Dragnet: The Big Steal 12/29/1953

Summary

Dragnet: The Big Steal – Episode Summary

Podcast Title: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Dragnet: The Big Steal
Original Air Date: December 29, 1953
Release Date: January 21, 2025
Host: Choice Classic Radio

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Introduction

"Dragnet: The Big Steal" transports listeners to the heart of Los Angeles in the mid-1950s, following the meticulous investigation of Detectives Joe Friday and Frank Smith as they unravel a sophisticated burglary ring targeting high-value mink coats. This episode exemplifies the classic detective storytelling of the Golden Age of Radio, blending procedural accuracy with engaging narrative.

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Case Overview

The episode opens with Detective Sergeant Joe Friday briefing his partner Frank Smith about a series of sophisticated burglaries in the city. The perpetrators exhibit a consistent modus operandi (MO), primarily targeting residences to steal mink coats, diamond watches, and other valuables. Despite extensive investigations, the detectives face a challenging puzzle due to the thieves' clever tactics and lack of leads.

Notable Quote:

Joe Friday [06:00]: "Reports of similar burglaries had been coming into the office for the past six weeks. In each one, the method of operation was similar enough to let us know that we were dealing with the same thieves."

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Investigation Details

Friday and Smith meticulously analyze the burglary reports, noting that all incidents involve affluent homeowners who were absent during the thefts. The burglars gain entry by cutting screens or breaking glass panes, specifically targeting the rooms where mink coats are kept. Despite issuing bulletins to pawn shops and collaborating with the statistics office, initial efforts yield no substantial leads.

Notable Quote:

Joe Friday [06:50]: "The investigation of the crime lab on the scene had produced no tangible evidence."

Determined to find a common thread, the detectives explore connections between the victims, only to discover that none are acquainted with one another, and the stolen coats originate from different retailers.

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Key Interviews and Breakthrough

A pivotal moment occurs when the detectives receive a tip from Wilda Chandler, a hat check girl who previously worked with the suspect, Max Barrett. Their meeting at a local bar becomes instrumental in cracking the case.

Notable Quotes:

Wilda Chandler [12:22]: "Max is a thief. Worked for him two months, even thinking about marrying him all the time."

Joe Friday [14:48]: "So far. Go ahead."

Wilda divulges critical information about Barrett's deceptive operations under the guise of an insurance salesman. She explains how Barrett exploited her by providing a list of potential victims, which he used to execute the burglaries.

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Climactic Confrontation and Arrest

Armed with Wilda’s testimony, Friday and Smith stake out Barrett’s apartment. Their surveillance reveals Barrett’s involvement as they prepare to make the arrest. The tension culminates in a direct confrontation where Barrett, initially dismissive of their allegations, is cornered by the detectives.

Notable Dialogue:

Joe Friday [19:00]: "Police officers. We like talking."

Max Barrett [19:07]: "What are you guys doing breaking in here like this?"

As the detectives present evidence linking Barrett to the stolen items, including a rate book and a suitcase containing fur coats, Barrett's facade crumbles, leading to his eventual surrender.

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Conclusion and Trial

The episode concludes with Barrett’s trial, where he is convicted of multiple counts of first-degree burglary. His accomplices receive sentences for receiving stolen property. Wilda Chandler's cooperation leads to her release, highlighting the importance of witness testimonies in the successful resolution of crimes.

Notable Quote:

Judge [27:39]: "Max Rudolph Barrett was tried and convicted of burglary in the first degree."

The narrative reinforces the show's commitment to authenticity, drawing from real police files to deliver a compelling and credible story.

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Final Thoughts

"Dragnet: The Big Steal" stands as a quintessential example of classic radio detective series, offering listeners a blend of suspense, procedural drama, and character-driven storytelling. Through the diligent efforts of Detectives Friday and Smith, the episode underscores themes of justice, perseverance, and the intricate dance between law enforcement and criminal ingenuity.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Joe Friday [06:00]: Discusses the recurring pattern in the burglary reports.
• Joe Friday [06:50]: Highlights the lack of tangible evidence from crime lab investigations.
• Wilda Chandler [12:22]: Confesses Barrett’s true nature as a thief.
• Joe Friday [14:48]: Encourages Wilda to continue sharing information.
• Joe Friday [19:00]: Identifies themselves as police officers to Barrett.
• Judge [27:39]: Announces Barrett’s conviction.

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This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key elements of "Dragnet: The Big Steal," providing listeners with an insightful overview of the episode's narrative arc, character dynamics, and thematic significance.

Transcript

[Joe Friday]

Your message amplified. Ready to share your message with the world? Start your podcast journey with Podbean. Podbean. Podbean. Podbean. Podbean, the AI powered all in one podcast platform. Thousands of businesses and enterprises trust Podbean to launch their podcasts. Launch your podcast on Podbean today. My school uses Podbean. My church too. I love it. I really do.

[Frank Smith]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we bring to you the greatest old time radio shows. Like us on Facebook. Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail].

