Jerry Dean Boy Trooper 1947-02-12 Case Of The Smuggled Drugs

Summary

Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode Summary: Jerry Dean Boy Trooper 1947-02-12 - Case Of The Smuggled Drugs

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Introduction

In this captivating episode of "Jerry Dean Boy Trooper", listeners are introduced to a thrilling adventure set in the bustling downtown of a large American city. Hosted by Harold's Old Time Radio, this installment delves into the daring efforts of a young boy trooper, Jerry Dean, as he collaborates with seasoned law enforcement to dismantle a formidable drug smuggling ring. Released on May 1, 2025, this episode transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio, capturing the essence of community-focused storytelling before the advent of television.

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Plot Summary

The episode, titled "Case Of The Smuggled Drugs", begins on a bright summer day amidst heavy traffic in downtown America. A distinctive snow-white State Police car, marked with the official insignia, stands out in the slow-moving line of vehicles. Corporal Dan Craig takes command of the situation, introducing himself as Jerry Dean, Boy Trooper and addressing the audience with a promotional segment for Silver Cup Bread, seamlessly blending product placement with the narrative.

As the story unfolds, Corporal Craig engages in a conversation with Sergeant Kemper, revealing that a gang of counterfeiters has been apprehended with the crucial assistance of Jerry Dean. Impressed by Jerry's investigative skills, Sergeant Kemper assigns Corporal Craig a high-stakes mission: to infiltrate a drug smuggling operation between Eagle Lake and Lakeport. The mission requires garnering intel without making arrests, emphasizing the covert nature of the operation.

Corporal Craig expresses concern about undertaking the mission alone, highlighting the inherent dangers of battling a powerful drug cartel. In a strategic move, he proposes involving Jerry Dean, the young trooper, leveraging his unassuming presence to gather information without arousing suspicion. Sergeant Kemper approves this plan, instructing Craig to proceed with the mission discreetly while ensuring safe communication channels through Trooper Watkins.

As Corporal Craig prepares for his undercover operation, a subplot emerges involving a Buick sedan (license 432E76) spotted heading towards Lakeport. Despite the apparent significance of the vehicle—possibly linked to the smugglers—Craig prioritizes the mission over the immediate pursuit, indicating the gravity and complexity of the case at hand.

The episode culminates with the protagonists setting the stage for their impending journey to Lakeport, promising listeners an exhilarating continuation of the narrative in future episodes.

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Characters

• Jerry Dean: The titular Boy Trooper, Jerry is portrayed as a keen and resourceful young detective with an innate ability to sniff out criminal activity. His collaboration with the State Police underscores his pivotal role in combating local crime.

• Corporal Dan Craig: A dedicated State Police officer tasked with leading the mission against the drug smugglers. His strategic thinking and willingness to involve Jerry highlight his leadership qualities.

• Sergeant Kemper: The authoritative figure overseeing the operation. He provides guidance and assigns missions, emphasizing the seriousness of the drug smuggling issue.

• Commissioner: Represents higher authority within the State Police, interacting primarily with Corporal Craig regarding logistical aspects of the mission.

• Trooper Watkins: Assigned as a backup, ensuring communication lines remain open during the mission.

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Key Discussions and Insights

• Strategy Against Crime: The episode showcases innovative approaches to law enforcement, such as involving a young trooper in undercover operations. This strategy highlights adaptability and the importance of community collaboration in tackling organized crime.

• Risk Management: Corporal Craig's initial hesitation to take on the mission alone underscores the inherent risks in combating powerful criminal entities. The subsequent inclusion of Jerry Dean mitigates these risks through covert operations.

• Product Integration: Silver Cup Bread's promotion is ingeniously woven into the narrative, reflecting marketing practices of the Golden Age of Radio where advertisements were seamlessly integrated into show content.

• Community Engagement: The invitation for listeners to become junior troopers fosters a sense of community involvement and encourages audience participation in the show's universe.

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Notable Quotes

1. Corporal Dan Craig Introducing Himself
   [00:34]
   Jerry Dean: "Yes sir, he's right here. Jerry Dean Boy Trooper."

2. Promotion of Silver Cup Bread
   [00:40]
   Jerry Dean: "Silver cup, you know is that extra delicious white bread that not only tastes us well but but in addition is so extra good for building energy and health."

