Podcast Summary: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio

Episode Title: Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar: The Denver Disbursal Matter
Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
Release Date: March 10, 2025
Original Air Date: March 23, 1958

Overview

In this gripping episode of Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar, broadcasted by Choice Classic Radio, listeners are taken on a thrilling journey alongside Johnny Dollar, a dedicated freelance insurance investigator. Tasked with unraveling the mysteries behind unusually high insurance claims from the Denver Disbursal, Johnny delves deep into a web of deceit, danger, and deception that threatens to expose corruption within the insurance company itself.

Assignment of the Case

The episode opens with Johnny Dollar receiving a call from his superior, Perry Jameson, the head of Paramount Insurance. Perry assigns Johnny a perplexing case involving the Denver Disbursal, a small contract outfit responsible for damage appraisals and payment dispersals.

Notable Quote:
Johnny Dollar (00:30): "What's more, they've all been big ones and on fairly young policies."

Johnny expresses his concern over the unusually large claims: "$60,000 on one policy, $35,000 on another, $70,000, and a cool $150,000 just last week."

Investigating in Denver: Meeting with William Whitney

Upon arriving in Denver, Johnny meets William Whitney, the agent overseeing the Denver Disbursal. Whitney appears mild-mannered and claims to be unaware of any wrongdoing.

Notable Quote:
William Whitney (07:45): "Poor old Willie Whitney's a mild timid milquetoast. His wife, an ex-cousin girl who probably thought he had money."

Despite Whitney's reassurances, Johnny remains skeptical, noting the suspiciously high payouts to the same beneficiary, Don Ricardo.

Gathering Clues: Interview with Pete Packer

Johnny seeks out Pete Packer, a journalist from the Denver Post, to dig deeper into the case. At a local bar, Johnny uses charm and a generous tip to extract information about Don Ricardo's past connections, hinting at ties to organized crime.

Notable Quote:
Pete Packer (15:20): "They say Don Ricardo was connected to the Capone mob, but nobody could pin anything on him."

This conversation raises red flags about Ricardo's legitimacy and his potential involvement in the suspicious insurance claims.

Encounter with Don Ricardo: Attempted Murder

Determined to uncover the truth, Johnny tracks Ricardo to an abandoned house in Golden, Colorado. Upon confronting him, Johnny is ambushed and shot, sustaining a neck injury that leaves him bloodied but resolute.

Notable Quote:
Don Ricardo (23:10): "Put him up for me."

Despite the attack, Johnny's resolve hardens, reinforcing his determination to expose the fraudulent scheme.

Climax: Confrontation and Revelation

Recovering from his injuries, Johnny continues his investigation and discovers a hidden stash of canceled checks linking Whitney to Ricardo. Realizing the depth of their collusion, Johnny returns to Denver to confront Whitney directly.

In a tense showdown at Whitney's office, truths unravel as Whitney admits his involvement, revealing a scheme to embezzle insurance funds through inflated claims, all benefiting Ricardo.

Notable Quote:
William Whitney (39:55): "Maybe you're right about the whole thing. So what if I did try to knock you off?"

Johnny presses on, presenting the evidence of canceled checks and solidifying the case against Whitney and Ricardo.

Resolution: Arrests and Justice Served

With the evidence in hand, Johnny collaborates with the local authorities to apprehend Whitney and Ricardo. The duo is arrested, bringing an end to their fraudulent activities and restoring integrity to Paramount Insurance.

Notable Quote:
Johnny Dollar (50:30): "Fortunately in the insurance business, they never get away with it for long."

The episode concludes with Johnny's meticulous expense account detailing his investigative journey, underscoring his professionalism and resourcefulness.

Conclusion

Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar: The Denver Disbursal Matter masterfully blends suspense, sharp dialogue, and intricate plotting to deliver a compelling narrative of justice prevailing over corruption. Johnny Dollar's unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth serves as a testament to his character, making this episode a standout in the golden age of radio detective storytelling.

Upcoming Episode Teaser:
Next week on Choice Classic Radio Detectives, join Johnny Dollar as he tackles "A Killer's List," encountering new challenges and formidable foes in his quest for the truth.

Notable Quotes Compilation

• Johnny Dollar (00:30): "What's more, they've all been big ones and on fairly young policies."
• William Whitney (07:45): "Poor old Willie Whitney's a mild timid milquetoast. His wife, an ex-cousin girl who probably thought he had money."
• Pete Packer (15:20): "They say Don Ricardo was connected to the Capone mob, but nobody could pin anything on him."
• Don Ricardo (23:10): "Put him up for me."
• Johnny Dollar (50:30): "Fortunately in the insurance business, they never get away with it for long."

This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the episode, highlighting Johnny Dollar's investigative prowess, the unfolding drama, and the ultimate resolution that upholds justice. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this episode promises an engaging and satisfying listening experience.