[Narrator]

Ladies and gentlemen, the story you are about to hear is true. The names have been changed to protect the innocent.

[Commercial Announcer]

Dragnet is brought to you by Chesterfield. Made by Liggett and Myers. First major tobacco company to give you a complete line of quality cigarettes.

[Narrator]

You're a detective sergeant. You're assigned a burglary detail. An organized gang of thieves is working in your city. Their method of operation is clever and fast. There's no lead to their identity. Your job, stop them. To sell a product, you have to make it good and keep it good. What do the latest reports show about Chesterfield? Well, our research laboratory has compared it with the leading cigarettes in the country. Chesterfield is highest in quality, low in nicotine. Another good reason why thousands of people are changing to Chesterfield every day. Smoke America's most popular two way cigarette, regular or king size. You'll find Chesterfield really mild, really satisfying. Best for you.

[Commercial Announcer]

Dragnet, the documented drama of an actual crime. For the next 30 minutes. In cooperation with the Los Angeles Police Department, you will travel step by step on the side of the law through an actual case. Transcribed from a police files. From beginning to end, from crime to punishment. Dragnet is the story of your police force in action.

[Joe Friday]

It was Tuesday, May 7th. It was warm in Los Angeles. We were working the day. Watch out. A burglary detail. My partner's Frank Smith. The boss is Captain Bernard. My name's Friday. We were on our way out from the office and it was 9:46am when we got to the corner of Beverly Boulevard and Fountain streets. The Brighton Arms Apartments.

[Frank Smith]

12A, isn't it? Yeah. Listen.

[Joe Friday]

Wanna try it again?

[Frank Smith]

Yeah.

[Wilda Chandler]

Just a minute. Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Ms. Anderson?

[Ms. Anderson]

Yeah, that's right.

[Joe Friday]

Police officers. This is my partner, Frank Smith. My name's Friday.

[Ms. Anderson]

Oh, yeah, come on in.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you.

[Frank Smith]

Thank you very much, ma'am.

[Ms. Anderson]

Sit down. I'll put some coffee on.

[Joe Friday]

All right.

[Frank Smith]

That's the only way to do it. Joan.

[Joe Friday]

What?

[Frank Smith]

Coffee grinder. Here.

[Joe Friday]

Well, that's what it is. Huh?

[Frank Smith]

Yeah. You buy the coffee beans and you grind them up as you need the coffee real fresh. I'm gonna get Fay one of them great gadgets.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, guess so.

[Frank Smith]

You never tasted coffee that fresh, Joe. Whole different flavor.

[Joe Friday]

Well, if you say so.

[Frank Smith]

Yeah. Wait till I get Fay one.

[Joe Friday]

You'll be asked over for the first pot of coffee. That's nice.

[Ms. Anderson]

You got a match?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am. Here.

[Ms. Anderson]

It's about the burglary, isn't it?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am. A couple of questions we'd like to ask.

[Ms. Anderson]

Go ahead.

[Joe Friday]

We've got the report you gave the officers last night. Now, this list of stolen property. I wonder if you'd look at it and see if it's right here.

[Ms. Anderson]

Diamond watch. Yeah. Mm. The mink. Yeah, that's it. It's the mink that's important. Took me three years working to get that. Sure hope you bring it back.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am, we'll try. Have you got any ideas as to what time the theft might occurred?

[Ms. Anderson]

Well, near as I can figure, must have been around midnight.

[Joe Friday]

Why'd he say that?

[Ms. Anderson]

Well, I got home from work about 11:30. I'm a hostess in a restaurant downtown.

[Frank Smith]

Go on, please.

[Ms. Anderson]

Got home, the coat was still here. I hardly ever come into the house without checking on it. You know, it's the only real thing of value I got.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am.

[Ms. Anderson]

Well, there it was, hanging in the closet. I went out to have a cup of coffee and pick up the papers before I went to bed. Whoever took it must have been waiting outside. He saw me leave and then came in.

[Joe Friday]

Why'd he say he. Well, you said he must have been waiting.

[Ms. Anderson]

Oh, I didn't mean anything special. You know, just a word.

[Joe Friday]

I see. Did you see anybody in the vicinity when you left the house?

[Ms. Anderson]

No, not that I can tell about now. The corner's a pretty busy place, Sergeant. Lots of people around there. A couple of restaurants. Always a lot of people around.

[Frank Smith]

Wonder if we could see how they got in, please.

[Ms. Anderson]

Yeah, Right back here. Here, you see, they cut the screen on the porch door and then just reached in and opened it.

[Joe Friday]

Top half of the door. You had it like this, did you?

[Ms. Anderson]

Yeah. You see, you just put these two little things and the glass part of the door comes out. Always take it out on warm nights.

[Frank Smith]

Anything else in the apartment disturbed?

[Ms. Anderson]

Not that I could tell. Seems that they just went into the bedroom and took a coat. That and the watch and the other stuff. But it's the coat that's important. Yes, I understand a mink coat means Something special to a girl. I told you, it took me three years of saving before I could buy it. It's a long time to do without things, Sergeant. An awful long time.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am.