3. Sergeant Kemper Assigns the Mission
   [05:22]
   Sergeant Kemper: "I want you to find out where the dope is coming from and who's running it in."

4. Corporal Craig's Realization
   [05:20]
   Corporal Dan Craig: "What the strings you mention really are."

5. Discussion of Past Operations
   [06:13]
   Sergeant Kemper: "Kemper went up there and he's in a hospital now, recovering from bullet wounds in his leg and shoulder."

6. Critique of Current Situation
   [12:10]
   Commissioner: "Golly, Corporal, something pretty important must be up, huh?"

7. Setting Up the Next Adventure
   [12:50]
   Corporal Dan Craig: "Smugglers. Jerry Smuggler."

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Conclusion

Case Of The Smuggled Drugs effectively sets the stage for an ongoing saga of crime-fighting and adventure with Jerry Dean Boy Trooper at the helm. By blending engaging storytelling with strategic character development, the episode captivates listeners, inviting them to follow along as Jerry and Corporal Craig navigate the challenges of dismantling a dangerous smuggling ring. The seamless integration of advertisements and interactive elements, such as the call to become a junior trooper, exemplifies the immersive and community-driven nature of Golden Age radio programming.

Listeners are left eagerly anticipating the next installment, where Jerry Dean and his allies will undoubtedly face new obstacles and uncover deeper layers of the criminal underworld. The episode not only entertains but also inspires participation, embodying the spirit of collective vigilance and proactive engagement in maintaining community safety.

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Final Notes

For those who haven't yet listened to this episode, Case Of The Smuggled Drugs offers a nostalgic yet timeless glimpse into the collaborative efforts between young heroes and the police force. It underscores themes of bravery, intelligence, and the impact of community involvement in combating crime. Whether you're a fan of classic radio dramas or new to the genre, this episode promises excitement, intrigue, and a touch of wholesome adventure that resonates across generations.

Tune in to Harold's Old Time Radio every weeknight to embark on more adventures with Jerry Dean Boy Trooper and uncover the secrets that lie in the heart of America’s towns and cities. Don't forget to share the experience with friends and family, and perhaps even consider joining the ranks of the junior troopers yourself!

Transcript

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[Corporal Dan Craig]

Corporal Craig Stigging Jerry Dean.

[Jerry Dean]

Yes sir, he's right here. Jerry Dean Boy Trooper. And here's a call to every Jerry Dean fan listening in. A call to Try Silver cup bread. Yes, try Silver cup bread. Silver cup, you know is that extra delicious white bread that not only tastes us well but but in addition is so extra good for building energy and health. That's because the super fine flour used in Silver cup contains special vitamins and minerals. The ones that give you the kind of pep and power our State Troopers are famous for. Yes, the State troopers need plenty of get up and go for their important work and so do you. And you can make sure of getting your share of these extra health giving vitamins and minerals by eating Silver Cup Braids. Why say combined with a rich creamy milk and other good things in silver cups, they just can't help but mean better health for you. Yes, it's mighty important for all of you to eat plenty of energy building foods. And one of the best and most delicious of all is Silver Cup. Ask mother to get some today. Silver cup, the world's finest bread. Yes, it's time for Jerry Dean Boy Trooper. A brand new series of programs dealing with the adventures of Jerry Dean and his friends, the State Police. In just a moment you'll hear the opening episode of the the Case of the Smuggle Drugs. And a little later in this series, Jerry Dean will give every boy and girl in America a chance to become a junior trooper. And that means a chance to work with the State police, attend meetings, learn modern criminal investigation. The chance to rise to sergeant or lieutenant or captain of the junior troopers. Now doesn't that sound interesting? Isn't that something now? You bet it is. It's something that's never been offered over the radio before. So you do this. Tell your friends to listen regularly, every day to Jerry Dean. And in a few weeks, two or three or five or six, he'll tell you how you can become a junior trooper and how you can actually work with the State police. Listen every day. Get your friends to listen every day. Don't miss a single episode of Jerry Dean Boy Trooper. Now the case of the smuggle drugs. Our scene is the downtown section of a large American city. It is a bright summer day and traffic is heavy. But standing out in the long line of cars that move slowly down the main street is is a snow white car upon which is emblazoned the insignia State Police. The white car slides up before a tall building and comes to a stop in a space marked reserved for official cars. Corporal Dan Craig of the State Police snaps off the ignition, slides from under the wheel and says to the boy.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Who sits beside him, well, Jerry, here we are. Wanna come inside with me or do you wanna stay here in the car where you can look down your nose at all the kids who pass by? There's every boy you know who can sit in a state police car and listen to the police calls on the short wave.

