friday]

The materials from the workbench are the same that went into that automatic timer. Joe, piece together the cut ends of some of the wires. They match.

[Ben Romero]

How about the stains on his clothes?

[Joe Friday]

Human blood.

[Ben Romero]

10:45Am we laid it out for the suspect step by step.

[Jack Marshman]

Let me rest a while. I'll feel better. Let me think.

[Ben Romero]

We stayed with him. We waited. 11:20am the suspect opened his eyes.

[Jack Marshman]

Sergeant.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah?

[Jack Marshman]

I want to talk about it.

[Ben Romero]

11:25Am Shubert and Wyatt from the Arson squad joined us. We called in one of the stenographers to take Marshman's statement, Eleanor Eastlack. She automatically took down the time. The police and those present.

[Joe Friday]

Jack, this is Ms. Eastlack. She's gonna record your statement so there'll be no misunderstanding as to what you say at this time.

[Jack Marshman]

How do you do, ma'am?

[Joe Friday]

No, Joe, you wanna handle the question? All right.

[Ben Romero]

Jack, We've got a few preliminaries here for you.

[Jack Marshman]

Okay.

[Ben Romero]

John Everett Marshman. Is that your True name?

[Jack Marshman]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Where do you live?

[Jack Marshman]

122 and a half, Morgan Place, Parvin B.

[Ben Romero]

What's your age?

[Jack Marshman]

Very soon.

[Ben Romero]

Occupation?

[Jack Marshman]

Watchmaker, when I'm working.

[Ben Romero]

Well, now, Jackie, you've indicated to us in a previous conversation that you're willing to make a statement setting forth the true facts surrounding the deaths of Mr. And Ms. Charles Guthrie?

[Jack Marshman]

That's right. I'll tell you.

[Ben Romero]

Were you in their home Tuesday, April 1st? That's yesterday.

[Jack Marshman]

Yeah, that's right. I was.

[Ben Romero]

What time did you get there first time?

[Jack Marshman]

About five minutes to four in the afternoon. Mrs. Guthrie was there and so was landlady Mrs. Steadman. We had some tea.

[Ben Romero]

Was anybody else present while you were there?

[Jack Marshman]

No, it's just the three of us.

[Ben Romero]

How long did you stay there?

[Jack Marshman]

I left about 4:15, I guess. Guess? I was there about 20 minutes.

[Ben Romero]

Where'd you go when you left?

[Jack Marshman]

Well, back to the parking lot as usual. Charlie Guthrie left and went home to dinner. He got back about 6:15. I left at 6:30. Quitting time.

[Ben Romero]

Where'd you go after you left the parking lot?

[Jack Marshman]

Went around the block, then back to the Guthrie's place.

[Ben Romero]

Why'd you go back there?

[Jack Marshman]

To get money. Charlie never paid me enough. Picked me up and expected me to work for nothing.

[Joe Friday]

All right.

[Ben Romero]

Now, in your own words, will you tell us just what happened, starting when you entered the Guthrie's apartment the second time?

[Jack Marshman]

Mrs. Guthrie opened the door and I went in. She gave me a cup of tea and I told her I wanted some money. She wouldn't give me any. I don't know why, but I was mad. I was sick and tired of both of them. They never gave me enough money.

[Ben Romero]

Elma.

[Melissa]

I'm leaving it, Sergeant.

[Ben Romero]

All right, go ahead, please.

[Jack Marshman]

Mrs. Guthrie went in the next room and I went over to the desk and got the money from the box that they keep it in. I don't know how much. I grabbed all of it. And that parrot started squawking. Mrs. Guthrie came running in. She saw me with the money and she says, jack, I picked up something and hit her. It was the hammer, and I kept hitting her.

[Joe Friday]

Can you remember how many times you hit her, Marshmallow? I don't know.

[Jack Marshman]

She fell down. Parrot was still squawking, jumping around the cage. And I went over, opened the door of the cage and pulled the parrot out. It stopped moving. Finally, I went in the bedroom and threw it on the floor. And then I dragged Mrs. Guthrie in the bedroom and put her on the bed and I left.

[Joe Friday]

Where'd you Go? I don't know.

[Jack Marshman]

I walked around, tried to think of something. It was cold. I got a bottle of wine and drank it. And I got to thinking about what Charlie would do when he got home. I knew he'd be sure I did it. He always blamed me for everything. So I finally went back to the Guthrie's place and found the hammer that I used on her.

[Ben Romero]

What'd you intend doing with the hammer?

[Jack Marshman]

Killed Charlie. If she had it coming, so did he. You can't blame me. If they forced me into it, anybody would have done the same.

[Ben Romero]

What'd you do after you found the hammer again?