[Ms. Anderson]

I only had the coat three days. And this happens just three days. Hardly even had a chance to wear it.

[Frank Smith]

Is the coat insured?

[Ms. Anderson]

I think so, ma'am. Well, I just got it. I think it's insured. I have to check with a salesman. I told him I wanted the coat covered. Boy, I just hope it's in effect. Beautiful coat. Just beautiful. Silver, blue. Cost me almost $4,000. Come right down to it, that's about $1,000 a day.

[Joe Friday]

We have the serial number here for the watch. Is there any way you could identify the coat for us? Certainly.

[Ms. Anderson]

All I have to do is look at it. I can tell.

[Joe Friday]

Well, yes, ma'am, but is there any mark, any type of label that would help us in identifying?

[Ms. Anderson]

Oh, yeah, I see what you mean. Well, there's a store label. You could tell by that.

[Frank Smith]

That's probably one of the first things that thieves will take off.

[Ms. Anderson]

Well, I suppose so. Well, there's my initials. They can't get those out, ma'am. I got my initials on some of the pelts. Had it done when I got the coat. Had it marked right on the skins under the lining. My initials, J.

[Wilda Chandler]

A.

[Ms. Anderson]

You could be able to tell from that.

[Joe Friday]

Could you draw the initials for us?

[Ms. Anderson]

Yeah. Wait a minute. I'll get a piece of paper.

[Frank Smith]

Here, Ms. Anderson, you can use this.

[Ms. Anderson]

Oh, thanks.

[Joe Friday]

Here's a pencil.

[Ms. Anderson]

Okay. Well, you see, it's sort of like this. J.

[Wilda Chandler]

A.

[Ms. Anderson]

Like that.

[Joe Friday]

Would you draw the coat and show us where the initials are?

[Ms. Anderson]

Sure. You see, here's the sleeves. Then the body part comes down like this. The hems here, and the initials are right there.

[Joe Friday]

All right, Ms. Anderson. This is exactly how the initials are.

[Ms. Anderson]

Oh, there goes a coffee. Can I give you a cup?

[Joe Friday]

No, thanks. No?

[Frank Smith]

No, thanks, ma'am.

[Ms. Anderson]

Well. Excuse me a minute, huh?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am?

[Ms. Anderson]

Do you really think you're gonna get it back?

[Joe Friday]

We're gonna try.

[Ms. Anderson]

Did the men who were here last night get any clues?

[Joe Friday]

Beg your pardon?

[Ms. Anderson]

The men who were here last night. Did they find anything that had helped?

[Joe Friday]

Not a great deal. No, ma'am.

[Ms. Anderson]

I sure hope they find my coat. I just hate to think about it.

[Joe Friday]

What's that now?

[Ms. Anderson]

All that time. Three years working to save for a coat. Then just to have it. Three days. You know how the models in the magazines kinda drag a mink coat along the Ground, you know, sort of over their shoulders.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am. I guess so.

[Ms. Anderson]

Well, I just had it three days, you know.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Ms. Anderson]

I didn't even learn how to do that.

[Joe Friday]

Reports of similar burglaries had been coming into the office for the past six weeks. In each one, the method of operation was similar enough to let us know that we were dealing with the same thieves. All of the homes that were proud were residences. The owners of the houses were always absent. Entrance to the places was made through a rear window. In those cases where the window was open, the screen was cut. Where the window was locked, the pane of glass was broken, and the entrance made that way. The classification of goods stolen was also the same in all of the burglaries. Pieces of jewelry, whatever money was found, and fur coats. The only room prowled was the one where the fur coats were kept. None of the valuables in the rest of the house would be touched. Bulletins had been gotten out to all of the pawn shops in the area on the stolen pieces, but there'd been no replies. The MO had been checked by the stats office, and the possibles that they came up with were checked out. We failed to come up with a suspect. The investigation of the crime lab on the scene had produced no tangible evidence. Frank and I had gone over the burglary reports time and time again, trying to find something that would tie the thefts together. None of the victims were acquainted with each other. They all lived in different parts of the city. The coats were bought from different retailers. And yet, within a week of the time the coat was purchased, it would be stolen. Friends of the victims were checked. In most instances, we found that they didn't even know the victim had been in possession of the article stolen. On the night of May 6, another burglary was reported. Among the stolen articles were a mink stole and a full length natural mink coat. The coat had been purchased only three days before the theft. The victim had worn it in public only twice. After going over the physical evidence at the scene and talking with a woman, we were no further than we had been. Saturday, May 11th. Frank and I checked into the office.

[Frank Smith]

Another one that doesn't go anyplace.

[Joe Friday]

You want to get the reports out?

[Frank Smith]

Yeah. You know, Joe, there's gotta be something to tie them all together, something in common.

[Joe Friday]

Well, if we come up with that, maybe we got the answer.

[Frank Smith]

You see the bunch down by Chief Brown's office when we came in? Yeah, I recognize one of them.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah?

