Dragnet 49-07-28 008 Missing Persons - Juanita Lasky

Summary

Dragnet 49-07-28 008: "Missing Persons - Juanita Lasky"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harolds Old Time Radio
• Episode: Dragnet 49-07-28 008 Missing Persons - Juanita Lasky
• Release Date: April 3, 2025

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Introduction

In this gripping episode of "Dragnet," hosted by Harold's Old Time Radio, Detective Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner, Sergeant Ben Romero, embark on a meticulous investigation to locate a missing young woman named Juanita Lasky. Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles during the bustling Christmas season of 1948, the episode masterfully blends procedural detective work with human emotion, showcasing the relentless pursuit of truth by law enforcement.

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The Missing Person Report

The episode kicks off with a distressing call from Mrs. Hannah Lasky of Fountain Green, Utah, who reports her daughter, Juanita Lasky, missing from Los Angeles. Detective Sergeant Joe Friday (Joe Friday) leads the conversation, gathering essential details about Juanita's last known whereabouts and personal description.

Notable Quote:

Joe Friday [04:11]: "I'll take her description over the phone and make out a preliminary report. You'll have to send us a photograph of your daughter and a letter to the effect that you want us to trace her."

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Investigation at the Chelsea Hotel

Joe and Ben commence their investigation at the Chelsea Hotel for Women, Juanita's last known residence. Upon arrival, they interact with the hotel staff, particularly Ms. Gloria Edgerton, to ascertain Juanita's activities and possible whereabouts.

Key Observations:

• Juanita was reported missing for over a month, with her last communication being a letter dated November 2nd.
• The hotel is bustling with Christmas shoppers, adding complexity to the investigation.

Notable Quote:

Ben Romero [05:04]: "I just don't know what to do."

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Leads and Dead-Ends

As the detectives delve deeper, various leads emerge, some proving to be dead-ends. They discover discrepancies in Juanita's description, such as her hair color—Juanita is described as having auburn hair, but recent sightings suggest otherwise. Furthermore, a handbag found at Willard Harris's bar contains Juanita's driver's license, but visual differences raise doubts about her identity.

Notable Quote:

Joe Friday [09:24]: "But not impossible. We checked down at the desk. Juanita Lasky had picked up all her mail. But she had not answered that long distance phone call to Fountain Green."

Despite thorough checks, including visits to the morgue and interrogations of acquaintances like Paul Matthews, Juanita remains elusive, deepening the mystery.

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Breakthrough and Resolution

After days of exhaustive searching and multiple false leads, a breakthrough occurs when technical advice from the Bureau of Criminal Investigations reveals that Juanita had applied for a position under the alias "Gene Davis" at the Marchfield, California, US Army Air Base. This revelation connects her to a location outside Los Angeles, reigniting the investigation.

Ultimately, perseverance pays off when Joe and Ben revisit the Chelsea Hotel. Amid the crowded Christmas Eve atmosphere, they encounter Juanita herself, who reveals that she suffered from temporary amnesia and sought treatment, explaining her abrupt disappearance.

Notable Quote:

Juanita Lasky [26:35]: "I went over to see my doctor. He said I had temporary amnesia. I have to have treatment."

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Conclusion

The episode concludes with the safe recovery of Juanita Lasky, restoring peace to her worried mother and highlighting the effectiveness of diligent police work. The resolution underscores themes of resilience, the importance of thorough investigation, and the human stories behind every case.

Epilogue:

"Juanita Lasky was found to be suffering from periodic spells of amnesia. She received treatment and made a complete recovery. This case stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of the men who ensure the safety and security of our communities."

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Final Thoughts

"Dragnet 49-07-28 008: Missing Persons - Juanita Lasky" is a quintessential episode that encapsulates the essence of the Golden Age of Radio. Through its realistic portrayal of police procedures and heartfelt narratives, it not only entertains but also pays homage to the relentless spirit of law enforcement officers dedicated to solving real-life mysteries.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Joe Friday [04:11]: "I'll take her description over the phone and make out a preliminary report. You'll have to send us a photograph of your daughter and a letter to the effect that you want us to trace her."

• Ben Romero [05:04]: "I just don't know what to do."

• Joe Friday [09:24]: "But not impossible. We checked down at the desk. Juanita Lasky had picked up all her mail. But she had not answered that long distance phone call to Fountain Green."

• Juanita Lasky [26:35]: "I went over to see my doctor. He said I had temporary amnesia. I have to have treatment."

