Dragnet 49-08-25 012 Police Academy - Mario Koski

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – Dragnet 49-08-25 012 Police Academy - Mario Koski

Episode Release Date: May 30, 2025

Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio

Description: Dive into the thrilling world of law enforcement with this episode of Dragnet, set during the Golden Age of Radio. Experience the relentless pursuit of justice as Detective Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner, Ben Romero, take on the elusive Blitz Gang in Los Angeles.

---

1. Introduction to the Blitz Gang

The episode opens with the ominous narration typical of Dragnet, setting the stage for a gripping police drama. Detective Sergeant Joe Friday introduces the case:

Joe Friday [01:55]: "It was Thursday, October 23rd. It was windy in Los Angeles. We were working the day. Watch out. A robbery."

Joe Friday and his partner, Ben Romero, are assigned to investigate a series of blitz robberies perpetrated by a well-armed and dangerous gang. These crimes have shaken the city, with four to five robberies occurring each night, targeting liquor stores and restaurants.

2. Gathering Intelligence and Identifying Suspects

Joe and Ben compile a list of 22 potential suspects using data from the statistics office:

Joe Friday [02:29]: "It's a gang of three men working on foot. Blitz robberies. They only take cash. Mo is tie ups. Work from 8 to 10 at night. One of the gang's tall, the other two short."

From this list, they narrow down to four primary suspects:

• Tommy Willis
• Mario Koski
• George Cross
• Julian Brock

Despite thorough investigations, the gang remains elusive, with no concrete leads leading to their capture.

3. Encounter with Hank Decker and Linda Decker

A pivotal moment occurs when Hank Decker, a fellow officer and friend, visits Joe and Ben:

Linda Decker [04:11]: "I just filed with civil service to take the exam next month. Figure I'd like to work at being a cop."

Hank's wife, Linda, expresses concern about Hank's decision to join the police force, highlighting the personal sacrifices and dangers associated with the job. This interaction underscores the personal stakes involved for those in law enforcement.

4. Pursuit of Al Mishikov

The investigation takes a turn when a possible connection to Al Mishikov, an ex-convict, emerges:

Hank Decker [09:59]: "Either of you ever hear of a man by the name of Al Mishikov?"

Joe and Ben spend nights tracking Mishikov, believing he might be a link to the Blitz Gang. Despite multiple leads and extensive stakeouts, Mishikov remains out of reach, deepening the mystery surrounding the gang's operations.

5. Stakeouts and Increasing Tension

As weeks pass with no significant breakthroughs, the tension mounts. The duo's dedication is showcased during their relentless stakeouts:

Ben Romero [07:46]: "Never known a Blitz gang like this way before, Joe. Once they get wound up, they usually go until they're caught?"

Their perseverance is put to the test as they navigate the challenges of long nights, heavy traffic, and the constant pressure to apprehend the culprits.

6. Breakthrough at 767 East Broadway

The investigation reaches a critical point with a robbery at King's Liquor Store:

Joe Friday [20:40]: "767 East Broadway. King's Liquor store."

At the scene, the proprietor provides a detailed description of the assailants, confirming the involvement of their primary suspects. This leads Joe and Ben to stake out the area, hoping to catch the gang in the act.

7. Confrontation and Capture

The climax unfolds with a dramatic confrontation outside a bar:

Joe Friday [27:21]: "All right, come on. All right, hold it, mister. We want to talk to you. Run for it, Al."

A shootout ensues as Joe and Ben confront the suspects. In the ensuing chaos, Hank Decker is tragically shot. Despite the peril, Joe and Ben manage to subdue the criminals, capturing Mario Koski and Al Mishikoff.

8. Resolution and Dedication

The episode concludes with the resolution of the case and a heartfelt dedication:

Narrator [29:09]: "The story you have just heard is true. Only the names were changed to protect the innocent."

A tribute is paid to Patrolman James Frank Goggin of the Cleveland Police Department, honoring his bravery and sacrifice.

Key Takeaways and Insights

• Dedication of Law Enforcement: The episode poignantly highlights the unwavering commitment of police officers, exemplified by Joe Friday and Ben Romero's relentless pursuit of justice, despite personal risks and challenges.

• Personal Sacrifices: Through the Decker family's interactions, the narrative underscores the emotional and personal toll law enforcement duties can have on officers and their loved ones.

• Complexity of Criminal Investigations: The detailed investigation process showcases the multifaceted nature of solving crimes, from data analysis and stakeouts to interpersonal interactions and confrontations.