[Narrator]

Who?

[Frank Smith]

Insurance man. They'll most likely be down here when they get through talking to Chief Brown.

[Joe Friday]

What's the figure?

[Frank Smith]

The thefts will cost them little under $47,000.

[Joe Friday]

You stand that kind of loss, you'd do some yelling too, wouldn't you?

[Frank Smith]

Suppose. Funny none of the stuff's turned up.

[Joe Friday]

Well, it isn't doing them any good unless they sell it. I get it.

[Frank Smith]

Burglary Friday.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, it is. What's your name? What? Where are you now? All right, now. We'll be right over. Right. Well, maybe we got one.

[Frank Smith]

Yeah?

[Joe Friday]

Woman says she wants to talk to us about a stolen fur coat. The woman gave the name of Wilda Chandler. She said that she had some information for us and asked us to meet her in a bar at the of St. Andrew's Place and Las Palmas Avenue. It took us 23 minutes to get there.

[Frank Smith]

See her?

[Joe Friday]

No. We better ask the bartender.

[Frank Smith]

Yeah.

[Max Barrett]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Is there a Ms. Chandler here?

[Max Barrett]

Chandler?

[Joe Friday]

That's right. She just called, said to meet her here.

[Max Barrett]

Might be her in the back booth. Didn't give no name. Back booth.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you.

[Commercial Announcer]

Hey, wait a minute.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah?

[Max Barrett]

If it's her or your friend, will you do me a favor?

[Joe Friday]

What's that?

[Max Barrett]

Try to get her out of here.

[Frank Smith]

What do you mean, get her out of here?

[Max Barrett]

All she's been doing is sitting back there playing that song.

[Joe Friday]

Playing the song?

[Max Barrett]

Ordering doubles. We ain't got a girl in here this time of the morning. I gotta carry the orders back to her. Got a lot of other stuff to do.

[Joe Friday]

All right, we'll see about it.

[Max Barrett]

Well, if you can't get her out, at least talk her into sitting up here at the bar. Says I don't have to walk, huh?

[Narrator]

Yeah, sure.

[Joe Friday]

Thanks, Ms. Chandler.

[Wilda Chandler]

Sit right down, boys. Been expecting you.

[Joe Friday]

This is my partner, Frank Smith. My name's Friday.

[Wilda Chandler]

I just bet you. Glad to meet both of you. Talked to you on the phone, didn't I?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am.

[Wilda Chandler]

Never forget a name. How about a drink for you two boys?

[Frank Smith]

Oh, man. Thank you.

[Wilda Chandler]

Should have a couple. Seems to make everything a lot better. I may have several more.

[Joe Friday]

You said something about some information on some stolen fur coats. All right.

[Wilda Chandler]

Yeah. And I got it. Oh, Max. He's gonna be sorry.

[Joe Friday]

Old Max.

[Wilda Chandler]

Hear that? On the jukebox. Melancholy Mood. Hear it?

[Frank Smith]

Yes, ma'am.

[Wilda Chandler]

Our song.

[Joe Friday]

That right?

[Wilda Chandler]

You just fetch him Old Max. Our song, partner. That goes. Gone is every joy and inspiration Tears are all I have to show no consolation Old Max left me tears in his fur coat.

[Frank Smith]

Uh huh. Who's Max?

[Wilda Chandler]

You fella. Sure you don't Want to drink?

[Joe Friday]

No, ma'am.

[Wilda Chandler]

Oh, Max. Just the tears in the coat, see? This is it. What do you think of it?

[Narrator]

Very pretty.

[Wilda Chandler]

That's all right. It's a lousy coat and you know it.

[Joe Friday]

You want to tell us about the stolen coat, please.

[Wilda Chandler]

Yeah. I've been working for Max almost two months and I just found out. Guess you think that's pretty dumb, huh?

[Joe Friday]

Well, maybe she'll tell us about it.

[Wilda Chandler]

Two months. Matter of fact, I just got the message last night. Friday, May 10, 1:22am if you want to be exact. That's when I got the message about old Max.

[Joe Friday]

Now, look, miss, you called us and said that you had some information on some coats. And I wonder if you'd be kind enough to tell us about it.

[Wilda Chandler]

Oh, just betcha. Would you put this in the jukebox for me? Play number B7, huh?

[Frank Smith]

Yes, ma'am. B7, huh?

[Wilda Chandler]

Yeah. Melancholy mood. Ol Max and my song. You know what? He's a no good. A real no good, this Max.

[Joe Friday]

Has he got something to do with the burglaries?

[Wilda Chandler]

Just bet you Old slick Max, he's a pistol.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Wilda Chandler]

Say, how about a drink?

[Joe Friday]

No, thank you.

[Wilda Chandler]

I didn't mean for you. For me?

[Joe Friday]

Suppose you tell us about Max and the furs. Would you, please?

[Wilda Chandler]

That's the way you want it? Max is a thief?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am.

