Dragnet: The Big Watch 05/25/1954

Summary

Podcast Summary: Dragnet: The Big Watch | Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio

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Introduction

"Dragnet: The Big Watch," aired on May 25, 1954, is a quintessential episode from the golden age of radio detective dramas. Hosted by Choice Classic Radio, this episode delves into the meticulous investigation led by Sergeant Joe Friday and Detective Sergeant Frank Smith of the Los Angeles Police Department. Released on June 10, 2025, this episode showcases the procedural brilliance that "Dragnet" is renowned for.

Case Introduction

The story begins with a true-to-life account narrated by Joe Friday, setting the stage for the investigation into a significant market robbery. The robbery, which occurred on Monday, January 19th, involved a masked man who successfully stole approximately $7,367 from a supermarket located at the corner of Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Camarillo Street. Despite following all routine procedures, the initial investigation yielded no leads, prompting Friday and his partner, Frank Smith, to seek any possible breakthroughs.

Notable Quote:

Joe Friday [01:51]: "Ladies and gentlemen, the story you are about to hear is true. The names have been changed to protect the innocent."

The Investigation

First Break: The Informant's Call

After three weeks of fruitless investigation, an informant—Bartender Van Gordon—calls Friday and Smith, providing a potential lead. Gordon describes a suspicious individual named Nick, who fits the suspect's physical description but stands out due to his sudden display of wealth and frequent visits to the bar.

Notable Quotes:

Bartender Van Gordon [03:26]: "There's been a bohunk hanging around here the last couple weeks. Got a roller, make a horse. Pretty sick."

Joe Friday [03:36]: "All except the clothes."

Interview with Bartender Van Gordon

Friday and Smith visit the bar to interview Van Gordon. Through their conversation, they gather critical details about Nick's behavior, his distinctive taste in drinks—particularly Irish coffee—and his solitary nature. The bartender mentions that Nick claims to have met a locksmith from Fort Knox, though this is dismissed as a joke by Friday.

Notable Quote:

Bartender Van Gordon [05:15]: "That's a new drink. I got it from a friend of mine up in San Francisco. A cup of coffee, Irish whiskey topped with a jolt of whipped cream."

Canvassing the Neighborhood

Returning to the office, Friday and Smith canvass the neighborhood, interviewing shopkeepers and store owners. Their efforts lead them to a jeweler, Mr. Hobbs, who recalls a well-dressed man purchasing high-value items but refuses to divulge personal information. However, Hobbs provides a lead regarding a watch left behind, which becomes pivotal to the case.

Notable Quotes:

Joe Friday [07:37]: "Could you give us his name?"

Mr. Hobbs [08:05]: "I want to do what I can, but it's rather difficult without knowing exactly what it is you're after."

Discovery of the Watch

During their interaction with Mr. Hobbs, Friday and Smith review the items purchased by the suspect—a gold tie bar, cufflinks, and a Patek Philippe wristwatch. The watch, though initially deemed ordinary, contains initials "RJ10567," hinting at a watchmaker or repairman's records that could link the suspect to the crime.

Notable Quotes:

Joe Friday [10:02]: "What do you want to know?"

Mr. Hobbs [12:03]: "All you have to do is find RJ and get the name of the man who had work number 10567."

Tracking the Watch Repairman

Utilizing the initials and work number found on the watch, Friday and Smith consult the phone book to locate the corresponding watch repairman. Their search leads them to Mike Langley, a fry cook with a seemingly impeccable alibi. However, discrepancies in Langley's statements and his possession of the watch raise suspicions.

Notable Quote:

Joe Friday [19:14]: "Have you?"

Mike Langley [19:15]: "No."

Interrogation of Mike Langley

Confronted with the watch, Langley vehemently denies owning it and claims it belonged to his cousin, Herbert Langley, who had recently caused trouble at Quentin. Further investigation reveals that Herbert had been staying with Mike and his wife, Pearl, but left abruptly, claiming to return to Texas.

Notable Quotes:

Joe Friday [21:30]: "We got him for the market, Jeff."

Mike Langley [21:32]: "I guess I must have forgotten all about it."

Arrest and Confirmation

As the investigation unfolds, the detectives receive a utility company record linking Herbert Langley to the street address near the time of the robbery. Upon confronting Langley at a local bar, supported by Bartender Van Gordon, Friday and Smith arrest him. The scene involves a tense standoff, culminating in Langley's apprehension.

Notable Quotes:

Joe Friday [26:34]: "Police officers. You're under arrest."

Herbert Langley [26:36]: "That right?"

Trial and Conviction

The narrative concludes with the trial of Herbert Colby Langley, who is convicted of first-degree robbery. The court imposes a sentence of no less than five years in the state penitentiary, underscoring the gravity of his crimes.