Notable Quotes

• Joe Friday on Police Work:

  "Being a good cop is a hard job, but it's a good one. Let me warn you just once more. It's one of the most thankless jobs on earth."
  (16:05)

• Linda Decker's Concern:

  "If it's what Hank wants, I guess I worry too much."
  (06:40)

• Hank Decker's Graduation Speech Excerpt:

  "Some of you will have to work with thugs, stupid gangsters, dope addicts, cheap women. All the human garbage you can find in a big city."
  (16:05)

---

This episode of Dragnet masterfully intertwines professional duty with personal narratives, offering listeners a compelling glimpse into the lives of those who serve and protect. Through suspenseful storytelling and authentic character interactions, it captures the essence of the Golden Age of Radio dramas, making it a must-listen for fans of classic radio storytelling and police procedurals.

Transcript

[Styles MacKenzie]

We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Styles MacKenzie helping you make those rooms sing. Today's style tip. When it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals. Go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table. From wayfair.com this has been your Wayfair style tip to keep those interiors superior.

[Wayfair]

Wayfair.

[Joe Friday]

Every style, every home.

[Ed Backstrand]

Here's another MNBC NBC's Great Parade of new shows.

[Narrator]

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

[Ed Backstrand]

NBC brings you Dragnet.

[Narrator]

You're a detective sergeant. You're assigned to robbery detail. An armed gang of blitz bandits has started to work in your city. Their pace is fast. Four and five robberies each night. The criminals are not amateurs. They're well armed, dangerous. Your job. Get them.

[Ed Backstrand]

Dragnet. The documented drama of an actual crime investigated and solved by the men who unrelentingly stand watch 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 Thursday, October 23rd. It was windy in Los Angeles. We were working the day. Watch out. A robbery. My partner's Ben Romero. The boss is Ed Backstrand, Chief of detectives. My name's Friday. I was on my way back from the statistician's office and it was 11:42am when I got to room 27. A robbery detail.

[Ben Romero]

How'd it work out, Joe? Any good prospects?

[Joe Friday]

I don't know how good they are, but I got a handful.

[Ben Romero]

How many did you get?

[Joe Friday]

Let me see. 15, 18, 22. Ethel down in the stats office ran them on the IBM for me.

[Ben Romero]

There they are, I see.

[Joe Friday]

It's a gang of three men working on foot. Blitz robberies. They only take cash. Mo is tie ups. Work from 8 to 10 at night. One of the gang's tall, the other two short.

[Ben Romero]

And these are the men the machine.

[Joe Friday]

Sorted out under that heading. Yeah. If our information's wrong, then so is the machine.

[Ben Romero]

Got a good bunch of candidates here. Descriptions match up with what we got.

[Joe Friday]

They seem to check the names on that list, Pam. Some of the smartest thieves in the country.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. Tommy Willis, Ray Grandpa, Kemp Satelli, Manny Roberts, George Cross, Mario Koski. Reads like June graduation at San Quentin. Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

George Cross and Tommy Willis are in town. We know that.

[Ben Romero]

And Koski? He was around a couple of weeks ago.

[Joe Friday]

And what about the rest? It's a big field.

[Ben Romero]

Have to check them out, I guess. Might as well start at the beginning.

[Joe Friday]

Did you go through the overnight reports yet?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. No restaurants, no liquor stores. That makes five days the gang's laid off.

[Joe Friday]

They can afford to, can't they? 18 robberies in 24 days. That's a pretty good haul.

[Ben Romero]

This stop and go strategy of theirs, Joe, it's got me.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, they work hard for a week in one area and then they lay low. If they just keep going, we might have a better try at them.

[Ben Romero]

Hey, Joe.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah?

[Ben Romero]

Chandler fell out here to see you, Joe. Name's Decker.

[Joe Friday]

Decker? Henry Decker.

[Hank Decker]

Didn't say.

[Ben Romero]

Want to see him?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, Send him in.

[Ben Romero]

Right.

[Hank Decker]

All right, Mr. Decker. This way.

[Linda Decker]

How are you, Joey? You're looking good.

[Joe Friday]

Well, Hank Decker. How are you?

[Linda Decker]

I'm fine.

[Joe Friday]

Oh, what are you waiting for, applause? Come on in and shut the door, Hank. This is my partner, Ben Romero. Ben, Hank Decker.

[Ben Romero]

Hi, Hank.

[Linda Decker]

How are you, Ben?

[Joe Friday]

Hank and I are in service together.

[Linda Decker]

Yeah, I just dropped in for a visit, Joe. Are you busy?

[Joe Friday]

No more than usual. Sit down.

[Linda Decker]

Thanks. I remembered you telling me you were on the pd so I figured I'd drop around and get an inside track.

[Joe Friday]

How do you mean?

[Linda Decker]

I just filed with civil service to take the exam next month. Figure I'd like to work at being a cop.

[Ben Romero]

He's shell shocked, Joe.

[Linda Decker]

Great pep talk you boys hand out.

[Joe Friday]

You sure you want to be a cop?