[Wilda Chandler]

Well, you know him.

[Joe Friday]

I don't know.

[Wilda Chandler]

A thief. Worked for him two months, even thinking about marrying him all the time. He's a thief.

[Joe Friday]

What's Max's last name?

[Wilda Chandler]

Barrett. Thanks for playing the song. It's real nice.

[Frank Smith]

That's B7.

[Joe Friday]

What about this?

[Wilda Chandler]

Max tell me how I was gonna wear mink and this is what I end up with.

[Joe Friday]

Now look, Ms. Chandler, if you have some information for us, we want to hear it. But we haven't got time to sit here and keep you company.

[Wilda Chandler]

You think it's all a gag, huh? You just think I'm lonely, so I called you. That's what you think, isn't it?

[Joe Friday]

Why don't you tell us?

[Wilda Chandler]

Well, it isn't a gag. I can tell you all about the coats. All about them?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am. That's why we're here. Would you go ahead?

[Wilda Chandler]

Well, I'm a hat check girl in a restaurant out in the country. It's a good racket. Got the job about three months ago. Doing real well at it. Then I meet this Max. Two months ago, Ol Max walks in.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am.

[Wilda Chandler]

Gives me the big pitch how he thinks I'm So pretty. All that kind of stuff, you know.

[Joe Friday]

Go ahead.

[Wilda Chandler]

Well, he really piles it on how he's got a big deal cooking, and as soon as it comes through, him and me is gonna get married. Tells me that while he's waiting for the deal to jail, he's selling insurance. Old Max selling insurance? Pretty funny, huh? Well, he tells me that the hardest thing about selling insurance is the contacts. You know, getting to meet the people who need it. Contacts?

[Frank Smith]

Yeah.

[Wilda Chandler]

And that's where I come in. You see, old Max, he doesn't sell insurance on people, not like on their lives. He doesn't sell that kind. He sells what they call personal property insurance on things like rings and coats, stuff like that. You with me?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am, so far. Go ahead.

[Wilda Chandler]

Well, he tells me that if I'll help him with his contacts, he'll cut me on his percentage. Says all I have to do is tell him when some woman comes in with a new coat, her name and address, and he'll go see her and make the sale. Gets me? Simple. All I gotta do is get the names and addresses.

[Joe Friday]

Good. You doin'sure?

[Wilda Chandler]

How dumb can he get? I gave him the names and addresses. I didn't know there was anything wrong.

[Joe Friday]

Can you tell us what names you gave him?

[Wilda Chandler]

I got every one of them. Got him at home. You can have them.

[Frank Smith]

When did you find out he wasn't an insurance Salesman?

[Wilda Chandler]

Last night, 1:22am I wasn't feeling so good, so I took off from work. Went by his place. Omax is just coming in. Got the car parked out by his garage. Backseat is loaded with fur coats, all kind of other stuff. Watches, jewelry. That's when I knew he was a no good. Oh, Max. A pistol. A real no good.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am. What happened?

[Wilda Chandler]

I asked him about the stuff where he got it. Yeah, he told me all about it. How he'd been stealing, how all the names I'd been giving him were his sucker list. How as soon as I'd given the information, he'd lift the stuff. All that time. Two months and I figured he was an insurance salesman.

[Joe Friday]

You know what he's doing with the coats? What is he selling them?

[Wilda Chandler]

Sure. He's got a regular order business. You call up and order a blue mink coat if you want a platinum stove. Just call Max. You'll have it.

[Frank Smith]

Is he disposing of it here in la?

[Wilda Chandler]

Not old Max. He's too smart for that. Ship's a stuff east. Didn't I just tell you it was? You just betcha. Max gets an order. And he goes out and he fills it. Then he gets a hold of some young kid and offers him a trip to the East. Maybe Chicago, Detroit, New York. Where were the deliveries supposed to be made? Gives the kid a plane ticket and sends him on the way.

[Joe Friday]

The carrier know what he's doing?

[Wilda Chandler]

Well, no. Max just gives him a suitcase and tells him where to deliver it.

[Frank Smith]

How'd you find out about the operation?

[Joe Friday]

Setup.

[Wilda Chandler]

Old Max, he told me. Said that since I found out, he'd have to cut me in. Gave me all the scoop.

[Joe Friday]

Barrett ever been arrested?

[Wilda Chandler]

I don't know. Maybe.

[Joe Friday]

Any close friends in town, do you know?

[Wilda Chandler]

I guess. Never saw none of them myself.

[Joe Friday]

You want to show us where he lives?

[Wilda Chandler]

Sure I want to see him get his. After the way he lied, ain't nothing too bad for him. Oh, Max. A pistol.

[Frank Smith]

He sell all the stolen goods?

[Wilda Chandler]

What do you mean?

[Frank Smith]

Well, do you know where the stolen coats are? And the rest of the things?

[Wilda Chandler]

Must be in his apartment. Can't think of any other place it'd be. Gotta be there.

[Joe Friday]

Do you know if he's there now?

