Dragnet: The Big .38 (EP4556)

Summary

Summary of "Dragnet: The Big .38" (EP4556) – The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio

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Introduction

In this episode of The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio, host Adam Graham delves into the classic police procedural drama, Dragnet: The Big .38. Originally released on November 23, 2024, this episode showcases the meticulous investigative work of Sergeant Friday and his partner, Ben Romero, as they unravel a string of armed robberies culminating in a murder spree. Through authentic storytelling and insightful commentary, Graham brings to life the intricacies of old-time radio detective fiction, highlighting the procedural methods that defined the genre.

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Episode Overview

"Dragnet: The Big .38" presents a gripping narrative set in Los Angeles, where Sergeant Friday and Detective Romero are tasked with apprehending a tall, well-dressed armed robber responsible for seven recent holdups. The episode meticulously follows the detectives' step-by-step investigation, emphasizing the importance of procedure, evidence, and collaboration with the community.

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Plot Synopsis

The Crime Scene and Initial Investigation

The episode opens on August 17th, a hot Friday evening in Los Angeles. Sergeant Friday and his partner, Ben Romero, respond to a robbery at the Church of St. Damian. Upon arrival, they speak with Mrs. Ernestine Matthews, the organist, whose husband, Burt Matthews, has been fatally shot during the holdup.

Sergeant Friday (05:27): "Dear God, tell me the truth. Which hospital is he in?"

As they process the scene, Morris Copley, portraying Sergeant Friday, delivers a detailed report of the incident. Burt Matthews was shot three times through the chest when he hesitated to comply with the holdup man's demands. The suspect fled in a taxi cab, leaving behind a critical witness, Jess Tallman.

Gathering Evidence and Identifying the Suspect

Friday and Romero interview Tallman, who provides a description of the robber: a tall, heavy-built man with dark-colored eyes, nervous demeanor, and armed with a large .38 caliber Colt revolver. The detectives compile this information, cross-referencing it with existing reports of previous armed robberies.

Morris Copley as Friday (06:48): "It was like a big hurricane. One minute I was talking to Burt, the next minute he was dead. It's kind of hard to take, you know."

The team utilizes latent fingerprint analysis, ballistics comparison, and vehicle tracking to narrow down the suspect list. They discover a possible link to a past case involving Harry Solomon, another victim who was killed with the same caliber weapon.

Sergeant Friday (10:20): "Harry Solomon was a taxicab driver the night of February 26th. Somebody saw him pick up a fare at Sunset in Highland about 10:30 PM—that's the last time he was seen alive."

Connecting the Dots: Linking Cases

The detectives identify that both Solomon and Matthews were victims of the same modus operandi, suggesting a serial offender. Through persistence, they obtain photographs of cab drivers over six feet tall employed by local taxi companies, hoping to find a match.

Sergeant Friday (15:35): "What do you think? ... Alright, Copley, get him up. Come on up, Joe."

After extensive canvassing and cross-referencing, they focus on Ralph Edward Tobin, a cab driver whose profile matches the suspect. Ballistics confirm that the .38 revolver found in Tobin's possession was used in Solomon's murder.

The Confrontation and Capture

Further investigation reveals Tobin's connection to Morris Copley, leading to a tense confrontation at Copley's residence. Tobin admits his involvement and implicates Copley as the mastermind behind the robberies and murders.

Sergeant Friday (21:43): "We have identified you as the one responsible for the killings of Harry Solomon and Burt Matthews."

In a climactic showdown, the detectives apprehend both Tobin and Copley, securing the case through diligent police work and community cooperation.

Sergeant Friday (28:26): "Morris John Copley and Ralph Edward Tobin were tried and convicted of murder in the first degree, two counts. They were both sentenced to be executed in the lethal gas chamber of the State Penitentiary, San Quentin, California."

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Key Characters

• Sergeant Friday (Morris Copley): The methodical and dedicated lead detective orchestrating the investigation.

• Detective Ben Romero: Friday's loyal partner, assisting in evidence gathering and suspect interrogation.

• Ralph Edward Tobin: The identified cab driver and primary suspect, whose actions drive the narrative toward the investigation’s resolution.

• Mrs. Ernestine Matthews: The grieving widow of Burt Matthews, providing crucial information about the crime.

• Jess Tallman: The sole witness to the robbery, whose testimony aids in constructing the suspect's profile.

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Investigative Techniques Highlighted

The episode underscores several investigative methods fundamental to police work:

1. Evidence Collection: Careful gathering of physical evidence such as fingerprints and ballistics.

2. Witness Testimony: Leveraging statements from eyewitnesses to build a suspect profile.

3. Community Collaboration: Engaging with the public and utilizing local resources, such as taxi company records, to track the suspect.

4. Cross-Referencing Cases: Identifying patterns across multiple incidents to link crimes and suspect behavior.

5. Undercover Operations: Conducting stakeouts and surveillance to monitor suspect activities.

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Host Commentary and Insights

Adam Graham interjects thoughtful analysis throughout the episode, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the themes and narrative techniques employed in old-time radio detective dramas.