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This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key plot developments, character interactions, and pivotal moments that drive the narrative forward. It provides listeners with a clear understanding of the investigative journey undertaken by Joe Friday and Ben Romero, ensuring that even those unfamiliar with the episode can appreciate its depth and intrigue.

Transcript

[Joe Friday]

You never know where your next unforgettable experience will pop up. That's why bringing along an American Express card opens the door to rewards wherever you go. Morning coffee, run with an old friend. Earn cash back. Weekend getaway. Earn miles. Dinner at the hottest restaurant in town.

[Ben Romero]

You get the idea, no matter the.

[Joe Friday]

Place or the plan.

[Ben Romero]

Amex rewards your inner explorer.

[Joe Friday]

Learn about card [e-mail] terms apply.

[Narrator]

Ladies and gentlemen, the story you are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent. NBC brings you Dragnet. You're a detective sergeant. You're assigned to missing persons detail. You've never heard of Fountain Green, Utah. You've never heard of Juanita Laski. Los Angeles is a big city. 452 square miles. 3,356,969 people. Your job. Find her, Dragnet. The documented drama of an actual crime investigated and solved by the men who unrelentingly stand on the security of your home, your family and your life. 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. From official police files. From beginning to end, from crime to punishment. Dragnet is the story of your police force in action.

[Joe Friday]

It was Monday, December 12th. It was cold in Los Angeles. We were working the day. Watch out. A missing persons detail. My partner's Ben Romero. The boss is Ed Backstrand, Chief of detectives. My name's Friday. I was on my way back from lunch and it was 12:47pm when I got to room 67. A missing person's detail. 4G Federal Cafe. Good soup today.

[Narrator]

What kind?

[Joe Friday]

Corn chowder was real good. Place is jammed with Christmas shoppers. I had to wait.

[Narrator]

Haven't even started my shopping yet. You?

[Joe Friday]

I gotta pick up something for my mother. Prices are high. I'll send a lot of cards.

[Narrator]

Wait till you get married, Joe. Ever try to sell a Christmas card to a kid? They got to have something with wheels on it.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, I guess you're right. Missing person's Friday.

[Ben Romero]

Fountain Green, Utah calling the Los Angeles Police Department, Bureau of Missing Persons. My party will speak with anyone in charge.

[Joe Friday]

This is missing persons. Sergeant Friday.

[Ben Romero]

Just a moment, please. Mrs. Lasky, ready with your call to Los Angeles. Hello?

[Narrator]

Hello? Hello?

[Ben Romero]

Here's your party. Go ahead, please. Operator. Yes, madam? Could you please give me the charges for this call? I'm using my neighbor's phone. All right, madam. Please signal when your call is completed. Oh, yes. Yes, I'll do that. Go Ahead, please.

[Joe Friday]

Hello?

[Ben Romero]

Hello. Are you Missing Persons?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am. Sergeant Friday, this is Mrs. Hannah Lasky.

[Ben Romero]

I'm calling you from Fountain Green, Utah.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am.

[Ben Romero]

This is in regard to my daughter, Juanita Lasky. I haven't heard from her in well over a month, and I'm terribly worried.

[Joe Friday]

Where was she staying in Los Angeles, Ms. Lasky?

[Ben Romero]

At the Chelsea Hotel for Women. I have the address. 941 S. Melrose St. I can't understand it. Ever since Juanita's been away from home, she. She's written twice a week, regularly.

[Joe Friday]

When's the last time you heard from her?

[Ben Romero]

The last letter I have is postmarked November 2nd. You know how it is, Sergeant. We have no relatives in Los Angeles, and she's trying to find work down there. Living all alone. I. I just don't know what to do.

[Joe Friday]

All right, Ms. Lasky. I'll take her description over the phone and make out a preliminary report. You'll have to send us a photograph of your daughter and a letter to the effect that you want us to trace her.

[Ben Romero]

I'll get the letter and the snapshot off today.

[Joe Friday]

Now, what's your daughter look like? What's her full name?

[Ben Romero]

Juanita Marie Lasky.

[Joe Friday]

L, A, S, K, E, Y.

[Ben Romero]

No, no, no, no, no, no, E.

[Joe Friday]

All right, her age, weight and height.

[Ben Romero]

She was 26 last July 10th. 128 pounds and about my height.

[Joe Friday]

Well, how tall are you, Ms. Lasky?

[Ben Romero]

Oh. Oh, yes. Five feet, seven inches. She has auburn hair. It's quite long, and her eyes are green.

[Joe Friday]

Okay, I got it. Any outstanding scars, birthmarks, anything that might help us identify her.

[Ben Romero]

But what's that?