[Commissioner]

Oh, boy, don't I know it. I'll stay here, Corporal.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Okay, Jerry, see you later. If there are any calls, Paulie, get on the two way and tell them I'll call back later.

[Commissioner]

Okay, Corporal.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Ah, Corporal Greg. Come in, come in.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Thank you, Commissioner.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Now sit down, Corporal. Well, Greg. Oh, wait, before we get into that, what about the gang of counterfeiters? Did you pick up the other fella you were looking for?

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Yes, sir. He's in a jail at Midvale. Jerry Dean, the boy who helped me crack that case. Identified all three of the counterfeiters.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Ah, good. The boy, you say?

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Yes, sir. Jerry Dean. He lives next door to the substation at Black River. The finest kid you ever saw. Why, it was Jerry who discovered the shack where the counterfeiters were working. He gave me the tip that led to their arrest.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Oh, yes, I remember seeing something about a boy named Jerry Dean in your preliminary reports on the case, my lad, eh?

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Oh, he's a born trooper, sir. He can smell a criminal a mile away.

[Sergeant Kemper]

He's been a great help to this department, Craig. Now it's time to get to the matter that you came here to discuss. How would you like a vacation?

[Corporal Dan Craig]

A vacation, sir?

[Sergeant Kemper]

Did you say a vacation with strings attached?

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Well, I'm afraid I don't understand, sir.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Come over here a moment, Craig, and look at this map on the wall here.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

All right.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Now, this is our state. The red lines indicate the territory served by the various troops. Drew Barr, your troop is here?

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Yes, sir.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Now, see this place? Eagle Lake.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Yes.

[Sergeant Kemper]

And this one? Lakeport.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Oh, I know that country quite well, sir. I've been up there several times fishing.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Fishing? Ah, good. That fits right into the picture then. Now, somewhere between this Point, Eagle Lake and here, Lakeport. A gang of smugglers is operating.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Smugglers, sir?

[Sergeant Kemper]

Dope smugglers, Craig.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Well, I'm beginning to see now, sir, what this. This vacation of mine will be. What the strings you mention really are.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Yes, you see, Craig, you want me.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

To go up there and crack that gang of smugglers.

[Sergeant Kemper]

No, no, no, no, no. Wait a minute, Craig. Wait a minute. You're only partly right. I want you to find out where the dope is coming from and who's running it in. Yes, but I don't want you to attempt any arrest.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Oh, wait a minute now, sir. If I find out where it's coming from and who's running it in.

[Sergeant Kemper]

No, I just want you to, well, observe. Get the information and pass it along to me. This case is too big for one man to tackle. Altogether too big. Now, get this. Don't take action against that mob alone. Is that clear? It's an order, Craig.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Well, yes, sir.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Go up there, fish to your heart's content. Just keep your eyes open. When you found out what you want to know, report back to me and that's all. Well, that's an order, Craig. Oh, yes. Let me tell you what you're up against. You know Sergeant Kemper, Troop J. Hal Kemper?

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Yes, I know him well. In fact, he was.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Kemper went up there and he's in a hospital now, recovering from bullet wounds in his leg and shoulder.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

He is? Yes, Kemper.

[Sergeant Kemper]

And he's lucky to be alive. Several federal agents who went up there to find the sources of those drugs never did come back alive.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Well, then it must be a pretty big gang. And a pretty powerful one, too, I.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Should say it is. You see, Kemble went up there and got himself a job as a truck driver. The fourth haul he made, we found a parcel of cocaine secreted in a case of canned goods that he'd picked up at a legitimate warehouse for delivery to a big chain grocery whose reputation is beyond reproach.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

You mean you. You found drugs in the truck Camper was driving, sir?

[Sergeant Kemper]

That's exactly what I mean.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

What?