Adam Graham (28:05): "Men will have this expectation of themselves that they should take some heroic measures when dealing with someone with a gun. And doubtless, on top of that general expectation, this guy was probably dealing with what we call survivor's guilt."

Graham highlights the realistic portrayal of law enforcement’s cautious approach to handling armed suspects, emphasizing that not all individuals would react heroically in life-threatening situations.

Adam Graham (29:03): "I like the line where Friday reassured the surviving clerk who was concerned he should have been braver. ... this reflects the preference of law enforcement in general on unarmed citizens dealing with dangerous individuals."

Additionally, he contrasts this episode with others in the lineup, noting the role of community and neighbors in aiding law enforcement, portraying them as both a "blessing to the law-abiding" and a "curse to the criminals."

Adam Graham (29:23): "... a criminal is captured in part because the police had a neighbor who knew all of his business. This forms the idea that neighbors and community are a blessing to the law-abiding, but a curse to the criminals."

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Themes and Reflections

"Dragnet: The Big .38" explores themes of justice, community involvement, and the procedural tenacity required to solve complex cases. The episode illustrates the balance between empathetic leadership and the uncompromising pursuit of criminals, a hallmark of the Dragnet series.

The host's commentary sheds light on the psychological aspects of law enforcement, particularly the internal struggles detectives face when confronted with tragedy and the expectations placed upon them to act decisively.

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Conclusion

Dragnet: The Big .38 serves as a quintessential example of old-time radio's dedication to realistic and methodical detective stories. Through Sergeant Friday's relentless investigation, listeners are immersed in a world where every clue is pivotal, and every decision can lead to justice. Adam Graham’s insightful commentary enhances the listening experience, bridging the gap between past and present detective narratives.

This episode not only entertains but also educates listeners on the foundational practices of police work, emphasizing the enduring relevance of procedural accuracy and community cooperation in solving crimes. As part of the fifteenth season, it continues The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio's mission to preserve and celebrate the rich legacy of radio detective fiction.

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Notable Quotes:

• Sergeant Friday (05:27): "Dear God, tell me the truth. Which hospital is he in?"

• Morris Copley as Friday (06:48): "It was like a big hurricane. One minute I was talking to Burt, the next minute he was dead. It's kind of hard to take, you know."

• Sergeant Friday (10:20): "Harry Solomon was a taxicab driver the night of February 26th. Somebody saw him pick up a fare at Sunset in Highland about 10:30 PM—that's the last time he was seen alive."

• Sergeant Friday (15:35): "What do you think? ... Alright, Copley, get him up. Come on up, Joe."

• Sergeant Friday (21:43): "We have identified you as the one responsible for the killings of Harry Solomon and Burt Matthews."

• Sergeant Friday (28:26): "Morris John Copley and Ralph Edward Tobin were tried and convicted of murder in the first degree, two counts. They were both sentenced to be executed in the lethal gas chamber of the State Penitentiary, San Quentin, California."

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This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of Dragnet: The Big .38, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the episode's plot, characters, investigative methods, and thematic significance, enriched by Adam Graham's insightful commentary.

Transcript

[Adam Graham]

How do you feel when you switch to GEICO and save on your car insurance? It's like going to work on one Thursday morning and thinking to yourself just one more day until Friday. But then somebody in the elevator says happy Fri. Yay. Then you check your phone quickly and discover today is actually Friday. So yes, Happy Friday, random stranger in the elevator. Happy Friday indeed. Yep, switching and saving with Geico feels just like that. Get more with Geico coming up this week on the Old Time Radio Snack Wagon.

[Jack Webb]

Well, boy. Yes, Mr. Finley. Where are you boy? What about my house? Well, I'll tell you Mr. Finley, where's your word? You said you'd be over with a down payment. What are you made of, boy? Rock, maple or pint? Something has come up, Mr. Finley. I got 15 people after this house.

[Adam Graham]

Listen to the Old Time radio snack wagon, snackwagon.net or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Morris Copley]

SA.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome to the Great detectives of Old Time Radio from Boise, Idaho. This is your host, Adam Graham. In a moment we're going to get into this week's episode of Dragnet. I do want to encourage you if you enjoy the podcast, to follow us using your favorite podcast software. Today's program is brought to you in part by the financial support of our listeners. You can support the show on a one time basis by mailing a donation to Adam Graham, pill box 15913. That's P.O. box 15913, Boise, ID 83715. You can also become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month. And we want to go ahead and welcome our latest Patreon supporter. Thank you to Angelina supporting the podcast at the detective Sergeant level of $7.14 or more per month. And I also want to thank Steve for upgrading his membership from the shamus level to the detective Sergeant level. Again, thank you so much for your support. Well, now it is time from October 5, 1950 for the Plague 38.

[Jack Webb]

The story you are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent. You're a detective sergeant. You're assigned to robbery detail. A store clerk has been murdered, shot to death in a row robbery. The holdup man is described as tall, well dressed. He escapes in a taxi cab. Your job. Get him Dragnet. The documented drama of an actual crime. 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.

[Morris Copley]

It was Friday, August 17th. It was hot in Los Angeles. We were working the night. Watch out. A robbery detail. My partner is Ben Romero. The boss is Captain Walker. My name's Friday, it was 8:35pm when we got to the Church of St Damian. The vestibule.

