Dragnet: The Big Friend (EP4730)

Summary

Summary of "Dragnet: The Big Friend" (EP4730)

Podcast: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio | Daily Mystery Dramas
Episode: Dragnet: The Big Friend
Release Date: June 14, 2025
Host: Adam Graham

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Introduction

In the episode titled "Dragnet: The Big Friend," listeners are immersed in a classic episode of Dragnet, the iconic police procedural drama that delves into the meticulous workings of the Los Angeles Police Department. Hosted by Adam Graham, this episode showcases the strengths of Dragnet in portraying realistic law enforcement procedures, character development, and suspenseful storytelling.

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Plot Overview

The episode unfolds on a stormy Tuesday evening, January 9th, in Los Angeles. Detectives Joe Friday (voiced by Jack Webb) and his partner Ben Romero are on duty in the Homicide Detail, navigating through the inclement weather as they prepare for their night's assignment.

Key Events:

1. Initial Call and Investigation ([05:23] - [14:28])
   Detectives Friday and Romero receive a distressing phone call from Leonard Gray, reporting the murder of his wife, Hazel Gray, at their residence, 1627 Oxford Place. Upon arriving at the crime scene, they find the house seemingly undisturbed, with Hazel's body in the dining room. Leonard Gray exhibits signs of distress and confusion, attributing his behavior to excessive drinking and the shock of losing his wife.

2. Interrogation and Suspicions ([14:04] - [17:07])
   As the detectives delve deeper, they scrutinize Gray's alibi and his relationship with his friend, Earl Anderson. Anderson, brought in for questioning, vehemently defends Gray's character, emphasizing their close friendship and Gray's lack of enemies. However, inconsistencies in their statements and the physical evidence, such as torn clothing and a possible struggle, raise suspicions.

3. Breakthrough and Revelation ([22:09] - [26:31])
   The investigation takes a pivotal turn when juveniles confess to vandalizing Gray's car, revealing an attempt to lure him out. Further analysis uncovers a palm print belonging to Hazel Gray near the body, eliminating both Gray and Anderson initially. However, mounting pressure and emerging evidence lead to a dramatic confession from Earl Anderson, who admits to the murder, citing his complex feelings towards Hazel and Gray.

4. Conclusion and Aftermath ([28:21] - [29:07])
   The episode concludes with the legal repercussions of Anderson's actions. A trial is held where Earl Taylor Anderson is convicted of first-degree murder and subsequently executed at San Quentin State Penitentiary. The narrative underscores the relentless pursuit of justice by the police force, highlighting procedural accuracy and moral dilemmas faced by those involved.

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Character Analysis

• Joe Friday ([03:37] - [25:55]): Portrayed as the epitome of a dedicated detective, Friday emphasizes procedural integrity and attention to detail. His interactions with suspects and colleagues reflect a no-nonsense approach, balancing empathy with professionalism.

• Ben Romero ([03:37] - [25:55]): As Friday's partner, Romero complements Friday's methodical style with a more personable demeanor. Their dynamic illustrates the teamwork and camaraderie essential in high-stakes investigations.

• Leonard Gray ([07:02] - [24:53]): Gray's character showcases the emotional turmoil and potential deception of a grieving spouse. His initial confusion and fragmented statements serve as both a genuine display of shock and a subtle indication of underlying deceit.

• Earl Anderson ([15:37] - [26:31]): Anderson embodies the theme of friendship and betrayal. His ultimate confession reveals the complexities of human emotions and the drastic actions they can precipitate.

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Notable Quotes

• Joe Friday ([07:30]): "Clothing's torn. Must have put up a struggle, huh?"
  [07:30]
  Highlighting the physical evidence suggesting foul play.

• Leonard Gray ([14:08]): "I didn't do this. I swear to God, I didn't kill my wife."
  [14:08]
  Expressing desperation and establishing his innocence.

• Earl Anderson ([26:10]): "I killed Hazel. What? I killed Hazel."
  [26:10]
  The confession that serves as the turning point in the investigation.

• Joe Friday ([24:53]): "Well, sir, we're assigned to the investigation, Mr. Gray, and we're doing everything that we can to get to the bottom of it."
  [24:53]
  Demonstrating commitment to uncovering the truth.

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Themes and Insights

• Procedural Accuracy: Dragnet is renowned for its realistic portrayal of police work. This episode meticulously details investigative steps, from initial response to interrogation and evidence analysis, offering listeners an authentic glimpse into law enforcement operations.

• Human Psychology: The characters exhibit a range of emotions and motivations, allowing the audience to explore the psychological aspects of both the detectives and the suspects. The interplay between grief, loyalty, and betrayal adds depth to the narrative.

• Justice and Morality: The conclusion of the episode underscores the pursuit of justice, highlighting the moral responsibilities of both the police and the individuals involved. The ultimate confession by Earl Anderson serves as a commentary on the consequences of one's actions.