Notable Quote:

Narrator [27:33]: "The names were changed to protect the innocent."

Conclusion

"Dragnet: The Big Watch" exemplifies the show's commitment to realistic and methodical police work. Through diligent investigation, attention to detail, and leveraging community information, Sergeant Friday and Detective Smith successfully resolve a complex robbery case. This episode not only entertains but also highlights the importance of perseverance and integrity in law enforcement.

Final Thoughts

This episode of "Dragnet" serves as a testament to the timeless appeal of procedural detective stories. Its structured narrative, authentic dialogue, and realistic portrayal of police work make it a standout piece for old-time radio enthusiasts and newcomers alike. By focusing on the intricate steps of the investigation, "Dragnet: The Big Watch" offers a compelling glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of criminal investigation during the 1950s.

Engage and Subscribe: For more classic detective tales, follow Choice Classic Radio on Facebook and subscribe on YouTube. Support the preservation of old-time radio by donating at ChoiceClassicRadio.com.

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This summary is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the "Dragnet: The Big Watch" episode, capturing essential plot points, character interactions, and notable dialogues to offer listeners an informative and engaging synopsis.

Transcript

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[Joe Friday]

It will be full representative.

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[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].

[Joe Friday]

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

[Herbert Langley]

Dragnet.

[Joe Friday]

You'Re a detective sergeant. You're assigned a robbery detail. You've been looking for a suspect in a market robbery for three weeks. Finally, an informant calls you with information. Your job. Check it out. It was Tuesday, February 17th. It was cold in Los Angeles. We were working the day. Watch out. A robbery detail. My partner's Frank Smith, the boss of chief of Detective Thad Brown. My name's Friday. We're on our way out from the office and it was 10:56 by the time we parked our car and got to 4278 Winona Vallamy's room.

[Mike Langley]

Hi, Joe.

[Joe Friday]

Frank, Dan. How's it going?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

I'm walking around about all I can expect.

[Joe Friday]

Sit down. Thank you. Got you anything? No.

[Frank Smith]

No, thanks.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Just made a fresh pot of coffee in back.

[Joe Friday]

Like a cup? Yeah, I might go for one.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

How about you, Frank?

[Joe Friday]

Sure, I'll get it.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

You both take it black, don't you?

[Herbert Langley]

That's right.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, man. What was it you wanted to talk to us about? What? I say, what was it you wanted to see us about?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Just a minute. I'll be right with you. Here, you want to take one of these cups?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Let me give you a hand there.

[Herbert Langley]

All right.

[Joe Friday]

Here you go, Frank.

[Frank Smith]

Thanks.

[Joe Friday]

What do you got for us, Dan?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

I read in a paper a couple weeks ago we had a stick up at that big market out in the Valley.

[Joe Friday]

Is that right?

[Frank Smith]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Pete made it with close to $7,000.

[Frank Smith]

You got anything on it?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Well, what'd the guy look like?

[Joe Friday]

Well, the description we got was 28 to 35, 85 10, 145 pounds, dark hair, dark eyes, wearing a leather jacket and denim pants. Was all in the paper bag.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Well, it might fit then. All except the clothes, huh? There's been a bohunk hanging around here the last couple weeks. Got a roller, make a horse. Pretty sick. The funny part is that I've seen him around here for a year and he never had two dimes to rub together. All of a sudden he turns up loaded, popping for drinks all over the place. Loaded down with expensive watches, good clothes, everything that goes with money.

[Joe Friday]

What's his name? You know.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Well, I don't know the whole thing. Been calling him Nick, that's all I know.

[Frank Smith]

He matches the description pretty close, huh?

[Joe Friday]

All except the clothes.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Rags he's carrying now are the best. Don't look like they come from plain racks.

[Joe Friday]

Did he come up with any kind of a story about the money?

[Herbert Langley]

No.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

I kind of hinted at it a couple of times. You know, in a joking sort of a way. I didn't want to be too nosy.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, I know.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

All he says is that he met the locksmith to Fort Knox. Passes it off as a big joke. Says he found the easy way to live.

[Frank Smith]

Might be our man.

[Joe Friday]

You have any close friends? No.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Joey plays it kind of solo. He dated Mads a couple of times.

[Joe Friday]

Who's Madge? She's the waitress here.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Comes in about six. She works at tables and back.

[Joe Friday]

Did she tell you anything about the guy?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

No. I asked her, but she says they had dinner, took in a couple of clubs, then he took her home, played it straight all evening. Kind of worried Madge for a couple of days. After Figured she was kind of slipping a little.

[Frank Smith]

He didn't say anything to her, huh?

[Joe Friday]

No.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

No. Kind of a tip off. Played it real straight, like I said.

[Joe Friday]

Do you have a job?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Well, not so as you'd notice. Doesn't seem to have any working hours. Used to walk in here at all hours.