[Jack Webb]

That must be her playing the organ.

[Morris Copley]

Yeah. I don't see any stairs. I wonder how you get up there to the loft.

[Jack Webb]

Looks like that might be the sexton over there.

[Morris Copley]

Well, let's ask. Excuse me, sir.

[Jack Webb]

Yeah?

[Morris Copley]

We're looking for an Ernestine Matthews. Understands she's the organist here at the church.

[Jack Webb]

That's her playing up there now. Running over a few pieces for Sunday. Could you tell us how to get up to the choir, Lobster? Surely. Through that door over there. Follow the stairway. Straight up. Can't miss.

[Morris Copley]

Thank you.

[Jack Webb]

Sure has been a long time. Yeah.

[Morris Copley]

What's that?

[Jack Webb]

Climbing stairs to a choir Law. Sang a lot in church when I was a kid. Boy soprano.

[Morris Copley]

All right.

[Jack Webb]

They finally threw me out. Boys change. Yes? Did you want something?

[Morris Copley]

Are you Mrs. Ernestine Matthews? Yes.

[Jack Webb]

Did you come about the new choir books? No, ma'am. Police officers. Oh. Can I help you?

[Morris Copley]

It's about your husband, Ms. Matthews.

[Jack Webb]

Bert. What about him? Has Burt done something? He was hurt, ma'am. I don't understand. Burt's working at store. What do you mean he was hurt? There was a holdup. Dear God. My husband. Was he hurt bad?

[Morris Copley]

Yes, ma'am.

[Jack Webb]

Where is he? I've got to go to him. Is he in pain?

[Morris Copley]

No, ma'am.

[Jack Webb]

What are you trying to say? Dear God, tell me the truth. Which hospital is he in?

[Morris Copley]

They took him to George's Street. They helped him all they could.

[Jack Webb]

You're not trying to tell Mert's dead? Not trying to tell me that, are you?

[Morris Copley]

I'm sorry, ma'am. In the past 16 days, seven armed robberies had been committed, apparently by the same man. The suspect was described by victims as tall, heavily built and very nervous. He was armed. It's cold logic that every suspect who's armed in the commission of a robbery is a potential killer. It's a fact that's been proved a hundred times over. The man we were after had proven it again. We'd used every means at our disposal to identify him. Through the stats Office, the Record Bureau, latent fingerprints. Through informants and witnesses, we'd gotten out an APB on him containing his description and his method of operation. We'd maintained stakeouts. We hadn't reached him in time. Early that evening, a downtown grocery store had been held up. One of the clerks, 31 year old Burt Matthews, failed to empty the cash register quickly enough and the bandit shot him three times through the chest. He died off almost instantly and the holdup man escaped. There was only one witness, another clerk who had been on duty in the store with Matthews at the time of the holdup. His name was Jess Tallman. He was brought to the City hall where we questioned him further.

[Jack Webb]

Did you see Burt's wife? Does she know? Yeah, we dropped off at the church on the way and drove her to her sister's place. Still can't get it through my head. One minute I was talking to Burt, the next minute he was dead. It's kind of hard to take, you know.

[Morris Copley]

I'd like to go over that description of the holdup man. You were pretty upset out there at the store. Do you feel up to it now?

[Jack Webb]

Yeah, I'm okay.

[Morris Copley]

All right, now you just take it easy. Tell us everything you remember and take all the time you need.

[Jack Webb]

Well, I know he was a big guy. Over six foot anyway. I'm sure of that. He had a good build, too. Wasn't skinny. How about his face, Jess? Did you get a good look at it? Yeah, I did. It was thin and he kept working it around, you know, twitching like. Guy was plenty nervous. Can you tell us anything else about him? He was young, about 21, I'd say. Had dark color eyes, that's about all, I'd swear to sergeant. He had a hat on. I know that.

[Morris Copley]

How about the rest of his clothing?

[Jack Webb]

I wouldn't be sure about it. Could have been a gray coat, blue coat, I don't know. I wouldn't want to give you a bump. Steer.

[Morris Copley]

Did you get a look at the gun?

[Jack Webb]

I couldn't miss that. It was a big one. It wasn't shiny. It was kind of dark blue color. I can see the guy now walking in the store and pointing it at Bert.

[Morris Copley]

What time was that again, Jess? When the bandit showed up, just about 7:30.

[Jack Webb]

Burt was behind the counter. I was in the back stacking the shelves. A guy just walked in. Point of the gun said, give me the dough. I heard him say that. Bert was kind of surprised. He just stood there for a minute and the guy said, hurry up, give me the dough. And Bert said, okay, you can have everything. And he reached to get the dough from the cash register. That's when the guy did it. He hit Burt right in the chest.

[Morris Copley]

What happened then?

[Jack Webb]

Bert moaned a little and Fell down on the floor. I got so mad, I started running for the guy. But he swung around at me with a gun and said, stay where you are. Yeah, I didn't want to get killed. I stopped. You can't blame me for that, can you? Did you follow the man when he left? Well, you see, he backed out of the store, and when he got to the sidewalk, he jammed the gun in his pocket and ran down the street. I ran out after him, saw him jump in a taxi cab and take off.