[Linda Decker]

Oh, look, I'm 30 years old, Joe. I'm married. High school education, about a year of junior college.

[Joe Friday]

What's your wife think?

[Linda Decker]

She's not sold. Well, that's why I dropped in. How about coming out to the house for dinner tonight?

[Joe Friday]

You want me to sell her?

[Linda Decker]

Just talk to her. Seven okay?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, seven's okay.

[Linda Decker]

Glad to have met you, Ben.

[Ben Romero]

Same here, Decker. See you again.

[Joe Friday]

Bye.

[Linda Decker]

Bye, Joe.

[Joe Friday]

See you tonight, Hank. Well, what do you think, Ben?

[Ben Romero]

Ought to make a good cop.

[Joe Friday]

We had a list of 22 possible suspects by 5 o' clock. Ben and I had checked out two of them who might possibly have had a hand in the blitz robberies of the 18 liquor stores and restaurants in the past 24 days. Number one man was Thomas Willis, Caucasian, age 29. 5ft, 11 inches, 175 pounds, dark hair, blue eyes. Number two man was Mario Koski, Caucasian, 5ft 6 inches 170 pounds, dark hair, dark eyes. Large scar under his chin, running across his throat, up to and behind his left ear. According to our informants and after questioning some of their associates, either Willis or Koski or both could. Could have taken part in the Blitz holdups. We showed their mugs to the victims, but none of them could give us definite assurance that either Willis or Koski were in the hold up gang. At seven that night, I went out to Hank Decker's house for supper. Met his wife Linda, his four year old twin boys. We talked about the army. Played with the kids for a while before we sat down to eat. We put the boys in bed. Hank was in the kitchen carving the roast. His wife closed the door to the kids room and we started downstairs for the kitchen.

[Wayfair]

What do you think of our two atom bombs?

[Joe Friday]

They're fine kids, Ms. Decker. Hank told me that you were worried about him wanting to join the force.

[Wayfair]

I was 12 years old when my father was shot down. He was a policeman in Des Moines. He was only 37 when he died. I wouldn't know what to do if anything like that happened to Hank.

[Joe Friday]

What do you want me to say?

[Wayfair]

But does Hank really want it? Can't you talk him out of it?

[Joe Friday]

You're his wife. Can you? No. I think it's his choice, Ms. Decker. He's gonna have to make up his own mind.

[Wayfair]

I'm sorry. If it's what Hank wants, I guess I worry too much.

[Joe Friday]

A lot of women marry cops. They have and they will. And they all worry Hank will be all right.

[Wayfair]

Will you guarantee it, Joe?

[Joe Friday]

During the next month, I heard from Hank Decker only once. He was studying hard. During the same month, Ben and I were working hard trying to find some kind of a concrete lead to break the Blitz Gang. There had been no subsequent holdups which seemed to tie in directly with the gang or its operations. From the list of possible suspects which Ben and I made up, 18 names had been eliminated for one reason or another. Either they were in jail at the time of the robberies out of the Los Angeles area or out of the state. But four names remained. George Cross, Tommy Willis, Mario Koski, Julian Brock. During the latter part of the month, George Cross was booked on a minor charge and we questioned him. At that time he showed no knowledge of the holdups. Nearly two months after the robberies were committed, Ben and I were still without a solution as to the whereabouts of the gang.

[Ben Romero]

Never known a Blitz gang like this way before, Joe. Once they get wound up, they usually go until they're Caught?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Did you get out those telegram checks to the east yet?

[Ben Romero]

Last night before I went home. Sent out all three.

[Joe Friday]

Willis, Koski and Brock. I'd like to find just one of them.

[Ben Romero]

Chicago might have something. That's Koski's old hangout. Willis, too.

[Joe Friday]

What about Brock? He's from Kansas City, isn't he?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. I got a wire, too. Might have an answer from one of them tomorrow.

[Joe Friday]

That's a slow job. We'll have to wait it out.

[Ben Romero]

Yes. So no follow ups from the victims we talked to?

[Joe Friday]

I'll get it. Robbery Friday oh, hiya, Joe.

[Linda Decker]

Hank Decker. Congratulate me?

[Joe Friday]

What for?

[Linda Decker]

Just passed my written exam. Got the letter this morning. How about that?

[Joe Friday]

That's fine. When do you take your physical?

[Linda Decker]

Oh, not till the end of the month. Next week I take the oral and agility tests, then the physical. If I get by them, I'm in.

[Joe Friday]

You're gonna have a full month at the police academy. After the test is a lot of work, Hank.

[Linda Decker]

It can't be any worse than these tests.

[Joe Friday]

It's a tough 30 days out there on the Hill. Law, court procedure, evidence, combat firing, target practice. You'll have to wade through all of them.