[Sergeant Kemper]

We've traced both ends of that shipment, Craig. The fact remains that someone hid the drugs in that shipment and somewhere along the line, another person was waiting to pick it up.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

But you found it first.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Yes, and we left it right there, Craig didn't disturb it at all. We figured that if we watched the shipment, someone would attempt to take the parcel from its hiding place.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

For what happened?

[Sergeant Kemper]

Absolutely nothing. Somehow the mob got wise to the fact that the parcel had been discovered.

[Jerry Dean]

And they dropped it like a hot potato.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Kemper was shot while making his next trip to Eagle Lake.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Shot?

[Sergeant Kemper]

Yes, shot. Because this is the fishing season. There must be a good many fishermen up that way. You won't be suspected. No one will think that you're a state trooper.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Well, that's right, sir. Only. Well, I. I can't go alone, sir. Huh.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Of course you can, Craig. You must. I don't want anybody to know you're up there if I can avoid it. And I don't want to send two men because that might arouse suspicion. So.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Oh, I wasn't thinking of another man, sir. I was thinking of. Of a boy.

[Sergeant Kemper]

A boy? Oh, come now, Craig.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

After all, a boy. Jerry Dean. But you see, sir, fishermen don't, as a rule, go off in the wilds like that alone. They go in pairs or threes or fours. Why, a lone fisherman would attract more attention than a dozen men in uniform, sir. This mob is as smart as they appear to be.

[Sergeant Kemper]

But this boy, Craig, this Jerry Dean. This is a dangerous mission, man.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

There'll be no risk taken, sir. That I promise.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Very well. After all, it is a vacation sort. But I'll tell you what I'll do. You know Ted Watkins of Troop J?

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Yes, sir. I know him very well.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Well, Watkins is riding cycle patrol up Eagle Lake way now, just in case. Just in case. Understand?

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Yes, sir.

[Sergeant Kemper]

I'll arrange for Watkins to ride past the post office at Eagle Lake every day around noon. If you need anything, or if you or the Dean boy need any word gotten to me, you can get word through him.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Well, that's fine, sir.

[Sergeant Kemper]

That way you can get in touch with me if you find it necessary.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

I'm sure it won't be necessary, sir. But it will be nice to know that contact's possible. When does this vacation start, sir?

[Sergeant Kemper]

This very minute, Corporal. I shan't hold you to any particular period. Start as soon as possible and stay as long as you wish. Or as long as you deem it necessary to stay. And if anything should happen, if any danger arises, you see that that boy gets home. Arrange that with Trooper Watkins. Is that clear?

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Perfectly, sir.

[Jerry Dean]

Very well.

[Sergeant Kemper]

And that's all. Good luck, Corporal. I know you'll crack that mob eventually. I have every confidence in you, Craig.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Thank you, sir. I'll try my best. Goodbye, sir.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Goodbye, corporal. Have some fun. But remember, you're charged with the responsibility of running that mob to earth. Every last member of it. That smuggling has got to stop.

[Commissioner]

And you turn the next corner to the right and you go two Blocks Street? Yes. Two blocks to the right, huh? And then you'll be at the corner of State and Jefferson Street. Now, you turn left on Jefferson and you'll be on Route 9. And just stay right on there until you come to a town called Mayville. There you turn right and you're on Route 33. And that takes me right into Lakeport, doesn't it? Well, I don't know about that. I don't know much about the roads beyond Mayville. But Route 33 goes up to the north country up around the lake. Thank you very much. You're very sweet. That's all right. Thank you. Goodbye. Goodbye. I'll tell my father that a state trooper told me how to find our way back to Route 33.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Wow.

[Commissioner]

Boy, is she ever nice. I'm kind of glad her father lost his way. Hi, Corporal.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Hi, Jerry, who's a girl?

[Commissioner]

She's driving through town with her father and they got off the road some way. I just told her how to get back. Yeah, I bet that's their car parked up ahead there. You see? She's just getting in.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Where are they bound for, Jerry?

[Commissioner]

Lakeport. That's on Route 33. Somewhere up north.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

She said Lakeport.

[Commissioner]

Yeah, Lakeport. Why?

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Well, nothing. Skip it.