[Joe Friday]

I say, any outstanding scars, birthmarks, anything that might help us identify her.

[Ben Romero]

No. Juanita's a pretty girl. Nice disposition. How. That's about all, Sergeant.

[Joe Friday]

Where can we contact you, Ms. Lasky?

[Ben Romero]

122 Brigham Young Street, Fountain Green, Utah. When you find Juanita, I wish you'd have her call me right away. I'll pay for the call.

[Joe Friday]

We'll do that, Ms. Lasky. What's your number up there?

[Ben Romero]

This is a neighbor's phone, but they'll call me. It's fountain green, 14R2.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

You will try to find her as fast as you can.

[Joe Friday]

We'll go to work on it.

[Ben Romero]

Juanita always comes home for the Christmas holidays. Do you think she's all right?

[Joe Friday]

I wouldn't Worry about it, Ms. Lasky. We'll call you just as soon as we get any kind of a lead on her.

[Ben Romero]

Thank you so much, Sergeant. And if there's any charge, I'll be glad to pay it.

[Joe Friday]

No charge. If your daughter's in Los Angeles, I think we can find her.

[Ben Romero]

Oh, if there's anything wrong, you'll let me know right away.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, ma'am.

[Ben Romero]

You're very kind. Goodbye.

[Joe Friday]

Bye.

[Narrator]

What you got, Joe?

[Joe Friday]

Some girl owes her mother a letter. Come on, Ben. Just a routine call. We made the usual check the morgue, all the hospitals, the county jail. And then we went through the repeater file. We found Juanita Laski in the files, but the age and description didn't match. We put that lead in the discard after the usual paperwork. The next step was to check our last known residence. The Chelsea Hotel for women.

[Narrator]

Here it is, Joe. Chelsea Hotel?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. 55 rooms, all outside. You're home away from home now. Let's go in.

[Ben Romero]

Chelsea Hotel. Thank you.

[Narrator]

Here's a bell.

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir, may I help you?

[Joe Friday]

We're looking for a Ms. Juanita Laski.

[Ben Romero]

I'll ring her room. Whom shall I say is calling?

[Joe Friday]

Is she in?

[Ben Romero]

I believe so. I just saw her about an hour ago.

[Narrator]

Okay.

[Joe Friday]

Would you ring her room, please?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir. And whom shall I say is calling?

[Joe Friday]

My name's Friday.

[Ben Romero]

All right, Mr. Friday. Just a moment. Do you wish to speak with her on the phone, or shall I have her come down?

[Joe Friday]

Ask her to come down, if she doesn't mind.

[Ben Romero]

She doesn't seem to answer. That's funny. I'll ring again. No, sir. She doesn't seem to be in. Would you like to leave a message?

[Narrator]

Didn't you say you saw her about an hour ago?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, I did. She must have gone out again.

[Joe Friday]

I wonder if we could check her room.

[Ben Romero]

Oh, no. Gentlemen are not allowed above the main lobby.

[Joe Friday]

I'm sorry, ma'am. We're from the police department, Missing Persons. I'm Sergeant Friday. This is Sergeant Romero.

[Ben Romero]

Oh, you men are from Missing Persons, did you say?

[Narrator]

Yes, ma'am.

[Ben Romero]

Well, I'm sure Juanita's just stepped out for a moment. If you'd care to wait here in the lobby.

[Narrator]

We haven't got much time. Ma'am, we'd appreciate it if you'd show us a room.

[Ben Romero]

Certainly. I'll get the pass key. That's 2:15. The elevator is right this way.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you.

[Ben Romero]

What seems to be the trouble? Some friend of Juanita's missing?

[Narrator]

No, ma'am. More Nita.

[Ben Romero]

We one either. I don't understand.

[Joe Friday]

Her mother's a little worried about her.

[Ben Romero]

Down this way. Here we are. No wonder she didn't hear the phone she's in the shower.

[Narrator]

Yes, ma'am. Would you rap on the bathroom door and tell her we'd like to talk to her as soon as she's through?

[Joe Friday]

We'll wait out here in the hall.

[Ben Romero]

Certainly. Juanita. Juanita, there are two gentlemen here to see you. Juanita. Juanita, I'm coming in. It's Ms. Waters. Sergeant.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

There's no one in the shower.

[Joe Friday]

It's running, isn't it?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, and I see a robe and towel all laid out.

[Narrator]

Better take a look around.

[Joe Friday]

Turn off the shower, will you be? Yeah, she must have left in a hurry.

[Ben Romero]

Say, here's a fresh change of clothing on the bed.

[Narrator]

Where's the closet, ma'am? Miss Doar?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, that's right.