[Linda Decker]

Are you ever gonna have anything encouraging to say?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, when you graduate.

[Linda Decker]

I won't count on it. How's your job going?

[Joe Friday]

Slow. How's your wife feel now about taking the job? Mm, a little better.

[Linda Decker]

She said to say hello.

[Joe Friday]

Okay. Keep us posted, huh?

[Linda Decker]

I'll do that, Joe.

[Joe Friday]

Right. Bye. Hank passed his written test?

[Hank Decker]

Hmm?

[Ben Romero]

Sure. Anxious.

[Joe Friday]

Brandy. Romero.

[John Delmar]

Got a minute?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, Skipper. Come on, Joe.

[Joe Friday]

You got something, Ed?

[Hank Decker]

Yeah. Those bitch robberies you're handling, not having much luck.

[Ben Romero]

We were. Gang's disappeared. Not a trace of them so far.

[Hank Decker]

They leave town?

[Joe Friday]

Oh, we're not sure, Ed. We don't even have a good description. We're guessing most of the way.

[Hank Decker]

What are your guesses? You've had a couple of months to make them.

[Joe Friday]

12 of the hold up victims we talked to told us definitely that there were three men in the gang. Two of them short, one of them tall. We've just been working from there.

[Ben Romero]

All three of them have dark complexions. Started with 22 possibilities and got it weeded down to four. No, wait a minute. Three.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Tommy Willis, Mario Koski, Julian Brock. Willis and Koski are eastern hoods. Brock's from the Middle West.

[Hank Decker]

And where are they now?

[Ben Romero]

Haven't showed their faces around town. Checking some of the cities in the East. That's about all we got, Skipper.

[Hank Decker]

Not much for two months. Work thieves can't be that smart.

[Ben Romero]

Right now they are.

[Joe Friday]

We've sounded out every lead we had, Ed. Doing our best.

[Hank Decker]

Either of you ever hear of a man by the name of Al Mishikov?

[Joe Friday]

No, I don't think so.

[Ben Romero]

Chicago gunman. The old days, wasn't he?

[Hank Decker]

Eh, that's right.

[Ben Romero]

I thought he was doing Time and Juliet.

[Hank Decker]

Parole last year. Got a tip he was spotted on East Broadway night before last.

[Joe Friday]

You figured might tie in with our job?

[Hank Decker]

I don't know. Find out if I remember right. Mishikov's brother used to be pretty friendly with Mary Olkowski. I helped send both of them up 13 years ago. Same rap robbery.

[Joe Friday]

Was that all you heard, Ed? Somebody spotted Mishikov, that's all.

[Hank Decker]

If you can track him down, you might get some kind of a lead. That's more than you got.

[Ben Romero]

Now.

[Joe Friday]

That night and for the next two nights following, Ben and I had dinner downtown instead of going home. And then we spent the rest of the night covering the lower end of the city in search of Al Mishikoff. We got more than a dozen leads on where to find him from some of our informants, but none of the leads paid off. We kept missing him. No one knew where he was staying. No one knew or no one would tell us.

[Ben Romero]

Worst thing about this job, Joe. Legwork.

[Joe Friday]

We Must be averaging 10 miles a night.

[Ben Romero]

My feet say 20. Almost midnight.

[Joe Friday]

Here's McCarthy's place. Let's try it.

[Ben Romero]

Right.

[Joe Friday]

Let's go down at the end of the bar. Ben.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. Hiya, Ben.

[Joe Friday]

Good to see you.

[J]

Come in.

[Ben Romero]

What's new? Oh, not much. Bert, meet my partner, Joe Friday. How are you, Fry? What do you fellas have? Looking for a guy, Bird. His name's Al Mishikoff. Chicago. You heard anything? He was in here earlier tonight. Couple of guys with him.

[Joe Friday]

Are you sure? What do you look like?

[Ben Romero]

Six feet, about 45, I guess. Big Bill? Sounds like him all right, Joe. Is he staying in the neighborhood? Bur down here? I don't think so. Most of those big timers stay uptown someplace. You looking for Mr. Coke?

[Joe Friday]

Like to talk to him. How long ago was he in?

[Ben Romero]

Oh, about eight o' clock. Couple of guys with him. They. We're talking about driving out to the airport. Something about Las Vegas.

[Joe Friday]

There's an 840 plane for Vegas, isn't there, Ben?

[Ben Romero]

I think so. 8:40, 8:50. I can't recall where, Bert.

[Joe Friday]

Do you remember the exact time they left exactly?

[Ben Romero]

No. Say, there's one of the fellows that was with Mishikov down There, the middle of the bar. Which one, Bert? There. One with a sandy hair, big chin. See him? Yeah. Want to talk, Joe?

[Joe Friday]

Come on.

[John Delmar]

Still running out.