• Friendship and Trust: The relationship between Leonard Gray and Earl Anderson brings forth questions about trust and loyalty. Anderson's betrayal emphasizes the fragility of human relationships under pressure.

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Conclusion

"Dragnet: The Big Friend" stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Dragnet in the realm of radio detective dramas. Through its compelling storytelling, intricate character development, and unwavering commitment to procedural authenticity, the episode captivates listeners while offering profound insights into the complexities of human behavior and the relentless quest for truth in law enforcement.

Adam Graham's insightful commentary post-episode further enriches the listening experience by highlighting the strengths of the narrative and engaging with listener feedback, fostering a community of enthusiasts who appreciate the timeless allure of old-time radio mysteries.

Transcript

[Adam Graham]

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[Jack Webb]

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[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 bring you this week's episode of Dragnet. But first, I do want to encourage you if you are enjoying 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. And I want to go ahead and thank Ed for sending a donation via the Zell app to box13greatdetectives.net you can also become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month by going to patreon.greatdetectives.net I want to thank David for supporting the program that way. Now, from April 5, 1951, here is the big.

[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 a homicide detail. A phone call comes into your office from a man who tells you his wife has been murdered. He's not sure who the killer is. Your job? Find 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 transcribed from official police files. From beginning to end, from crime to punishment, Dragnet is the story of your police force in action.

[Joe Friday]

Was Tuesday, January 9th was rainy and windy in Los Angeles. We were working the night watch out of homicide detail. My partner's Ben Romero. The boss is Thad Brown, Chief of Detectives. My Name's Friday was 9:27pm when I got to room 42. Homicide detail.

[Ben Romero]

Hi Joe. Great night, huh?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, Terrible weather.

[Ben Romero]

Just look out there on Spring Street.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, I know. I just came in out of it.

[Ben Romero]

Really coming down.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Just like I told you on the phone this afternoon.

[Joe Friday]

What's that?

[Ben Romero]

Every time those sea goes flying from the coast, it means rain.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Sure is a fine coat. I've never been sorry I bought this.

[Ben Romero]

Let me take another look at that, Jill.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, sure.

[Jack Webb]

Here.

[Ben Romero]

Oh, yeah, that's a good one. English coat, huh?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. They make them a little heavier over there than we do here. Seem to be kind of good in our business. You remember that Henderson steak out last month?

[Ben Romero]

Oh, yeah. Really poured down that day.

[Joe Friday]

Mm. This coat kept me dry as a bone. Water just seems to roll off of it.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, that's a good one. Here you go.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you. Have to hang it up. Supposed to keep a good coat on a hanger, you know, Especially when they're wet.

[Ben Romero]

Richie. Trouble with mine is it leaks right up here over the shoulders. Must be through the seams, huh?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, I guess so.

[Ben Romero]

Same one I've been wearing. I told you about it before.

[Joe Friday]

You said you're gonna get a new one, didn't you?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, but it's such a good coat otherwise. I hate to throw it away.

[Joe Friday]

It's no good if it leaks.

[Ben Romero]

Oh, I guess you're right at that. Maybe I can get those seams fixed. Do you think?

[Joe Friday]

Well, I don't know. How long you had it?

[Ben Romero]

Seven years.

[Joe Friday]

I'll get it. Homicide, Friday.

[Ben Romero]

This is 14 on the complaint board.

[Earl Anderson]

Take this call.

[Joe Friday]

Right. Hello? Hello.

[Leonard Gray]

My name's Leonard Gray.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir.

[Leonard Gray]

My wife's dead. She's been killed. I just went down to the garage and when I came back she was dead. Did you send somebody out here right away?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir. What's that address?

[Leonard Gray]

1627 Oxford Place.

[Joe Friday]

27 Oxford Place?

[Leonard Gray]

Yes, sir, that's right. Can't understand that. She was all right when I left and then when I came back, she was dead. I can't understand that.

[Joe Friday]

We'll be right there, Mr. Gray.

[Leonard Gray]

My best friend lives right next door.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir.

[Ben Romero]

He says I did it.

[Joe Friday]

1627 Oxford Place was on the east side of the street. Was an average one story stucco home. All the homes on the street were about the same general style and size. Was a nice neighborhood. All the grounds appeared to be well kept from what we could see through the heavy rain. The porch light was burning when we got there. Inside the house we were met by the two officers from unit 37R who filled us in on the results of their preliminary investigation. We asked them to Stand by in front of the house. Then we asked the husband of the murdered woman, Leonard Gray, to show us where the body was.

[Leonard Gray]

Back this way, in the dining room.

[Ben Romero]

Everything just the way you found it, Mr. Gray. You didn't touch anything?

[Leonard Gray]

No, sir. Haven't touched anything. Right there on the floor. That's very fast. Can I wait up there in the living room?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir. That's all right. Ben, would you like to help throw this thing out?