[Frank Smith]

Got any other friends?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

No close ones. He buy drinks for anybody that was around when he was popping. But he never came in with nobody. He never left with anybody.

[Joe Friday]

You seen him around lately?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

No, not for a couple of days.

[Joe Friday]

Got any idea where he lives? No.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

I don't think he pads down here in the neighborhood.

[Frank Smith]

How about a car?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

No go all the time. I saw him. He rode cabs. Took him here and left in them.

[Joe Friday]

Well, last time he left. You say where he was going?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

No, just shoved off. Said he might not be around for a couple of days and have a hot cup of Irish coffee waiting for him when he got back.

[Joe Friday]

What's Irish coffee?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

That's a new drink. I got it from a friend of mine up in San Francisco. A cup of coffee, Irish whiskey topped with a jolt of whipped cream. This Nick drank him all the time?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Yeah, he's got the whole place on him. You come in some night, we got more coffee cups on the bar than glasses.

[Joe Friday]

Didn't give you any idea where he was going?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Well, if he threw it, I didn't hear it.

[Joe Friday]

Anybody around the place you might have talked to?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Well, I can't give you no names. Might talk to Mads. I don't think she'll come up with anything, but you can try.

[Joe Friday]

What time did you say she came in?

[Herbert Langley]

6.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

That's when she's supposed to check in Once in a while. She's late, but she's supposed to have her apron on about six.

[Frank Smith]

Okay, Van, thanks for the call.

[Joe Friday]

We'll be back. Now, if this Nick comes in, give us the ring, will you?

[Herbert Langley]

Sure.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

If he's in town, he'll be back.

[Joe Friday]

Sure.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

He's all the time telling me we got the best Irish coffee in town. That's all he drinks, so it figures he'll be here to get some right away. I see him, I'll give you a call.

[Joe Friday]

All right. Thanks. Man, I sure hope it's the guy you're after. Yeah, so do we.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Seven GS. A lot of money can buy an awful lot with that.

[Joe Friday]

Well, you better take it easy. Yeah. Better not hit that Irish coffee too hard. Three weeks previously on Monday, January 19th at 9:40am A masked man had walked into a supermarket at the corner of Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Camarillo street and held up the store for a total of $7,367. The alarm had gone out immediately, but the holdup man succeeded in getting out of the area. All routine procedure had been followed, but it resulted in no information to put us any closer to the thief. Local broadcasts and APB had been gotten out. The description of the thief had been taken and checked through the staff's office. All leads had been followed up without result. The phone call from the bartender appeared to be our first break in the case. Frank and I went back to the city hall and checked the name Nick and the description through the moniker file in R and I. There were only four possibles turned over to her. We showed the mug shots to the bartender, but he couldn't give us an identification. We got the home address of Mads, the cocktail waitress, and we went out to see her. Her landlady told us that she wasn't home and that when the girl had left, she said she'd go straight to work. We waited for her at the bar, but after talking to her, we had no additional information to work with. The following morning we began to canvass the neighborhood. We talked to shopkeepers and store owners. In several clothing stores we found clerks who thought they remembered the man, but they were unable to give us any information on him. Late that afternoon we talked to a jeweler. We asked if he had a customer who might fit the description of the suspect.

[Herbert Langley]

Yes, sir. Seems to me I remember a man like that.

[Joe Friday]

What can you tell us about him, Mr. Hobbs?

[Herbert Langley]

Not much. Bought quite a bit of merchandise. What else do you want to know?

[Joe Friday]

Could you give us his name?

[Herbert Langley]

Afraid not.

[Frank Smith]

How about receipts, Anything like that?

[Herbert Langley]

No, sir. It was a cash sale. There was no reason to take his name.

[Frank Smith]

Uh huh.

[Joe Friday]

Can you give us any information on him at all?

[Herbert Langley]

Maybe if you could tell me what this is all about, I could help you out.

[Joe Friday]

Well, it's a police matter, Mr. Hobbs.

[Herbert Langley]

You must understand, Sergeant, I want to do what I can, but it's rather difficult without knowing exactly what it is you're after.

[Joe Friday]

Well, we want to find a man. Any information you have that'll help us do that will be appreciated.

[Herbert Langley]

There's nothing I can do for you.

[Frank Smith]

Well, how about the things he bought?

[Herbert Langley]

You want the complete list?

[Frank Smith]

Yeah. How much do you buy?

[Herbert Langley]

I have to look it up. Just a minute.

[Joe Friday]

All right, sir. Keep a record of your sales, do you?

[Herbert Langley]

Yeah, I have to for tax purposes. Just a minute.

[Frank Smith]

Huh?

[Herbert Langley]

I'm not certain of the Date? Take a minute to find.

[Joe Friday]

Well, that should take your time.