[Hank Decker]

And, Judge, you know what he said? He said when he was in Vegas last week.

[Joe Friday]

Pardon me.

[Hank Decker]

Killing.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, that's pardon me. I'd like to talk to you a minute.

[Hank Decker]

Yeah?

[Ben Romero]

Who are you?

[Joe Friday]

Police. Sergeant Friday.

[Hank Decker]

Oh. Have a drink, Sergeant?

[Joe Friday]

No, thanks. I said I wanted to talk to you.

[Hank Decker]

Square John, huh? Wait a minute, George. Square John wants to talk to me.

[Ben Romero]

Come on outside. We can talk better out there.

[Hank Decker]

I ain't done nothing. What's the pitch? I got a right to know.

[Joe Friday]

Let's go outside.

[Hank Decker]

Maybe I don't want to go outside.

[Ben Romero]

I think you better. Come on.

[Hank Decker]

All right, all right. Quit shoving, you dumb cop. Shoving people around. What are you trying to do?

[Joe Friday]

All right, down this way.

[Ben Romero]

Car's parked up the next alley, Joe.

[Hank Decker]

Hey, look, what's this all about, huh? I got a right to know.

[Joe Friday]

You were seen with Al Mishikoff tonight. Where is he?

[Ben Romero]

Who? Al Mishikov. You honest to spell it.

[Hank Decker]

I don't think you can spell your own name.

[Joe Friday]

Nobody's asking you to play smart. Where's Mishikov?

[Hank Decker]

Out of town. What do you care?

[Ben Romero]

Here's a car. All right. Inside. You?

[Joe Friday]

No.

[Hank Decker]

Look, you got me wrong. I ain't done nothing.

[Joe Friday]

Where's Mishikov?

[Ben Romero]

You and some other guy drove to the airport with him tonight. Let's have it.

[Hank Decker]

I'm clear. I tell you. I just drove out with him, that's all.

[Joe Friday]

Where'd Mishikov go?

[Hank Decker]

Vegas. Took the plane for Vegas.

[Ben Romero]

When?

[Hank Decker]

About 8:30, quarter to 9. What's up?

[Joe Friday]

Anyway, who's the guy traveling with Mishikov?

[Hank Decker]

Nobody.

[Joe Friday]

Who's the guy traveling with Mishikov?

[Hank Decker]

Koski. I just met him tonight.

[Ben Romero]

Mario Koski. Is that the guy?

[Hank Decker]

Yeah. I'm level and I ain't done nothing.

[Joe Friday]

Then get to a phone. Call the office. Contact Las Vegas Police. Ask them to pick up Koski and Mishikov. When we got back to the office, we questioned the man we had picked up for almost two hours. His name was John Delmar, an ex convict. He'd been paroled from Folsom Prison two months before after serving three and a half years for burglary. He said Mishikov was looking for a man to work with him. And Koski? He didn't specify. Delmar said he refused the offer, but they parted on friendly terms. He said Koski and Mishikov told him that they were going to Las Vegas for a Few days, then return to Los Angeles. But when Ben and I checked back with the Las Vegas police the next morning, they reported that nobody answering the description of either Koski or Mishikov was seen arriving or leaving the airport. We checked with the airlines and sent inquiries to law enforcement agencies throughout the entire area. No sign. Three weeks went by, still no sign.

[Ben Romero]

Nothing in the overnights, Joe? No, not a thing.

[Joe Friday]

Oh, yeah. Same here. Reno, Sacramento, San Francisco. Nobody's seen him.

[Ben Romero]

Ain't got to come out sometime. We can wait.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, we can wait. Gets on your nerves. Let's check with Backstrand. Maybe he's got a job for us in the meantime.

[Ben Romero]

You're getting as eager as your friend Hank Decker, Joe. Incidentally, how'd things turn out for him?

[Joe Friday]

He passed all his exams, putting in his months. Training at the academy. Now you should do all right. Hi.

[Ben Romero]

Hi, Mike. Skipper busy? Not in his office. Won't be until afternoon.

[Joe Friday]

What's the matter?

[Ben Romero]

He's got a lecture at the police academy this morning.

[Styles MacKenzie]

We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Stiles McKenzie helping you make those rooms sing. Today's style tip. When it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals. Go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table. From wayfair.com fierce this has been your Wayfair style tip to keep those interiors superior.

[Joe Friday]

Wayfair, every style, every home. Thanks, Mike. Come on, Ben. Ben and I drove out to the police Academy near Elysian Park. We went out to check with Ed Backstrand on the Blitz robberies, not to listen to his lecture. When we walked into the classroom, he was just finishing up, so we sat in the back of the room and listened. It was a pretty good speech because.

[John Delmar]

Of the alertness of the arresting officer, his talent for memorizing detail, and his knowledge of how a criminal acts under a given set of circumstances.