[Ben Romero]

Just sit right there. We'll be right with you.

[Leonard Gray]

Thank you.

[Ben Romero]

You and your wife live here alone, do you?

[Leonard Gray]

Yes, it's just two of us.

[Ben Romero]

No children, Ben? Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Clothing's torn. Must have put up a struggle, huh?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. Some redness there around the throat. Strangle?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Could be deep gash there on the forehead. Broken vase there on the floor. You want to call the crime lab? Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Okay. Mr. Gray, where's your telephone?

[Leonard Gray]

Right in the hall out there by the bedroom.

[Ben Romero]

Thank you.

[Joe Friday]

You think you could tell us about it now, Mr. Gray?

[Leonard Gray]

Yes, I think so. Do you have a cigarette?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir. I.

[Leonard Gray]

Thank you, Mr.

[Joe Friday]

Minute. I'll give you a light.

[Leonard Gray]

Thanks.

[Joe Friday]

That's all right. Now, can you tell me just what happened here tonight?

[Leonard Gray]

Earl Anderson, that's my friend, Lives two houses down. He and I went out after work. We usually do once or twice a week just to have a few beers. I don't know. I felt pretty good. Guess I had a couple too many. Earl said it was late and we better be getting home. So he did. I had a little too much to drink, so he drove.

[Joe Friday]

I see. Where were you and your friend drinking?

[Leonard Gray]

The bar right across from where we work. Earl Anderson and me. A lot of the men go there for a beer right after work.

[Joe Friday]

Were there quite a few men from work in there tonight?

[Leonard Gray]

Yeah, quite a few. I wonder if the other officer found the phone all right.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir, I'm sure he did.

[Leonard Gray]

Kind of hard to find sometimes. Wife had it covered with little curtains.

[Joe Friday]

That's all right, Mr. Gray. Let's try to take it easy.

[Ben Romero]

They're on their way.

[Joe Friday]

Right. He was telling me that he and his friend, Earl Anderson stopped after work. They had a couple of beers and then the two of them drove on home.

[Ben Romero]

I see.

[Joe Friday]

Is that right, sir?

[Leonard Gray]

Euler. Trixie. Well, we got home and I was feeling pretty good. So I asked Earl to come on in and have a little nightcap.

[Joe Friday]

What time was that when you got home?

[Leonard Gray]

About half past six. Earl didn't want to come in because he said Hazel would be upset with me because we were a Little late. Anyway, I finally talked him into coming in with me.

[Ben Romero]

Was your wife upset?

[Leonard Gray]

A little bit, yeah. She used to be unhappy when I was late because of dinner. But she was never unreasonable. I didn't make it a habit to stay out unusually late anyhow.

[Ben Romero]

I see.

[Leonard Gray]

I feel terrible. Just terrible. When we got in the house, the first thing Hazel asked me was if I'd looked at the car.

[Joe Friday]

Whose car was that?

[Leonard Gray]

It's our car. Dodge Sedan 42. It's parked across the street now.

[Joe Friday]

Wonder if we might check back here a little. Yeah, but I thought I understood you to say that you felt that you'd had a little too much to drink. So your friend drove this Earl Anderson?

[Leonard Gray]

Yes, but it was his car. I guess I should have made that a little clearer. You see, we take turns driving home, either his or my car. We trade off to fight the traffic, no matter whose car.

[Joe Friday]

I see. Wonder if you'd go on, please.

[Leonard Gray]

I didn't know what she meant by asking if I'd seen the car. She said someone had let all the air out of the back tires.

[Ben Romero]

Do you know why anybody'd want to do a thing like that? No.

[Leonard Gray]

I had no idea who'd do that to us. Hazel said she wanted to use the car tonight. She had to go to a friend's house to help her do some remodeling or something. She didn't say a word about my being late. I thought the car had kind of taken her mind off it. Told her I'd go out and look and see if I couldn't fix it.

[Joe Friday]

Well, did it strike you as being important that you fix the car right away?

[Leonard Gray]

How do you mean?

[Joe Friday]

Well, sir, I was just thinking. I wouldn't want to go out in all that rain unless it was something pretty important.

[Leonard Gray]

Well, I didn't want to either. But I figured all I'd have to do was put a little air in the tires and then drive it down to the gas station. I see.

[Ben Romero]

You want to go on?

[Leonard Gray]

Earl said he'd be willing to give me a hand. So we went out to have a look at the car. One look at the tires, and I knew we couldn't fix them. Somebody had cut them with a knife or something. They were beyond repair.

[Joe Friday]

Do you have any idea who did that?

[Leonard Gray]

No, I couldn't figure it out. I have no enemies that I can think of. No one that'd do a thing like that.

[Ben Romero]

What did you do then?

[Leonard Gray]

Earl and I figured that we'd better take the wheels off, take them down to the garage. And buy some new tires. I borrowed Earl's dirt jack and we took off the wheels. Her said he'd be glad to take the wheels down and that I'd better go back in the house with Hazel because she might wonder what we were doing about fixing the car.