[Herbert Langley]

Let me see here. Here.

[Joe Friday]

Here it is.

[Herbert Langley]

Bought a gold tie bar, set of cuff lengths and a wristwatch.

[Joe Friday]

Can you give us the description of the goods?

[Herbert Langley]

Plain gold tie bar, square ends. Cufflinks are plain, sort of square design. No relief work.

[Joe Friday]

How about the watch?

[Herbert Langley]

Patek Philippe. Solid gold.

[Joe Friday]

Anything about the watch that would make it easier to identify?

[Herbert Langley]

No.

[Frank Smith]

You got a record of the case and movement number?

[Herbert Langley]

Mm. You want that might help. No, I can get it for you.

[Joe Friday]

All right, fine. How'd he pay for this merchandise?

[Herbert Langley]

In cash?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir. But what about the denominations of the bills? Would you remember what they were?

[Herbert Langley]

I'm sorry, Sergeant, I can't help you there. It was a while ago and I don't remember.

[Joe Friday]

Is there anything at all about the man that might help us identify him? An accent maybe? Way walk way dress.

[Herbert Langley]

No, he's well dressed. Conservative. All except the tie that was rather jarring.

[Joe Friday]

What's that?

[Herbert Langley]

He had on a dark flannel suit, button down collar, black shoes. Everything went together except the tie. It was bright red.

[Joe Friday]

What about his speech? Was there anything there?

[Herbert Langley]

Not that I remember.

[Frank Smith]

Nothing else about it?

[Herbert Langley]

No, sir.

[Joe Friday]

Well, all right, Mr. Hobbs, I'm gonna leave one of our cards with you. If you think of anything else, we'd appreciate a call.

[Herbert Langley]

As for you, Mr. Freddy.

[Joe Friday]

Well, either me or Frank Smith here.

[Herbert Langley]

All right. If I think of anything.

[Frank Smith]

If you'll get the numbers on the watch for us, please.

[Herbert Langley]

Oh, yeah. Almost forgot. Say, there is something.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Herbert Langley]

See, when he bought the new watch, he was wearing one. Asked me if I'd give him anything for it. Wanted to trade it in.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Herbert Langley]

I told him it wasn't worth anything to me. Suggested he try to sell it to a secondhand store. Yeah, he said he's seen the last of Hawk shops. Said if I didn't want to buy the watch, he'd make me a gift of it.

[Joe Friday]

Well, did you take it?

[Herbert Langley]

He left it here.

[Joe Friday]

You still have it?

[Herbert Langley]

I think it's still in the back. I got a box of old parts. His watch might be in there.

[Joe Friday]

Wonder if you'd mind checking that, sir.

[Herbert Langley]

Just a minute. Let's see if I can find it.

[Joe Friday]

Okay. Huh?

[Frank Smith]

What do you think?

[Joe Friday]

I don't know. It might be something.

[Frank Smith]

We're due for a break.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Frank Smith]

We going to tag the office after this?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, I guess so. You going to go home for dinner?

[Frank Smith]

No, not tonight. He's got the girls from the bridge club coming over. I thought I'd go by Allen Lums, get some shrimp and lobster. You want to go with me?

[Joe Friday]

Where?

[Frank Smith]

Alan Lums.

[Joe Friday]

Oh, yeah, Good.

[Frank Smith]

Lobster Club.

[Joe Friday]

Sure, I'll go with you.

[Herbert Langley]

In there. There it is. Watch is in here now, at some point.

[Joe Friday]

What kind of a watch is it, sir?

[Herbert Langley]

Off brand. Should be here someplace.

[Frank Smith]

But this one here broken, huh?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Let me see.

[Herbert Langley]

Oh, yeah. Why?

[Frank Smith]

Nothing special. Kind of nice looking. Thought if it worked, we might be able to make a deal.

[Herbert Langley]

I sold you that one. I'd be in jail tomorrow.

[Joe Friday]

Sure.

[Herbert Langley]

Oh, wait a minute. Here. Here it is.

[Joe Friday]

This is it? Yes, sir. Well, now, is there anything about the watch that'd make it possible to tell where it was bought?

[Herbert Langley]

No, sir. It's a cheap brand most of the drug stores in town carry.

[Joe Friday]

Well, if you mind if we take it with us, we'll give you a receipt.

[Herbert Langley]

It won't be necessary. I trust you.

[Joe Friday]

You appreciate it, Mr. House. We'd better give you a receipt.

[Herbert Langley]

All right, I'll get the book. Oh, I just thought of something. Might not work, but it's worth a try.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir. What's that?

[Herbert Langley]

Just a minute.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, you did, sir.

[Herbert Langley]

You had to watch repaired at one time or another. You see here, Let me see.

[Joe Friday]

I don't believe I see what you mean.