[Jack Marshman]

I picked it up and waited for Charlie to come home. Remember that wine made me feel pretty good. I stood there in the dark holding the hammer. Watched out the window for Charlie. It was cold out. I remember that. There was a radio on down the hall and I held onto the hammer and waited for Charlie. Neon light across the street that came through the windows. Old lady was on the bed in there. I could see the parrot on the floor. It was quiet. I had a smoke. Traffic kept going by outside. I could hear that. Held onto the hammer. It's windy out. I kept thinking Mrs. Guthrie was looking at me from the bed. But she wasn't. Charlie came home at the usual time, a little after 7:30, and I stood by the door. He came in and closed the door after him. When he reached for the lights, I hit him. Fell down. I hit him some more. You couldn't blame me. Anybody would have done the same. Anybody would have, the way he kicked me around.

[Joe Friday]

How many times did you hit him? Wash me?

[Jack Marshman]

I don't know.

[Joe Friday]

Was it twice? Three times? I don't know.

[Jack Marshman]

Hit him till he quit moving, that's all. I took him, dragged him into the bedroom, put him on the bed with his wife. I put him over, wiped the stains off of me and left. It's the only thing I could do.

[Ben Romero]

Where'd you go then?

[Jack Marshman]

My place. I knew that timer. I had to do the trick. I put it in a shopping bag with some stuff and I went back to the Guthrie's. They were still there on the bed. A parrot was on the floor.

[Melissa]

Would you repeat that last part, Mr. Marshman?

[Jack Marshman]

Oh, I said they were still on the bed, the Guthrie's. And a parrot was on the floor next to the bed. Put the kerosene on the carpet and the rags and paper under the bed and rigged up the electric heater and the automatic timer to set it off a little slower.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, we'll just speak up Jack. And then slow it down just a little bit.

[Jack Marshman]

Sorry.

[Joe Friday]

How did you rig the timer to set off the heater? Marshman, can you tell us?

[Jack Marshman]

Ought to take all morning to tell you. You got the timer? I'll take it apart and explain it to you if you want.

[Joe Friday]

Sorry. What was your purpose in setting fire to the room? You knew both Mr. And Mrs. Guster were dead, didn't you?

[Jack Marshman]

Oh, sure. Sure, they were. They forced me into it. I set the fire to make it look like an accident. Like they'd burned a day.

[Ben Romero]

What'd you do after you set the timer?

[Jack Marshman]

Oh, I left. Went down the street and bought a couple of bottles of wine. Talked to the guy a minute, and I walked around a while. It was too cold, so I went home.

[Ben Romero]

When'd you get home?

[Jack Marshman]

2:30, maybe. I don't remember too well.

[Ben Romero]

Did you go right to bed?

[Jack Marshman]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Did you go to sleep?

[Joe Friday]

No.

[Jack Marshman]

No, I laid there and read a movie magazine. Drank the wine. Finally finished up the two bottles and dozed off.

[Ben Romero]

What time did you get up?

[Jack Marshman]

A little before 6 this morning. Went down to the Guthrie's to knows her on. That's when I met you guys. Well, you know all the rest. Cause I've been with you ever since.

[Ben Romero]

All right, Jack. Anything else you'd like to add? No.

[Jack Marshman]

I told you everything.

[Joe Friday]

All right.

[Ben Romero]

This statement was given free involuntarily. There's been no promise of immunity or reward extended to you?

[Jack Marshman]

Yeah, that's right.

[Ben Romero]

Was any force, violence or duress used to induce you to make this statement? No. Okay. These questions and answers have been recorded by the secretary here. After they've been transcribed, will you be willing to sign it as a true statement?

[Joe Friday]

Sure.

[Jack Marshman]

Sure, I'll sign it.

[Ben Romero]

All right. Owner, will you get that out as soon as possible?

[Melissa]

All right, Sergeant.

[Ben Romero]

Thank you.

[Melissa]

You're welcome.

[Jack Marshman]

Well, that's it, huh? All of it.

[Ben Romero]

That's it.

[Jack Marshman]

That's good. It's good. I'm tired. It's been a long night. A long one.

[Ben Romero]

Get used to it, huh? They're gonna get.

[Narrator]

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

[Commercial Announcer]

On July 29, trial was held in Superior Court Department 86, City and County of Los Angeles, State of California. In a moment, the results of that trial.

[Narrator]

Now, here is our star, Jack Webb.

[Ben Romero]

Thank you. Recently I've asked you to send me the names of cigarette dealers who are out of Fatimas. You see, the demand for Fatimas is so great that I want to make sure that all of you can buy them. So keep your letters coming. If you find a dealer fresh out of Fatima's, let me know and we'll have something done about it. Write your dealer's name and address on a card and mail it to me. Jack WEBB Post Office Box 951, Hollywood 28. And now for you, Mr. Dealer. The coming holiday season will find new thousands insisting on Fatima Quality. Step up your order for Fatima's tomorrow. Get in on the increasing demand for the quality long cigarette.