[Joe Friday]

I understand.

[Leonard Gray]

We talked back and forth for a minute or two and I finally insisted that I go.

[Joe Friday]

Where did your friend Earl Anderson go?

[Leonard Gray]

To his house. I dropped him off there.

[Ben Romero]

Where does he live?

[Leonard Gray]

Just two houses down the street. After I dropped them off, I went down and picked up two new tires and two tubes and they mounted them on the wheels for me and I came back.

[Joe Friday]

About what time was it when you got back here to the house? Do you remember?

[Leonard Gray]

I don't know. Somewhere around 9:15, I guess.

[Ben Romero]

Then what did you do?

[Leonard Gray]

I was going to put the wheels on but I thought I'd better go back in the house and tell Hazel I'd have the car fixed. The minute I walked in the door, I knew something was wrong. Seemed like I could feel it. I called to her. She didn't answer. Went through the house and when I got to the dining room founder.

[Joe Friday]

We'll have to ask you to come downtown to the. Sir, you'll have to give us a complete statement on this.

[Leonard Gray]

Is that necessary?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir, I'm afraid it is.

[Leonard Gray]

All right. Wonder if it'd be all right if I called my friend Earl Anderson to go down with me. I haven't told him about this.

[Ben Romero]

Well, notify him.

[Joe Friday]

This friend of yours. Earl Anderson?

[Leonard Gray]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

When you spoke with me on the phone, didn't you say something about your best friend saying that he thought that.

[Ben Romero]

You killed your wife?

[Leonard Gray]

Did I say that?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir, you did.

[Leonard Gray]

I didn't mean it that way.

[Joe Friday]

How did you mean it?

[Leonard Gray]

I've been drinking earlier tonight like I told you. I guess I must have gotten mixed.

[Joe Friday]

Up when he didn't say that you killed your mother.

[Leonard Gray]

No. No, he didn't.

[Joe Friday]

Well, I know there's been a strain and a pretty bad shock, Mr. Gray. But you told us that you didn't say anything to Earl Anderson about this. Now, isn't that right?

[Leonard Gray]

I'm so sick and upset. Is that what I told you?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir. You asked me if it'd be all right if you called your friend. You said you hadn't told him anything about them.

[Leonard Gray]

I did. I called him right after I got home. I was terrified. I didn't know what to do.

[Ben Romero]

Then you did mention your wife's death to me?

[Leonard Gray]

Yes, sir. When you men are questioning Me? Your tone sounds as if you think I might have done this.

[Joe Friday]

No, sir. We're just trying to get the facts straight. Right now, anybody's a suspect.

[Leonard Gray]

I didn't do this. I swear to God, I didn't kill my wife.

[Joe Friday]

Do you have any idea who might have wanted to kill Mrs. Gray?

[Leonard Gray]

No. No. Hazel and I didn't have many friends. No enemies that I knew of.

[Joe Friday]

I see.

[Leonard Gray]

You men have any ideas at all? Can you tell anything from what you've seen?

[Ben Romero]

We might know a little more after the crime lab checks things over.

[Leonard Gray]

Soon as the LAD men get here, then you can start on the case.

[Joe Friday]

No, sir. We've already started. 10:15pm we continued to question Leonard Gray, the husband of the dead woman, Hazel Gray. His answer seemed to follow the same general pattern of hazy confusion. Ben and I weighed the possibilities and cause for his evident confusion. He admitted that he'd been drinking earlier that evening. The tremendous shock of the death of his wife, the complete interrogation necessary in the investigation. All these things could prove to be reason enough for Leonard Gray's apparent confusion. They could all be possibilities of pretense as well. We had to be sure. We asked him about relatives and in laws. He told us that his parents were not living. That his wife's mother and father resided in Los Angeles, in the southwest section of the city. He gave us the address. He furnished us with a list of his friends and his acquaintances. He was feeling quite badly, but seemed to want us to continue with the questioning. From time to time he would add unimportant bits of his story which he had omitted the first time through. 10:17pm the crime lab crew arrived and went to work. Gray's friend, Earl Anderson, was picked up and brought to the murder house.

[Earl Anderson]

Any idea who did this thing?

[Joe Friday]

We're working on it.

[Earl Anderson]

Just one thing I want to make sure of.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah?

[Earl Anderson]

You don't suspect Linda?

[Joe Friday]

Why do you ask that?

[Earl Anderson]

Well, I know how something like this can be. Len and Hazel are wonderful people. Very good friends of mine. Just wanted to go on record as being able to vouch for Len. He wouldn't do a thing like that.

[Ben Romero]

Is that what you wanted to tell her?

[Earl Anderson]

Yes, sir. I've known Len for about five years now, going on six. We work at the same place. Just want to vouch for him, that's all.