[Herbert Langley]

Well, here. See the initials there and the numbers?

[Joe Friday]

That's RJ10567.

[Herbert Langley]

Yeah, that's the initials of a watcher. Family worked on the watch. That should make it pretty simple, shouldn't it?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, sure, it'll help.

[Herbert Langley]

Simple. All you have to do is find RJ and get the name of the man who had work number 10567. He should be able to give you the name of the man you're looking for. Simple.

[Joe Friday]

Yes. It's not quite that easy, but it's a place to start. We left the jeweler and we went back to the office. We checked the phone book for watch repairman with the possible initials of R.J. frank got on one phone and I got on another. There's a long chance that the watch had been bought and serviced in Los Angeles. We went through the watch repair companies with the initials we were looking for. And then we started at the top of the list of jewelry concerns. I see, huh?

[Frank Smith]

That's right, sir.

[Joe Friday]

Well, thank you very much. All the information we have. Yes, sir. Thanks a lot, sir.

[Frank Smith]

Goodbye.

[Joe Friday]

No, I wouldn't be able to tell you any more now. Bye.

[Frank Smith]

I got nothing.

[Joe Friday]

Well, we better get on it or we're going to have to wait until tomorrow. 5, 20. Most of the places close In a few minutes. So let's stay with it.

[Frank Smith]

Yeah, it's getting so I can't see the numbers on this dial anymore.

[Advertiser]

This podcast is sponsored by Talkspace. You know, when you're really stressed or not feeling so great about your life or about yourself, talking to someone who understands can really help. But who is that person? How do you find them? Where do you even start? Talkspace. Talkspace makes it easy to get the support you need. With Talkspace, you can go online, answer a few questions about your preferences, and be matched with a therapist. And because you'll meet your therapist online, you don't have to take time off work or arrange childcare.

[Joe Friday]

You can.

[Advertiser]

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[Unknown Speaker]

Plantas, Plantas y mas plantas and country, farm and garden. A key mismo in Yakima and La Venida, Washington Des de los pimientos mas picantes del mundo hasta las flores mas her mosas lot tenemos todo calatisado jalapeno Roma y super Chile en existencia todo los dias un paquete de cuatro vegetales cuesta solo tres dolores Conventin, nueves and tabos vena country, farm and garden Para todo tus vegetales, tomates, seboyas, pimientos y pepinos siempre in existence Valencia and country, farm and garden and avaned Watson and Yakima.

[Joe Friday]

This is Sergeant Friday, Los Angeles Police Department. Hello? Yes, sir.

[Frank Smith]

And this is Officer Frank Smith.

[Joe Friday]

No, there's nothing in the police department. You have a watch repairman who uses.

[Frank Smith]

I wonder if you can give me some information.

[Joe Friday]

No, that's R.J. yes, sir.

[Frank Smith]

Do you have a watch repairman?

[Joe Friday]

I use the initials R.J. no, sir. No, we're looking for information. Robert J.

[Frank Smith]

As in James. Mm.

[Joe Friday]

We'd like nothing at all. Yes, ma' am. All right, sir. Thank you.

[Frank Smith]

I'll wait.

[Joe Friday]

Bye. Thank you. I'll hang on. Nothing here. I don't know. Maybe we got a Dead end.

[Frank Smith]

Yeah, she's gone to look here. I see. Mm. What's that?

[Joe Friday]

Hello, this is Sergeant. Wait just a minute, will you?

[Frank Smith]

Hey, hold it, Joe. I got one.

[Joe Friday]

Just a minute, please. Hold on.

[Frank Smith]

Yeah, that's right.

[Joe Friday]

This is Frank Smith.

[Frank Smith]

Hang on a minute, I got one. This Frank Smith, robbery detail. Uh huh. Can you tell me who. Who gave you the work number? Uh huh. No, can you tell me who you gave the work number 10567 to? That's right. 10567. Yes sir, I'll hang on. Got a guy now.

[Joe Friday]

He's checking. Does it look good?

[Frank Smith]

Well, might be place down on 5th. West 5th.

[Joe Friday]

I'll let this one go for me. Yeah, hello, sir?

[Frank Smith]

Yeah, that's right, sir. 567.

[Joe Friday]

No, it's nothing important, sir. Well, I may call back on.

[Frank Smith]

Do you have an address for him?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir. Thank you very much.

[Herbert Langley]

I see.

[Frank Smith]

Do you remember him at all? Mm. Well, thanks very much. We'll get in touch with you. Well, according to this guy, the watch was brought in by Mike Langley.

[Joe Friday]

Well, maybe we know who we're looking for now.

[Frank Smith]

Well, there's another problem.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah?

[Frank Smith]

There's no address on Langley.