[Narrator]

Closet full of clothes.

[Joe Friday]

There's a couple of pieces of luggage in there.

[Ben Romero]

This isn't like one eater. Funny, isn't it?

[Narrator]

You say you saw her about an hour ago?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, I did.

[Narrator]

Coming in or going out?

[Ben Romero]

Oh, coming in.

[Joe Friday]

I thought you have room service here.

[Ben Romero]

Yes, we have a coffee shop downstairs.

[Joe Friday]

The tray of food here on the table hasn't been touched. Coffee's still warm. Shut that radio off, will you, Ben? Hell, could she have gotten out of the building without you seeing her?

[Ben Romero]

No, we don't have a rear entrance.

[Narrator]

I'm sure you didn't see her go out the front door just before we got here.

[Ben Romero]

No. No, I did not.

[Joe Friday]

How about her mail? She been picking it up lately?

[Ben Romero]

I think so. We can check that down at the desk.

[Narrator]

Yeah. Here's some letters. Postmark, Utah, return address, Mrs. H. Lasky.

[Joe Friday]

Let me see that other one, Ben. This is one of your telephone message forms.

[Ben Romero]

Let me see. Yes. Yes, that's right.

[Joe Friday]

Says long Distance call operator 2, Fountain Green, Utah. According to this slip, this call was received at 1:25 today.

[Ben Romero]

May I see that, sir?

[Joe Friday]

Certainly.

[Ben Romero]

Yes, that's Edna's writing. Mrs. Tolleson took that call. She relieves me for lunch.

[Narrator]

Do you know whether she returned this call?

[Ben Romero]

Well, if she did, there'll be a record down at the death.

[Joe Friday]

Now, you're positive that you saw Juanita Lasky an hour ago?

[Ben Romero]

Yes. How? I'm sure. Just about an hour ago.

[Joe Friday]

5Ft 7, 128 pounds, green eyes, red hair.

[Ben Romero]

Red hair? Oh, no. Juanita's a blonde.

[Joe Friday]

Her mother told us that Juanita Laski had red hair. Now, we weren't too surprised. A lot of women change the color of their hair. It would make identification a little more difficult. But not impossible. We checked down at the desk. Juanita Laski had Picked up all her mail. But she had not answered that long distance phone call to Fountain Green. The next step was to question some of the people in the Chelsea Hotel who knew Juanita. We tried room 217.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. Oh, Gloria, these men are police officers. They want to ask you some questions. Oh, yes. Is it all right for them to. Yes. Yes, of course. This is an exception. Won't you come in?

[Joe Friday]

Thank you.

[Narrator]

What's your name?

[Ben Romero]

Ms. Gloria Edgerton.

[Joe Friday]

You know Weny Lasky?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, I know her. She has the room right next door to me.

[Joe Friday]

Have you seen her today?

[Ben Romero]

No, I haven't. I've been out doing my Christmas shopping. Why?

[Narrator]

We were trying to locate her. Ms. Edgington.

[Ben Romero]

Wasn't she in her room? I thought I heard her shower going.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, she did, but she wasn't in there. When was the last time you saw her?

[Ben Romero]

Last night at dinner. We always eat dinner together.

[Narrator]

Did she say anything that might lead you to believe that she was going anywhere today?

[Ben Romero]

No. She said she might do some Christmas shopping today, so I suggested she go with me. And she agreed? She said she let me know this morning.

[Joe Friday]

Did she?

[Ben Romero]

No, she didn't. I just assumed that maybe she was sleeping in, so I went on alone. Are you sure she hasn't just stepped out? We don't know if you're just going.

[Narrator]

Down to the corner. It's a little unusual to look, leave the shower running, the radio on and let your lunch get cold.

[Ben Romero]

Did she do that?

[Joe Friday]

How long has Juanita had blonde hair?

[Ben Romero]

Well, ever since I've known her, about six months. We moved in here together. We work at the same place.

[Narrator]

Where's that?

[Ben Romero]

Ms. Edgerton at the COT building. We're elevator operators.

[Narrator]

I see.

[Joe Friday]

Who is your immediate superior down there?

[Ben Romero]

Darlene Camp. She's cheap starter.

[Joe Friday]

You got that, Ben? She have many dates?

[Ben Romero]

No, not too many. Juanita likes to.

[Narrator]

Who was her steady boyfriend?

[Ben Romero]

Paul Matthews. He works in the CL building, too. He's in the dental lab for Dr. Welty. Sixth floor.

[Joe Friday]

Well, is there anything else that you'd like to add that might help us find her?