[Commercial Announcer]

John Everett Marshman was tried and convicted of murder in the first degree, two counts and Darson one count. He is now serving a life term in the state penitentiary without possibility of parole. 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.

[Narrator]

Fatima cigarettes the best of all Long Cigarettes has brought you Dragnet portions Transcribed from Los Angeles.

[Jack Marshman]

Coming up We the.

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[Mandy]

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[Ben Romero]

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[Mandy]

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[Ben Romero]

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[Mandy]

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[Ben Romero]

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[Mandy]

Join us as we chug wine, chat true crime and unleash our worst Minnesotan accents. Check us [e-mail] and listen now. Wherever you get your podcasts.

[Narrator]

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

[Commercial Announcer]

Fatima Cigarettes. Best of all, Long Cigarettes brings you Dragnet.

[Narrator]

You'Re a detective sergeant. You're assigned a bunco detail. A gang of petty swindlers has set up operations in your city. They're experienced, cunning, they work fast. Your job, get em. You'll be amazed when. When you compare Fatima with other long cigarettes.

[Commercial Announcer]

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[Commercial 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 Tuesday, December 14th. It was cold in Los Angeles. We were working the day watch out of bunco detail. My partner's Ben Romero. The boss is Captain McCauley. My name's Friday. It was 10:35am when I got to room 38. Bunco detail.

[Joe Friday]

Joe?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. Ben.

[Joe Friday]

Joe, this is Ms. Bergstrom. You talked to her on the phone last night.

[Ben Romero]

Oh, yeah, sure.

[Joe Friday]

This is my partner, Sergeant Friday.

[Melissa]

How do you do?

[Ben Romero]

Glad to know you. Did you care to sit down?

[Melissa]

Thank you. I was downtown, so I thought it'd be just as easy for me to come in and see you.

[Ben Romero]

Did you bring those things with you, Ms. Bergstrom?

[Melissa]

Here they are. Wristwatch, pen and pencil set.

[Joe Friday]

Mm, sure make em look nice, don't they?

[Ben Romero]

On the outside? Yeah.

[Melissa]

Let me take the back off the watch for you. There you can see for yourself, Sergeant.

[Ben Romero]

That's junk. Not worth 15 cents.

[Melissa]

Charged me $48 for that watch. Said it was wholesale. He wasn't making any profit on it. Told me he was doing it because he'd known Harry so well. Watch only ran for a day. Then it stopped.

[Joe Friday]

How about the pen and pencil set, miss?

[Melissa]

This is bad. Pen's just a shell. Won't even write. Same with a pencil. I paid him $30 for them.

[Joe Friday]

Mm. There's engraving on the pen was Love from Harry.

[Melissa]

That's Harry's boy is engaged to. That's how the man got me interested to start with. Came to my house and gave them to me. The watch and the pen and pencil. Said Harry had ordered them as presents for me. I just had to cry when he brought them. Poor Harry.

[Ben Romero]

When did this man come to your home, Ms. Bergsten?

[Melissa]

Yesterday morning. Guess I should have been more careful about. I didn't think anybody would do a thing like that.

[Ben Romero]

What kind of a story did he give you?

[Melissa]

Well, he came to the door and told me his name was Spencer. He said Harry had ordered these things as presents for me. And Harry told him to deliver them to my house. Watch looked beautiful in the case. I didn't know anything was wrong.

[Ben Romero]

I see. Would you go on, please?

[Melissa]

He told me it was a special order. Said Harry had written him from overseas the week before. Harry was in the Marine Corps, you know. Well, he said he hoped Jim Graving was all right the way Harry wrote. He wanted it at his letter. I just couldn't take it. I cried.

[Joe Friday]

This man, he pretended to be a close friend of Harry?

[Melissa]

Yeah. That's why I showed him the letter. One from the Marine Corps. But Harry being killed overseas.

[Ben Romero]

When did you receive that letter, Ms. Braidstrom?

[Melissa]

Two days before, on Saturday. Harry's name was on the casualty list on Monday.

[Ben Romero]

Yes, we understand. What did the man do when you showed him the letter?

[Melissa]

He sympathized with me. He pretended to. I didn't think there was any trick. I didn't think anybody was that low. Pen and pencil set look a little cheap, But I wanted them no matter how cheap they were. Harry's last present to me. That's what I thought.

[Joe Friday]

How did he broach the idea of money?

[Melissa]

Well, when he was ready to leave, he told me Harry had ordered the things on credit. Said he didn't want to mention it, but he wondered how he could get payment for the watch and the pen and pencil.

