Podcast Summary: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Dragnet: The Big Cup
Episode Title: Dragnet: The Big Cup
Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
Release Date: March 25, 2025
Originally Aired: March 9, 1954
1. Introduction
Choice Classic Radio presents an enthralling episode of Dragnet: The Big Cup, immersing listeners in a gripping true-crime narrative set in the bustling city of Los Angeles. Hosted by Choice Classic Radio, this episode delves into the meticulous investigation led by Detectives Joe Friday and Frank Smith as they unravel the mystery behind the brutal murder of Ethel Lawrence.
2. The Crime Scene Investigation
The story unfolds on Tuesday, June 10th, when Detectives Joe Friday and Frank Smith are dispatched to the serene neighborhood of Green Oak Drive. The warm Los Angeles evening belies the gruesome discovery awaiting them.
- Joe Friday [03:08]: "It was Tuesday, June 10th. It was warm in Los Angeles. We were working the night watch out of homicide detail."
Upon arriving at 9782 Green Oak Drive, they find the brutally beaten body of an elderly woman, later identified as Ethel Lawrence, with no immediate signs pointing to the perpetrator.
3. Interview with Neighbor Frank Smith
Frank Smith, Ethel's neighbor, becomes a crucial witness. His account provides the detectives with the initial leads.
- Frank Smith [04:28]: "I was out in the front watering the lawn... All of a sudden I hear Nero making all the fuss."
Frank describes hearing his dog, Nero, incessantly howling, prompting him to investigate the unfolding chaos around Ethel's home.
- Frank Smith [05:24]: "When I knocked on the door... little old Nero sitting right beside her, just going crazy."
Frank's testimony reveals the disorder in Ethel's house, suggesting a possible robbery gone wrong, though Frank remains skeptical of this motive.
4. Focus on Bernard Lawrence
Ethel's estranged husband, Bernard Lawrence, surfaces as a primary suspect. The detectives uncover a tumultuous relationship marked by divorce and hefty alimony payments.
- Frank Smith [09:26]: "They had some pretty big arguments. Barney was pretty mad at the judgment he got the alimony he had to pay Ethel $150 a month."
Interrogations with Arnold Norton, Bernard's employer, shed light on Bernard's strained personal life and possible motives rooted in financial distress and marital discord.
- Arnold Norton [14:08]: "Barney was happier than he's been in some time. Just seemed like all his troubles were gone."
Despite mounting suspicions, Bernard maintains a calm demeanor, complicating the detectives' quest for concrete evidence.
5. Stakeout and Search
Detectives Friday and Smith initiate a stakeout at Bernard's residence to monitor his movements. Despite deploying various strategies, including checking train reservations and setting up surveillance at key transport hubs, Bernard remains elusive.
- Joe Friday [19:40]: "We also set up stakeouts on the depots and on the airline terminals."
The investigation uncovers fingerprints and a shoe impression at the crime scene, but these prove inconclusive without Bernard's presence at the time of the murder.
6. Arrest and Release of Bernard Lawrence
After thorough investigation and unsuccessful attempts to locate Bernard, the detectives apprehend him. However, lacking irrefutable evidence of his presence during the crime, Bernard is released on bond.
- Bernard Lawrence [23:03]: "You know something?... I got a few things for you, too, before I leave."
Bernard's nonchalant attitude and resolute denial further perplex the case, leaving Detectives Friday and Smith searching for alternative leads.
7. The Twist: Merle Patrick Hewitt
In a dramatic turn of events, Detective Hewitt emerges as a pivotal character. During an interview with Mr. Hewitt, he abruptly collapses, revealing a startling confession.
- Bernard Lawrence as Hewitt [26:55]: "There's nothing you can do now. I know this is wrong. Taking poison. I killed the old lady. I killed her."
Hewitt's admission not only exonerates Bernard but also uncovers the true perpetrator behind Ethel's tragic demise.
8. Resolution
With Hewitt's self-inflicted poison death confirmed as a suicide, the investigation concludes that he was the actual murderer. Bernard Lawrence is officially cleared of all charges, restoring his reputation and bringing closure to the case.
- Narrator [27:37]: "At the inquest it was ruled that the suspect, Merle Patrick Hewitt died of self-administered poison. And his death was listed as a suicide. The victim's husband, Bernard Jerome Lawrence, was released from custody."
9. Conclusion
Dragnet: The Big Cup masterfully illustrates the intricate dance between law enforcement and criminal investigation. Through diligent police work and unexpected revelations, Detectives Joe Friday and Frank Smith bring justice to Ethel Lawrence's untimely death. This episode not only captivates with its suspenseful narrative but also underscores the importance of perseverance and keen investigative skills in solving complex crimes.
Notable Quotes
- Frank Smith [05:15]: "Come on in, everybody. Might as well have a convention all the people coming in."
- Bernard Lawrence as Hewitt [26:05]: "I've always wanted to hit a cop."
- Joe Friday [23:02]: "You keep your nose out of this, cop."
Additional Information
Throughout the episode, interspersed advertisements for Chesterfield cigarettes and Podbean’s AI-powered podcast platform provide a nostalgic glimpse into the era's commercial landscape. These segments, while non-essential to the narrative, contribute to the authentic old-time radio experience that Choice Classic Radio strives to deliver.
Tune in Next Time: Join Choice Classic Radio for another captivating episode of classic detectives from the Golden Age of Radio. Subscribe on Facebook and YouTube, and support the show at donate@ChoiceClassicRadio.com.