[Ben Romero]

Would you know of anyone who might have a reason to kill Mrs. Gray?

[Earl Anderson]

Not a soul in the world. Hazel was wonderful to everybody. She didn't have any enemies that I know of. Such a pretty girl.

[Joe Friday]

We know that you're a close friend of Gray's. Maybe you'd be able to answer a couple of questions for us.

[Earl Anderson]

Anyway, I can be of help to you.

[Joe Friday]

How did Mr. And Ms. Gray seem to get along? I mean, did they have any arguments that you know of?

[Earl Anderson]

Well, I really don't think I should go into their personal life in this thing.

[Joe Friday]

You mean you don't want answer?

[Earl Anderson]

No, sir. Than that it just seems. It's really not my place to go into it.

[Ben Romero]

We're gonna have to question everybody that the Grays knew. All their friends and acquaintances. Appreciate any help you could give us.

[Earl Anderson]

Well, it isn't that I don't want to help. I. I know that if I answer, it's gonna make Len look bad at the moment.

[Ben Romero]

And we'll have to get all the facts from one source or another.

[Earl Anderson]

Well, they used to have some arguments. Guess you'd find it out from the neighbors anyway.

[Joe Friday]

Worthy arguments. That bad? Pretty loud.

[Earl Anderson]

Yes, sir. I don't mean to imply that Len never struck Hazel, but she used to get quite put out with him sometimes.

[Joe Friday]

Why? How do you know?

[Earl Anderson]

Len likes to go out with the boys. You know, booze it up quite a bit. She used to tell him that she wasn't gonna put up with it any longer.

[Ben Romero]

He said he never struck her.

[Earl Anderson]

Not that I know of. So I didn't.

[Ben Romero]

Did they have these arguments often?

[Earl Anderson]

I don't feel right talking this way about Len behind his back.

[Joe Friday]

Well, I know that as his friend, you want to get this thing cleaned up.

[Earl Anderson]

Yes, sir. That's right, I do. Yes, I used to have quite a few arguments. Please understand that these differences of theirs may have been loud, but I know Len would never think of hurting Hazeln anyway.

[Ben Romero]

See?

[Earl Anderson]

Did you find out who sliced the tires on Len's car?

[Joe Friday]

We're checking on it.

[Earl Anderson]

Wonder if that couldn't have some bearing.

[Ben Romero]

On this possibly answer.

[Joe Friday]

We'd like to have you go back to the time you and Mr. Gray got home. Just tell us exactly what happened, would you? Will you excuse me for a minute?

[Earl Anderson]

Sure.

[Leonard Gray]

Friday, See you a minute.

[Joe Friday]

Right. Harris, I'll be right back.

[Ben Romero]

Okay.

[Joe Friday]

We're just about through. It's all photoed.

[Ben Romero]

Lifted some prints.

[Joe Friday]

Coroner's ready to take the body.

[Leonard Gray]

Okay.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, it's all right. Get anything besides the prints?

[Leonard Gray]

Yeah, a small piece of blue cloth, white button attached.

[Joe Friday]

Looks like it was ripped off a shirt. Where'd they find it? Near the body.

[Leonard Gray]

We'll see you fellas back the office, huh?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Okay, Harris. Thank you.

[Earl Anderson]

I was just telling your partner Sergeant, while you were out of the room.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir.

[Earl Anderson]

In this kind of a case, if it turns out to be murder, you have to know the whereabouts of everyone concerned, don't you?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, we do.

[Earl Anderson]

I suppose Len told you about his going down to get the tires fixed on his car.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, he did.

[Earl Anderson]

He tell you that I was at home during that time?

[Ben Romero]

Were you?

[Earl Anderson]

Yeah, I was. I don't mean to try to tell you your business or anything like that, but isn't that the sort of information you have to have?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, that's right.

[Earl Anderson]

Anything else you'd like to know?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir. Who killed Hazel Gray?

[Jack Webb]

You are listening to Dragnet from beginning to end. Dragnet is the authentic story of your police force in action.

[Joe Friday]

10:30Pm Tuesday, January 9th. Leonard Gray, the husband of the murdered woman, and Earl Anderson, his friend were taken downtown to Homicide for further investigation. Complete statements were taken from both men. We checked them through R and I. No record of on either one. We had all prowlers and burglary calls in the vicinity of the murder house rechecked. Units working the area where the murder had occurred had picked up two possible suspects loitering in the neighborhood, but they were eliminated almost immediately. All of the neighbors, friends and relatives of Mr. And Ms. Gray were contacted and questioned. No leads. All their stories tallied almost exactly with that of Earl Anderson. The Grays had been known to argue quite frequently. The arguments were loud, but no one could say that they ever showed any physical violence toward one another. Was the opinion of the relatives and in laws that Leonard Gray drank too much? Earl Anderson, his friend, was checked and found to be a completely reliable man. We talked with the repairman at the garage where Gray had his tires exchanged. His story was correct in every detail. Earl Anderson's wife was checked. She vouched for the Grays as well as her husband. Ben and I talked with Captain Steed for an hour. 1:45am.