[Ben Romero]

He didn't show you a bill, did he? An invoice listing the price of the watch or the engraving that was done?

[Melissa]

No, I didn't want him bothering Harry's mother or father at a time like this. I borrowed some money from my dad and paid him.

[Ben Romero]

Let's see. It's $48 for the watch, 30 for the pen and pencil center.

[Melissa]

Yeah. He gave me a phone number to call if the watch needed adjustment. And when I found the watch was a fake, I called the number. It was a Chinese laundry. They didn't know anything about it.

[Ben Romero]

You haven't seen or heard from this man since he left your house yesterday morning?

[Melissa]

No.

[Joe Friday]

Could you describe this man for us, Ms. Bergsten? What he looked like, clothes he was wearing?

[Melissa]

It's right here in this slip of paper, Sergeant. I wrote it all out for you.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you.

[Ben Romero]

Well, you're not alone, if that's any consolation. There's an army widow out in Hollywood who's cheated on the same kind of deal last Friday.

[Melissa]

It's so cruel using a dead person's name to cheat you.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am.

[Melissa]

How can anybody get lower than that?

[Ben Romero]

They keep trying. Ben and I took Ms. Bergstrom's crime report with phony. Watching pen and pencil set were booked as evidence. In the past two weeks, we received a half a dozen identical complaints from relatives or friends of lately deceased persons. The swindler, or con man, as he likes to be called in his trade gets the names of lately deceased persons from the obituary column or the military casualty list in the newspapers. Then he fixes up some cheap article of merchandise with appropriate engraving and calls on the friends and relatives of the deceased. He pretends to know nothing about the death of the person whom he claims placed the order for the merchandise. In almost every case, the friend or relative agrees to pay for the articles at some exorbitant price. For the con man. It's a lucrative racket for the public. A vicious one. Wednesday, December 15th. Ben and I looked up an informant, a former con man.

[Joe Friday]

What do you think of it, fellas? Been in business for two months, doing fine. What do you think of it? Looks great, Judge. Nice setup. Minus Baby Laundry in South Los Angeles. That's why I advertise. Hey, you don't think that's too broad, do you?

[Ben Romero]

No, I don't think so, Judd. We got some nice equipment here. Baby Laundry. How'd you ever get started?

[Joe Friday]

Brother in law set me up with a loan. Says he got tired of me trying to sell him bum watches.

[Ben Romero]

Well, that's a good break for you, Judd. See you got a couple of minutes. We'd like to talk to you.

[Joe Friday]

Sure thing. Come on back here. Okay, Fine, thanks. Yeah, I'm squared away. Living a solid life. Not bad at all. You know, it surprised me. You ever see any of the old gang Jedi? Not much, no. Some of you old grifters look me up now and then. Try to touch me. No go. Hey, here you are. Moving up. Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Thank you.

[Joe Friday]

Okay, fellas, what can I do for you?

[Ben Romero]

Oh, you'd like to know how close you Got your ear to the ground, Judd? There's a gang of bunks in town. They're working hard.

[Joe Friday]

What pitch?

[Ben Romero]

They used work on the obits, casualty lists. Thought maybe you might be able to help us.

[Joe Friday]

I don't know. How long you been gone last? Couple of weeks. Had half a dozen reports on them. That's one thing that never could tap me for. Obituary racket. Lousiest racket there is.

[Ben Romero]

Can you do anything for us?

[Joe Friday]

I heard one little rumble about it. Four or five guys in the con mob. That right? We know that, Judd. Where can we look for them? You know my position. When I quit the game, I quit. The only contacts I make are when some of the old boys come around for a touch.

[Ben Romero]

How much have you heard about the game?

[Joe Friday]

What? I said there's four or five of them out of Middle West, I think.

[Ben Romero]

You got any idea at all where we could start looking?

[Joe Friday]

Well, I can start checking for you. You nailed any of them yet? We've got to find them before we can arrest them, Judd. Yeah, well, as I say, when I quit the game, I quit. But maybe I can take a few soundings for you. Can't promise you anything. I'm strictly on helping up. Okay, Judd.

[Ben Romero]

You know where to get in touch with us. We'll appreciate anything you can do.

[Joe Friday]

Well, you've helped me plenty of times, fellas. Wouldn't hurt a bit to. To tab that bunch. I'll walk out with you. See you got all the machines going. Baby laundry. Business must be pretty good, huh? It's a staple commodity, fellas. Kids always need a fresh change. Just mer. Yeah. Look at this. Just look at the size of it.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

You ever see anything so small in your life? It's cute, huh? Yeah. What is it? New kind of soakers. I think I see the label here. Yeah. Mother, Greg. Super Soakers. Kids things. They sure. Give me a wallet. You know, we might as well check.

