Nightwatch 54-04-12 (02) 311 Southgate

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – "Nightwatch 54-04-12 (02) 311 Southgate"

Release Date: June 10, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled "Nightwatch 54-04-12 (02) 311 Southgate," listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio, immersing themselves in the authentic sounds and voices of a real police investigation. The episode offers a gripping portrayal of law enforcement in action, focusing on a case of indecent exposure. Notably, the program maintains its commitment to realism by ensuring that all voices and sounds are genuine, without the inclusion of actors or scripted dialogues.

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Incident Overview

The episode opens with Police Recorder Don Reed in collaboration with Detective Unit 56, detailing the initiation of their night watch duties.

• [00:36] Officer Perkins: "56 to Control One reporting in service. Starting mileage 7833."

Shortly after, an urgent call is made concerning a 311 incident, identified as indecent exposure. The team swiftly responds to the location at Washington and Overland Boulevard.

• [00:49] Don Reed: "This is Don Reed. ... We'll be on that case in just a few moments."

Investigation Commences

Upon arrival, Officer Perkins and Detective Walter Roger assess the situation, identifying a male suspect who has exposed himself in a public area.

• [02:28] Don Reed: "The reason I wanted to see you is that I have a complaint here from a woman."

Chief Wm. Hildebrand introduces the scene, emphasizing the authenticity of the report:

• [01:31] Chief Wm. Hildebrand: "Night Watch. The actual on the scene report of your police force in action. There are no actors. There is no script. Every voice, every sound is authentic."

Suspect Apprehension

As the officers approach the suspect's residence, they prepare to detain him. The suspect appears calm, interacting casually with family members present at the scene.

• [05:43] Suspect: "The gentleman from Culver City."

• [06:02] Don Reed: "Isn't that funny, Sergeant? He's not even curious why we're picking him up."

Interactions and Observations

During the transport of the suspect, Officer Perkins shares insights into the potential risks associated with such cases, including the possibility of escalating violence if the suspect panics.

• [04:06] Officer Perkins: "I think what he had in mind was that in this type of a case where you've got a man exposing himself... you've got a man that is usually mentally ill."

The officers notice the suspect's normal demeanor, which contrasts with the severity of his actions.

• [06:51] Officer Perkins: "Here he is. You ready to go, fella?"

Interview with the Suspect

Once at the station, Don Reed conducts an in-depth interview with the suspect, delving into his motives and mental state.

• [09:26] Suspect: "Well, I didn't expose myself to her... I didn't intend for her to see me."

The suspect admits to the act but minimizes his criminal intent, suggesting an underlying compulsion.

• [10:15] Officer Perkins: "Urge to just stop and park all by yourself?"

• [10:21] Suspect: "Well, occasionally, yes... We all do stupid and silly things sometimes."

Family Insights

The suspect's wife is brought in for questioning, providing a contrasting perspective. She describes her husband as a devoted father and husband, unaware of any underlying issues.

• [15:07] Officer Perkins: "How do you and your husband get along?"

• [15:09] Suspect's Wife: "Perfect."

Despite her testimony, discrepancies arise regarding her husband's behavior on the night of the incident.

• [15:22] Suspect's Wife: "I haven't noticed anything different about him. He's always the same."

Conclusion and Reflections

Chief Wm. Hildebrand wraps up the investigation by highlighting the importance of community cooperation in apprehending such offenders and the need for mental health support.

• [17:32] Chief Wm. Hildebrand: "In the case heard tonight, it was apparent the suspect was in need of mental treatment."

The Chief underscores the broader implications for law enforcement and societal awareness regarding hidden compulsions and the challenges they pose.

• [20:45] Don Reed: "What he has to go through if you ever get caught. And I want to say this much that I've been treated pretty nice by all the officers since I've been here."

Final Thoughts

Chief Hildebrand emphasizes the critical role of citizens in assisting law enforcement to address and mitigate such issues effectively.

• [21:00] Chief Wm. Hildebrand: "If we succeed in bringing this message to just a few, then our efforts will be well rewarded in presenting Night Watch."

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Key Takeaways

• Realism in Storytelling: The episode stands out for its commitment to authenticity, providing listeners with an unfiltered glimpse into police procedures and investigations.

• Mental Health Considerations: The narrative sheds light on the intersection between criminal behavior and mental health, advocating for therapeutic interventions alongside legal actions.

• Community Involvement: Emphasizing the necessity of public cooperation, the program highlights how community engagement is pivotal in successful law enforcement outcomes.