[Morris Copley]

Did you get the cab's number?

[Jack Webb]

He was too far away for that. At least halfway down the block. I know. Somebody else must have been driving it, though.

[Morris Copley]

How do you know that?

[Jack Webb]

The cab was already moving when the holdup guy jumped in. He got in the front seat. How do you know it was the front seat and not the back? The way those cab doors open. You know, front doors swing out to the left, back ones swing out to the right. That ties in. Joe used the same MO on those holdups last week.

[Morris Copley]

Yeah. You got anything else to add, Jess? Anything you think we ought to know?

[Jack Webb]

It's about the size of it. Sergeant. You don't think I'm yellow, do you?

[Morris Copley]

Well, how do you mean?

[Jack Webb]

I mean, because I stopped when he pointed the gun at me. Guess I should have grabbed him, but that gun looked as big as a cannon. Let's face it, I'm not that much of a hero.

[Morris Copley]

I'll put in with you, Jess. Neither am I. Along with a team of men from Homicide detail, we continued our investigation of the holdup and killing. Ballistics reported that the slugs taken from the body of Burt Matthews had possibly been fired from a.38 caliber Colt revolver. The slugs were in good condition for identification. All the possible suspects picked from the mug books by the victims had been checked out. All of them had been cleared. Fingerprints left by the bandit at the scene of his latest crime were checked out. No make. We tried to check the taxi cab used in the escape. We got nowhere. The morning after the Matthews killing, we got a call from Sheriff's Homicide. We went across the street and checked with Inspector Bowers.

[Jack Webb]

Either one of you remember that case about six months ago, the Harry Solomon killing? Oh, yeah, Inspector. It's pretty vague right now. Your men handled it. A connie case? Yeah. Let me lay it out for you. It's just possible it might tie in with that killing you fellas had last night.

[Morris Copley]

And what's the angle?

[Jack Webb]

Harry Solomon was a taxicab driver the night of February 26th. Somebody saw him Pick up a fair at Sunset in Highland about 10:30pm that's the last time he was seen alive.

[Morris Copley]

Yeah, I think I remember.

[Jack Webb]

The next morning, we found Solomon's body in a ditch out in the valley. 2.38slugs in his head. Found his cab a few yards up the road, abandoned. Killer used a.38. Same kind of gun used on last night's job. Here's something else that ties in. Yes, A description of the passenger salon picked up at Sunset and Highland the night he was murdered. The last ferry ever handled. Mm.

[Morris Copley]

White, male American, over 6ft tall, heavy build, age 20, 21. Dark eyes. Had a dark suit on and a hat.

[Jack Webb]

Matches up all the way down the line.

[Morris Copley]

You had a robbery motive figured on the Solomon killing, didn't you?

[Jack Webb]

That's right. Except for a five dollar bill hidden in his wallet, Solomon didn't have a penny of his receipts for the night. Might have been another reason behind the killing. Besides that.

[Morris Copley]

Yeah.

[Jack Webb]

It's just barely possible Solomon might have known the holdup man, the guy who killed him.

[Morris Copley]

How do you figure?

[Jack Webb]

Solomon had been a cabby for 14 years before he was murdered. From this holdup man's M.O. using cabs for a getaway car, it's possible he might have been a cab driver at some time or other. You mean if the Kelly got in the cab and thought Solomon Solomon recognized him, was suspicious? That's right. Could have been reason enough for him to kill Solomon. I know there's a lot of coulds and ifs and maybes in it, but I thought you might be interested.

[Morris Copley]

Well, we'll check it out first thing. How are your men coming on the Solomon case?

[Jack Webb]

Progress is pretty slow. Well, we'll keep you posted on anything new. Fine. If we can help, let me know. Right.

[Morris Copley]

Bye. Well, two sets of.38 slags.

[Jack Webb]

What do you think?

[Morris Copley]

Let's ask the crime lab. We put in a request to Russ Camp and ballistics to check the.38 slugs found in taxi driver Solomon's body against those found in the body of grocery clerk Burt Matthews. Then we contacted the special agent at the taxicab company. We asked him for pictures of all their drivers employed by the company during the past year who were 6ft in height or over. He told us that they'd have a file ready for us the following morning. We drove back to the office and checked in with Russ Camp at the crime lab. He was examining the.38 slugs under the comparison line.

[Jack Webb]

Just a few more minutes, fellas. Have a chair. Okay? All right. Not much Luck so far? Well, no. Well, that's it.

[Morris Copley]

Yeah.

[Jack Webb]

No make. These slugs come from two different guns.

[Morris Copley]

That night, two more armed robberies were committed. One at a liquor store, the other at a cafe. In both cases, the holdup man escaped in a taxi cab. The description of the man who robbed the liquor store matched that of the bandit who shot and killed Burt Matthews. The big switch came when we checked the cafe holdup there. The victims described the suspect as short and fat with dark blond hair. He had a deep scar on his chin. During the robbery, this suspect had become so nervous that he dropped his gun. But he'd succeeded in getting outside and escaping in a taxicab before it could be apprehended. The gun was taken back to latent fingerprints and checked. It was clean. Russ Camp checked it through ballistics.

