Podcast Summary: Case Closed! (Old Time Radio) – Episode: 21st Precinct and The Line-Up

Release Date: May 7, 2025 Host/Author: RelicRadio.com Duration: Approximately 59 minutes

Introduction

In this riveting episode of Case Closed!, hosted by RelicRadio.com, listeners are transported back to the golden age of crime stories, featuring gripping tales of cops, robbers, and private investigators. The episode, titled "21st Precinct and The Line-Up," delves into two intertwined cases that showcase the relentless pursuit of justice by New York City's finest.

1. The 21st Precinct Case

Setting the Scene

The episode opens with Captain Frank Kennelly overseeing operations at the nerve center of the 21st Precinct. As described by Kennelly at [00:27], the precinct's muster room is "the nerve center," highlighting its pivotal role in coordinating police activities across a densely populated New York City neighborhood.

The Fire Call and Subsequent Events

On October 27th, 1954, amidst heavy rainfall, a two-alarm fire erupts on Second Avenue ([01:07]). Captain Kennelly and his team, including Lieutenant Gorman and Sergeant Waters, respond promptly despite the challenging weather conditions. After managing the fire incident, Kennelly attends a scheduled safety talk at Julia Richmond High School ([05:32]).

The Parazoni Conspiracy Unfolds

During his lunch break at Philip Parazoni’s tailor shop ([03:28]), Captain Kennelly interacts with Mrs. Rose Parazoni, who indirectly reveals her involvement in a suspicious transaction. Lieutenant Gorman and Kennelly later confront Mrs. Parazoni about a mysterious package containing substantial amounts of money and policy slips ([07:24]).

Notable Quote:

• Lieutenant Gorman ([07:33]): "Look, when somebody who's worked so hard... can you blame them too much if they see an opportunity to make some money?"

The Package in Grand Central

Mrs. Parazoni explains how she and a mysterious woman named Marion became involved in hiding a large sum of money left by a racketeer ([10:06]). They decide to store the package in a locker at Grand Central Station, with the plan to split the money later ([13:12]).

Quote:

• Captain Frank Kennelly ([22:00]): "It always does. What made you decide to come and see me?"

Police Intervention and Unveiling the Con

Captain Kennelly and his team, including Detective Louis DeLuca, orchestrate a sting operation at Grand Central Station. They prepare a dummy package identical to the original, complete with recorded serial numbers for evidence ([16:06]). As Marion arrives to retrieve the package, the police swiftly intervene, ensuring that the con artist is apprehended without mishap.

Quote:

• Captain Frank Kennelly ([55:22]): "This game ain't the dumbest in the world."

Resolution and Reflection

The episode emphasizes the ingenuity and persistence of the 21st Precinct officers in dismantling confidence schemes. Captain Kennelly reflects on the ease with which unsuspecting individuals fall victim to such cons, underscoring the intelligence required to protect the community.

Quote:

• Captain Frank Kennelly ([15:25]): "The gullibility of people is amazing."

2. The Line-Up and the Senile Slugging Case

Introduction to the Line-Up

Transitioning to the second part of the episode, listeners are introduced to a police lineup scenario handled by Sergeant Matt Grab and Lieutenant Ben Guthrie ([30:31]). This segment provides an authentic portrayal of the lineup process, emphasizing the importance of accurate identification in criminal investigations.

The Senile Slugging Incidents

The precinct is grappling with a series of violent assaults dubbed "slugging," targeting elderly individuals ([32:27]). Each incident features victims being overpowered and robbed, leaving minimal evidence for police to trace the culprits.

Notable Dialogue:

• Detective Louis DeLuca ([34:21]): "They're liable to kill somebody. They seem to be getting rougher."
• Lieutenant Ben Guthrie ([35:28]): "They make the change. Mrs. Parazoni is giving her the package."

The Identification Challenge

During the lineup, suspects such as William Bushman and Max Sloan are questioned, revealing the complexities of witness identification and the challenges posed by accomplices ([32:27]-[33:57]). The narrative highlights how limited descriptions and small stolen items (e.g., a gold watch) complicate the investigation.

The Discovery of Victims

Amid ongoing investigations, a serendipitous discovery by Phil Parazoni leads to another victim, Mrs. Rebecca Stokes, found severely injured ([37:19]). This discovery intensifies the precinct's efforts to apprehend the perpetrators.

Quote:

• Detective Louis DeLuca ([38:35]): "They've been fighting old ladies too long."

The Breakthrough

A breakthrough occurs when Phil identifies a stolen gold watch under surveillance. Lieutenant Ben Guthrie and Detective DeLuca connect the watch to a suspect named Carl Young through Mr. Wagner, a pawnshop owner ([48:32]-[51:23]). This connection leads to the arrest of Carl Young and his accomplice, effectively closing the case on the violent slugging spree.

Quote:

• Phillip Parazoni ([50:58]): "Look, I know the man that hawked that watch, but honestly, I didn't know he killed anybody."

Conclusion of the Line-Up

The segment concludes with the apprehension of the criminals, showcasing the efficiency and teamwork of the 21st Precinct officers. Sergeant Grab and Lieutenant Guthrie reinforce the importance of vigilance and community cooperation in solving such crimes.

Themes and Insights

1. Community Trust and Deception: Both cases emphasize how trust can be manipulated by con artists, exploiting community relationships to execute their schemes.

2. Police Ingenuity and Dedication: The 21st Precinct's strategic planning and relentless pursuit of criminals highlight the dedication of law enforcement in safeguarding public safety.

3. Psychology of Crime: The narratives explore the psychological aspects of crime, including gullibility, desperation, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals entangled in illegal activities.

4. Importance of Accurate Identification: The lineup segment underscores the critical role of accurate witness identification in criminal justice, preventing wrongful accusations, and ensuring the right individuals are held accountable.

Notable Quotes

• Lieutenant Gorman ([07:33]): "When somebody who's worked so hard... can you blame them too much if they see an opportunity to make some money?"

• Captain Frank Kennelly ([15:25]): "The gullibility of people is amazing."

• Captain Frank Kennelly ([55:22]): "This game ain't the dumbest in the world."

• Detective Louis DeLuca ([38:35]): "They've been fighting old ladies too long."

• Phil Parazoni ([50:58]): "Look, I know the man that hawked that watch, but honestly, I didn't know he killed anybody."

Conclusion

This episode of Case Closed! masterfully intertwines two compelling narratives, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of police work in mid-20th century New York City. Through meticulously crafted dialogues and realistic scenarios, listeners gain deep insights into the complexities of criminal investigations and the unwavering commitment of the 21st Precinct officers. Whether unraveling a sophisticated con or tackling a series of violent crimes, the precinct's stories resonate with timeless themes of justice, trust, and community resilience.

For those eager to delve deeper into these enthralling tales and explore more episodes, visit RelicRadio.com to stream the full broadcast and other classic Old Time Radio shows available 24/7.

Note: All timestamps correspond to the provided transcript and serve to highlight significant moments and quotes within the episode.