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Notable Quotes

1. Chief Wm. Hildebrand at [01:31]: "Night Watch. The actual on the scene report of your police force in action. There are no actors. There is no script. Every voice, every sound is authentic."

2. Officer Perkins at [04:06]: "I think what he had in mind was that in this type of a case where you've got a man exposing himself... you've got a man that is usually mentally ill."

3. Suspect at [09:26]: "Well, I didn't expose myself to her... I didn't intend for her to see me."

4. Suspect's Wife at [15:09]: "Perfect."

5. Chief Wm. Hildebrand at [17:32]: "In the case heard tonight, it was apparent the suspect was in need of mental treatment."

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Conclusion

"Nightwatch 54-04-12 (02) 311 Southgate" offers a compelling narrative that blends procedural detail with human elements, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges faced by both law enforcement and individuals grappling with behavioral issues. Through its authentic presentation and thoughtful exploration of underlying factors, the episode serves as both an engaging story and a reflection on societal responsibilities.

Transcript

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[Campaign Representative]

For Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.

[Officer Perkins]

56 to Control One reporting in service. Starting mileage 7833. 7833. Officers Perkins and Walter Roger. 56, 6:03pm Starting night watch.

[Don Reed]

This is Don Reed. I'm a police recorder riding with this detective unit. Just reporting in service on the night watch. You're going to ride with us. Contact Lieutenant Lugo on car 5O at.

[Officer Perkins]

Washington and over regarding a 3 11. 5610 4. We're in the area now.

[Don Reed]

A 311 is indecent exposure. We'll be on that case in just a few moments. But as I started to say, you're going to ride with us tonight and follow our investigations. And just remember one thing. The people you hear are not actors. This is it. This is real. This is what happens on the Night Watch.

[Chief Wm. Hildebrand]

Night Watch. The actual on the scene report of your police force in action. There are no actors. There is no script. Every voice, every sound is authentic. The investigations are recorded as they actually occur. Night Watch is presented with the cooperation of the police department of culver City, California. W.N. hildebrand. Chief. We switch you now to car five six already on investigation in the field and your police recorder, Don Reed.

[Don Reed]

We're approaching Washington and Overland Boulevard now where we'll meet Lieutenant Lugo of the uniformed division. Straight ahead. I can see his car parked in a gas station. Lights off, waiting for us.

[Chief Wm. Hildebrand]

Here we are.

[Don Reed]

Let's get over there and see what's up. The reason I wanted to see you is that I have a complaint here from a woman.

[Chief Wm. Hildebrand]

This particular man exposed himself to her.

[Don Reed]

And I have the license number here. I've run the DMV on it. And this is the name and address of the person. I'm sure she can identify him. And I wonder if you and Walter will follow this thing up and go pick the man up.

[Officer Perkins]

Okay? Right. You got the address, sir?

[Don Reed]

Yes, it's right on this piece of paper here.

[Officer Perkins]

Okay, fine. We'll go right out there as well.

[Don Reed]

You heard the lieutenant. Assign us to this exposure case.

[Chief Wm. Hildebrand]

In plain English, this means we're going.

[Don Reed]

To pick up a suspect who evidently has exposed himself indecently in front of a woman victim on a public street. So let's get back to our car and get underway. We've been driving for better than an hour. And as the suspect in this case lives in another city some, oh, 30 miles away. A moment ago, we stopped at a local police station and picked up another one of their officers to go in with us. This is customary courtesy when you're working out of your district. It's just a matter of blocks now. But before we do, I want to lean over the front seat here for just a moment. Sergeant, I noticed that when the lieutenant assigned us to this case, he seemed a little more concerned than usual. Any particular reason?

[Officer Perkins]

Well, yes, Don. I think what he had in mind was that in this type of a case where you've got a man exposing himself to either women or children, you've got a man that is usually mentally ill. And this coupled with the fact that many serious crimes, including even murder, will start with this kind of background. Now, it doesn't have to be premeditated, but quite often the victim will scream or will fight. And as a result, the suspect, in his panic, he may injure the victim or do her great bodily harm. And even in some cases, as I said, the results will be homicide.

[Don Reed]

I see. That's why Lt. Lugo is so anxious that we pick up this person.

[Officer Perkins]

That's it. Let's see. This should be about the house along here. Wait a minute. That looks like the car out there. Yeah, this is it here. Okay, Kurt, I'm going to cover the back door. Do you want to pull in the front of the lieutenant?

[Don Reed]

Yeah. Approaching the house now, Young lady coming up to meet us at the door. The suspect is stretched out on divan listening to the radio. Young fellow, nice looking in the corner. A couple young girls playing with dolls. The police lieutenant from this local city right here is identifying us with my identification.