[Ben Romero]

Well, Skipper seems to feel like I do about it.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. My husband. Gray, huh?

[Ben Romero]

Sure looks that way, doesn't it? We've been over that story three times with him, and we get three different versions.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, I know.

[Ben Romero]

He's completely sober now. He should be able to tell a straight story. No, I don't know, Joe.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, well, I'm not completely satisfied. As far as that goes. The captain isn't either. The hurt him. I'll admit Gray looks bad right now.

[Ben Romero]

What do you think?

[Joe Friday]

I don't know.

[Ben Romero]

I'm glad I'm a side. Romero. Yeah, Edwards. No, Joe's right here. You want to talk with him. Oh, fine. Yeah? Yeah, go ahead. All right. Okay. Thanks, Bob. Georgia Juvenile.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Picked up a couple of kids. They confessed to slashing the gray stars.

[Joe Friday]

Well, it clears that up. Didn't seem to figure in any way did it to you?

[Ben Romero]

No. Somebody did it to draw Gray out of the house.

[Joe Friday]

Well, it's cutting it pretty thin, isn't it?

[Leonard Gray]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

What's the time?

[Joe Friday]

10 minutes to 2.

[Ben Romero]

Guess I better call Leighton Prince, see what they got.

[Joe Friday]

Okay. Did Edward say that they were going to hold those juveniles for us?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, I said they were bringing them down here for interrogation. Well, hi. Hi. Mac from Arrow.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Ha, ha. Good. You're right. Thanks. Now you got something.

[Joe Friday]

What'd he say?

[Ben Romero]

One of the prints, they left it out there is a palm print. McGrawfin says it'll work for elimination. Something else. A print was pressed in spots of blood.

[Joe Friday]

The killer of Hazel Gray had left behind him a trail clue to his identity about which there could be no mistake. His palm print, the prince of the dead woman, Hazel Gray were checked and eliminated. They weren't hers. 2:40am Leonard Gray and his friend Earl Anderson were taken down and fingerprinted. Their palm prints were also taken. Both men were returned to the interrogation room.

[Earl Anderson]

Sergeant, why do you have to be fingerprinted?

[Ben Romero]

Just routine.

[Earl Anderson]

Just like I was telling this Sergeant Friday.

[Joe Friday]

What's that?

[Earl Anderson]

Len and I have been suspects all along, haven't we?

[Joe Friday]

Well, it's just a matter of elimination. Anybody involved in any way has to be checked out.

[Earl Anderson]

Didn't the fellow down at the garage verify Len's story?

[Ben Romero]

Yes, sir, he did.

[Leonard Gray]

It's the truth. I wouldn't lie at a time like this.

[Earl Anderson]

I don't believe that anybody thinks you're lying, Len. It's just they have to be sure.

[Joe Friday]

That's right.

[Ben Romero]

Again, Interrogation room. This is a male. Oh, yeah, right. Okay. Right away. Crime Lab. Joe Pinker says he and Jones would like to see one of us right away.

[Joe Friday]

All right. You want to go?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. I'll be right back. Okay.

[Earl Anderson]

Sergeant, was there really any specific reason for us being fingerprinted?

[Joe Friday]

Well, we already told you, it's just routine.

[Earl Anderson]

Wouldn't it be perfectly in line to find Len's fingerprints around his own house?

[Joe Friday]

Well, yes, it would.

[Leonard Gray]

Yours could be there too. Earl.

[Earl Anderson]

Yeah, I was going to say that I'm over at their house a great deal of the time.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, we know. You mentioned that.

[Earl Anderson]

Makes you feel kind of funny getting fingerprinted.

[Leonard Gray]

Doesn't make any difference what I have to go through. If you can find who did this thing.

[Earl Anderson]

I feel the same way, Len. Think you're any closer to knowing who did it?

[Joe Friday]

Well, possibly. You men have had a little time to think this over. Do either of you have anything to add to your story? Maybe some small detail you may have overlooked?

[Leonard Gray]

I've been thinking about it all night. I can't think of anything I haven't already told you.

[Joe Friday]

You, Mr. Anderson? H. Is there anything that you might have forgotten to tell us?

[Earl Anderson]

Sorry? I was just thinking.

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir.

[Earl Anderson]

There couldn't have been anyone Hazel knew, could there, Len?

[Leonard Gray]

How do you mean?

[Earl Anderson]

Well, somebody maybe from her past. Somebody she meant not have told you about.

[Leonard Gray]

I don't see how that could be possible. You people checked your father and mother, didn't you?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir, we did.

[Earl Anderson]

Well, that eliminates that possibility. Haven't you found any way at all of telling who it was that killed Hazel?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, we have.