[Joe Friday]

We checked the name Langley through R and I, but without any description to work with, there was little chance that we'd find anything. We checked the description on the arrest reports against that of our suspect and we ruled out all the possibles that we came up with. We checked the name in the phone book, but we found no listing. We checked the city directory without result. 6:15pm we got in touch with the utility companies and asked them to check their records. They told us they'd call us back by the next morning with the information. Wednesday, February 18, 9:12am Frank and I were in the squadroom. I got it. Robbery, Friday? Yes, that's right. Okay. Yeah, go ahead. 2647 Gilbert. That's G as in George I, L, B, E, R, T. Yeah, okay. Huh. Well, how long have they had that service?

[Frank Smith]

Uh huh.

[Joe Friday]

Right. You betcha. Thanks very much. Friday? Yes, right. Thanks very much.

[Frank Smith]

They came up with it, huh?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, looks real good here. Service started on Friday, January 16th. Yeah, two days before the robbery. 9:52am we made another check at R and I, and then we left the office. We drove out the Hollywood Freeway, turned off at Vermont and drove over to Gilbert. 26:47 was the last unit in the Spanish style court. Frank covered the back of the place and I went up and rang the doorbell. The door was opened by a woman in her late 20s. She identified herself as Mrs. Pearl Langley. We asked about her husband. She told us he was at work. Frank and I got the address and drove over to the place. Mike Langley was a fry cook in a small restaurant on Spring Street. We took him back into the manager's office and we talked to him. He matched the description of the suspect. Very close.

[Mike Langley]

You're way off base.

[Joe Friday]

Well, maybe you can tell us where you were on Saturday, January 17th, huh? Sure.

[Mike Langley]

I was home helping Pearl. We just moved into the new place the day before. I was giving her a hand getting things straightened out.

[Joe Friday]

What about Sunday the 18th?

[Mike Langley]

I worked here. It's the only job I've got.

[Frank Smith]

What about Monday the 19th?

[Mike Langley]

Same deal.

[Joe Friday]

You were here?

[Mike Langley]

That's right.

[Joe Friday]

What time do you come to work?

[Mike Langley]

I get in about 6:30. Line things up in the kitchen. We open at 7:30.

[Frank Smith]

You're pretty sure where you were on the 19th, huh?

[Joe Friday]

Positive.

[Frank Smith]

Any special reason you're so sure?

[Mike Langley]

What do you mean?

[Joe Friday]

Well, any reason you'd remember you were working on that day?

[Mike Langley]

Nothing. Besides, I haven't missed a day since I took the job.

[Joe Friday]

When was that?

[Mike Langley]

About a year and a half ago. You'd like to check with the boss?

[Joe Friday]

He'd have a record. In what days you were here, huh?

[Mike Langley]

That old skim Flint. He's got a note on every minute I was in the kitchen. Probably tell you how many eggs I fried. Since I've been cooking for him.

[Joe Friday]

You want to check on that, Frank?

[Frank Smith]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

I want you to look at something here, Langley, and tell me if you know who it belongs to.

[Herbert Langley]

Sure.

[Mike Langley]

What do you got?

[Joe Friday]

Right here.

[Mike Langley]

It's a cheap watch. It isn't mine.

[Joe Friday]

You ever seen it?

[Mike Langley]

I don't think so.

[Joe Friday]

You ever been arrested?

[Mike Langley]

Why ask that?

[Joe Friday]

Have you?

[Mike Langley]

No.

[Joe Friday]

Never been in trouble with the police?

[Mike Langley]

Not in California.

[Joe Friday]

Where?

[Mike Langley]

Texas.

[Joe Friday]

Where in Texas?

[Mike Langley]

Galveston.

[Joe Friday]

What was the beef?

[Mike Langley]

Drunk driving and nailed me on the boulevard.

[Joe Friday]

What'd you draw?

[Mike Langley]

Paid a fine, did 10 days.

[Joe Friday]

That's the only trouble you've ever had with the police?

[Mike Langley]

That's it.

[Joe Friday]

You sure about this watch?

[Frank Smith]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Never saw it before.

[Mike Langley]

No.

[Joe Friday]

Be right back.

[Mike Langley]

Langley, I'd appreciate if you could step it up. The boss are gonna start docking me if I'm off much more.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah? What do you got?

[Frank Smith]

I check with the owner. Looks like we're far out on this thing. Langley was working all day the 19th.

[Narrator]

You are listening to Dragnet. The authentic story of your police force in action.

[Joe Friday]

We contacted the authorities in Galveston. And talked with Officers Rex Torian and Reuben Guzman. They told US that Mike Langley had been arrested for drunk driving. They went on to say that he lived in the beach city for several years and that until his arrest he'd never been in trouble. We brought him down to the City hall and we talked to him further. The victims of the holdup were asked to a special show up. But although they said Langley looked quite a bit like the stick up man, they couldn't give us a positive identification. He was released from custody on Thursday, February 19th. We got a call from him asking us to come out to his home. Frank and I left the office and drove to the Gilbert street address. We met Langley and his wife.