[Wilda Chandler]

He should be. He don't ever get up before noon. Should be there. I just want to see you get him. Lousiest trick in the world, what he did to me.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah? What's that?

[Wilda Chandler]

Oh, that time, him stealing those coats. All that beautiful mink. Look at this.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am. That's a very pretty coat.

[Wilda Chandler]

I thought so, too. Take a close look. Omax gave it to me to show he was on the level. Take a good look.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Wilda Chandler]

All that mink and he gives me rabbit.

[Joe Friday]

Before we left the bar, we put in a call to R and I asking if Max Barrett had a police record. The office told us that there was none in our files. We asked that a teletype be sent to George Brereton at the CII office up in Sacramento. We also had the name Wilda Chandler checked. She had no record in Los Angeles. 11:20am we got Barrett's address from the Chandler woman and then we called a radio car. The officers took her to the city hall where she could make a full statement. Frank and I drove over to Barrett's apartment. Wilda Chandler had told us that the suspect drove a late model Pontiac sedan. We found the car parked in the garage in the rear of Barrett's address. A preliminary search of the garage end of the car failed to turn up any evidence of the thefts. 11:46am Frank and I went up to see Barrett. Podbean, your message amplified. Ready to Share your message with the world. Start your podcast journey with Podbean. Podbean, the AI powered all in one podcast platform. Thousands of businesses and enterprises trust Podbean to launch their podcasts.

[Wilda Chandler]

Use Podbean to record your podcast.

[Joe Friday]

Use PodBean AI to optimize your podcast. Use PodBean AI to turn your blog into a podcast. Use Podbean to distribute your podcast everywhere. Launch your podcast on Podbean today.

[Frank Smith]

I'll get it.

[Joe Friday]

Probably still asleep.

[Frank Smith]

Uhhuh.

[Max Barrett]

Who is it?

[Joe Friday]

Like to see you?

[Wilda Chandler]

Just a minute.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, You Max Barrett?

[Max Barrett]

Yeah. Who are you guys? What do you want?

[Joe Friday]

Police officers. We like talking. All right, now come on. On your feet, Barrett.

[Max Barrett]

What's this all about anyway? What are you guys doing breaking in here like this?

[Joe Friday]

You want to check the closets, Frank, right?

[Max Barrett]

You got no right to come in here and do this. What are you looking for? I got nothing to hide.

[Joe Friday]

You didn't act that way when we came in, did you?

[Max Barrett]

I know you were real cops. You read all the time in the papers how guys say they're cops and then break in and rob people. That's what I thought you were told me cops.

[Joe Friday]

We showed your identification, didn't we?

[Max Barrett]

Well, how'd I know it was real? You never been mixed up with the law before. How'd I know you were really cops?

[Joe Friday]

How about it?

[Frank Smith]

Place is clean?

[Max Barrett]

Sure it's clean. What'd you expect to find?

[Joe Friday]

Come on, get dressed. We're taking you downtown.

[Max Barrett]

For what?

[Joe Friday]

We want to talk to you.

[Max Barrett]

Any talking you got to do, do it here. I'm not going any place with you.

[Joe Friday]

You just keep believing that, mister. Now get your clothes on. Come on.

[Max Barrett]

What are you arresting me for?

[Joe Friday]

Suspicion of burglary.

[Max Barrett]

Are you serious?

[Joe Friday]

Get dressed.

[Max Barrett]

Okay, you take me in. Book me. But you're gonna be in real trouble, cop. Cause there's one big problem.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah?

[Commercial Announcer]

You can't prove you are listening to Dragnet. The authentic story of your police force in action.

[Narrator]

There are good reasons why thousands of people are changing to Chesterfield every day. Why Chesterfield is the largest selling two way cigarette in America. Why Chesterfield is best for me and best for you. People these days want facts. When you want people to use your product, you have to tell them what effect it has on people who do use it regularly. That's why a doctor has examined for almost two years a large group of Chesterfield smokers. 45% of them have on the average been smoking Chesterfields for well over 10 years. What is the effect on these people from smoking Chesterfield? No adverse Effects to the nose, throat and sinuses, says the doctor. Consider Chesterfield's record with these smokers with millions of other smokers throughout America. Another good reason for you to change to Chesterfield. Regular or king size? Chesterfield is best for me. Best for you.

[Joe Friday]

12:10Pm we called the office and arranged for a stakeout on Barrett's apartment In the event any of his associates contacted him. We asked his landlady about his friends. She told us that as far as she knew, the suspect was an insurance salesman. She said that he told her that because of his type of business, it would be necessary for him to keep late hours and that he didn't want to be disturbed during the day. We searched his apartment and his garage, but we were unable to turn up any of the stolen merchandise. We took him down to the city hall and got off all station radiograms. With special attention to the police departments in Chicago, Detroit and New York. Giving them descriptions of the suspect and of the stolen property. We asked that their pawn shop details check the outlets in their cities. 3:15pm we had Barrett brought to the city hall and we talked to him in the squadron.