[Ben Romero]

The office while we're here. Ben, can I use your phone? Judd.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, Right over there on the wall. You got change?

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Thank you.

[Joe Friday]

I have.

[Ben Romero]

City Hall 2572.

[Melissa]

2572.

[Joe Friday]

Bunco fugitive. Brian.

[Ben Romero]

Joe Friday. Tom, anything doing?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, Joe, I think we might have a lead on those bunks working the obituary racket.

[Ben Romero]

What do you got?

[Joe Friday]

They reached a woman in Highland Park. Where are you?

[Ben Romero]

Baby laundry.

[Joe Friday]

Oh, well, it's a Mrs. Westerly. Her daughter was killed in an auto accident last night. They came around and sold the woman a watch her daughter was supposed to have ordered. Also a necklace and pen and pencil set, $250. Usual jump.

[Ben Romero]

Did you talk to this Mrs. Westerly?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, we took the report. The man's description, his M.O. the rest all match up.

[Ben Romero]

What's the lead?

[Joe Friday]

She watched the man when he left her house. Yeah, he got in a taxicab.

[Ben Romero]

10:30Am While Sergeants Bryant and Ullery got out of broadcast on the suspect, Ben and I drove to the offices of the cab company where we contacted the special agent. He helped us check the way bills for the preceding night. On the way bill for Cab 213, we found the trip listed. Starting point, the intersection nearest the Westerly home. Destination, a hotel on South Flower Street. We went to the hotel and interviewed the desk clerk. From the description we gave him, he identified the man as Fred G. Norris from Minneapolis. At least that's the way he'd signed the hotel register. The clerk told us Norris wasn't in. We had him show us Norris room. In his suitcases we found quantities of dime store costume jewelry, monogrammed, two dozen cheap wrist watches and wallets and handbags done in poor quality imitation leather. Also a portable engraving set. The clerk told us that Norris was expected back shortly. We told him to say nothing to the suspect when he arrived. We called the office and arranged for a stakeout at the hotel and we drove back to the office. 1:00pm they told us Norris had been recognized from his description and picked up by unit 17R on the way back to his hotel. Shortly before noon, Ben and I joined Sergeants Ullery and Bryant in the interrogation room where they were questioning the suspect. He looked about 40 years old, white male, American, about 6ft tall, 170 pounds. He would admit nothing. Bryant kept questioning him.

[Joe Friday]

You're wasting our time on your own, Norris. Face it, you were playing a rough game and you lost. Now, how about it?

[Jack Marshman]

You're gonna feel pretty silly when you find out you got the wrong guy.

[Ben Romero]

Who do you work for, Fred?

[Jack Marshman]

You can do what you want about investigating me.

[Joe Friday]

Having a thing to hold me on.

[Ben Romero]

There's no use wasting any more time. You got that list of victims?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, these are the ones that tapped on us today.

[Ben Romero]

Thank you.

[Joe Friday]

A couple more here, Joe.

[Ben Romero]

Thanks. Hello. Ms. Bergstrom there, please. Oh, this is Sergeant Friday. Ms. Bergstrom, bunko detail. Yeah, we picked up a suspect. We'd like to see if you can identify him. Would it be all right if we sent a card for you right now? All right, fine. Thank you very much.

[Joe Friday]

Bye.

[Jack Marshman]

Look, I can't sit here all day.

[Joe Friday]

I have business to attend to. Bright Noise. He's on the phone.

[Ben Romero]

Hello? Ms. Cronin there, please. This Sergeant Friday calling. Ms. Cronin, bunco detail. Yes, ma'am, that's right. I'm sorry to disturb you, but we have a suspect in custody down here. Yes, ma'am. Hey, Sergeant, could you come down the City Hall? Right away, Sergeant, would you hold on just a minute, please?

[Joe Friday]

Thank you.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, Norris, you got me. At 2:58pm we informed the victims that the special show up had been canceled. Then we called in a stenographer and had her take Fred Norris statement. In addition to listing the crimes he committed, he also told us that there were six men in the Bunco gang besides himself. He gave us the names and descriptions of each one of them. He stated that they'd been operating in Los Angeles for the past four months. Norris said that none of them had ever met the leader of their Bunco gang. The only contact they had with the leader was through one of the older gang members, a man by the name of Wesley Fisher. Before Norris was taken to Central Jail for booking he gave us the address of the house where he had been living with the other gang members. Norris's information on the suspects was checked through R and I. We got one make. Wesley Fisher. He had one prior arrest two years before on a grand theft charge. But he'd been released for lack of evidence. 3:15pm Together with Sergeants Ullery and Bryant and two men from metro squad, we drove out to the address given us by Fred Norris. Turned out to be a neat looking bungalow in the West Hollywood area.