[Ben Romero]

Well, are you sure she's lost?

[Joe Friday]

The Plagatt Building is in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. It's a business and professional building. The cornerstone says, erected in 1924 and it stands 12 stories high. The main entrance is on Hill Street.

[Ben Romero]

All right, Mariam. Going up. Get back in the car, please.

[Joe Friday]

Are you Darlene Camp?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Ben Romero]

Just a moment, please. Going up. All right, Dora. Can I help you?

[Joe Friday]

I'm Sergeant Friday, Police Department. This is Sergeant Romero?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator]

Won't eat. Alasky work for you?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, she does. She's one of my operators.

[Joe Friday]

When's the last time you.

[Ben Romero]

Anything wrong?

[Joe Friday]

No, no. We're just trying to locate her.

[Ben Romero]

Well, you just missed her by 45 minutes. All right, Sylvia. She was in to pick up a check.

[Narrator]

You know where she cashes her check?

[Ben Romero]

Most of the girls cashing down at the bank on the corner. There's only one around here?

[Joe Friday]

Over on 8th, you say, about 45 minutes ago?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, that's right.

[Joe Friday]

Thanks very much, Ms. Camp. Come on, Ben.

[Ben Romero]

Going up? All right, Marion.

[Narrator]

Bank's not far from here.

[Joe Friday]

That is kind of funny, isn't it?

[Narrator]

What's that?

[Joe Friday]

Her room, the shower, the radio. That.

[Narrator]

Lunch sure pulled out in a hurry. What do you think?

[Joe Friday]

I don't know what to figure. It's a new one on me.

[Narrator]

She's alive. We know that.

[Joe Friday]

She was 45 minutes ago. Anyway.

[Narrator]

Christmas is here. Santa Claus in his chimney. Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

I beg your pardon, sir.

[Narrator]

That's all right. Merry Christmas.

[Joe Friday]

Same to you.

[Narrator]

Here we are, Jim.

[Joe Friday]

Guess we better check with the manager, huh? You the manager?

[Narrator]

I'm the assistant manager. Can I help you? Police department. Yes, sir.

[Joe Friday]

Like to find out if a check has been cashed here within the hour.

[Narrator]

Yes, sir. And what's the party's name?

[Joe Friday]

Lasky. Juanita. Payroll check, Clagett Building.

[Narrator]

Yes, Sir. I know Ms. Lasky. If you'll step behind the counter, I'll get the check.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you.

[Narrator]

If you'll just wait right here.

[Joe Friday]

Okay, thanks.

[Narrator]

Wonder why she stopped riding to her mother?

[Joe Friday]

It's a good question. When we find her, we'll ask her.

[Narrator]

Wonder if anything was wrong where she worked.

[Joe Friday]

No, it didn't seem to be. We'll check back there when we finish here.

[Narrator]

Yeah. That boyfriend, Paul Matthews too?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Here's our man.

[Narrator]

Yes. Here's the canceled check. I okayed it.

[Joe Friday]

You sure it's the same girl?

[Narrator]

Blonde girl? Elevator operator in the Claggart Building.

[Joe Friday]

Was she alone?

[Narrator]

I think so.

[Joe Friday]

Did she appear normal?

[Narrator]

No. No, she didn't seem to be as friendly as she usually is. Does she have an account here? She did have a small savings account here, but she closed it out about a month ago.

[Joe Friday]

I see.

[Narrator]

Well, here's our card. If you should happen to see her again, give us a call. I'll do. Thank you very much. Entirely welcome. Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas.

[Joe Friday]

We went back to the Clagett Building. Ben called the Chelsea Hotel from the phone booth in the lobby of the building. Ms. Waters, the manager, was keeping A sharp lookout. But Juanita Lasky had not been heard from. Paul Matthews worked in a dental lab for a Dr. Weldy. His office was number 637.

[Narrator]

Yes, gentlemen, may I help you? We'd like to see Paul Matthews. I'm Paul Matthews. We're from Missing Persons. Police Department. Sergeant Friday. I'm Sergeant Merrill. Yes, sir.

[Joe Friday]

Do you know a Wani Laski?

[Narrator]

Yes, sir.

[Joe Friday]

When's the last time you saw her?

[Narrator]

Saturday night. We went to a show.

[Joe Friday]

Is there something wrong? We're trying to locate her. Do you see a lot of each other?

[Narrator]

Yes, we do. I don't understand. Lasky disappeared from a hotel a couple hours ago. Thought maybe you might know where she is. No, I don't. Today's her day off. Maybe she's out shopping. Has Juanita done anything wrong?