[Jack Webb]

Some days are like this, fellas. What do you mean? Metcalf driver Solomon was shot with a.38.

[Morris Copley]

Yeah.

[Jack Webb]

Burt Matthews was shot with a.38. A different one, though. This gun the band had dropped tonight. It's a.38, too. Yeah, we know that.

[Morris Copley]

What are you getting at?

[Jack Webb]

It doesn't match either case.

[Morris Copley]

The next morning, we started working one of the few leads we had left. We drove down to the taxicab company and collected the pictures of all the drivers that they employed during the past year who were 6ft in height or over. There were 87 of them. We started checking them out. It's what the working detective calls legwork. It's slow and it's tedious, and you're not sure it's going to amount to anything, even by the time you finish. Two nights later, the taxicab bandit hit again. His first repeater, a restaurant in South Figueroa. He'd robbed the same place less than three weeks before. Ben and I interviewed the manager, a Mr. Cavallo.

[Jack Webb]

Telling you, Sergeant, I can't take any more of it. Twice in one month. Yes, sir. Could we talk back there? In one of the bullets? Oh, yeah. Come on.

[Morris Copley]

You got a good look at the man, did you, Mr. Cavallo?

[Jack Webb]

Two feet from him. Memorize his face from the first time. No joke, you know. So I have no time for the customers. I'm too busy opening the cash box for that thief. Hey, Sit down. Thanks.

[Morris Copley]

Well? And you're positive it's the same man who robbed you before? There's no question there, huh? None.

[Jack Webb]

I'm positive. And he used the same MO Too? Yeah, sure. MO what's that? Excuse me. How many used the same approach, the same method of Operation. Everything was the same. The man, the gun, the taxi cab, everything.

[Morris Copley]

You didn't get the number of the cab?

[Jack Webb]

I looked for it. I didn't see any. Must cover it up some way.

[Morris Copley]

Mm. We've got some pictures here, Mr. Favalo. I'd like to have you look at them. Just tell us if you recognize any of them.

[Jack Webb]

I won't do any good. Hmm. I already did that. They showed me pictures of last time. This is a different lot, sir. Oh, all right. Quite a few of them, huh?

[Morris Copley]

Like to have you check each one of them carefully, if you would. Just take your time.

[Jack Webb]

Yeah. We can't sit here without coffee, Natalie.

[Morris Copley]

Well, I wouldn't.

[Jack Webb]

Natalie, I don't care for anybody. Yeah, don't be you silly. You can't work without eating. Natalie. Coffee, three cups. And now where do I start? Well, these right here, if you just.

[Morris Copley]

Check these over, please.

[Jack Webb]

Uh huh. No, not him. Uh. Oh, not him either.

[Morris Copley]

Oh, thank you.

[Jack Webb]

Thank him.

[Morris Copley]

Oh, it's hot.

[Jack Webb]

No, not that one. No. Is that all?

[Morris Copley]

No, I have some more here. Oh.

[Jack Webb]

Hey, that's an ugly looking guy, huh? Look at that scar. They look familiar? No. Better check with the skipper when we finished here.

[Morris Copley]

Yeah, it's been a couple hours, ain't it?

[Jack Webb]

That allows you no good thief, sir. Right here. This one. That's the guy. You sure? I opened my cash box twice for him. I know his face in a million.

[Morris Copley]

Morris Copley. Age 21. Description matches. Let's go, Ben.

[Jack Webb]

Thanks. Mr. Kalala. It's only 40 minutes since the robbery's. Probably not even home yet. What can you do?

[Morris Copley]

We'll wait up. 10:30pm we parked down the street from 527 Dayton Avenue. A two story, white stucco apartment house. We checked the names on the mailboxes. Morris Copley's wasn't on any of them. We rang for the manager.

[Jack Webb]

Copley. Morris Copley. No, he doesn't live here. Never heard of him. I wonder if you'd take a look at this, ma'am. Hmm?

[Morris Copley]

This is a picture. Ma'am. You ever seen this man before?

[Jack Webb]

Let me get over here in the light. Let me see now. He doesn't live here and you've never seen him before? No, I didn't say that. I just said he doesn't live here. You have seen him before? I believe I might have, yes. Matter of fact, I'm sure of it. It's a friend of Mr. Tobin's. Apartment 5. Comes to visit Mr. Tobin every now and then.

[Morris Copley]

Is this Mr. Tobin in now, Ma'am? We'd like to talk to him.

[Jack Webb]

No, I'm afraid not. He works nice, never comes home for 2am now he's a cab driver. You are listening to Dragnet authentic stories of your police force in action.

[Morris Copley]

10:45Pm in the presence of the manager, we made a search of the apartment registered in the name of Ralph Tobin, the man who was supposed to be a friend of the suspect, Morris Copley. We found nothing that would tie either of them up with the robberies and the killings. Before the manager returned to her apartment, we instructed her to say nothing about our being there in case Tobin or Copley returned. We called the office and told them we'd received an identification on Morris Copeland. They checked them both through R and I. Neither had any criminal record. They got on an APB on Copley. We waited, midnight came, nothing happened. 1am 1:30. Still no sign of either man. 145.

