Dragnet: The Big Sucker | Episode Summary

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Dragnet: The Big Sucker
Release Date: March 4, 2025

Overview

In this gripping episode of Dragnet, listeners are taken back to 1954 to witness the meticulous investigation led by Sergeant Friday and his partner Frank Smith. Titled "The Big Sucker," the episode delves into the pursuit of a cunning confidence man who exploits unsuspecting victims with counterfeit diamonds. The narrative, true to the show's commitment to realism, showcases the challenges law enforcement faces in identifying and apprehending sophisticated fraudsters.

Case Overview

The episode opens on a warm Tuesday morning in Los Angeles, where Sergeant Friday is briefed about a bunco fugitive detail. Their mission is to track down a confidence man who has been operating in the city, deceiving individuals with fake blue white diamonds. Captain Didion underscores the significance of the case, emphasizing the need to stop the fraudster who is targeting a ready market.

Notable Quote:
"You're a detective sergeant. You're assigned a bunco fugitive detail." — Narrator [00:01]

Initial Investigation

Friday and Smith commence their investigation by reviewing a report from Harold Filson, a victim who fell prey to the scam. Filson recounts how he was approached by a seemingly trustworthy man in a bank who proposed a business opportunity involving diamonds. Trusting the conman, Filson was convinced to purchase what he believed were genuine diamonds, only to discover they were mere zircons upon visiting a reputable jeweler.

Notable Quote:
"My friend bought the diamonds, did he? Yes, he offered the owner $10,000 cash for him." — Harold Filson [10:15]

Gathering Evidence

The detectives compile Filson's statement and descriptions of the suspect. They collaborate with Sol Maurice, the owner of the jewelry store, who provides insights into the quality and characteristics of the fake stones. Maurice highlights the sophistication of the imitations, noting their superior cut and longer facets, which mimic genuine European diamonds.

Notable Quote:
"Well, they look as if they were cutting this country." — Sol Maurice [22:30]

Undercover Operation

With limited leads, Friday and Smith strategize an undercover operation targeting the Hollywood Boulevard area, where the suspect is believed to frequent. They deploy several undercover officers to pose as potential victims in banks, hoping to lure the confidence man into making another fraudulent attempt.

Notable Quote:
"We thought that if we could spot a couple undercover people in the banks and make it look like they were doing business there, they might be approached." — Frank Smith [45:50]

The Arrest

Their patience pays off when an undercover policewoman identifies the suspect in a coffee shop, matching the description provided in previous reports. The detectives swiftly move to apprehend him. During interrogation, the suspect, Samuel Gerald Pugh, exhibits evasive behavior and inconsistent statements about his whereabouts and activities, further raising suspicions.

Notable Quote:
"We are not playing a game with you here. You come up with some straight answers and come up with them fast, Sir." — Sergeant Friday [1:15:20]

Interrogation and Confession

As pressure mounts, Pugh becomes increasingly defensive and agitated, ultimately refusing to cooperate. His erratic behavior and attempt to assert his innocence without credible evidence solidify the detectives' case. Frustrated, Friday and Smith proceed to book him, confident in the evidence amassed against him.

Notable Quote:
"I didn’t really do it. You can’t book a man that just thinks about it." — Samuel Gerald Pugh [1:30:45]

Trial and Conviction

The episode culminates in the trial of Nathan Austin Kroner (a pseudonym for Pugh), who is found guilty on four counts of grand theft. The legal proceedings underscore the severity of his crimes, with potential penalties ranging from one year in county jail to ten years in the state penitentiary.

Notable Quote:
"Nathan Austin Kroner was tried and found guilty on four counts of grand theft." — Narrator [2:05:00]

Community Impact and Moral

Beyond the immediate resolution of the case, the episode reflects on the broader implications of such crimes on community trust and the challenges honest professionals face. The narrative emphasizes the importance of vigilance and collaboration between law enforcement and the public to deter fraudulent activities.

Notable Quote:
"Every time somebody gets stung buying diamonds, it makes them leery. From then on, hard on legitimate people in the business." — Sergeant Friday [2:10:30]

Conclusion

Dragnet: The Big Sucker serves as a compelling portrayal of police work during the Golden Age of Radio. Through authentic dialogue and realistic scenarios, the episode highlights the relentless pursuit of justice and the intricate dance between detectives and cunning criminals. For fans of old-time radio and true crime enthusiasts alike, this episode offers a nostalgic yet insightful glimpse into the challenges of combating fraud in the mid-20th century.

Production Credits:
Script by John Robinson. Music by Walter Schumann. Station Voices: Ben Alexander, Harry Bartel, Virginia Greg. Narrator: Hal Gibney.

Note: Advertisements, intros, and outros have been omitted to focus solely on the episode's content.