[Joe Friday]

No, it's just that her mother hasn't heard from her for quite some time.

[Narrator]

I can explain that. Juanita's an elevator operator here in the building. That's how I met her. They don't make much money, you know. Yeah, she was having a hard time making ends meet. She sends money home to her mother every month or so. And besides that, she's got to pay rent and buy clothes and eat his pretty rough. She seemed despondent over all this. No, I wouldn't say that. But she was kind of unhappy about not getting a raise. Do you have any outside jobs? No, sir, she didn't.

[Joe Friday]

What kind of a girl is she?

[Narrator]

What do you mean?

[Joe Friday]

Cheerful, Good natured.

[Narrator]

Oh, sure. Fine girl. We get along swell. I, I, I still don't get it. Well, maybe there's nothing to it. Just a routine chair. I hope she's all right. When did all this come up?

[Joe Friday]

A couple of hours ago. We might have to check back with you.

[Narrator]

If I can help. Okay.

[Joe Friday]

Thanks for the information.

[Narrator]

Here's our card. If you hear from her, give us a ring. You don't suppose anything's happened to her? That's what we're trying to find out. Goodbye, Mr. Matthew.

[Joe Friday]

When we got back to Central Division, we had a full description of Juanita Laski. Teletype to all outlying stations in the metropolitan area of Los Angeles. We also put out an apb. We double checked the repeater file and the Wanderer file. We made out a full report on our findings to date. During the next eight days, we located a missing husband for a wife in Memphis, Tennessee. We picked up a runaway boy missing from his home in Reno, Nevada. And a 79 year old veteran of the Spanish American War. Who left his home in Bakersfield, California, because he didn't like his daughter in law's cooking. But Juanita Lasky was still a mystery. For eight days, we checked and rechecked all our known friends and habits. We went back over the course a dozen times, but no trace. It was almost as if she had ceased to exist. That day in the Chelsea Hotel, the letter and photograph from her mother had arrived, and we circulated it to cities all over the country. Her mother wrote that during the war, Juanita was a whack corporal. We put a tracer through to the War Department. That way we'd have another photo and a full set of fingerprints.

[Narrator]

Well, where do you want to start today?

[Joe Friday]

I'll get it. Missing Persons Friday.

[Narrator]

Joe, this is Spencer over in the morgue. Yeah, Archie, you still looking for that girl? What's her name? Ramona Laski.

[Joe Friday]

Juanita? Yeah.

[Narrator]

Just had one brought in. Looks like you're a girl to me.

[Joe Friday]

The city morgue is located in the basement of the hall of justice on West Temple street, across the street from the City Hall. A lot of missing persons cases end right here. Archie, Spencer met us at the door.

[Narrator]

Hi, Joe. How's the wife been? Oh, fine. Archie. Over here, Joe. Cooler 23. Give me a hand, huh? You bet. That's her, isn't it? When's she gonna be posting? Soon as your fingerprint man gets here. Yeah, that's Ramona Lasky, isn't it?

[Joe Friday]

Juanita.

[Narrator]

Juanita, I mean.

[Joe Friday]

No, no, that's not her, Archie.

[Narrator]

You sure? Yeah, I was almost positive. Sure looks like this picture in your bulletin.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Yeah, she looks a lot like the picture, but it's not Juanita Laski.

[Narrator]

Five foot seven, green eyes, blonde hair, about 130. How close can you get? Look at the face. You sure that's not her?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, I'm sure. Look at her hair, the roots. Yeah, they're blonde all the way down. They ought to be dark. Our girl's a bleached blonde.

[Narrator]

Yeah, I see what you mean.

[Joe Friday]

Look at her right hand, index and middle fingers. Heavy nicotine stains. Our girl didn't smoke, Archie.

[Narrator]

Yeah, I see what you mean. Well, guess I was wrong. That's not Ramona Juanita.

[Joe Friday]

Come on, Ben. That afternoon, we got another phone call from Fountain Green, Utah. Juanita Laski's mother. We told her we hadn't found any trace of her daughter. It was a hard job. We had to answer calls like this before. But maybe it was just the season of the year. Somehow we felt that we had to find Juanita Laski. By Christmas, we covered every angle we could think of. We kept close watch on all incoming reports. We stayed in close contact with her friends and Ms. Waters at the Chelsea Hotel. Regardless of the name on the incoming reports, we checked every set of fingerprints against those we had received on Juanita Laski from the War Department. Still no trace. December 23rd, we checked in for work at 8:30am Chief Ed Backstrand wanted to see us.