[Mike Langley]

You met my wife, Pearl, didn't you?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir, we.

[J]

Yeah, we met yesterday.

[Joe Friday]

What'd you want to see us about, Langley?

[Mike Langley]

Sit down.

[J]

Can I get you anything? Cup of coffee, something?

[Joe Friday]

No. No, thank you.

[Mike Langley]

Man, I hate to bring you guys out here, but I want to get this thing cleared up.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir, we do, too.

[Mike Langley]

You got that watch with you?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir. Yeah? Here you are.

[Mike Langley]

Oh, thanks. I got to thinking about it last night. About why you think it was mine?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir, I guess.

[Mike Langley]

Didn't make much of an impression on me at the time, but I remembered it. Yeah, I figured out how you got my name on it.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir, I did take the watch.

[Mike Langley]

In to be fixed. It isn't mine, but I did have it fixed.

[Joe Friday]

Well, who does it belong to?

[Mike Langley]

My cousin, Herbert Langley. He got in some trouble when he was at Quentin. He sent the watch out to me to have it fixed. I guess I must have forgotten all about it.

[Joe Friday]

You know where he is now?

[J]

He was staying here with us.

[Joe Friday]

How long ago, ma' am?

[J]

He got here the day after we moved into the house.

[Mike Langley]

That'd be Sunday.

[J]

Yeah, I remember because Mike and me were trying to get the place straightened out. And Herb didn't do anything but sit around and guzzle beer. Looked a hand to help.

[Frank Smith]

Is he here now?

[J]

You mean staying here?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma' am.

[J]

No, he moved out about a week ago.

[Joe Friday]

Did he tell you where he was going?

[J]

No. He said he was tired of being a fifth wheel and left.

[Mike Langley]

Him and Pearl didn't get along too good.

[J]

We sure didn't. One thing I don't go is a man that doesn't work laying around the house all day. Or else down at some bar drinking all day.

[Joe Friday]

Do you know what he was in jail for?

[Mike Langley]

Herb kept telling us it was a bad beef. They didn't have anything to do with it.

[Joe Friday]

What was the charge? Do you know, Rob? Where was that?

[Mike Langley]

Up North. It was a San Rafael, wasn't it, honey?

[J]

A real bum.

[Mike Langley]

Wish you wouldn't say that, Pearl.

[J]

Why not?

[Joe Friday]

It's true.

[Mike Langley]

You just didn't understand him.

[J]

No, and I didn't want to. I don't like him. Never did. All the time laying around, giving orders. Wanted to be waited on hand, foot. Always asking for something. Him and that lousy coffee. That was the end. When he started asking for that Irish coffee.

[Joe Friday]

What do you mean coffee?

[J]

Irish whiskey and whipped cream. Something he heard about someplace.

[Joe Friday]

Do you know where he is now?

[J]

No.

[Joe Friday]

How about you, sir?

[Mike Langley]

Well, I haven't got the address, but he did say something about going back to see Mother.

[Joe Friday]

Where would that be?

[Mike Langley]

Texas. He wasn't sure. He just said he was thinking about it, though.

[Joe Friday]

He say when he was coming back?

[Mike Langley]

No. Him and Pearl had a beef before he left.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Mike Langley]

Packed the bag. Said he'd never be back.

[Joe Friday]

We got a complete description of Herbert Langley and a snapshot of him. Frank and I went back to the office and put in a call to Fred Galloway in the Adult authority office. He contacted Sacramento and got Langley's prison number. We checked the coming out mug books and got a good picture of the suspect. This was shown to the victims and they identified him positively as the hold up man. A local and an APB were gotten out on him. And a radiogram was sent to the authorities in Galveston, Texas, asking them to check on the suspect. We got a list of his known friends and other relatives. These were interviewed, but they were unable to give us any further leads on Langley's whereabouts. A week went by. On Friday, February 27th. Frank and I got back into the office from the main jail.

[Frank Smith]

Think he's telling the truth?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Well, for years it's the first time he hasn't had an honest job in the last six years. Better check the book, huh?

[Frank Smith]

Yeah.

[Mike Langley]

Robbery. Stuart.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Yeah, just a minute.

[Joe Friday]

Joe, take one. Thanks, Stu. 11 this Friday? Yes, ma' am. Huh. Well, no, he won't hear it from us. Yeah. Well, how long ago was that? Yeah, all right. No, we'll check it out. Thanks for calling us. Right by.

[Frank Smith]

Nothing in the book.