[Suspect]

The gentleman from Culver City.

[Officer Perkins]

Is that your fire department?

[Suspect]

Yes.

[Officer Perkins]

I'd like to take the one back to Culver City for some question regard to crime occurred in Culver.

[Don Reed]

Okay.

[Suspect]

Do you suppose I'll be able to go to work today?

[Officer Perkins]

You won't make it tonight.

[Don Reed]

Isn't that funny, Sergeant? He's not even curious why we're picking him up.

[Officer Perkins]

He knows why we're here.

[Don Reed]

Yeah, but if I were being arrested, I'd at Least ask why.

[Officer Perkins]

That's an important piece of evidence. He knows he's committed a crime, so he's not even gonna ask why.

[Don Reed]

Is the young lady here his wife?

[Officer Perkins]

No, I was just talking to her. That's his sister in law. Seems his wife works. We'll talk to her later.

[Don Reed]

What about the two youngsters over here? They belong to him?

[Officer Perkins]

Yeah, he's the father of two children.

[Don Reed]

Somehow he doesn't fit the crime. Nice looking, well dressed. Could be the young fellow that lives next door.

[Officer Perkins]

Here he is. You ready to go, fella?

[Don Reed]

Well, we have the suspect in custody. Heading back now for our car. We'll ride up in front with Sergeant Perkins. Detective Walter will sit in the back with a prisoner.

[Officer Perkins]

Appreciate very much for your. Your cooperation, your department's cooperation. Give you guys a ring on that deal. And very glad to have met you, sir.

[Don Reed]

My pleasure. Thank you, Lieutenant.

[Officer Perkins]

We can help anytime. Let us know. Okay. Good night, sir.

[Chief Wm. Hildebrand]

Good night.

[Suspect]

Carver City.

[Chief Wm. Hildebrand]

Last couple days of the picture.

[Suspect]

Well.

[Officer Perkins]

You have no idea at all.

[Don Reed]

Why don't you think a little bit.

[Officer Perkins]

About what's happened, Start giving us the truth. You know why we're down here just as well as we do. We wouldn't come down and pick you out of 3 million people in the county of Los Angeles if we didn't know what we were doing. You know that. So why don't you tell us?

[Suspect]

Well, I can well imagine. There's only one thing that I could possibly imagine, what it would be. And I can't imagine it could be that.

[Officer Perkins]

What is it that you imagine?

[Don Reed]

Well.

[Suspect]

Why don't you tell me that? If you're right, I'll tell you.

[Officer Perkins]

Well, you know why we're down here. Why don't you tell us? We've heard this done before from others too.

[Suspect]

Well, I haven't committed any crime that I know of.

[Officer Perkins]

Hey, dude, what have you done?

[Suspect]

Well, I'm kind of embarrassed about the whole thing.

[Officer Perkins]

Doesn't embarrass us any. We've talked to people before on the same subject.

[Suspect]

Well, a girl on the street corner saw me last night when I was. Do I have to say it?

[Officer Perkins]

I understand. You tell us. What were you doing?

[Suspect]

Sounds kind of silly when you say it.

[Officer Perkins]

Did you expose yourself to her?

[Suspect]

Well, I didn't expose myself to her. I think she saw me.

[Officer Perkins]

What were you doing?

[Suspect]

And I didn't intend for her to see me because I didn't see her standing there until I turned around. And as she was standing there, I guess she was waiting for a bus or something. And so I turned right away as soon as I saw that she was standing there.

[Officer Perkins]

You mean you had your private parts exposed? Yes. When the girl was standing alongside the car?

[Suspect]

Well, I suppose she was. Either she walked up or she was standing there. I didn't notice her.

[Officer Perkins]

Did you try to attract her attention to you?

[Suspect]

No, I didn't. I went around the block and I came back by to see if she, you know, was looking and trying to see whether she had noticed or not.

[Officer Perkins]

Have you ever exposed yourself in the car just for yourself?

[Suspect]

Possibly.

[Officer Perkins]

Well, do you do it when you're driving, too?

[Suspect]

I suppose maybe I have at one time or another. But, I mean, do you feel this.

[Officer Perkins]

Urge to just stop and park all by yourself?

[Suspect]

Well, occasionally, yes, I might say so. I kind of have my own views about that. And I feel I want relief. Well, that's the easiest way I know to get it. We all do stupid and silly things sometimes. Each one has her own fault.