[Earl Anderson]

Well, I think that Len here is entitled to. No, I'd be glad to leave the room if you want to talk to him alone.

[Joe Friday]

No, sir, that's not necessary. When we work it out, you'll both be told about it.

[Leonard Gray]

If there's something definite, you'd tell me, wouldn't you? I think Earl's right. I'm entitled to know.

[Joe Friday]

Well, sir, we're assigned to the investigation, Mr. Gray, and we're doing everything that we can to get to the bottom of it.

[Earl Anderson]

Sergeant Lennon. I think you men know a great deal more than you've been telling him. His wife was a victim. It's his right to know how the investigation is going, isn't it?

[Joe Friday]

Well, I told you before. Whatever he should know, we'll tell him. Anything that we withhold from him is done for a good reason.

[Ben Romero]

Joe, want to take a look at this?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, thanks.

[Ben Romero]

Here's a report on it.

[Joe Friday]

Oh, thank you. Mm. That shirt belong to either of you men?

[Leonard Gray]

It's not mine.

[Earl Anderson]

No. Why? What's it mean?

[Joe Friday]

I get it. Interrogation room, Friday.

[Ben Romero]

Yaddy right.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you.

[Earl Anderson]

What about that shirt, Sergeant? What's it mean?

[Ben Romero]

This button here. Little piece of cloth attached. It's found with a body. You notice the front of the shirt here? Button ripped off. See how it matches?

[Earl Anderson]

Yeah. It's not my shirt.

[Joe Friday]

It was found in your house.

[Earl Anderson]

I never saw it before. It's not mine.

[Joe Friday]

The palm print was what? The print of your palm. Blood stains on it was found near the body.

[Leonard Gray]

What's he talking about, Earl? What's he mean?

[Earl Anderson]

I killed Hazel. What? I killed Hazel.

[Leonard Gray]

Why?

[Earl Anderson]

Because I loved her. I think I loved her more than you did.

[Leonard Gray]

You don't kill someone because you love them.

[Earl Anderson]

You do if you love him enough.

[Joe Friday]

You ready to give us a statement, Anderson?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Earl Anderson]

I'll tell you.

[Leonard Gray]

I can't believe all this. I'll kill you.

[Ben Romero]

All right, Gray, hold it.

[Leonard Gray]

I can't believe it. My best friend.

[Earl Anderson]

I wasn't your best friend.

[Jack Webb]

The story you have just heard was true. Only the names were changed to protect the innocent. On April 4, trial was held in Superior Court Department 89, City and County of Los Angeles, State of California. In a moment, the results of that trial. Earl Taylor Anderson was tried and convicted of murder in the first degree. He was executed in the lethal gas chamber at the State Penitentiary, San Quentin, California. At home and overseas, in camps, hospitals and military installations and in battle areas, Red Cross personnel work for the welfare, recreation and morale of those who defend the nation. Today, Red Cross is expanding these services to keep pace with the rapid growth of our nation's defense forces. Your support of Red Cross makes this expansion possible. Remember, when you give to the Red Cross, your gift is a lift to our fighting men. You have just heard Dragnet a series of authentic cases from official files. Technical advice for Dragnet comes from the office of Chief of Police W.H. parker, Los Angeles Police Department. Our thanks to Quick magazine for this week's salute to Dragnet's Jack Webb. Hear a gold smuggling case on counterspy next over most NBC stations.

[Joe Friday]

You can make a difference in someone's life, including your own, with a job in home care.

[Adam Graham]

These jobs offer flexible schedules, health care.

[Joe Friday]

Retirement options and free training. They also provide paid time off and opportunities for overtime. Visit oregonhomecarejobs.com to learn more and apply. That's oregonhomecarejobs.com.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. A pretty straightforward case with only two real suspects that presented themselves, but nevertheless, it was engaging and way that some other programs fail to be when they have a limited number of suspects to work with. The episode also shows that being confused by police doesn't actually make you guilty, which I think is an important point to remember. Also, I'm not particularly surprised about Ben Romero's coat. That may be one of the least surprising facts I've ever learned about a character. Well, now we turn to listener comments and feedback and we have an email from Ed in Las Vegas who sent along a donation and hope it helps. I'm currently in 2014 and just working my way forward. Hadn't listened much during COVID but started back up. You had just finished the war years. Sorry I missed that. Well, I will interject because it's a bit of a long email. There were quite a few people who used to listen when they commuted more and as they stopped commuting during COVID they did see a decline in some of the downloads. It's always great to hear of people coming back. And of course even if you miss listening to our World War II podcast the War it is still available at the war.comgreatdetectives.net and in most podcast stores. I got started listening to Old Time Radio on a local program on Public Radio in Peoria, Illinois. A worker at the station had a lot of such programs and started a show. It covered comedy, western dramas and more. So I had heard of Johnny Dollar and was looking for all the known shows when I found your program. If I may continue. A listener had just trashed Pat Novak and I like it for the reasons he didn't. Great dialogue, especially with the detective and a drunk doctor with all the commentary in the world that can find any information Pat needs. Crazy but it works for me. Lol. I like Pete Kelly's blues also of course $I found the saint boring. Also Nick Carter seemed to lose my interest until they changed actresses. I don't think it was her, but the story seemed better. The Sherlock holmes from the 30s was just poor quality for me to follow. Too poor. I like homes but just had to skip it. My only real complaint is every time they upgrade my phone I lose my place. I listen off the website, I go down until you can enter a program number and go from there. But I can't hold you responsible for that.

