Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Dragnet: The Big Little Jesus
Release Date: January 14, 2025
Original Air Date: December 22, 1953
Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
Introduction
In this compelling episode of "Dragnet," titled "The Big Little Jesus," listeners are plunged into a quintessential detective story set against the backdrop of a Los Angeles Christmas. Hosted by Joe Friday and his trusty partner Frank Smith, this episode masterfully blends elements of mystery, faith, and the spirit of the holiday season to deliver a narrative that is both engaging and heartwarming.
The Theft Reported
The episode kicks off on a chilly Wednesday morning, December 24th, at the burglary division where Detective Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner, Frank Smith, are stationed. Upon returning from a brief errand to purchase stamps for Christmas cards, Joe is greeted by Frank carrying a stack of holiday boxes.
Frank Smith (02:56): "Hi, Joe."
As the detectives settle in, they are informed of a pressing case: an important piece of religious art, specifically a plaster statue of the child Jesus from the Old Mission Plaza Church, has been stolen. This church, established in 1781, holds significant sentimental value for the community, making the theft both a legal and moral affront.
Investigation Begins
Joe and Frank immediately set out to the scene of the crime. The Old Mission Plaza Church, known for its early Spanish architecture and vibrant community, is described in vivid detail, emphasizing its historical and emotional importance to the parishioners.
Narrator (02:28): "It was cold in Los Angeles. We were working the day watch out of burglary division."
Upon arrival, they meet Father Xavier Rojas, who provides insight into the stolen statue. The crib, a $70 duplication of the Nativity scene, holds not just artistic value but deep emotional resonance for the parishioners, many of whom have personal connections to the church.
Father Rojas (08:25): "Only a few dollars. We could get a new one, but it wouldn't be the same."
Interviews and Suspects
The investigation leads Joe and Frank to interrogate two altar boys, James Corneen and Joseph Heffernan, as potential suspects. However, their inquiries yield little evidence, pushing the detectives to broaden their search.
Their attention then shifts to local pawn shops, a logical avenue for stolen goods to resurface. Their efforts lead them to Mr. Flavin, the owner of a religious store near the church.
Joe Friday (12:00): "We're checking the stores around the mission church."
During their visit, Mr. Flavin dismisses the likelihood of finding the statue, suggesting that a thief of this nature might frequent places like his store. Frustrated but undeterred, Joe and Frank continue their pursuit, ultimately identifying Claude Stroop as a person of interest based on his suspicious behavior around the time of the theft.
Turning Point
The detectives trace Stroop to the Golden Dream Hotel, a modest establishment catering primarily to elderly patrons. Their interaction with the hotel clerk reveals that Stroop has a history of minor troubles but nothing that directly ties him to the theft.
Claude Stroop (22:34): "I'd like to go. You can bet on that."
Despite their suspicions, Stroop maintains his innocence, leading Joe and Frank to their initial dead end. However, their persistence pays off when a young boy named Paquito Mendoza returns the missing statue, explaining that his heartfelt prayers for a red wagon led to the miraculous return of the child Jesus statue.
Father Rojas (26:16): "He didn't find it. He took it."
Conclusion
In a poignant resolution, Father Rojas and the young boy restore the statue to its rightful place in the Nativity scene. The community's faith and the boy's innocent prayers underscore the episode's themes of belief, redemption, and the true spirit of Christmas.
Father Rojas (26:43): "He promises that if he got the wagon, the child Jesus would have the first ride in it."
The episode wraps up with Joe and Frank reflecting on the case, highlighting the often-overlooked miracles that occur amidst the mundane realities of police work.
Notable Quotes
- Frank Smith (02:57): "Christmas cards, huh? Little late, aren't you?"
- Father Rojas (08:25): "Only a few dollars. We could get a new one, but it wouldn't be the same."
- Claude Stroop (22:34): "I'd like to go. You can bet on that."
- Father Rojas (26:43): "He promises that if he got the wagon, the child Jesus would have the first ride in it."
Insights and Themes
"The Big Little Jesus" delves deep into the intersection of faith and duty. While Joe Friday and Frank Smith approach the case with their characteristic professionalism, the narrative also emphasizes the power of belief and the innocence of youth. The miraculous return of the statue serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of Christmas and the unseen forces that guide everyday lives.
Conclusion
This episode of Dragnet stands out not only for its intricate detective work but also for its heartfelt portrayal of community and faith. Through meticulous investigation and unexpected divine intervention, Joe and Frank restore not just a stolen statue but also the hope and faith of a deserving congregation. "The Big Little Jesus" is a timeless reminder of the miracles that can occur even in the most ordinary circumstances.