[Joe Friday]

That was Pearl Langley on the phone. Yeah. She just got a message from the suspect. Yeah, he's in town. Frank and I, along with Stuart, Creasy, Stromwell and Stoner, checked out of the office and went over to the bar on Winona Street. Mrs. Langley had told me on the phone that her brother in law had sent a telegram to the house asking that her husband meet him there after work. When we got to the place, the suspect wasn't there. Stewart and Creasy covered the front of the bar while Stromwell and Stoner staked out on the alley at the back of the place. Frank and I went inside and talked to the bartender, Van Gordon. Hi, Joe.

[Herbert Langley]

Frank.

[Joe Friday]

Van.

[Frank Smith]

How's it going?

[Joe Friday]

Seen the fella Nick, that you told us about?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

No, not since I talked to you. If you'd been in, I sure giving you a call.

[Joe Friday]

Why? Well, we got word he's in town. Supposed to show up here.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

How heavy is he?

[Joe Friday]

We don't know for sure.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

You found out who he is yet?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, we made him for a Herbert Langley.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

You got him for the market, Jeff.

[Joe Friday]

Victims say he's the man. Yeah?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Well, when did he say he was gonna be here?

[Joe Friday]

Oh, wait, we got it. Sometime this afternoon.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Say, you gonna take him here?

[Joe Friday]

Couldn't try.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Well, do me a favor, will you?

[Joe Friday]

Try then? What's that?

[Mike Langley]

Well, if there's a beef, will you.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Try and steer him outside before it gets spat out? I don't want the place broken out.

[Joe Friday]

We do what we can.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Get you anything while you're waiting?

[Frank Smith]

How about some coffee?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Yeah, I think there's some left. I don't know how good it is.

[Frank Smith]

As long as it's hot and blacks.

[Joe Friday]

Well, I'll get a couple of cups.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

You wanna drink it here at the bar?

[Joe Friday]

No, we're taking one of the booths. Okay.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Hey, you'll remember, huh?

[Joe Friday]

What's that?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

I'll try to steer him outside.

[Frank Smith]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Ma' am, Frank and I sat down in the booth and we waited. 2:30pm 3, no sign of Langley. 3:30. Several people came in and sat down at the bar. The bartender tried to get him out of the place as soon as he could in the event there wasn't any trouble. We didn't want anyone to get hurt. Four o' clock. 4:15. Hi, Vance.

[Herbert Langley]

How's it going?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Pretty good, Nick.

[Herbert Langley]

Where you been?

[Mike Langley]

Oh, took a couple of weeks out of town.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Had some business to do.

[Herbert Langley]

Uh huh.

[Joe Friday]

How'd it be?

[Mike Langley]

Irish coffee, huh?

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Put some whipped cream on it this time.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Sure, sure.

[Joe Friday]

That's him. Let's go.

[Frank Smith]

Yeah.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

You ever been up through Washington, Van?

[Joe Friday]

No.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

You should try to make the trip sometime.

[Joe Friday]

Sure. Beautiful. That something you want, Herb Langley?

[Herbert Langley]

Who's asking?

[Joe Friday]

Police officers. You're under arrest.

[Herbert Langley]

That right?

[Joe Friday]

Stand up.

[Mike Langley]

What's the charge?

[Joe Friday]

Robbery. Now stand still.

[Frank Smith]

I'll shake him.

[Joe Friday]

Choke.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Get him outside.

[Herbert Langley]

I'll steer him outside.

[Joe Friday]

Don't break up the plate. Get out of here. Come on. Get out of here. All right. Come on. Come on. Get up. What a couple.

[Frank Smith]

Yeah.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Oh, look at this place. Just look at it. It's gonna take me a couple of weeks to open it up again.

[Joe Friday]

Oh, sorry about it, Van.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Oh, this isn't gonna do much good where the place is smashed up. Who's gonna pay for it?

[Herbert Langley]

Who's gonna make it right?

[Joe Friday]

I wouldn't know.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

See, I asked you to steer him outside.

[Joe Friday]

I ask you steer him outside. Well, he didn't give us much choice, huh? This is the way he wanted it.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

Nice to say, but who's gonna pay for.

[Joe Friday]

Wouldn't do much good if I told you, huh? He's got another bill to pay first. The story you've just heard is true. The names were changed to protect the innocent.

[Narrator]

On July 13, trial was held in Department 92, Superior Court of the State of California. In and for the county of Los Angeles. Herbert Colby Langley was tried and convicted of robbery in the first degree, one count, and received sentence as prescribed by law. Robbery in the first degree is punishable by imprisonment in the state penitentiary for a period of not less than five years.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

You have just heard Dragnet, the authentic story of your police force in action.

[Joe Friday]

And starring Jack Webb, a presentation of.

[Bartender Van Gordon]

The United States Armed Forces Radio Service.