1001 Radio Crime Solvers: "THE BIG PRESS and THE BIG TOOTH DRAGNET"

Release Date: August 13, 2025
Host: Jon Hagadorn
Podcast Series: 1001 Radio Crime Solvers
Network: 1001 Stories Network
Website: www.1001storiespodcast.com

Episode Overview

In this gripping episode of "1001 Radio Crime Solvers," listeners are taken back to the golden age of radio detective stories with a detailed recounting of two intertwining cases featured in the classic "Dragnet" series. Hosted by Jon Hagadorn, the episode delves into the meticulous investigations led by Detective Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner Frank Smith, showcasing the relentless pursuit of justice in the face of deception and crime.

Case 1: The Forgery Scheme

Timestamp: 09:00 - 11:15

The episode kicks off with Detective Sergeant Joe Friday briefing his partner, Frank Smith, about a significant forgery operation threatening the financial integrity of the city. Two criminals, Leslie P. Bergen and Gene McLean, have been orchestrating an elaborate scheme to pass phony checks amounting to approximately $70,000. These fraudulent checks are cleverly designed, with consistent yet subtly flawed border designs that make them suspicious upon close inspection.

• Joe Friday (09:02): "The check forgers had been working for over a year... 70,000. It's a lot of money, isn't it?"

• Frank Smith (09:05): "Sure is. People will just read those bulletins. They never learn."

The detectives analyze the reports, distribute circulars with descriptions and faulty check images to local businesses, and canvass print shops to trace the origin of the forgeries. Despite their efforts, initial leads prove unfruitful, prompting the involvement of Lieutenant Saunders and Sergeant Bomi from San Francisco.

After weeks of investigation, a breakthrough occurs when the forgers attempt to cash a suspicious check at a local Check Cashing Agency on Pico. Joe Friday and Frank Smith identify Leslie P. Bergen based on the check's irregularities and his demeanor during the interrogation.

• Leslie P. Bergen (10:22): "If I haven't done anything wrong, then I got no reason not to show you."

Despite Bergen's attempts to deflect suspicion, forensic evidence and witness testimonies lead to his confession and subsequent conviction.

Outcome: Leslie P. Bergen and Gene McLean are tried and convicted of 10 counts of forgery, serving their sentences at the San Quentin State Penitentiary.

Case 2: The Mysterious Disappearance and Murder

Timestamp: 34:00 - 56:28

Following the resolution of the forgery case, the narrative shifts to a deeply personal and tragic case involving the disappearance of Bertha Schroeder, the wife of Henry Rudolph Schroeder. The disgruntled husband reveals a history of domestic strife, including verbal and physical abuse, which raises suspicions about Bertha's sudden absence.

• Frank Smith (35:55): "Well, Mama's gone. I don't know how long it's been, but she isn't with Papa."

Detectives Joe Friday and Frank Smith delve into the Schroeder family dynamics, interviewing various family members and neighbors to piece together Bertha's last known movements. Key evidence emerges when a piece of dental bridge work belonging to Bertha is found burned in an incinerator, linking Henry Schroeder directly to her disappearance.

• Henry Schroeder (56:27): "I didn't mean to do it. I came home late, ... she was dead. I didn't mean to do it."

Confronted with the evidence, including blood stains in the Schroeder home and inconsistencies in Henry's statements, Schroeder breaks down and confesses to the murder, revealing a culmination of years of domestic tension.

Outcome: Henry Rudolph Schroeder is tried and convicted of murder in the first degree, leading to his execution in the lethal gas chamber at San Quentin State Penitentiary.

Key Investigative Techniques Highlighted

1. Forensic Analysis: The importance of detailed forensic work in both cases is emphasized. From identifying printer defects in forged checks to conducting DNA tests on blood stains, the episode showcases the pivotal role of science in solving crimes.

2. Canvassing and Community Engagement: Detectives actively engage with the community, distributing bulletins and photographs to gather leads, demonstrating the value of public cooperation in crime-solving.

3. Interrogation Strategies: The assistant's disciplined approach during interrogations, applying pressure while maintaining professionalism, is highlighted through Joe Friday's interactions with suspects.

4. Use of Technology: The integration of R&I (Records and Identification) and communication with other departments underscores the collaborative efforts necessary in law enforcement investigations.

Notable Quotes

• Joe Friday (10:14): "If you haven't done anything wrong, then you got no reason not to show us."

• Henry Schroeder (56:28): "I didn't mean to do it. It's the wrong way to look at it."

• Frank Smith (35:55): "Mama's gone. I don't know how long it's been, but she isn't with Papa."

Conclusion

"THE BIG PRESS and THE BIG TOOTH DRAGNET" offers a compelling portrayal of detective work, illustrating the unwavering dedication of law enforcement officers in unraveling complex criminal activities. Through meticulous investigation, strategic interrogation, and persistent pursuit of evidence, Joe Friday and Frank Smith bring fraudulent forgers and a murderer to justice, reaffirming the timeless appeal of hard-boiled detective narratives from radio's golden era.

Additional Information

• Technical Advisors: The episode benefits from authentic insights provided by Chief of Police W.H. Parker, LAPD Technical Advisors Captain Jack Donahoe, Sergeant Haughty, and Sergeant Vance Pressure.

• Production Credits: Voice talents include Ben Alexander, Art Gilmore, and June Whitley, with scripts by John Robinson and music composed by Walter Schumann.

Listeners looking to immerse themselves in classic detective stories will find this episode both nostalgic and engaging, capturing the essence of Dragnet while delivering a comprehensive narrative of crime and resolution.