[Hank Decker]

The arrest was made.

[John Delmar]

Well, that's about it, gentlemen. Thank you for your attention. Now, when I ran this speech over at home, my wife said it wasn't a very good talk, but at least it came out on time. Now it seems I'm two minutes short, so I guess I failed on both counts. If I may, I'd like to use the few minutes that are left to tell you what I think of being a cop after 24 years. For one reason or other, you men have chosen the career of a police officer. Let me tell you right now, without Any qualifications? It's a thankless job. Maybe you can't see it now. Maybe you think I'm exaggerating. But when you graduate next week and get that uniform on, your whole lives are going to change. You're gonna lose friends, a lot of them. They'll want parking tickets fixed, some other favors. You'll have to turn them down. So you'll be a heel, a fathead. When you're on the beach, you're going to meet the cream of society and the scum, the lowest. Sometimes you won't be able to tell the difference. Some of you will have to work with thugs, stupid gangsters, dope addicts, cheap women. All the human garbage you can find in a big city. You'll come home at night and take a shower to wash off the dirt. But you still won't feel clean. That's the job. When you buy a box of candy and bring it home for your anniversary, the neighbors will say you chiseled it. When you save up a few dollars and buy a new car or some furniture for the house, it's graft. People are going to want favors. They'll offer you things. A free beer or a new dress for your wife. If you take it, you're a chiseler. If you don't, you're a tough cop. Well, here's a piece of advice. Take nothing from anyone, no matter how good a friend he is. Pay for everything you get and don't ask favors. Treat everybody alike. No matter what they look like or what they believe in you. Don't play favorites. There are going to be times when a few men in the department get out of line. The newspapers will play it up because it makes good reading. And the average John Public will love it. Because that's the only way he can pay you back for that traffic ticket you gave him. Being a good cop is a hard job, but it's a good one. Let me warn you just once more. It's one of the most thankless jobs on earth. That's all, gentlemen.

[Joe Friday]

The following week, Hank Decker graduated from the police academy. And hit the transfer list. For a regular assignment. He drew a job of teaching combat, firing and boxing at the academy. He didn't like it, so he put in a request for a transfer and waited for the next six weeks. Ben and I waited, too, for some sign of the Blitz bandits. There wasn't any. The only possible suspects, Mario Koski and Al Mishikoff, had disappeared completely. We kept a close check on every possible avenue of information. Still no sign. Ben And I were transferred to the night watch on Robbery for a few weeks. And that gave Hank Decker a chance to drop in and visit with us a couple of hours. When he went off duty at the academy, he was still as eager as ever.

[Linda Decker]

Hi, Ben. Joe. Anything new?

[Joe Friday]

Hi, Hank. Nothing here. What about the academy?

[Linda Decker]

Oh, big news.

[Ben Romero]

Hmm, what's up?

[Linda Decker]

Getting a transfer starting next Monday. Gonna start on a beat.

[Joe Friday]

Thought you were all tied up with that boys club you started out there.

[Linda Decker]

Oh, I was, but Hanson's gonna take over when I leave. The kids sure love it. Free swimming in the pool, boxing lessons. We teach them everything.

[Ben Romero]

Where's your beat gonna be, huh?

[Linda Decker]

Central. Right in the downtown district. Might learn something, huh?

[Ben Romero]

You'll learn a lot. You wanna forget most of it.

[Joe Friday]

Look, it's a quarter after seven. Don't you ever go home for dinner, Hank?

[Linda Decker]

Getting my wife used to it. This new ship's gonna be night work.

[Joe Friday]

You know, wait til you're on it for a year and then you tell us how you like it. A year?

[Linda Decker]

I wanna be in the Detective Bureau after a year.

[Joe Friday]

Well, you're not even gonna last a year if you don't get home to dinner. Your wife's called twice this week already. She calls me.

[Linda Decker]

Okay. When did she call? Tonight.

[Ben Romero]

She hasn't. Jen.

[Linda Decker]

I guess I better head her off. Let me know if anything breaks, huh? Joe, I'd like to tag along.

[Joe Friday]

Okay, Hank. Well, on your way.

[Linda Decker]

Okay. Good night.

[Joe Friday]

So long.

[Ben Romero]

Good night. Yeah. How eager can you get?

[Joe Friday]

Were we like that when we started?

[Ben Romero]

Not me. I never had that much energy at one time in my whole life. Hot shot. Joe.

[Joe Friday]

I'll get it.

[Hank Decker]

At 767 East Broadway a liquor store. 211 and slugging. At 767 East Broadway a Liquor store. 211, man.

[Joe Friday]

767 East Broadway. 211 liquor store.

[Ben Romero]

Let's go.

