Case Closed! Episode Summary: Johnny Dollar and The Crime Club

Release Date: December 25, 2024
Host/Author: RelicRadio.com

Introduction

In this thrilling episode of Case Closed!, listeners are transported back to the golden age of radio with two captivating crime stories: "Johnny Dollar and The Beauregard Matter" and "Mr. Smith's Hat" from the Crime Club series. Hosted by RelicRadio.com, the episode masterfully intertwines classic detective narratives with engaging dialogues, rich in suspense and intricate plot twists.

Johnny Dollar and The Beauregard Matter

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes

1. Investigation Begins (00:00 - 15:00)

The episode opens with Johnny Dollar (voiced by John Lund) receiving a case involving a stolen sapphire necklace valued at $30,000. His client, Ellen Beauregard from the affluent Rockport Society, seeks the return of this sentimental heirloom. Johnny’s interaction with his colleague, Dave Brace, reveals the high stakes and the involvement of Benny Stark, a known jewel thief.

Notable Quote:
_"Everyone and everything in America depends on speed."* — Johnny Dollar (02:15)

2. Meeting the Beauregards (15:01 - 25:00)

Upon arriving in Rockport, Johnny meets Mr. Jared Beauregard and his niece, Ellen. The Beauregards portray a facade of affluence but hint at underlying financial troubles. Johnny’s meticulous investigation leads him to discover inconsistencies in their stories, particularly concerning the handling of the stolen necklace.

Notable Quote:
_"It's pretty certain the necklace will be recovered."* — Mr. Jared Beauregard (10:45)

3. Uncovering Clues (25:01 - 40:00)

Johnny spots suspicious behavior from the Beauregards and interacts with Phil Avery, Ellen’s fiancé, who appears overly concerned about the necklace's disappearance. His suspicion deepens when he finds a loaded revolver and uncovers that the necklace might be a fake. Johnny’s strategic maneuvering and alliance with Chief Cotton of the local police intensify the investigation, leading to the revelation of deceit and murder.

Notable Quote:
_"She’s headstrong, sometimes impulsive, but she never means any harm by it."* — Johnny Dollar (18:30)

4. The Confrontation (40:01 - 60:00)

The climax unfolds during a dinner party where Johnny presents his findings. He meticulously deconstructs Phil Avery's motives, exposing him as the mastermind behind the theft and subsequent murders to cover his fraudulent activities. The confrontation is marked by sharp dialogue and the eventual arrest of Avery, ensuring justice for Ellen and clearing the innocent maid, Lois.

Notable Quote:
_"You're accusing me of murder, Mr. Dollar?"* — Phil Avery (55:45)
_"She’s not involved in any of this except as an innocent bystander."* — Johnny Dollar (57:20)

Mr. Smith's Hat - Crime Club Story

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes

1. Introduction to the Case (60:01 - 75:00)

Transitioning to the Crime Club segment, the story "Mr. Smith's Hat" begins with Inspector Christopher McKee receiving a distressing call about the murder of Gilbert Shannon. The scene is set in the sweltering summer heat of New York City, introducing a complex web of family ties and hidden motives.

Notable Quote:
_"His administration was a fairly untroubled one. Conservation of our natural resources was one of his greatest concerns."* — Narrator (62:30)

2. The Murder of Gilbert Shannon (75:01 - 90:00)

Ms. Julie Shannon arrives at the police station, devastated by her father’s brutal murder. Inspector McKee delves into her background, uncovering her estranged relationships and her father’s contentious life as a writer tangled with unpaid bills and alcoholism. The initial investigation reveals the peculiar nature of the crime scene and potential suspects within the family and close associates.

Notable Quote:
_"It was a vicious crime done by a vicious person."* — Inspector McKee (80:15)

3. Suspects and Motives (90:01 - 105:00)

Inspector McKee scrutinizes the family members and closest acquaintances, including Oliver Gore, the utilities man, and Tamsen Gault, Julie’s wife. The narrative thickens with revelations about financial struggles, hidden affairs, and past grievances. The discovery of fingerprints belonging to the elusive John Revillo—also known as John Smith—adds another layer of mystery, hinting at deeper conspiracies.

Notable Quote:
_"The murder weapon has been found. Would one of you like to guess?"* — Inspector McKee (100:50)

4. The Investigation and Resolution (105:01 - 120:00)

The detective work culminates in a tense showdown where Inspector McKee unravels the truth behind the murders. John Revillo is revealed to be the orchestrator, driven by old vendettas and the need to protect his true identity. The use of clever tactics and psychological insight leads to Revillo’s confession and the exoneration of the innocent, restoring peace to the beleaguered Shannon family.

Notable Quote:
_"He was the bait the spider used to lure the fly."* — John Revillo (118:30)
_"It was all worked out on your precious little mind, wasn't it?"* — Revillo (119:45)

Conclusion

This episode of Case Closed! delivers a compelling journey through classic detective tales, showcasing the ingenuity and perseverance of Johnny Dollar and Inspector McKee. RelicRadio.com successfully resurrects the charm of old-time radio dramas, offering listeners intricate plots, memorable characters, and the timeless appeal of mystery and investigation. Whether unraveling high-stakes jewelry heists or complex family murders, the stories captivate and entertain, making it a must-listen for aficionados of vintage crime storytelling.

For more engaging crime stories from the golden age of radio, visit RelicRadio.com and explore their extensive collection of old-time radio shows.