[Jack Webb]

Somebody's coming running back.

[Morris Copley]

You open kitchen door?

[Jack Webb]

Maury, you back already?

[Morris Copley]

Hold it right there, mister. Police officers.

[Jack Webb]

Oh, Fanny. Who are you? Is this a stick up?

[Morris Copley]

Police officers.

[Jack Webb]

Explain, Joe. What's it all about? What do you want?

[Morris Copley]

You Ralph Tobin?

[Jack Webb]

That's right. This is my apartment.

[Morris Copley]

You know a Morris Copley?

[Jack Webb]

Copley? Yeah, I know him. You're looking for him? He's not here. We know that. Where is he? I wish I knew. I'm looking for him, too. He owes me money.

[Morris Copley]

Copley's a pretty steady visitor here. Is that right?

[Jack Webb]

He was till I lent him that $65. Haven't seen him since he took off. When was that? When? About two weeks ago? Yeah, just about. Look, you mind if I sit down? I'm a little nervous.

[Morris Copley]

Go ahead.

[Jack Webb]

Kind of upsets you, you know. Why are you looking for Maury?

[Morris Copley]

I'd like to have you repeat what you said when you came in that door.

[Jack Webb]

What I said? I asked who you were, didn't I?

[Morris Copley]

No, I mean before that.

[Jack Webb]

Say, I don't think I know what you're getting at, Officer.

[Morris Copley]

You said, maury, you're back already. Isn't that what you said?

[Jack Webb]

Yeah, I guess I did. I guess I thought Mory came back to pay me the 65 he borrowed. You didn't make it sound like that, Tobin. I got the idea you were expecting. Expecting him? I haven't seen Maury in two weeks, maybe three. Took me for $65.

[Morris Copley]

All right, that's enough small talk, mister. Now, Copley's in deep. You're gonna match him if we don't get a straight story.

[Jack Webb]

Some cans of beer in the refrigerator. Let's have one around, huh?

[Morris Copley]

Skip the beer. Where's Copley?

[Jack Webb]

I'll swear in the Bible if you want me to. I don't know. Look, if Maury pull anything heavy, I'm not in on it.

[Morris Copley]

Ben, you want to check with the manager? Ask her when's the last time she saw Copley here.

[Jack Webb]

Yeah, right now. Wait a minute, Officer. I want to cooperate. Maury's in deep. That's his fault, not mine. That's right, isn't it? That's right. Now, where is he? I don't know. That's the truth. I'll tell you something else. I wasn't squaring. I saw maury early tonight, 6:00. Came here and borrowed another five from me.

[Morris Copley]

But you don't know where he is now?

[Jack Webb]

No. Said sure. Like a can of beer? If you don't mind.

[Morris Copley]

Sit still. I'll get it for you.

[Jack Webb]

You sure you won't have one?

[Morris Copley]

No, not me.

[Jack Webb]

No, thanks. I don't want any.

[Morris Copley]

There you go.

[Jack Webb]

Good cold beer. I like it when I get nervous. It always calms me down.

[Morris Copley]

Say, Tobin.

[Jack Webb]

Yeah? I'm sorry.

[Morris Copley]

You haven't taken your hat off.

[Jack Webb]

No, I was nervous. I guess I forgot there. Your hair always been dark blonde? Since I was a kid, yeah. Why?

[Morris Copley]

How about that scar on your chin? It's a pretty deep one.

[Jack Webb]

Beer? Sure. Good.

[Morris Copley]

I asked you about the scar.

[Jack Webb]

It's kind of embarrassing. I got a little high one night and fell off a Marigorat. Big night. Now I've heard everything.

[Morris Copley]

We had a robbery report a couple nights ago. Tobin, hold up. Man was just about your height and weight.

[Jack Webb]

Yeah.

[Morris Copley]

Dark blonde hair. Had a scar on his chin, too.

[Jack Webb]

I'm afraid you got a wrong slide, Officer. I worked my cab every night of the week. Wasn't me. Mind if we have a look at your car outside? How'd you know I had a car? We didn't. Let's give it a look, shall we? Why do you want to look at it?

[Morris Copley]

You have anything to hide, Evan?

[Jack Webb]

Of course not. I'm not like Maury. He's always in trouble, always on the lam. You probably think it's funny when you check the glove compartment in my car.

[Morris Copley]

Will we?

[Jack Webb]

Yeah, you will. What is that? Keep a gun in there. You know how many cab drivers get shot? A guy can't be too careful.

[Morris Copley]

What kind of gun do you have, Toby?

[Jack Webb]

Revolver. Regular revolver.

[Morris Copley]

What caliber?38.

[Jack Webb]

Why?