[Max Barrett]

Okay, you made the boo boo. How you gonna get out of it?

[Frank Smith]

What do you mean?

[Max Barrett]

Well, you've had the chance to check my record. You know I'm clean. How are you gonna get out of having me sue you?

[Joe Friday]

You got a job? Yeah. Where do you work?

[Max Barrett]

I'm an insurance salesman.

[Joe Friday]

What's the name of your company?

[Max Barrett]

What do you want that for?

[Joe Friday]

We wanna talk to them.

[Max Barrett]

I don't want you calling them. They find out I'm down here before I get a chance to tell them about it, I'll lose my job.

[Joe Friday]

You kinda got this thing a little mixed up, haven't you?

[Max Barrett]

What do you mean?

[Joe Friday]

You've been trying to sell us how innocent you are all morning. Yet every time we ask a question, you give us a smart answer. Now, if you haven't got anything to hide, why don't you come off it and tell us the truth for a change?

[Max Barrett]

I'm doing that.

[Joe Friday]

When?

[Frank Smith]

What company you work for?

[Max Barrett]

I'm not gonna tell you.

[Frank Smith]

This rate book we found in your car. This the one great southwestern life, that it?

[Max Barrett]

Why don't you call them and find out?

[Frank Smith]

We did. They say they never heard of you.

[Max Barrett]

Then it isn't them, is it?

[Joe Friday]

What are you doing with the rate book?

[Max Barrett]

That illegal too?

[Joe Friday]

Where'd you get it?

[Max Barrett]

Friend of mine. I like to check the prices of other companies, keep abreast of things.

[Joe Friday]

What's the friend's name.

[Max Barrett]

You know I'm not gonna give you that. Hey, who put you onto me, anyway?

[Joe Friday]

Who? Said it yourself. We're not gonna tell you.

[Max Barrett]

Then it was that Wilda brought.

[Frank Smith]

Who?

[Max Barrett]

Who's playing cozy now? Wilda Chandler. She's the one who told you to pick me up, isn't she?

[Joe Friday]

Does she have a reason to do that?

[Max Barrett]

She might think so.

[Joe Friday]

Why don't you tell us about it?

[Max Barrett]

I tried to help her out. Give her the chance to earn some extra money. Told her I'd give her five bucks for every prospect she turned over to me, who bought some insurance. And it worked good for a while. Then she started boozing it up. Got to be a real lush. Couldn't trust her anymore. She was giving me a list of bad names, making them up. I had to get rid of her now, Give her a coat and called it quits.

[Joe Friday]

How about these names she gave you? You got a copy of them?

[Commercial Announcer]

No.

[Max Barrett]

Turned out they weren't any good, so I threw them away.

[Joe Friday]

Frank?

[Frank Smith]

Yeah?

[Joe Friday]

You got that list?

[Frank Smith]

Yeah. Here you go.

[Joe Friday]

Listen to these. See if they sound like the people Wilda told you about. Pauline Bunnell, Myrtle Briggs, Mrs. Mildred Carlson, Ms. Jane Anderson, Alice Beckworth. How about it? Do you recognize any of them?

[Max Barrett]

She's the one, isn't she? Lousy lush. She's the one who told you, isn't she?

[Frank Smith]

Recognize the names?

[Max Barrett]

Yeah.

[Frank Smith]

Every one of those people have had a burglary in their house in the last month. There's a lot more names. Why don't you cop out and tell us the truth?

[Max Barrett]

I got nothing to say until I see a lawyer.

[Joe Friday]

Joe, see you a minute? Yeah, I'll send right away. What do you got?

[Max Barrett]

Kid says his name's Jim Nelson. Picked him up out at Barrett's place.

[Joe Friday]

Anything on him? Suitcase.

[Max Barrett]

Here it is.

[Joe Friday]

A couple of fur coats inside of him. What about Nelson?

[Max Barrett]

Checked him.

[Joe Friday]

Got a record listing two burglary arrests, one conviction. Where's he now?

[Max Barrett]

Got him over in an interrogation room.

[Joe Friday]

Who's with him? Rubles. Any trouble? No. Walked in. We took him.

[Max Barrett]

Says he wants to see Barrett. Thought maybe you'd want to talk to him first.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, I do. Be right back, Frank.

[Frank Smith]

Okay, let's go.

[Joe Friday]

Anything on the coats?

[Max Barrett]

Haven't had a chance to check him yet.

[Joe Friday]

Brought the Nelson kid right in. Anybody out at Barrett's now? Yeah, we called the team before we left. Okay, thanks. I'll call you.

[Max Barrett]

Right.

[Joe Friday]

Hi, Rubles. Thanks.

[Max Barrett]

All right.

[Joe Friday]

Olson.

[Max Barrett]

I'll be down the hall if you need anything, Joe.

[Joe Friday]

Right. Thank you. Your name? Nelson, is that right?

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Where'd you get the suitcase?

[Max Barrett]

Barrett gave it to me.

[Joe Friday]

When?