[Joe Friday]

We can take the front door. Joe. Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Say, Tom.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah?

[Ben Romero]

You want to have Johnson and Brewer cover the back of the place, please?

[Joe Friday]

Okay, Joe, Maury and I will cover the sign.

[Ben Romero]

Thanks.

[Joe Friday]

Let's go. Ma'am, did you want to see the people who lived here?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, ma'am.

[Joe Friday]

Do you want to check for the termites now? I'm Mrs. Callahan, the owner. No, ma'am. We want to see the tenants.

[Melissa]

I'm afraid you're a little late.

[Ben Romero]

Is that so?

[Joe Friday]

They just moved out bagging baggage.

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[Ben Romero]

Wednesday, December 15, 4pm we made a thorough check of the house which the six suspects had just vacated. We found nothing that would help us. We talked to the owner of the house where the suspects had been living. She told us that she'd rented the place furnished to them about three months before. She identified Wesley Fisher's mugshot, but she told us that he'd used the name of Charles Wilder. She also recognized each of the other gang members from the descriptions that Fred Norris had given us. She told us that while they were living there, the men seemed to keep odd hours and that they had a car. She told us that she'd taken the license number of the car the day the men moved in. The number was checked with DMV. It was registered in the name of Wesley Fisher. 1008 California Street. It's a transient hotel. The manager told us Fisher had moved about nine months ago. There was no forwarding address. We got out an all points bulletin on Wesley Fisher, requesting that all occupants in his car be held for investigation of grand theft. Thursday, December 16, 8am Ollery Bryant. Ben and I met with Captain McCauley.

[Joe Friday]

Where are they getting all this junk they're palming off? Where's their source of supply? The guy we picked up, Norris told us they brought a good supply of it out with him from the Middle West. That hotel room Norris had downtown, they were using that for a warehouse. They didn't want to keep the stuff at the house they were living in. How are they hitting any possibility of stakeouts?

[Ben Romero]

No, not unless we cover every name in the columns.

[Joe Friday]

You might have to try it. Something's got to be done. Look at these. Two more this morning. Straight out of the obituary column.

[Ben Romero]

Took one family for $90, another one for 60.

[Joe Friday]

How about that last run through the stats office? Help you any? We'll pull some more mugs for us. I'm gonna show them to the victims as. How about this Norris? You think he's come up with everything? We were up talking to him again at county jail yesterday. Didn't have anything new. Skipper.

[Ben Romero]

We dropped in at the sheriff's Bunko detail. They've got one new case, same mo Description comes close to one of the guys. The victim was the father of a Navy flyer lost overseas. They sold him a gold watch chain that his son was supposed to have bought him for a present.

[Joe Friday]

Solid brass, the sheriff's man. Got anything new?

[Ben Romero]

We've been working pretty close with him. Nothing new.

[Joe Friday]

Excuse me, Uncle Fugitive. Captain McCauley. Can I talk to Joe Friday? Oh, yeah, hold on. You Friday? Oh, thank you. Yeah, Joe, this is Judd. Can you meet me out at my place?

[Ben Romero]

What do you got?

[Joe Friday]

Name Wesley Fisher mean anything to you?

[Ben Romero]

8:30Am Ben and I drove out and met with Judd at his home. He was still in his bathrobe when he met us at. He told us he had an important appointment downtown at 9 o'clock and he was in a hurry. We talked to him while he shaved.

[Joe Friday]

Hope you fellas don't mind. Can't miss this date. Lining up some new business, you know. It's all right, Judd. Go right ahead. Yeah, I gotta move fast on these things before they cool, you know.

[Ben Romero]

Work to stay with us. Judd. What's the story?

[Joe Friday]

Well, I don't know what's worse. Brother Max called me this morning. You remember my brother Max, don't you? No, I don't think so. Now he works the Pink Parrot Bar in South Maine. When you were in to see me the other day about those grifters you want, I gave my brother a tumble on it. Told him to keep an eye open. I have that tall way.

[Ben Romero]

Oh yeah. Here you go.

[Joe Friday]

Thanks. They're all steamed up.

[Ben Romero]

What'd Max come up with?

[Joe Friday]

Well, he's night bartender to Parrot, you know. Last night he spotted a couple of guys at the bar. Had some day old newspapers. Uh huh. They were sitting there with the papers. Turned the obituary column, checking off names, writing down addresses. Max is pretty sharp that way. Spotted it right off. Lousy razor.

[Ben Romero]

Does Max know these two men he spotted?

[Joe Friday]

No, not by name. But he knew that one of them lived in a hotel next door at a bar. The hotel night clerk come in for a beer. Max asked him about it. He tabbed. One of the guys is Wesley Fisher. Did he have anything on that of man? No. The clerk told Max he doesn't live at the hotel, but he spends a lot of time there with fisherman.