[Morris Copley]

2:30Am we searched his car, picked up his.38 caliber revolver. And then we drove Ralph Tobin back to the office where he was detained for questioning. We had a stakeout placed on his apartment. Russ Camp and Ballistics checked Tobin's gun against the slugs which had taken the lives of Harry Solomon and Burt Matthews. Was found beyond the question of a doubt that his gun had been used in the Solomon killing. We confronted Tobin with the evidence. He started talking. He told us that Copley was responsible for the murder of both Solomon and Matthews, that Copley had borrowed his gun for the Solomon job. In all the robberies except one, he described himself only as the accomplice. He drove the getaway taxicab. The only occasion he tried to handle the actual holdup was at the cafe, where he became so nervous that he had dropped his gun. Before he was booked on suspicion of murder, Tobin told us that Morris Copley still had two.38 revolvers in his possession. He insisted he had no idea where Copley was. Ben handled the questioning while a stenographer took Tobin's statement. I contacted Inspector Bowers and informed him of our progress. 11:00am I got back to the squadron. Hi. Did you check back through that personnel record we got from the cab company?

[Jack Webb]

Yeah, I got half an idea, I think.

[Morris Copley]

Yeah.

[Jack Webb]

See here on Copley's application for the.

[Morris Copley]

Job, I'm sure we checked out all those references. They don't go anywhere.

[Jack Webb]

No, I mean this right here. Married? Yes. Children? One daughter. Age? Four months. Well, this application is dated May 6th. That means his baby was born in February.

[Morris Copley]

Yeah, sure. Copley was working here then. So it's ten to one the baby was born in a local hospital.

[Jack Webb]

That's what I mean. If we find the right hospital to the doctor, they could lead us to him.

[Morris Copley]

There's the phone book. Let's go. From noon until 4pm we called every hospital, sanitarium, clinic and rest home listed in the book. The answers were the same. No record of confinement for a Mrs. Morris Copley.

[Jack Webb]

Well, seemed like a good idea. Who you calling now?

[Morris Copley]

We've got one more. The county hospital. Well, this is Sergeant Friday, Police department, Robbery detail. Yes. Like to find out if you have any record of confinement for a Mrs. Morris Copley. No, that's Copley. C as in Charlie?

[Jack Webb]

Yes.

[Morris Copley]

Thank you.

[Jack Webb]

He might have sent his wife out of town to have him baby. That's possible.

[Morris Copley]

Yeah.

[Jack Webb]

Mm.

[Morris Copley]

1118. Thank you. 1118.

[Jack Webb]

Rochester.

[Morris Copley]

Copley's aunt.

[Jack Webb]

Let's go.

[Morris Copley]

4:30Pm Together with Olson and Thaxter from Homicide detail, we drove out to 1118 Rochester Ave. In the Crenshaw this time the house was vacant. From a neighbor, we learned that Copley's aunt had moved two weeks before. We got her address from one of her friends in the neighborhood and finally located her at work in a beauty shop on Melrose Avenue. We posed as traffic investigators. The aunt told us she thought we could find her nephew Morris at home. An address on East 13th Street. 6:00pm we located the house and parked the cars a half a block away. As we approached the house on foot, we saw a light burning in one of the windows on the left side of the house. Thaxter and Olson covered the back. At a given signal, they entered the back door. Ben and I went through the front.

[Jack Webb]

It's empty.

[Morris Copley]

Thaxter.

[Jack Webb]

Nothing back here, Joe. Empty.

[Morris Copley]

That's great.

[Jack Webb]

Looks like somebody passed him. A tip off just in time. Look at them mess this place is in.

[Morris Copley]

We got out in a hurry, all right.

[Jack Webb]

Hey, what's going on here? What do you men think you're doing? Police officers. Your name? Silvera, One of the neighbors. You looking for the Copleys?

[Morris Copley]

When they leave?

[Jack Webb]

20 minutes ago, I guess. In an awful hurry. What's the trouble?

[Morris Copley]

You know where they were going?

[Jack Webb]

No, but you might try Mr. Copley's aunt. She lives over in Rochester. They're not there. Well, have you tried his sister's house?

[Morris Copley]

6:45Pm the neighbor, Silvera, directed us to the home of Morris Copley's sister, a small frame cottage on the edge of Beverly Hills. The lights were on the living room, but the shades were drawn. Thaxter and Olson made their way quietly around to the back. Ben and I went up the front steps and rang the bell.

[Jack Webb]

Yes? What do you want? You Ms. Copley? Yes, what is it?

[Morris Copley]

Police officers, ma'am. I'm sorry.

[Jack Webb]

Oh, he isn't here. Maury isn't here.

[Morris Copley]

We know he's here.

[Jack Webb]

Living room's empty. Must be in the back. Joe, your cat? He's in the bedroom with the baby. He's got a gun. You can't go in there.

[Morris Copley]

Where's the bedroom?

[Jack Webb]

It's the end of the hall at that door. He was sleeping. I think he's awake now.

[Morris Copley]

The baby close to him?

[Adam Graham]

Yeah, the same bed.

[Jack Webb]

She's propped up on pillows right next to him. He's got that gun with him. Don't go in, please. Where's the bed situated in the room?

[Adam Graham]

It's right inside the door, to the left.

[Jack Webb]

Please don't go in. He won't care what happens to the baby. Ben.

[Morris Copley]

I'll open the door. You hit the light switch and cover me. Watch the baby.