[Max Barrett]

A couple of days ago. I was supposed to take it to Detroit.

[Joe Friday]

What happened?

[Narrator]

I didn't make it.

[Max Barrett]

Got to thinking about how he was willing to pay my expenses back there. Just to take the suitcase. Got to wonder what was so important. Opened the suitcase, and when I saw what was in it, I didn't want any part of it. Tried to give it back to him. Cops picked me up.

[Joe Friday]

You know where he got the coats?

[Max Barrett]

No, I don't want to. Anytime a guy's willing to pay expenses back, he's just to deliver a suitcase. There's something phony about it. I want no part of the action. You know, I got a record. I only stood one conviction. I'm trying to keep clean. You got Barrett here now?

[Joe Friday]

That's right.

[Narrator]

You gonna hold him?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Max Barrett]

I'd like to see him for a minute.

[Joe Friday]

Why?

[Max Barrett]

I'd like to tell him what I thought about the deal he tried to pull. Telling me how he was my friend all the time. Getting me to carry this stuff for him. Can you fix it up so I can see him?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, come on.

[Narrator]

You gonna be able to nail him?

[Joe Friday]

We will.

[Max Barrett]

Now, imagine a guy would pull a stunt like that on his friends. A guy do that? Do about anything.

[Joe Friday]

Now, you willing to testify about how Barrett gave you the suitcase?

[Max Barrett]

I sure am. I want to see him nailed good.

[Narrator]

Barrett.

[Max Barrett]

Yeah?

[Joe Friday]

Turn around here. Friend of yours wants to see you.

[Max Barrett]

What are you doing here? Thought I'd be in Detroit by now. Didn't you, Max? Just keep your mouth shut. They got nothing on us.

[Joe Friday]

Watch him while I get the suitcase for you.

[Frank Smith]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

How about it? You ever see this bag before, Barrett?

[Narrator]

You should.

[Max Barrett]

He gave it to me.

[Joe Friday]

Beautiful coat.

[Frank Smith]

Here.

[Joe Friday]

Let's take a look at the lining, shall we?

[Max Barrett]

I don't know anything about those. A guy sold them to me. I don't know where they came from.

[Frank Smith]

How about it?

[Joe Friday]

It's right there. Initials J.

[Max Barrett]

A.

[Joe Friday]

You want to tell us now? Barrett, Barrett.

[Max Barrett]

Lousy kid. I should have known better than that trick. Come on, let him go. Let him go bust his mum.

[Joe Friday]

Sit down, both of you. Sit down.

[Max Barrett]

Barrett kid going good. Until he stuck his nose into it. All going good. How lousy can a deal get?

[Joe Friday]

Well, I wouldn't worry about it.

[Max Barrett]

What?

[Joe Friday]

You're going to find out.

[Narrator]

The story you have just heard is true. The names were changed to protect the innocent.

[Commercial Announcer]

On September 18, trial was held in Department 97. Superior Court of the State of California. In and for the county of Los Angeles. In a moment, the results of that trial.

[Narrator]

Now, here is our star, Jack Webb.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you, George Feniman. Friends, going into the New Year, there are a couple of things that we sincerely hope you'll do. One, continue to listen to Dragnet. We're going to do our best to make it the kind of a program that you want. And two, if you're not already smoking Chesterfields, try them. And of course, all of us on Dragnet wish you a happy and prosperous New Year.

[Commercial Announcer]

Max Rudolph Barrett was tried and convicted of burglary in the first degree, four counts and received sentence as prescribed by law. Burglary in the first degree is punishable by imprisonment in the state penitentiary for a period of not less than five years. His associates in the burglary ring were tried and convicted of receiving stolen property, which is punishable by imprisonment in the state penitentiary for a period of not more than 10 years. Because of the cooperation she gave authorities in apprehending the suspects, Wilder Noreen Chandler was released from custody.

[Narrator]

Ladies and gentlemen, if you enjoyed the Dragnet Christmas story, it's available in RCA Victor record albums.

[Commercial Announcer]

You have just heard Dragnet, a series of authentic cases from official files. Technical advice comes from the office of Chief of Police W.H. parker, Los Angeles Police Department Technical Advisors, Captain Jack Donahoe, Sergeant Marty Wynn, Sergeant Vance Brasher. Heard tonight were Ben Alexander, Carolyn Jones, Vic Perrin, Lillian Byeff. Script by John Robinson. Music by Walter Schumann. Hal Gibney speaking.

[Narrator]

Watch an entirely new Dragnet case history each week on your local NBC television station. Please check your newspapers for the day and time Chesterfield has brought you. Dragnet. Transcribed from Los Angeles have you tried new cork tip Fatima? It's the smooth smoke with Fatima tips of perfect cork, king size for longer filtering and Fatima quality for a much better flavor and aroma. Remember, Fatima with tips of perfect cork is made and guaranteed by the makers of Chesterfield, Liggett and Myers Tobacco Company. Hear John Cameron Swayze in the news next on the NBC Radio Network.