Summary of Podcast Episode: "Dragnet: The Big Ben" (EP4718)

Release Date: May 31, 2025

Introduction

In episode EP4718 of "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio," host Adam Graham presents a thrilling rendition of the classic radio drama "Dragnet: The Big Ben." This episode delves into the intense pursuit of a criminal who assaults a police officer, capturing the essence of law enforcement's relentless quest for justice during the Golden Age of Radio.

Plot Overview

a. The Initial Crime

The episode opens on a warm Monday morning in Los Angeles, July 9th. Detective Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner, Officer Ben Romero, are dispatched to investigate a violent robbery at the Stacy Hollywood Department Store Personnel Department.

• Joe Friday (02:47): "It was Monday, July 9th. It was warm in Los Angeles. We were working the day."

Upon arrival, they interview Harvey Kimbrough, an employee who provides crucial details about the incident. Kimbrough recounts how he was ambushed by a man wielding a gun, leading to a brutal assault and the theft of his vehicle and wallet.

• Sydney Ferguson (05:00): "Man flagged me down. Looked like his car was stalled."

b. Investigation Begins

Friday and Romero gather evidence, including descriptions of the suspect's vehicle—a late-model Chevrolet sedan—and Kimbrough's own car, a blue 1948 Dodge. Despite Kimbrough's trauma and limited information, the detectives press forward, determined to track down the perpetrator.

• Joe Friday (07:03): "Did you see the license number on that?"

c. Stakeout and Breakthrough

The investigation leads them to Sydney Ferguson's residence in the San Fernando Valley. Ferguson, a witness and friend of Kimbrough, provides additional insights but inadvertently leaves behind a crucial piece of evidence—a slip of paper with the getaway car's license number.

• Narrator (10:00): "Guess I was more rattled than the Kimbrough fella."

Romero and Friday verify the license number, linking it to Jack B. Grant, the registered owner. They conduct a stakeout at Grant's converted rooming house, but Grant manages to evade capture, resulting in a tense overnight search involving multiple law enforcement units.

• Joe Friday (13:34): "That Ferguson's a nice fella. Yeah."

d. Capture of the Suspect

Persistence pays off when detectives locate Anthony Baxter, an associate of Grant, at the Filbert Hotel. Through intense interrogation and strategic policing, they pinpoint Grant's location in room 605. A swift operation ensues, leading to Grant's apprehension despite a last-minute attempt to escape.

• Ben Romero (25:36): "Come on, quick. Hotel Filbert, room 605."

e. Trial and Conclusion

The narrative culminates in Grant's trial on November 7th in Superior Court, Los Angeles. He is convicted of assault with intent to commit murder and multiple counts of first-degree robbery, receiving substantial prison sentences. Additionally, the landlady, Ida Fisher, faces probation for her inadvertent role in aiding Grant's concealment.

• Narrator (27:11): "Jack Grant was tried and convicted on one count of assault to commit murder."

Host Commentary

a. Comparison with TV Series

After the dramatization, Adam Graham reflects on the differences between this radio episode and the more widely known Dragnet TV series. He highlights a significant deviation: in many TV adaptations, Joe Friday remains unscathed, whereas in this episode, he is the one who gets shot.

• Adam Graham (28:32): "I was very surprised when Joe Friday was shot... in the TV version... it was Frank that was shot, not Joe."

Graham praises Ben Romero for his portrayal of Friday's partner, noting his ability to convey intensity and raw emotion, contrasting with the lighter tones introduced by other characters like Frank Smith and Bill Gannon in the TV series.

b. Listener Feedback

The episode includes listener interactions, notably a poignant comment from Sham Shspade on Spotify, expressing empathy for the characters and the realistic depiction of law enforcement challenges.

• Sham Shspade (31:44): "It's episodes like this that make me regret that Dragnet is written in reality because... my heart breaks for the wife."

Graham responds by emphasizing the show's commitment to portraying the harsh realities and uncertainties faced by police officers, reinforcing the authenticity that fans appreciate.

c. Acknowledgements

Adam extends gratitude to Martin, a Patreon supporter, acknowledging his ongoing contributions that help sustain the podcast. He encourages other listeners to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to continue enjoying such immersive detective stories.

• Adam Graham (31:53): "Thank you so much for your support, Martin."

Conclusion

"Dragnet: The Big Ben" offers a compelling narrative that underscores the dedication and perseverance of law enforcement in the face of adversity. Through meticulous storytelling and faithful adaptation of the original radio drama, Adam Graham and his team deliver an engaging episode that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers. The inclusion of authentic police procedures, emotional depth, and listener engagement solidifies the podcast's reputation as a premier destination for vintage detective storytelling.

Notable Quotes:

• Joe Friday (02:47): "It was Monday, July 9th. It was warm in Los Angeles. We were working the day."

• Sydney Ferguson (05:00): "Man flagged me down. Looked like his car was stalled."

• Adam Graham (28:32): "I was very surprised when Joe Friday was shot... in the TV version... it was Frank that was shot, not Joe."

• Sham Shspade (31:44): "It's episodes like this that make me regret that Dragnet is written in reality because... my heart breaks for the wife."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the episode, providing listeners with a clear understanding of the storyline, character dynamics, and the insightful commentary offered by Adam Graham. Whether you're revisiting this classic tale or experiencing it for the first time, "Dragnet: The Big Ben" promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of old-time radio detective drama.