[Joe Friday]

Haha.

[Adam Graham]

Well, well, I've wasted enough of your time. Thanks for the show and your commentary. Well, not at all. I appreciate the comments. I would agree that a lot of the early Holmes episodes from the 30s are not in great condition. A lot of listeners find them listenable. The good news is that we have had couple of episodes from that era with Richard Gordon that have come into circulation in recent years that sound a lot better, so we can kind of enjoy those. And I appreciate your perspective on Pat Novak. As to the website issue, you're right, there's not a whole lot we can do about that. I do find it easier listening to podcast apps, which I know not everyone has. But you're not the only person to listen through the website. I remember a few years back that there was a website update done and someone emailed me because they lost their place. They were going through it in reverse order and they were on page 56 and the way the website updated. It just kind of messed them up so had to try to help them as best I could. Of course we are on YouTube. One thing I do like podcast wise is we now have the volume one fade which has seasons one through three, the volume two feed which has seasons four, five and six, and the volume three feed which currently has season seven and eight. And we will start adding season nine later on this year. Currently we're posting season eight and for every week we post two weeks of episodes from season eight on our volume three feed. And so those are great options to experience those older episodes. But to each their own. Thanks so much. Appreciate the email and learning how you got into listening to Old Time Radio. Well, now it is time to thank our Patreon Supporter of the Day and I want to go ahead and thank kpass. Kpass has been one of our Patreon supporters since May of 2023, currently supporting the podcast at the Psalmist level of $4 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support. And that will 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. All those great things that help YouTube channels to grow. We will be back next next Saturday with another episode of Dragnet. But join us back here on Monday as we get into the Adventures of the Falcon.

[Jack Webb]

Where oh n. What's it all about? First, I should like you to meet Mario Gentile.

[Ben Romero]

Mario, this is Senor Waring.

[Joe Friday]

I am delighted.

[Jack Webb]

Well, I'm not. Look, Lieutenant, you didn't bring me all the way from Rome to meet him. You are familiar with his reputation? Yeah, he's an organizer for the Communist Party.

[Ben Romero]

That does not arouse your interest?

[Jack Webb]

No, the party isn't out, Lord Nitley.

[Ben Romero]

Ah, but suppose I told you in.

[Jack Webb]

An earlier day he had another name.

[Ben Romero]

Prior to 1945, he was known as Mario Tosselli.

[Jack Webb]

Tosselli?

[Ben Romero]

Ah, you'll recognize him, sure.

[Jack Webb]

The Allied War Crimes Commission has been looking for him for years. They've got a rope necktie they'd like to try on him for size.

[Ben Romero]

This is absurd.

[Joe Friday]

I never even heard of the man.

[Jack Webb]

And you're the only one in Italy who hasn't to. Selli organized a squadro dazione in the militia Volunteria for Schaff Sisti. They were Mussolini's personal strong arms squad.

[Ben Romero]

Think of it, Michael.

[Jack Webb]

Today we are honored by the presence of his hound.

[Ben Romero]

You are mistaken.

[Jack Webb]

What were you doing in 1945?

[Ben Romero]

I was fighting with the partisans near Genoa.

[Jack Webb]

Who was your commander?

[Ben Romero]

You will not find any record for him. We were a small group.

[Jack Webb]

And prior to 45 I was in France. Doing what?

[Joe Friday]

That is my own affair.

[Ben Romero]

But I tell you, I'm not Toselli.

[Jack Webb]

Well, that should be easy enough to check. Lt. Dintasali come from Messina and see and I'll take him there first thing in the morning. In the meantime, can you put them away on ice? I'd hate for him to spoil after all these years.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to box Thirteenreatetectives.net Follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and check us out on Instagram. Instagram.com Great detectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.

[Joe Friday]

Nearly 90% of kids who vape say flavors are why they do it. A lot of the flavors that I've heard are like peach, mango, watermelon. It makes it seem like more childlike and innocent.

[Leonard Gray]

Oh, I tried this once.

[Joe Friday]

It won't be that much of a problem. But then eventually it becomes a problem. It's time to restrict the sale of flavored tobacco products in Oregon and protect our kids from nicotine addiction. Urge lawmakers to Pass Senate Bill 702A. Take action at flavorshookoreegoids.org paid for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.