[Officer Perkins]

When you get this urge, do you. Do you ever stop to consider the surroundings or the area in which you're in or anybody being able to see you well? Or is the urge.

[Suspect]

Well, I might say, well, naturally. I mean, to a certain extent. I don't make any bones about heading off someplace to try to get some particular spot or so on to do it. I always try.

[Teen Advocate]

Use of flavored tobacco by teens is a crisis. Tobacco companies use flavors like cotton candy, watermelon ice and cool mint to hook kids like me. They seem harmless, but they aren't. Addiction to nicotine sets us up for a lifetime of health problems. Organ legislators can do something about it. Passing Senate Bill 702A will keep flavored tobacco away from kids. But there are just a few short weeks left for lawmakers to ask. Take action to protect kids like me. @ flavorshookorgonkids.org paid for by the Campaign.

[Campaign Representative]

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[Suspect]

Don't want to see me?

[Suspect's Wife]

Naturally.

[Suspect]

I mean, you don't. You don't want anybody to see you do anything like that. I certainly never thought that I would ever be picked up for doing anything like that.

[Officer Perkins]

Against the law.

[Suspect]

I mean, it's against the law if.

[Officer Perkins]

Nobody sees you in case somebody saw you.

[Suspect]

Well, I don't.

[Officer Perkins]

But that's why we're down here to pick you up.

[Suspect]

That's right.

[Officer Perkins]

I understand that. We wonder how many cases have happened in the past in various localities that the police were not fortunate to obtain a license number or a description of the car where there are outstanding crimes have been committed. 5, 6 N. With 1, we open the booking door.

[Don Reed]

N 456.

[Chief Wm. Hildebrand]

You are listening to Night Watch and following the activities of a detective unit on their tour of duties. The people you hear are not actors and every voice and every sound is real. The investigations are recorded as they actually occur. We will give you the final results of tonight's case at the conclusion of the Night Watch. Now we switch you back to police headquarters and police recorder Don Reed.

[Don Reed]

We've been here at headquarters for over an hour. The prisoner has been booked and placed in the cell. The suspect's wife has been called to the station. Sergeant Perkins and Detective Walter are in the office now discussing the case with her. Let's go on in. Sitting at the desk. Small in stature, early 20s, modestly dressed, attractive, sort of a bewildered expression on her face.

[Suspect's Wife]

He does park the car and then he goes with these fellows that he shares a ride with. Where did this occur?

[Officer Perkins]

What?

[Suspect's Wife]

Where did this occur?

[Officer Perkins]

Here in Culver City.

[Suspect's Wife]

I mean, he never. He's not even in this vicinity.

[Officer Perkins]

Doesn't he ever come up in this area?

[Suspect's Wife]

Well, no, he doesn't. I mean, unless he comes after me.

[Officer Perkins]

I see.

[Suspect's Wife]

And then I'm never at work that late. This is the reason we're late tonight is because I was trying to get information on him tonight and.

[Officer Perkins]

What time did he pick up last night?

[Suspect's Wife]

About was about 6:30.

[Officer Perkins]

Did you notice anything unusual about him last night?

[Suspect's Wife]

No.

[Officer Perkins]

Was he at all nervous or anything? No. Well, he was involved in an incident last night prior to the time that you. That he picked you up.

[Suspect's Wife]

I can't. I just can't imagine that.

[Officer Perkins]

How long you been married?

[Suspect's Wife]

Four years.

[Officer Perkins]

Four years. Have children?

[Suspect's Wife]

Yes, I have two, and I'm expecting another one.

[Officer Perkins]

May I ask you a personal question?

[Suspect's Wife]

Certainly.

[Officer Perkins]

How do you and your husband get along?

[Suspect's Wife]

Perfect.

[Officer Perkins]

No. No disharmony or trouble?

[Suspect's Wife]

No, We've always gotten along perfect with these children or grownups or what?

[Officer Perkins]

These were adults.

[Suspect's Wife]

I'm just shocked. I mean, we have two children. I guess you saw him when you picked them up? My sister said they were Crying. But, I mean, I haven't noticed anything different about him. I mean, he's always the same. He's very attentive to the children and myself. And he's. Well, he's been a good husband, you know, and a father. I mean, he's. I've never deprived him of anything and I can't imagine anything like this. When could I see him or talk to him?

[Officer Perkins]

Well, it'd be better if you wait until Monday. Told you either that you want to get a liar.

[Suspect's Wife]

Can't afford one.

[Officer Perkins]

Well, I don't think you absolutely need one until we finish the investigation. Then you can see where you stand.