[Ben Romero]

Well, had he seen Fisher and this other guy at the bar before?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, Max has been in before. Got lashed up a couple times. Mm.

[Ben Romero]

Say, would it be okay to contact your brother at his home? Judd sure we don't want to contact him at the bar?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, sure thing. Get you to dress? Soon as I'm finished here. He just moved. I don't know. I hope I didn't get you guys out here for nothing.

[Ben Romero]

We appreciate it, Judd. Looks good.

[Joe Friday]

Seems to fit. Had a hotel down there. It's a hang up. Con man angles are all there.

[Ben Romero]

Let's Hope Fisher is. 8:53am we arrived at the hotel on South Main Street. We checked with a desk clerk who told us that Wesley Fisher had room 37. As far as he knew Fisher was in his room. We got a pass key from the clerk and went up to room 37 where we found Fisher and another man. He identified himself as Raymond Breen, one of the gang members identified by Fred Norris. We also found a small supply of cheap watches and pen and pencil sets in. Fisher's car was parked near the hotel, was impounded. We took both suspects back to the city hall. We questioned them separately in the interrogation room. Breen was first, but he refused to answer our questions. He was taken back to the squadron and Wesley Fisher was brought in.

[Joe Friday]

Sit down. Fresh. Thank you. Guess you know why you're here. Oh, I haven't the least idea.

[Ben Romero]

All right, then.

[Joe Friday]

We'll show you.

[Ben Romero]

Do you know Fred Norris?

[Joe Friday]

Fred Norris. Name sounds a little familiar. Can't quite place it.

[Ben Romero]

He places you pretty well. He says he worked with you on Breen up till a couple of days ago.

[Joe Friday]

That so?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. Says he lived with you in that bungalow out in West Hollywood.

[Joe Friday]

That's so. Norris, West Hollywood. When was that? Two days ago. Fisher, your landlady, identified your mug. She even had the license number of your car. What's it prove, gentlemen? Proves you're lying. You and Breen work together. You did work with Norris. You're part of one of the filthiest rackets going. Gentlemen, you're making a bad mistake.

[Ben Romero]

No, there's no mistake, Fisher. Your picture's been identified by at least a half a dozen victims. Now you can go on playing coy all you want, but we can prove that the pen and pencil sets that you sold, some of the victims are identical to the ones we found in your car.

[Joe Friday]

I haven't any idea what you're talking about. Believe me, that's the truth.

[Ben Romero]

You wouldn't know the truth if it followed you, mister. Now look, maybe you're great at conning old men and young girls, but don't try to pass any of it here.

[Joe Friday]

Now just a moment.

[Ben Romero]

No, you listen, you two bit thief. I Couldn't begin to tell you off of the rotten things you've been pulling off in this town for the past three months. That young girl who lost her boyfriend overseas. That widow out in Hollywood. The old man in Highland park whose wife passed away. You must have felt pretty sharp cheating them out of a few bucks. Maybe you don't remember, mister, but we do. And they do. You're gonna pay for him.

[Joe Friday]

You all through?

[Ben Romero]

I'm through, Fisher. You're just starting.

[Joe Friday]

I have nothing further to say, gentlemen. You can talk to my lawyer.

[Ben Romero]

We'll give him your new address.

[Joe Friday]

Yes.

[Ben Romero]

County jail suspects Wesley Fisher and Raymond Breen were booked and transported to the county jail. Both of them were positively identified by the victims. Warrants were obtained for the three suspects, Norris, Fisher and Breen. They were arraigned and held answer at a preliminary hearing on several counts of grand theft. During the next two weeks and through the Christmas holidays, identical complaints of bunco operations continued to come in. Friends and relatives of lately deceased persons were still being victimized. The gang's operations continued as usual. There was only one change. The crime reports showed that a woman was now operating in the obituary racket along with the male suspects. Christmas came and went. On New Year's Eve, Ben and I were assigned to standby duty. A few minutes before 8pm we got a call from the county jail that Wesley Fisher wanted to see us. Went to the 10th floor of the jail interview room.

[Joe Friday]

I'm not gonna take all the heat. They're in just as deep as I am. If they can't do right by me, I'll square it up myself. I'll tell you everything I know. Go ahead, Fisher. What is it? Her name's Betty McGraw. She's the one you've been looking for. The whole idea was hers. She planned it out.

[Ben Romero]

She got everybody together.

[Joe Friday]

It was her show.

[Ben Romero]

Where can we find her?

