Podcast Summary: Case Closed! (Old Time Radio)
Episode: Crime Classics and Mr. District Attorney
Release Date: March 12, 2025
Host/Author: RelicRadio.com

Introduction

In this captivating episode of Case Closed!, RelicRadio.com brings listeners back to the golden age of radio with two enthralling segments: Crime Classics and Mr. District Attorney. Hosted by Thomas Hyland, the episode delves into historical crime stories, blending dramatic reenactments with insightful narration.

Section 1: Crime Classics – "Mr. Clark's Skeleton in Mr. Arum's Closet"

Overview: The Crime Classics segment narrates the mysterious case of Eugene Aram, a respected schoolmaster accused of murder. Set against the backdrop of 1950s England, the story unfolds through courtroom drama, witness testimonies, and Hyland's compelling narration.

Key Points:

1. Discovery of the Skeleton:

   • The story begins with the sheriff of Knaresboro uncovering a reconstructed skeleton from St. Robert's Cave.
   • Thomas Hyland (Narrator) introduces the discovery:
     "[01:05] Eugene Aram: Daniel Clark. All right. So that's what he's been doing these 15 years."

2. Eugene Aram’s Character:

   • Portrayed as a gentle, scholarly man devoted to his wife, Ellen.
   • Janice, a 17-year-old student, harbors unreciprocated love for Aram, revealing potential motives and character depth: "[02:48] Thomas Hyland: And it was so important that it be right. For Janice was 17 and it was necessary that Mr. Aram approve her Latin. For this was her plan of capturing Mr. Aram."

3. The Arrest and Trial:

   • Aram is abruptly arrested by Sheriff Morbank for the murder of Daniel Clark, the shoemaker.
   • The prosecution relies heavily on Theodore Houseman’s testimony, who accuses Aram of plotting deceit and betrayal alongside Clark.
   • A critical moment during the trial features Aram's impassioned defense, questioning the evidence and the identification of the skeleton: "[23:02] Eugene Aram: It is said that these are the skeleton of a man. But is there any certain known proof which distinguishes the sex of human bones?"

4. Public Perception and Controversy:

   • Despite Aram's articulate defense and his standing as a beloved community member, he is convicted and sentenced to death.
   • A poignant reflection by Hyland highlights the unresolved doubts surrounding Aram’s guilt: "[26:07] Thomas Hyland: As you no doubt have noticed, we are left now with an unexplained skeleton. The first one which sent the sheriff to Teddy Houseman."

5. Final Verdict:

   • Eugene Aram is executed, leaving the community and listeners to ponder the complexities of justice and the possibility of wrongful conviction.

Notable Quotes:

• Eugene Aram’s Defense:
  "[23:02] Eugene Aram: ...I concerted no schemes of fraud, projected no violence, injured no man's person or property."
  (Timestamp: 23:02)

• Thomas Hyland on Yorkshire's History:
  "[14:17] Thomas Hyland: ...it's really one of the most invaded places in the world."
  (Timestamp: 14:17)

Section 2: Mr. District Attorney – "Death by Adoption"

Overview: The Mr. District Attorney segment transitions to a modern-day crime story involving Larry Cashman, a used car dealer entangled in a case of blackmail, robbery, and murder. Portrayed by David Bryan, District Attorney Paul Garrett methodically unravels the mystery behind Cashman's death.

Key Points:

1. The Crime Scene:

   • Larry Cashman is found murdered and robbed at his car dealership. The only clue is a piece of surveyor's chalk at the scene.
   • Paul Garrett discusses the initial findings:
     "[30:15] Paul Garrett: The earliest word known to a district attorney is blackmail. And evil in itself."

2. Investigation Begins:

   • Garrett interrogates Dodie Smith, a cleaning man at Cashman's lot, suspecting him due to inconsistent alibis and unexplained financial behavior.
   • Dodie Smith's Admission:
     "[42:01] Striker: Who else? It was my party, wasn't it?"
     (Timestamp: 42:01)

3. Connecting the Dots:

   • Further investigation reveals that Larry had unresolved issues regarding the adoption of his child, Ann, leading Garrett to suspect motives related to custody and financial strain.
   • Larry’s Plea:
     "[31:24] Paul Garrett: You leave the baby out of this."
     (Timestamp: 31:24)

4. Surveyor's Chalk Clue:

   • The unusual surveyor's chalk leads Garrett to explore ties with local surveying crews and uncovers connections to Arthur Stryker, whose first name contradicts initial assumptions.
   • Ms. Miller’s Revelation:
     "[50:34] Ms. Miller: She said it was Arthur Stryker."
     (Timestamp: 50:34)

5. Climactic Confrontation:

   • Garrett and his assistant, Harrington, track down William Stryker, exposing him as the true culprit behind Larry Cashman's murder.
   • Final Confrontation:
     "[53:02] Paul Garrett: You hit him. He drove into a ledge. He's pinned pretty badly."
     (Timestamp: 53:02)

6. Resolution and Aftermath:

   • Stryker is apprehended, confessing to the crime linked to personal vendettas and fraudulent adoption processes.
   • Garrett’s Closing Remarks:
     "[54:42] Paul Garrett: William Stryker lived long enough to confess his masquerade..."
     (Timestamp: 54:42)

Notable Quotes:

• Paul Garrett on Blackmail:
  "[30:04] Paul Garrett: The earliest word known to a district attorney is blackmail. And evil in itself."
  (Timestamp: 30:04)

• Dodie Smith’s Confrontation:
  "[42:54] Striker: I sold a diamond ring."
  (Timestamp: 42:54)

• Final Confession:
  "[54:18] Paul Garrett: William Stryker lived long enough to confess his masquerade as the father of his dead brother's child."
  (Timestamp: 54:18)

Conclusion

This episode of Case Closed! masterfully blends historical and contemporary crime narratives, offering listeners a deep dive into intricate cases woven with suspense and psychological complexity. Through Crime Classics, audiences explore the tragic tale of Eugene Aram, while Mr. District Attorney presents a gripping modern-day investigation led by Paul Garrett. Both stories underscore timeless themes of justice, morality, and the human condition.

Credits and Production Notes:

• Adaptation: Adapted from original court reports and newspaper accounts by Morton Fine and David Friedkin.
• Music: Composed and conducted by Bernard Herman.
• Production and Direction: Elliot Lewis.
• Voice Cast:
  • Thomas Hyland portrayed by Lou Merrill.
  • Mr. Aram portrayed by Van Wright.
  • Mr. District Attorney portrayed by David Bryan.
  • Additional voices include Betty Harford, Ellen Morgan, Herb Butterfield, Charles Davis, Richard, and Bob Lamond.

Listeners are encouraged to visit RelicRadio.com for more episodes, the Shoutcast stream, and donation opportunities to support the ongoing production of such engaging content.

Note: This summary is crafted to provide a comprehensive overview of the episode "Crime Classics and Mr. District Attorney" from Case Closed!, ensuring clarity and engagement for those who haven't listened to the original podcast.