[Don Reed]

And if you do that, you need.

[Officer Perkins]

A lawyer you can hire yourself or if necessary, you can continue service as a public defender.

[Suspect's Wife]

So he'll be held here?

[Officer Perkins]

He'll be held here. If you want to contact the department Monday, I will have more information regarding it. Okay. Good night. Is Detective in his office? Okay. Wait a minute. Here he is now. Never mind. Lieutenant, Walter and I have been talking to this fellow and he admits the accusations of the case. He appears to be a fairly intelligent man and normal in all appearance. But talking to him while you can tell he's got quite a psychiatric problem there, that something should be done on it. However, it's about ready to make out the reports on him and wanted to talk to you to see what you recommended.

[Chief Wm. Hildebrand]

Well, Perk, you've checked into his background.

[Don Reed]

And if he has a problem, I would suggest that you mention that in your reports to the district attorney and possibly it may lead to giving him some help in his particular case. Well, he is perfectly willing to get.

[Officer Perkins]

The help he wants. The help?

[Chief Wm. Hildebrand]

He has no prior criminal record, but.

[Officer Perkins]

Talking to him in his background, while you can see, he has this problem that has existed for some time.

[Don Reed]

Excuse me, Lieutenant. While you're making out these reports, I'd.

[Officer Perkins]

Like to go over for a moment.

[Don Reed]

And talk with the prisoner about some of the points you've discussed here just now. Sorry. With you, surely. Go right ahead. Fine. Thanks. You. You know, of course, that all your statements have been recorded for police testimony as well as for the radio program Night Watch. And I like to have your permission to use this entire case for broadcast purposes, if that's all right with you.

[Suspect]

Okay.

[Don Reed]

Now that you're alone here in the cell, I'd like to know how you really feel about this thing. I don't want to discuss the possibility of mental illness or that you're a family man, wife, children. However, I noticed in the car you stated that you felt that you had not committed a crime. I think now that you realize that you have. But somewhere, possibly, there are other people suffering from this same compulsion. So if you had a. You had a chance to speak of your experience, what would you say to them? What would you tell them?

[Suspect]

All I have to say is that if there's anyone this happens to strike anyone that might be listening to it, just if you can take anybody's word for it, take mine. It isn't any of it worth it. It just isn't worthwhile. No matter what the crime may be today in that line. And no matter what satisfaction a person might get out of certainly isn't worth. It isn't worth an ounce of what you have to go through if you ever get caught. And I want to say this much that I've been treated pretty nice by all the officers since I've been here. But, boy, when they come into your house and you wait and go to work, they tell you, come on, let's go. Don't even take a belt with you because you'll take it away. That right there is enough proof that it isn't worthwhile.

[Don Reed]

Okay. Good night.

[Chief Wm. Hildebrand]

You have been listening to actual investigations as recorded From Detective Unit 56 on the night Watch. And now back to police headquarters and Chief Wm. Hildebrand. Tonight's case involving the indecent exposure brings to mind that these suspects remain at large for long periods because the victims either feel embarrassment and fail to report the incident or. Or provide the police with little or no description. In that event, your law enforcement officers are powerless to apprehend them. We must depend on the citizen and their cooperation to control this problem. In the case heard tonight, it was apparent the suspect was in need of mental treatment. This fact was included in the officer's report and the court directed the prisoner be given treatment as part of his sentence. Consequently, when this man is released, he'll be ready to take his place in normal society. It is my honest opinion that the average citizen does not realize the real problems facing the law enforcement officer today or the dangers they encounter to maintain public security. That's why we are bringing you the facts as they actually happen. If we succeed in bringing this message to just a few, then our efforts will be well rewarded in presenting Night Watch. Thank you. Chief Hildebrand. You have just heard on the scene reports of your police force in action. Every voice, every sound has been real. Night Watch, brought to you through the cooperation of your police department of Culver City, California, is produced by Sterling Tracy and Jim Hedlock, with technical advice by sergeant Ron Perkins and described in the Field by Police Recorder Don Reed.

[Teen Advocate]

Use of flavored tobacco by teens is a crisis. Tobacco companies use flavors like cotton candy, watermelon ice and cool mint to hook kids like me. They seem harmless, but they aren't. Addiction to nicotine sets us up for a lifetime of health problems. Oregon legislators can do something about it. Passing Senate Bill 702A will keep flavored tobacco away from kids. But there are just a few short weeks left for lawmakers to act. Take action to protect kids like me@ flavorshookorgankids.org paid for by the Campaign for.

[Campaign Representative]

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