[Narrator]

Got a little something on the Laska girl. Might help you. What is it, Gavin? Man by the name of Willard Harris, owns a bar out in Pomona. Phoned in this morning.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah?

[Narrator]

Found a woman's handbag left in the bar. Driver's license made out to Juanita Lasky. Why'd you think to call her? He's got a television set in his bar. Saw the Lasky girl's picture on Sergeant Rosenquist's broadcast last night.

[Joe Friday]

How about the girl?

[Narrator]

Says he can't place her. You better hop out and pick up that purse.

[Joe Friday]

Willard Harris owned the Mission Trail Bar. Was in the bus terminal in the heart of Pomona. The Christmas traffic was heavy all the way out Garvey boulevard. It was 10:45 when we pulled up in front of the bar. Willard Harris was inside taking a liquor inventory when we walked in.

[Narrator]

How'd you do? You Mr. Harris? Yeah, that's right. You fellas with General Liquors?

[Joe Friday]

Los Angeles Police Department. My name's Friday. This is Sergeant Romero.

[Narrator]

Oh, say, glad to know you boys. You. Yeah, I called Los Angeles this morning.

[Joe Friday]

We came right out.

[Narrator]

Say, how about a little eye opener? Got some fine Irish Whiskey.

[Joe Friday]

No, thanks, Mr. Harris.

[Narrator]

How about your partner there? No, thank you. All right, boys. Guess you want that purse, huh? Yes, please. Yeah, Here you are, just as I found it. I opened it up to get the owner's name, but that's all. Didn't touch a thing.

[Joe Friday]

Okay, thanks. Mr. Harris, you said that you didn't remember seeing the woman who left this.

[Narrator]

No, I don't. Herb works with me here. He might have seen her, but he didn't. I asked him the night we found it, how long ago did you find us first? Oh, better part of two weeks. No, a little closer to a week. Yeah, about eight days ago. I usually hold something like this for 30 days. That's a law, you know. Yeah, but I saw that fella on the television on that Missing Persons program. That's how come I called you boys.

[Joe Friday]

Well, thanks very much, Mr. Harris.

[Narrator]

Boys, cold out this morning. Sure you don't want a little?

[Joe Friday]

No, thanks, Mr. Harris. Goodbye. We checked the personnel at the bus terminal, but none of them seemed to recognize Juanita Lasky's photograph. We checked the contents of her purse, but we found nothing unusual. Four $1 bills and some change. And the normal things women carry. Since it was money in the bag, we felt sure that Juanita Lasky had lost the purse herself. That meant that she was alive eight days ago. Two days after she walked out of the Chelsea Hotel. It's the only print carried on a California driver's license. It matched the same print on the War Department record. It didn't prove anything except that all the evidence tied in and belonged to the girl we were looking for, Juanita Laski. The next morning, December 24th, we checked in for work at 8:30. Morning, Ben.

[Narrator]

Hi, Joe. Here's a daily report. You want to check them?

[Joe Friday]

There's a mess of them. Let's get at them. You look through any of them yet?

[Narrator]

No, not yet. I figured it wait for you.

[Joe Friday]

All right, I'll take half, huh?

[Narrator]

Got any shopping done? No. You? Some. Lunch hour.

[Joe Friday]

Found some nice cards.

[Narrator]

Be sure to send me one.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, I'll hand it to you in the morning.

[Narrator]

Let's trade shaving lotions like we did last year.

[Joe Friday]

If I get any, we'll get some.

[Narrator]

My kids got a bottle all picked out for you. It's called South Pole. For that cool thing.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

He's only a kid.

[Joe Friday]

You're feeling, Winnie?

[Narrator]

Better when he gets older. Oh, he'll do. Tell the tap Friday on the Lasky case.

[Joe Friday]

Thanks, Holmes. Oh, Ben, listen to this.

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Bureau of Criminal Investigations, Sacramento. Here's a kickback on our APB.

[Narrator]

Yeah, what you say?

[Joe Friday]

Reading your APB number 43 on 1212 48. Our records disclose that Juanita Laski applied for a position of civilian clerk at Marchfield, California, US Army Air Base, using alias Gene Davis.

[Narrator]

How about the fingerprint classification?

[Joe Friday]

Let me find it. Yeah. FPC key 19 primary, 32 over. 32 inner, over, outer final, 15 over. 17.

[Narrator]

French check out. That's her. Girl, Joe.