[Joe Friday]

767 East Broadway. King's Liquor store. We pushed our way through the small crowd outside the door and into the shop. Two patrolmen in uniform were already interviewing the proprietor. He had two large gashes on his head just above the right temple. He was trembling and badly shaken. But he managed to give us a good description of the hold up men.

[J]

Yeah, I can tell you what they looked like. Three of them. One short, one tall, husky. Another short, one fat.

[Ben Romero]

You remember what they were wearing?

[J]

Coats. All three. Dark coats. One of the short men, he had a big scar here on the throat like this. After the three men robbed the store, they slugged me and tied me up.

[Joe Friday]

Turner, this man's hurt. Did you call an ambulance?

[Ben Romero]

On the way, Sergeant.

[Joe Friday]

That's fine. We have just one more question, Mr. King. Here's a handful of pictures. We'd like you to tell us if any one of these men were in the gang that held you up tonight.

[J]

Let me look.

[Ben Romero]

There you are. Take your time.

[J]

No, no, not him. No, no. Oh, this one here. He took the money from the register.

[Ben Romero]

Would you look through the rest, please? Are there any more?

[J]

Let me see again. No, no. Oh, here, another one. The fat one with the scar. This is him. I think he's the one that slugged me.

[Joe Friday]

Thanks, Mr. King. Here's our card. We'll be contacting you later. Turner, will you and your partner take the crime report? We got some checking to do.

[Ben Romero]

Right, Sergeant.

[Joe Friday]

Thanks. Come on, Ben.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah? Koski and Meshikov. You picked out both of them, Joe.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, we certainly did, didn't we?

[Wayfair]

Attention all units. Attention, all units.

[Joe Friday]

Wait a minute.

[Wayfair]

The southeast corner of Broadway and East Third. A liquor store and restaurant. 211, pull three. All units, the southeast corner of Broadway.

[Joe Friday]

Come on, Ben. Let's roll. When we got to the liquor store and restaurant at Broadway and East 3rd, men and I knew for certain that Koski and Mishikov were back in the city and working hard, their MO Mats down to almost the smallest detail. We put a call through to Communications and the entire Central division was alerted. Then we called Chief Backstrand and told him the news. He assigned a special detail from the Metropolitan Unit to patrol the area until further notice. But at 9:23pm before they pulled out of the police garage, the Blitz bandits added two more liquor stores and one more restaurant to their list of victims. Early the next morning, Ben and I met with Chief Backstrand in his office.

[Hank Decker]

You got a make on that third man yet?

[Joe Friday]

We ran his description through R and I early this morning. Ed? Closest candidate's a guy by the name of Julian Brock. Done time here in New York.

[Hank Decker]

Any tie up with Koski or Mishikov?

[Ben Romero]

Mama? Sheet says he knows Koski pretty well.

[Hank Decker]

And that's good enough. Now, how do you think you're gonna get these thieves?

[Ben Romero]

We've got the alert out, Chief. Special detail from Metropolitan Division's been brief. Communications all set. All right.

[Hank Decker]

Here's a tip for you. Tell the men if there's a hold up, call that only the car in the area of the hold up will handle it. These thieves are no amateurs. Let me try some decoy trick. Tell the men to stay in the area. They're assigned to until they receive a call.

[Joe Friday]

Jake. We'll take care of it. Ed, you're gonna be on hand tonight.

[Hank Decker]

When do you figure on starting?

[Ben Romero]

We'll have the full detail out for 6:30.

[Hank Decker]

Play it safe and start at 4. Why chance missing him?

[Joe Friday]

At 3:30 that afternoon we left the police garage with a special detail from Metropolitan Division and we started to cruise the central area. We weren't looking for any action the first few hours and we didn't get any. The five o' clock traffic in the downtown area was heavy as usual.

[Ben Romero]

Hope that gang holds off till after six. We couldn't get out of this traffic if our lives depended on it.

[Joe Friday]

Now, we'd probably do better on foot if it wasn't for radio contact.

[Wayfair]

Control 4-80K. Control forward 80.80K your location.

[Ben Romero]

Get it, will you, Joe?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Wait, I get the mic. 80K to Control 4. 8. Okay to Control 4. Our location on Spring street between 2nd and 3rd.

[Wayfair]

80K. Standby. 80K. Call your office, Code 2. Call your office, Code 2. KMA 367.

[Joe Friday]

80K to Control 4. Roger. KMA 367.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. Now what do I do for a parking space?

[Joe Friday]

You know you're lucky. That guy up ahead there, he's pulling out.

[Ben Romero]

Good. That hasn't happened to me in six months.

[Joe Friday]

Okay, hold on, Ben. I'll be back in a minute.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

City Hall 2511.

[Wayfair]

2511.

[Ben Romero]

Robbery.