[Jack Webb]

You better stay here, Miss Gopel, or your baby won't get hurt.

[Morris Copley]

Miss Gopel. All right, let's go in.

[Jack Webb]

Stop at you.

[Morris Copley]

Snap the gun, Ben. All right, come on.

[Jack Webb]

I got a joke. All right, Copley, get him up. Come on up, Joe. Yeah, I got him. Just a little frightened, ma'am. She's all right. I kill you, Mary. You tell him where to find us, didn't you? I'll kill you for that lousy dame. Nobody else knows. She's the one who told you, isn't she?

[Morris Copley]

No.

[Jack Webb]

Then who did? Who told you?

[Morris Copley]

You're looking at her.

[Jack Webb]

What do you mean?

[Morris Copley]

Your baby.

[Jack Webb]

The story you have just heard was true. Only the names were changed to protect the innocent. On December 16, trial was held in Superior Court, City and County of Los Angeles, State of California. In a moment, the results of that trial. And now, here is our star, Jack Webb.

[Morris Copley]

Thank you. The working detective knows that there is one mark of identification that never changes a man's fingerprints. The suspect may change his appearance in many ways, but his fingerprints always remain the same. A mark of identity that cannot be changed.

[Jack Webb]

Morris John Copley and Ralph Edward Tobin were tried and convicted of murder in the first degree, two counts. They were both sentenced to be executed in the lethal gas chamber of the State Penitentiary, San Quentin, California. You have just heard Dragnet a series of authentic cases from official files. Technical advice comes from the office of.

[Adam Graham]

Chief of Police W.H.

[Jack Webb]

Parker, Los Angeles Police Department. Coming up, we the people tomorrow, enjoy the life of Riley on NBC.

[Adam Graham]

How do you feel when you switch to Geico and save on your car insurance?

[Morris Copley]

It's like, imagine going to work on.

[Adam Graham]

One Thursday morning and thinking to yourself, just one more day until Friday. But then somebody in the elevator says, happy Friday. Then you check your phone quickly and discover today is actually Friday. So, yes, Happy Friday. Random stranger in the elevator. Happy Friday, indeed.

[Morris Copley]

Yep.

[Adam Graham]

Switching and saving with GEICO feels just like that. Get more with geico. Welcome back. I like the line where Friday reassured the surviving clerk who was concerned he should have been braver. I think in particular, men will have this expectation of themselves that they should take some heroic measures when dealing with someone with a gun. And doubtless, on top of that general expectation, this guy was probably dealing with what we call survivor's guilt. Friday makes it clear that he wouldn't have tried anything. Which is not only reassuring, but also reflects the preference of law enforcement in general on unarmed citizens dealing with dangerous individuals. I think the juxtaposition of the Big Pair in this episode in the schedule is an interesting contrast. In the Big Pair, our sympathetic grandfather and granddaughter were burgled because of no neighbors knowing that they were away or what exactly was going on. In today's episode, a criminal is captured in part because the police had a neighbor who knew all of his business. This forms the idea that neighbors and community are a blessing to the law abiding, but a curse to the criminals. Not sure it was intended, but it struck me that way. Now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day and I want to thank Maggie. Maggie has been one of our patreons supporter since January 2018, currently supporting the podcast at the Seamus level of $4 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support, Maggie. And that will actually do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. And if you're enjoying the podcast on YouTube, be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel and mark the notification bell. We'll be back next Saturday with another episode of Dragnet coming up Tomorrow we'll have our Sunday encore and it'll be Thanksgiving themed. But then we will resume your regular Great Detectives of Old Time Radio lineup with the Adventures of the Falconware.

[Jack Webb]

Did you ever hear of a character named Lippy Mayo? You mean you're related to Lippy? Only on my father and mother's side. I see. You ever run across him? Well, it's all right, Mike. I can understand why no one would be overly fond of Lippy. Matter of fact, I'm not too crazy about him myself. You know he was shot tonight? Yeah, so I heard.

[Morris Copley]

How is he?

[Jack Webb]

Doc says he'll pull through, but he'll be paralyzed for life. Too bad. You wouldn't happen to know who was responsible? No, I wouldn't. Told you to find out for me. I don't think I'd care to, Steve. Suppose I put it on a professional basis as a private detective at your usual fee? I still wouldn't be interested in it. First of all, it's a job for the police. And secondly? Secondly, I think I got an idea.

[Morris Copley]

What you have in mind.

[Jack Webb]

And you don't approve?

[Morris Copley]

Nope. Not a bit.

[Jack Webb]

Okay, friend. No hard feelings. I suppose there are other ways of finding out. Listen to me. Sorry, Mike, I haven't time. Got a lot of work to do.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to [e-mail] follow us on Twitter @RadioDetectives and check us out on Instagram. Instagram.com Great Detectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off. How do you feel when you switch to GEICO and save on your car insurance? It's like going to work on one Thursday morning and thinking to yourself, just one more day until Friday. But then somebody in the elevator says, happy Friday. Then you check your phone quickly and discover today is actually Friday. So yes, Happy Friday. Random stranger in the elevator. Happy Friday indeed. Yep, switching and saving with GEICO feels just like that. Get more with Geico.