Podcast Summary: "Lineup 50-11-30 The Cop Killer"
Podcast Information:
- Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
- Host/Author: Harolds Old Time Radio
- Episode: Lineup 50-11-30 The Cop Killer
- Release Date: April 29, 2025
Introduction
In the episode titled "The Cop Killer," listeners are transported to the gritty environment of a police headquarters in a bustling American city. The narrative delves into the painstaking process of identifying a murderer responsible for the death of Officer Fisher. Through intense dialogues and dramatic sequences, the story highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in the absence of modern forensic technology.
Setting the Scene
The episode opens with an immersive portrayal of a police lineup session. Narrator sets the tone:
"Ladies and gentlemen, we take you now behind the scenes of a police headquarters in a great American city where under the cold, glaring lights will pass before us the innocent, the vagrant, the thief, the murderer. This is the lineup."
[00:30]
Introduction of Suspects
In the lineup, five suspects are introduced, each with distinct backgrounds and charges:
- Alex Polk - Charged with breaking and entering.
- Peter Machinsky - A narcotics suspect.
- Nicholas Garcia - Accused of disorderly conduct.
- Oscar Cook - Another narcotics suspect with prior offenses.
- Ernest Schaefer - Also involved in narcotics.
Sergeant Greb oversees the lineup, providing instructions to the audience on identification procedures:
"Each of the suspects you will see will be numbered. I'll call out a number, their name, and charge... When I ask for questions or identifications, call out the number."
[01:27]
Witness Charlie's Identification Struggles
Charlie, a key witness, is brought in to identify the culprit. However, his ability to pinpoint the murderer is hindered by fear and uncertainty:
-
Sergeant Greb encourages Charlie:
"It's all right. They won't be able to see you. If you identify one of them, they won't know who you are."
[01:08] -
Despite the reassurances, Charlie struggles to confidently identify any suspect:
"I didn't take nothing. Nothing?"
[02:52]"I should have rang the doorbell, I guess."
[02:57]
This uncertainty leads the team to broaden their investigation, emphasizing the complexity of the case.
Officer Fisher's Investigation into Francis Black
The plot thickens as Captain and Lieutenant Ben Guthrie recount the circumstances leading to Officer Fisher's death:
-
Bill, a colleague, details the failed stakeout:
"Fisher got his confidence and made a deal to buy 10,000 in heroin. Supposed to meet Black last night at 8:00 in the bar."
[06:28] -
The operation goes awry when Fisher fails to appear post-meeting, prompting a realization that they were set up:
"Must have known Fisher was a cop before Black met him in the barn."
[07:00]
Emotional Interactions with Fisher's Family
To humanize the story, Lieutenant and Captain visit Fisher's family, showcasing the emotional toll of the investigation:
-
Captain comforts Fisher's wife, Jean:
"Jean's a fine cook, too. I guess we spoil our men, don't we, Jean?"
[09:19] -
The children, particularly little Jeff, add a personal dimension:
"We can't stay long, Mom."
[09:06]
These interactions underscore the personal losses and pressures that accompany police work.
Introduction of Joseph Bulger and FBI Involvement
The investigation gains momentum with the introduction of Joseph Bulger, an FBI agent who provides crucial insights:
-
Bill introduces Bulger and his findings:
"We've had Bojer before. Are you sure this is one of them?"
[13:04] -
Charlie confirms Bulger's role in the case:
"I seen him clear. Him and two others."
[13:15]
Bulger's involvement signifies a collaborative effort to crack the case, highlighting inter-agency cooperation.
The Final Confrontation and Arrest
The tension culminates in a dramatic showdown with Shaw, the perpetrator responsible for Officer Fisher's death:
-
As the team closes in, Lieutenant coordinates the operation:
"Matt, cover the alley."
[21:48] -
The confrontation unfolds with swift action:
"Shaw came in and shot that officer."
[25:40] -
The pursuit leads to Shaw's arrest after a tense exchange, emphasizing the relentless pursuit of justice:
"Give it up."
[27:16]
Conclusion
The episode concludes with the successful apprehension of Shaw, bringing resolution to the harrowing case:
-
Sergeant Greb wraps up the lineup process:
"Each of the suspects you will see will be numbered..."
[28:38] -
Narrator provides final credits, acknowledging the cast and production team:
"The lineup, starring William Johnstone as Lt. Ben Guthrie and Wally Mayer as Sgt. Matt Grab, was written by Blake Edwards..."
[29:12]
The story not only illustrates the procedural aspects of police work but also delves deep into the emotional and psychological challenges faced by those in law enforcement.
Notable Quotes
-
Sergeant Greb on Identification Procedures:
"Each of the suspects you will see will be numbered. I'll call out a number, their name, and charge."
[01:27] -
Charlie on Identification:
"I didn't take nothing. Nothing?"
[02:52] -
Bill on the Failed Stakeout:
"Must have known Fisher was a cop before Black met him in the barn."
[07:00] -
Captain on Family and Loss:
"Jean's a good girl. Fine girl. My son was lucky."
[10:07] -
Final Confrontation:
"Give it up."
[27:16]
Key Takeaways
-
The Complexity of Identification: The episode highlights the difficulties in eyewitness identification, especially under pressure and fear.
-
Inter-Agency Cooperation: Collaboration between different law enforcement agencies is crucial in solving intricate cases.
-
Emotional Toll: The personal lives of officers and their families are deeply affected by the dangers inherent in their work.
-
Persistence in Investigation: Despite setbacks, the relentless pursuit by the police leads to the eventual apprehension of the criminal.
For those who haven't listened to the episode, "The Cop Killer" offers a gripping portrayal of police investigation, blending procedural detail with emotional narrative to deliver a compelling story reminiscent of the Golden Age of Radio.