[Joe Friday]

213 Foster, apartment 8.

[Ben Romero]

Wesley Fisher gave a complete statement of all his crimes and also implicated the other members. He told us Betty McGraw was his girlfriend. She'd come up with the idea for the obituary racket. She gathered the men together for the job and it had been planned that she was to stay in the background in case of trouble. She would furnish aid to the gang members in the form of bail bond money and lawyers. She received a percentage of the take from each of the gang members. We checked her through R and I. She had a criminal history dating back 11 years. We obtained her mug shot 10:30pm we went out to the address. Fisher gave us a Maid answered the door. She told us that the McGraw woman was not there. That she'd gone to a New Year's Eve celebration at a downtown hotel. It was 11:15 when we got there. We identified ourselves to the special officer at the hotel and showed him the mug shot of Betty McGraw. He thought he'd seen her at the main bar. We started looking.

[Joe Friday]

Sure do pack them in.

[Commercial Announcer]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Excuse me, please.

[Ben Romero]

Can I get through here? Thank you.

[Joe Friday]

Sorry. Excuse me.

[Narrator]

Hey, Joe, over this way.

[Joe Friday]

I think we can get through okay.

[Ben Romero]

Do you see her yet?

[Melissa]

No.

[Joe Friday]

They're jammed in there. I can't see a thing. But. Hey, wait a minute.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Can you see down at the end.

[Narrator]

Of the bar there?

[Joe Friday]

Where? Then a black wrench.

[Ben Romero]

Oh, yeah, that's her.

[Joe Friday]

Would you let us through here, please? Excuse me. Sorry, Joan.

[Narrator]

Right behind you.

[Joe Friday]

Is Your name Betty McGraw? Is your name Betty McGraw?

[Melissa]

Say hi, Betty McGraw.

[Joe Friday]

I don't know you.

[Melissa]

Who are you, anyway?

[Joe Friday]

Police officers.

[Ben Romero]

We'd like to see you outside.

[Joe Friday]

All right. I'm staying in here.

[Melissa]

This is where the party is, right here.

[Ben Romero]

Let's go, lady. Outside.

[Melissa]

Is there a bar outside? I didn't know there was a bar outside.

[Ben Romero]

Okay, Ben.

[Joe Friday]

Come on, lady. I don't know you at all.

[Mandy]

I'm not going.

[Joe Friday]

I'm not going with you, lady. Happy New Year.

[Mandy]

Happy New Year.

[Ben Romero]

No use trying to get through this. We'll have to wait.

[Joe Friday]

Yes. Well, Happy New Year, Joe.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, same to you.

[Joe Friday]

Maybe next year we'll have it off.

[Melissa]

I don't know why I always cry when I hear that song. No reason.

[Joe Friday]

I just cry.

[Melissa]

Yeah, Every year I play it and I cry.

[Joe Friday]

No reason at all.

[Ben Romero]

You got one this year, lady. Come on.

[Commercial Announcer]

The story you've just heard was true.

[Narrator]

Only the names were changed to protect the innocent.

[Commercial Announcer]

On March 28, trial was held in Superior Court Department 93, City and County of Los Angeles, State of California. In a moment, the results of that trial.

[Narrator]

Now here is our star, Jack Webb.

[Ben Romero]

Thank you. In the past few weeks, I've asked you to send me the names of cigarette dealers who are out of Fatimas. You see, the demand for Fatimas is so great that I want to make sure that all of you can buy them. So keep your letters coming. If you find a dealer fresh out of Fatima's, let me know and we'll have something done about it. Write your dealer's name and address on a card and mail it to me. Jack Webb Post Office Box 951, Hollywood 28th. That's Jack Webb, Post Office, Box 951 Hollywood 28. Now for you, Mr. Dealer, the coming holiday season will find new thousands insisting on Fatima quality. So step up your order for Fatima's tomorrow. Get in on the increasing demand for the quality long cigarettes.

[Commercial Announcer]

The remaining members of the Bunco Gang were apprehended and brought to trial. All of them, including the gang leader Elizabeth McGraw, were tried and convicted of grand theft. They are now serving their terms in the state penitentiary. 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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Fatima Cigarettes, the best of all Long cigarettes has brought you Dragnet Portions transcribed from Los Angeles.

[Jack Marshman]

Coming up, We the.

[Narrator]

People then screen Director's Playhouse on NBC.

[Ben Romero]

You're pretty smart when people talk about you.

[Mandy]

Too smart comes up a lot. So why are you trying to prove them wrong?

[Ben Romero]

Why aren't you pushing the limits of.

[Mandy]

Science and powering the nuclear engines of the world's most powerful Navy?

[Ben Romero]

If you were born for it, isn't.

[Mandy]

It time to make a smart choice? You can be smart or you can be nuke smart. Become a nuclear [e-mail] nukesmart America's Navy.

[Ben Romero]

Forged by the sea.

[Mandy]

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