[Jerry Dean]

Attention, all cars. All cars, be on the lookout for a Buick sedan, license 432E76. This car is believed heading north on Route 33 down for Lakeport.

[Commissioner]

Hey, Corporal, look.

[Jerry Dean]

It's your car.

[Sergeant Kemper]

You see?

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Wait a minute, Jerry. Listen.

[Jerry Dean]

Stop this car and notify the commanding officer, Troop R. Stop this car and notify the commanding officer, Troop R. That is all, Corporal.

[Commissioner]

You see, that's her car. You see the license number 432-E-76. Quick, let's go after it.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Wait. Take it easy, Jerry.

[Commissioner]

But that's her car. Can't you see? Let's go after it.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

No, Jerry, we have other work to do. We'll have to get someone else to go after that car. I'll fix that right away. Car 384 at headquarters. Car 384 to headquarters. 384 calling headquarters.

[Jerry Dean]

Car 384. Come in, 384.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

The Buick sedan, license 432-E76 is proceeding east on Market Street. It'll go to Route 33 by way of State and Jefferson street. Thence north on 33. Have a car pick it up. That is all.

[Jerry Dean]

What is your location, 384.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

I'm unable to stop the car now. Busy on another case. Send another car to pick up the Buick sedan.

[Jerry Dean]

Okay, 384 will do. Attention all cars. The Buick sedan, license 432E76, is at this moment proceeding east on Market street and will go to the corner of State and Jefferson. Pick up this car at once. Attention all cars.

[Commissioner]

Golly, Corporal, something pretty important must be up, huh? When you don't want to stop a car that you can see, and especially with a girl.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Yeah, I know, Jerry, I know. But no matter what that car is wanted for, we've got a job that's much more important. Besides, I don't want to stop that car because it's going to the same place we are. I'd like to know why, but, well, I can't afford to have the occupants see me. So.

[Commissioner]

The same place we are. You mean we're going to lay port, Corporal? Us? You and I?

[Sergeant Kemper]

Yep, yep.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

We're going to Lake port, Jerry. And.

[Commissioner]

Oh, boy, when?

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Tomorrow morning. Early. Jerry, we've got a real job on our hands this time. Now, just lean back in your seat now and take it easy. I'll tell you all about it on the way back to the substation.

[Commissioner]

Wayport. Oh, boy.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Smugglers. Jerry Smuggler.

[Commissioner]

Wow.

[Jerry Dean]

Well, there it is. That's the first episode of Jerry Dean, Boy Trooper. And there they go. Jerry Dean and his friend, Corporal Danny Craig. They're off for a big adventure. Would you like to go along on that vacation with them? Then tune to this same station tomorrow and every weeknight at this same hour. And don't forget, tell your friends to listen every day, too. Because one of these days Jerry Dean is going to tell you how you can become a junior trooper and share in the fun and excitement and the rewards that come to junior troopers. So keep listening, won't you? Yes, and keep on eating Silver cups, the bread that tastes so extra good you just can't mistake it.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Yes, sir.

[Jerry Dean]

It's so much better than ordinary bread that once mother starts serving silver cup at your house, everybody will recognize the difference. And when you start eating silver cup regularly at every meal, you'll immediately notice the different food in your extra power and pet. That's because Silver cup is jam packed full of essential vitamins and minerals. You know, our state troopers need them to keep strong and healthy and always on the alert. And you'll need them too for the important work ahead of you as a junior trooper. Yes, and you'll get them in silver cups, the bread that tastes so extra special you just can't mistake it. So for exciting times, listen to Jerry Bean, Boy Trooper and for exciting taste, ask Mother to serve delicious silver cups, the world's finest bread.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

State Police, Corporal Craig speaking.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Who?

[Corporal Dan Craig]

Jerry Dean?

[Jerry Dean]

Yes, sir.

[Corporal Dan Craig]

You bet. He'll be here tomorrow. Yes, sir.

[Jerry Dean]

At the same time.

[Sergeant Kemper]

Yes, sir.

[Jerry Dean]

Jerry Dean, Floyd Trooper. Gary Dean, boy trooper, is brought to you every day, Monday through Friday, by Silver cup, the world's finest bread. John Scott speaking. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

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[Corporal Dan Craig]

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