[Joe Friday]

The Sacramento report stated that Gene Davis had applied for government work at Marchfield, California. Well, a couple of things dropped into place. Her purse had Pomona. That's right. On the main highway from Los Angeles to Riverside. And the application for a job at the Army Air Base a few miles beyond Riverside. We put through a long distance phone call and they told us that Gene Davis was employed there as a civilian clerk but failed to show up for work that morning.

[Narrator]

It seems like we run fresh out of luck. Every trip doesn't it?

[Joe Friday]

We get so close and then she's gone again.

[Narrator]

What you think she's on the go for?

[Joe Friday]

If I could figure that, I could find her. I'll get it. Missing Persons Friday. Yeah, we'll be right over. We didn't find her, but she's been found. Juanita Laski just walked into the Chelsea Hotel. We went over to the Chelsea Hotel. Technically, our job was completed. Now, Juanita Laski had been found. We went over to make out a routine report. The streets were pretty jammed with last minute Christmas shoppers, so we walked the last block to the hotel.

[Narrator]

What's your guess, Jill?

[Joe Friday]

Let's ask her. Come on, let's go in.

[Narrator]

That looks like her. Over by the desk there.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Pretty well memorized, that face.

[Ben Romero]

Sergeant, this is Juanita Laski, Sergeant Friday and Sergeant Romero. Juanita.

[Joe Friday]

How do you do, Ms. Lasky?

[Ben Romero]

How do you do? I'm sorry. I'm terribly sorry. Miss Waters told me.

[Narrator]

Do you mind telling us where have you been, Sergeant?

[Ben Romero]

I don't know. These last 12 days have been a complete loss to me. Ms. Waters told me what happened. I went over to see my doctor. He said I had temporary amnesia. I have to have treatment.

[Joe Friday]

I see. What's your doctor's name, Ms. Lasky.

[Ben Romero]

Dr. Rudner, over on Crenshaw.

[Joe Friday]

Well, we're glad you're okay. Kind of had us going there for a while.

[Ben Romero]

I'm sorry.

[Joe Friday]

Can I use your phone, Ms. Waters?

[Ben Romero]

Oh, certainly. Help yourself.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you.

[Ben Romero]

Long distance.

[Joe Friday]

I'd like to place a person to person called a Mrs. Hannah Lasky. Fountain Green, Utah. That number is 14R2.

[Ben Romero]

Fountain Green, Utah. 14R2.

[Joe Friday]

That's right.

[Ben Romero]

Your name and number, please.

[Joe Friday]

Joe Friday, and this is Hempstead. 8594.

[Ben Romero]

Thank you. Rate operator. Fountain Green, Utah. Route and night person. Rate. From Los Angeles, T.C. mount Pleasant, Salt Lake. Night Person. 140 through Salt Lake. Salt Lake. Mount Pleasant. Mount Pleasant. Fountain Green. Fountain Green. Fountain Green. 14R2. Mrs. Hannah Lasky, Los Angeles, California, calling. Thank you. Ringing operator.

[Narrator]

Hello?

[Ben Romero]

Mrs. Hannah Lasky, please. Los Angeles, California, calling. Oh. Oh, yes, yes.

[Narrator]

Hang on, I'll get her.

[Ben Romero]

Waiting on your party, sir.

[Joe Friday]

Thanks.

[Narrator]

Getting through all right, Joe?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

Lucky Christmas Eve.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Hello? Hello?

[Ben Romero]

Hello?

[Joe Friday]

Hello, Ms. Lasky?

[Ben Romero]

Yes.

[Joe Friday]

Just a minute. Miss Lasky. Juanita.

[Ben Romero]

Yes.

[Joe Friday]

You want it on the phone?

[Ben Romero]

Oh, who is it?

[Joe Friday]

Just say hello. She'll take it from there. Let's go, Ben.

[Ben Romero]

Hello? Yes, Hello, Mother.

[Joe Friday]

Come on, Ben.

[Ben Romero]

Yes, I'm all right. Mother. It's so good to hear your corn.

[Narrator]

See you tomorrow, Joe. Merry Christmas.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, it is, isn't it?

[Narrator]

The story you have just heard is true. Only the names were changed to protect the innocent. Upon further examination by competent medical authorities. Juanita Laski was found to be suffering from periodic spells of amnesia. She was given treatment, and a complete cure was effected. You have just heard the eighth in a new series of authentic cases from official files. Technical advice for Dragnet is furnished by the Los Angeles Police Department. Tonight's program is dedicated to Corporal Grady A. Beachum of the 9th Precinct Metropolitan Police Force, Washington, D. D.C. who on the night of December 2, 1948, gave his life so that yours might be more secure. Dragnet came to you from Los Angeles. This is NBC, the National Broadcasting Company.