[Joe Friday]

Chandler, this is Friday. Bill, you want us?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, just a minute, Joe. Chief wants to talk to you.

[Hank Decker]

Hello, Friday?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, Ed.

[Hank Decker]

Cruiser car just brought in a guy answering the description of Mario Koski.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Hank Decker]

Get over here right away and question the guy. If it is Koski, we can all go home early.

[Joe Friday]

Ben and I went back to the office and questioned the man who gave his name as Conrad Larkin. It was Koski's approximate height and weight. Same color hair, same color eyes. The resemblance to Koski's picture was evident. We questioned him thoroughly about the Blitz robberies. Then we checked out his fingerprints. The coincidence was hard to overlook, but we were satisfied the man was not Mario Koski. There was a phone message on my desk to call Hank's wife. I called her and then we checked with Chief Backstrand again and started for the police garage. It was ten minutes past six.

[Linda Decker]

Hey, Ben.

[Joe Friday]

Joe, wait a minute, will you?

[Ben Romero]

Oh, hi, Hank. What's all exciting?

[Linda Decker]

I heard about those jobs last night. The Blitz gang. How about tagging along tonight?

[Ben Romero]

What's the stare?

[Joe Friday]

You suit yourself, Hank. When do I do home for dinner?

[Linda Decker]

I told the wife. I'd eat out tonight.

[Joe Friday]

You sure you're not due home for dinner?

[Linda Decker]

No, not tonight, Joe. Did you have any luck yet?

[Ben Romero]

Not so far, Hank. Maybe later on tonight.

[Joe Friday]

Come on. Here's the garage.

[Linda Decker]

How close did you come to the gang last night?

[Ben Romero]

Not close enough. Two steps ahead of us all the way.

[Linda Decker]

Sure must work fast. Five jobs in a row.

[Joe Friday]

All right, Hank, let's don't rub it in, huh? Hey, Ben, watch it, will you?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. Woman driver.

[Linda Decker]

How about it, Joe? You think I can make the house of it?

[Joe Friday]

You talk to Ed Baxter. He might get you a transfer after a while.

[Linda Decker]

Yeah, I might try it. Joe, look across the street. There's a guy coming out of the bar.

[Joe Friday]

Where?

[Linda Decker]

In front of the bar. He's standing there. Guy in the dark coat. You see?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Two other guys behind him.

[Ben Romero]

Who is it?

[Joe Friday]

I can't be sure. Ben, you better pull up.

[Linda Decker]

Koski. Looks just like his picture.

[Joe Friday]

All right, come on. All right, hold it, mister. We want to talk to you. Run for it, Al.

[John Delmar]

Copper. Watch it, Joe.

[Ben Romero]

Hank, get down. Get down.

[Joe Friday]

Two of them down, Ben.

[Ben Romero]

Northern went up early. Let's go.

[Joe Friday]

Did they get Hank?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

All right, hold it right here. All right, husky, throw out your gun and come out with your hands up. All right, let's return the fire. Come on.

[Ben Romero]

He had his chance.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Grab his gun. Let's get back to Hank. Did you get the guns from the other two?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, I did, Hank. Got them both.

[Joe Friday]

All right, one side, please. Officer, did you call an ambulance?

[Hank Decker]

Yeah, they're on their way.

[Joe Friday]

Come on, Ben. One side, please. Will you let us through? Hank, how you doing?

[Linda Decker]

That's a good job, Ben.

[Joe Friday]

Will you get the crowd black, give him some air?

[Ben Romero]

Would you just move back?

[Joe Friday]

All right.

[Ben Romero]

Easy, Hank.

[Joe Friday]

They'll be in a minute. Hank. Hank.

[Ben Romero]

How's it doing, Joe? Gone.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Come on.

[Ben Romero]

What have you got, Joe?

[Joe Friday]

Phone message from Hank's wife for you.

[Ben Romero]

You know, if you return the call.

[Joe Friday]

Before we left the office.

[Ben Romero]

Who was it?

[Joe Friday]

She wanted me to remind Hank he was due home for dinner at 7 o' clock.

[Narrator]

The story you have just heard is true. Only the names were changed to protect the innocent.

[Ed Backstrand]

You have just heard the 12th in a new series of authentic cases from official files. Technical advice for Dragnet is furnished by the Los Angeles Police Department.

[Narrator]

Tonight's program is dedicated to Patrolman James Frank Goggin of the Cleveland Police Department, who on the morning of January 13, 1939, gave his life so that yours might be more secure.

[Ed Backstrand]

Dragnet came to you from Los Angeles. If you enjoyed tonight's production of Dragnet, you'll want to listen to Richard diamond, private detective, as played by the screen's romantic tough guy, Dick Powell. Heard Saturday on most of these NBC stations. This is NBC, the National Broadcasting Company.