Podcast Summary: "21st Precinct 53-07-21 (003) The Bartender"

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: 21st Precinct 53-07-21 (003) The Bartender
Release Date: April 23, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio

1. Introduction to the Case

The episode opens with Captain Frank Kennelly addressing an emergency call from the muster room at the 21st Precinct in New York City. A shooting has occurred at the Bar and Grill located at 3120 Lexington Avenue, and Kennelly is tasked with overseeing the investigation.

[00:04] Frank Kennelly: "You are in the muster room at the 21st Precinct, the N Center... What’s his name? Where’s the man with the gun?"

2. Initial Response and Arrival at the Scene

Captain Kennelly and Patrolman Johnny Farrell respond to the scene. Upon arrival, they encounter Charlie Burgess, the bartender, who informs them that his boss, Dutch, has been shot. The immediate response involves securing the area, collecting evidence, and ensuring the victim receives medical attention.

[02:15] Charlie Burgess: "They shot my boss. Why were you running to the police station?"

[05:40] Frank Kennelly: "I could use one of her. Squad shouldn't be confusing if you're giving us the facts."

3. Crime Scene Investigation

The precinct conducts a thorough examination of the Bar and Grill. Detectives collect physical evidence, including the murder weapon, which is later sent for ballistics and fingerprint analysis. The victim, Dutch, is transported to Bellevue morgue for an autopsy.

[07:50] Narration: "Premises were completely examined for latent fingerprints and other physical evidence. The apparent murder gun was tagged for evidence."

4. Interview with Charlie Burgess

At 10 minutes to 4 am, Lt. Matt King brings Charlie Burgess in for a detailed interview. Burgess provides his account of the incident, describing the two assailants as average height and mentioning that one was slightly taller. He expresses confusion and frustration during the questioning.

[15:30] Charlie Burgess: "What are you trying to do to me anyway? Getting a little confused, Charlie."

[17:25] Charlie Burgess: "It’s not so."

5. Identification Process

Charlie is asked to identify the suspects from a vast lineup of photographs. Despite the overwhelming number of images, Charlie confidently selects the individual he believes to be the shooter. However, his certainty is met with skepticism from Captain Kennelly.

[12:10] Charlie Burgess: "That's him. That's one."

[13:45] Frank Kennelly: "Either Charlie lives right or he's the best liar I ever met."

Eventually, Detective Fox successfully identifies Al Hantz (Alfred Harrods) from another process, corroborating Charlie's earlier identification.

6. Legal Proceedings and Doubts

Charlie is brought to the criminal courts but is released on the condition of being a material witness. Captain Kennelly begins to suspect Charlie’s involvement beyond mere witnessing, contemplating the possibility of theft ("dipping the till") leading to the altercation.

[20:52] Charlie Burgess: "All right, I’m coming."

[22:25] Charlie Burgess: "What do you do anyway?"

[24:10] Frank Kennelly: "But bring her in here. We’ll wrap it up, okay?"

7. Confrontation and Realization

As the investigation unfolds, it becomes apparent that Charlie Burgess may have orchestrated the murder. Through persistent questioning and additional testimonies, including that of Wanda Rutley, inconsistencies in Charlie's story emerge. The evidence suggests that Charlie might have engaged in perjury or acted as an accessory to the murder.

[25:07] Charlie Burgess: "Oh, Hans, why don’t you stay out of trouble?"

[26:30] Charlie Burgess: "We can’t do that."

[27:05] Frank Kennelly: "Is he okay? He’ll come around in a minute."

8. Conclusion of the Investigation

The episode concludes with Captain Kennelly reflecting on the relentless nature of police work in New York City. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, the dedicated officers of the 21st Precinct demonstrate unwavering commitment to justice.

[27:10] Frank Kennelly: "21st Precinct is presented with the official cooperation of the Patrolman's Benevolent Association..."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Initial Dispatch:

  • Frank Kennelly [00:04]: "You are in the muster room at the 21st Precinct, the N Center... What’s his name? Where’s the man with the gun?"

• Charlie’s Frustration:

  • Charlie Burgess [02:15]: "They shot my boss. Why were you running to the police station?"
  • Charlie Burgess [15:30]: "What are you trying to do to me anyway? Getting a little confused, Charlie."

• Identification Doubts:

  • Frank Kennelly [13:45]: "Either Charlie lives right or he's the best liar I ever met."

• Confrontation:

  • Frank Kennelly [26:30]: "Come here. If you lie on the witness stand, we will."
  • Charlie Burgess [26:44]: "Get away from that. I'll kill you."

• Final Reflection:

  • Frank Kennelly [27:10]: "21st Precinct is presented with the official cooperation of the Patrolman's Benevolent Association..."

Insights and Themes

• Police Procedural Accuracy: The episode meticulously portrays the step-by-step procedures followed during a homicide investigation, emphasizing evidence collection, witness interviews, and inter-departmental coordination.

• Character Depth: Charlie Burgess is depicted as a complex character, oscillating between cooperative witness and potential suspect, highlighting the challenges officers face in discerning truth from deception.

• Moral Ambiguity: The narrative explores the grey areas within police work, where officers must navigate trust, suspicion, and the pursuit of justice amidst conflicting testimonies.

• Urban Crime Dynamics: Set against the backdrop of New York City’s bustling environment, the story underscores the constant vigilance required to maintain law and order in a densely populated area.

Conclusion

"21st Precinct 53-07-21 (003) The Bartender" offers a compelling glimpse into the intricacies of police investigations during the Golden Age of Radio. Through engaging storytelling and realistic dialogues, the episode captures the tension, dedication, and moral complexities faced by law enforcement officers in their quest to solve crimes and uphold justice.