Podcast Summary: "Under Arrest 1948-06-26 Paris Road"
Podcast Information:
- Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
- Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
- Description: Radio shows from the Golden Age of Radio. The time before television when families gathered around the radio to enjoy popular shows like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, Dragnet, and many more.
- Episode: Under Arrest 1948-06-26 Paris Road
- Release Date: April 8, 2025
Introduction
"Under Arrest" is a gripping police drama from the Golden Age of Radio, brought to life by Harold's Old Time Radio. This episode, titled "1948-06-26 Paris Road," follows Police Captain Jim Scott, portrayed by Joe DeSantis, as he confronts a daring art heist at the Blake Art Gallery. Directed by Martin Mogner, the episode masterfully blends suspense, character development, and a compelling narrative that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats.
Act 1: The Call to Action
The episode opens with Captain Jim Scott receiving a mysterious call from Lieutenant Gavin regarding an alarm malfunction at the Blake Art Gallery's exhibition of the Van Gogh painting, "Paris Road" ([00:38] Captain Jim Scott: "Captain Scott speaking."). Initially dismissive, Scott senses the urgency in Gavin's voice and decides to investigate personally to avoid potential chaos.
Notable Quote:
- Lieutenant Gavin ([00:54]): "Come alone if you don't want to cause unnecessary murder."
Act 2: The Heist Unfolds
Upon arriving at the gallery, Captain Scott is confronted by Lieutenant Gavin, who reveals a dire situation: two armed gunmen have infiltrated the gallery with plans to steal the Van Gogh masterpiece. Gavin warns that a gun is hidden in the room, posing an imminent threat to innocent lives.
Scott attempts to comply, understanding that any resistance could endanger the spectators. As the crowd disperses at six o'clock, the tension escalates when the gunmen, disguised with black hoods, enter the gallery, leading to a violent confrontation where Captain Scott is shot, and the painting is stolen.
Notable Quotes:
- Captain Jim Scott ([03:16]): "Here we go again. Why is it that every gun in town just naturally looks up my back for a target."
- Gunman ([05:23]): "You still want your head beveled, don't you, copper?"
Act 3: The Investigation Begins
Despite his injury, Captain Scott remains determined to recover the stolen painting. He contacts Lieutenant Gavin, who swiftly deactivates the alarm system. Scott's investigation leads him to suspect Ms. Janice Blake, the gallery owner, due to the manipulative nature of the heist and the involvement of Lieutenant Gavin.
At the station, Scott and his assistant, Larry, deduce that the perpetrators likely have connections to frame-making due to the type of sawdust found at the crime scene—a clue pointing to teak wood commonly used in shipbuilding and furniture making.
Notable Quote:
- Captain Jim Scott ([10:00]): "I have a hunch. I'm having some sawdust analyzed that may have dropped from his clothes."
Act 4: Narrowing the Suspects
Their investigation leads them to the True Frame Company warehouse, where they observe suspicious activity involving Rick Hanson, a foreman at the company. Upon confronting Hanson, Scott identifies him as one of the collaborators behind the theft, revealing that Hanson and Ms. Blake orchestrated the meticulous heist together despite appearing as strangers.
Notable Quotes:
- Captain Jim Scott ([13:15]): "Hanson, you are not kidding anybody. You were in on that Blake Gallery job."
- Gunman Hanson ([19:40]): "It's home, hanging above my kitchen sink. I've got a calendar hooked to it. It makes a real pretty calendar."
Act 5: Confrontation and Revelation
As the investigation progresses, Captain Scott devises a plan to bring both Hanson and Ms. Blake together to extract a confession. Utilizing strategic tactics, including notes and setting up a meeting at a local bar, Scott successfully traps both culprits. The climax unfolds when Scott confronts Ms. Blake at her apartment, uncovering her motive to reclaim the beloved painting and eliminate any threats to her possession.
Notable Quotes:
- Ms. Janice Blake ([24:27]): "You think you've got this all figured out, don't you, Captain?"
- Captain Jim Scott ([25:01]): "You really let me in on it, Larry, back at the station house when you said a couple of total strangers running a business together."
Resolution
With the culprits apprehended, Captain Scott reflects on the complexities of trust and deception within the art world. The stolen Van Gogh painting is recovered, and justice is served, highlighting Scott's unwavering dedication to his duty despite personal injury and challenging circumstances.
Notable Quote:
- Captain Jim Scott ([25:44]): "They were, but they worked together just the same."
Character Development and Themes
Throughout the episode, Captain Jim Scott embodies the archetypal steadfast and resourceful police captain, navigating through deception and danger with wit and resilience. The narrative delves into themes of trust, betrayal, and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their passions and possessions.
Conclusion
"Under Arrest 1948-06-26 Paris Road" stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of radio dramas from the Golden Age. Through its engaging plot, memorable characters, and suspenseful storytelling, the episode captivates listeners, making it a standout installment in Harold's Old Time Radio collection. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to vintage radio shows, this episode promises an immersive and thrilling listening experience.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- Lieutenant Gavin ([00:54]): "Come alone if you don't want to cause unnecessary murder."
- Captain Jim Scott ([03:16]): "Here we go again. Why is it that every gun in town just naturally looks up my back for a target."
- Gunman ([05:23]): "You still want your head beveled, don't you, copper?"
- Captain Jim Scott ([10:00]): "I have a hunch. I'm having some sawdust analyzed that may have dropped from his clothes."
- Captain Jim Scott ([13:15]): "Hanson, you are not kidding anybody. You were in on that Blake Gallery job."
- Gunman Hanson ([19:40]): "It's home, hanging above my kitchen sink. I've got a calendar hooked to it. It makes a real pretty calendar."
- Ms. Janice Blake ([24:27]): "You think you've got this all figured out, don't you, Captain?"
- Captain Jim Scott ([25:01]): "You really let me in on it, Larry, back at the station house when you said a couple of total strangers running a business together."
Disclaimer: All names of persons used in "Under Arrest" are fictitious. Any resemblance to names of actual persons, living or dead, is coincidental.