The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio: Episode Summary – "Dragnet: The Big Partner (EP4700)"
Release Date: May 10, 2025
Introduction
In this landmark 4,700th episode of "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio," host Adam Graham presents "Dragnet: The Big Partner," a classic episode from the Golden Age of Radio. This detailed summary encapsulates the intricate plot, character dynamics, investigative procedures, and the ultimate resolution of the case, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of this iconic detective drama.
Case Overview: Vernon Albert Nicole
The episode centers around Detective Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner, Ben Romero, as they tackle a series of audacious jewelry store robberies orchestrated by Vernon Albert Nicole. Nicole is depicted as a seasoned criminal with a penchant for meticulous planning and an ability to evade capture, making him a formidable adversary for the LAPD.
Detailed Plot Summary
Initial Robbery and Suspect Identification
The narrative begins on Tuesday, December 2nd, with a daytime robbery at a jewelry store where Nicole steals $5,000 in precious stones. Detective Friday provides a vivid description of the suspect's method (00:58):
"He walked in the store at the right time, pointed a gun, grabbed a tray full of diamond rings and walked out." [01:15]
Despite the boldness of the heist, Nicole's actions suggest prior knowledge and practice. The detectives receive a Code 113 call regarding an accident at 3rd and Bigsell involving a man with a gun, which they promptly investigate.
Encounter and Initial Capture
At approximately 1:48 PM, Friday and Romero arrive at the scene, encountering Ernie Brooks, who describes a traffic collision caused by a reckless driver — Nicole in disguise. Brooks details how Nicole, after a violent encounter, inadvertently drops a box containing numerous diamond rings [05:30]. This discovery links Nicole to the jewelry store heists.
The detectives apprehend Nicole and conduct fingerprinting, revealing his criminal history, including convictions for armed robbery and auto theft. However, Nicole's arrogance leads to his escape during transportation to the hospital by overpowering the officers, as narrated by Friday (22:45):
"He pushed his fingers into the door jamb and had them badly mashed when the cell door closed on them... He kicked one of the officers in the stomach, slugged the other one and escaped." [23:08]
Escalation of Crimes and Copycat Behavior
Nicole's escape marks the beginning of a series of weekend holdups, with crimes escalating in frequency and audacity. The detectives discover that Nicole has adopted a partner, further complicating the case. Despite numerous stakeouts and increased police presence, Nicole and his accomplice continue to commit robberies across different parts of Los Angeles, challenging the detectives' efforts to apprehend them.
A critical breakthrough occurs when Pete Albanez, one of the arrested accomplices, breaks down during interrogation, revealing the existence of multiple partners trained by Nicole (27:40):
"He taught it to him. He doesn't live here in town. He only comes up for the weekend... We're down by the border someplace. Palm City, Tijuana, I'm not sure." [28:20]
Intensified Police Efforts and Final Capture
Determined to end the spree, Friday and Romero intensify their investigations, tracking down leads related to Nicole's whereabouts and associations. They identify Nicole's girlfriend, Esther Rivard, and stake out her residence, eventually pinpointing Nicole's vehicle — a 1941 Ford sedan — through meticulous coordination with other units (32:10).
Late-night surveillance leads to a high-tension confrontation at 12th and Beacon. As Nicole and his partner attempt to flee, the detectives engage in a tense standoff. Despite reluctance and chaotic communication between the officers, Nicole is finally apprehended after a brief altercation where his partner inadvertently fires his weapon, facilitating their capture (35:38).
Resolution and Legal Proceedings
The episode concludes with the trial of Vernon Nicole and his accomplices in Superior Court Department 87, where they are convicted on multiple counts of first-degree robbery. Nicole receives a sentence of no less than five years, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the legal system's response to his repeated offenses (36:58).
Host's Commentary and Analysis
After the dramatization, Adam Graham provides insightful reflections on the episode, highlighting the complexities of dealing with a criminal like Nicole who not only poses a significant threat but also inspires copycat crimes due to his effective methods. Graham remarks on Nicole's antisocial behavior and the challenges it presents to law enforcement:
"An interesting personal dynamic here with an antisocial perpetrator who spreads his method and creates copycats because while his method is great, he's just so difficult to work with and be around." [29:40]
He further discusses the relationship between the detectives, particularly focusing on the partnership between Friday and Romero, illustrating the toll such relentless investigations take on law enforcement officers.
Listener Engagement and Feedback
Adam Graham engages with listener comments, addressing questions about the authenticity of "Dragnet" cases and their real-life counterparts. He explains the origins of the stories, many of which were adapted from actual LAPD cases, though not all could be individually verified due to the passage of time and limited media coverage:
"While the crimes profiled on Dragnet were based on true cases, they could be brought forward in time quite a few number of years... There are a few cases where Dragnet was sued because a person alleged defamation." [29:40]
Graham also recommends Jack Webb's book "The Badge," which delves deeper into true crime stories that weren't adapted for television, offering listeners a resource for further exploration.
Conclusion
"The Big Partner" serves as a quintessential example of "Dragnet's" enduring legacy in portraying the relentless pursuit of justice by dedicated law enforcement officers. Through meticulous storytelling and authentic character portrayals, the episode not only entertains but also offers a glimpse into the procedural challenges faced by detectives in maintaining law and order.
Listeners are left with a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in crime-solving and the personal sacrifices made by those tasked with protecting the community.
Notable Quotes:
- "He walked in the store at the right time, pointed a gun, grabbed a tray full of diamond rings and walked out." – Joe Friday [01:15]
- "He pushed his fingers into the door jamb and had them badly mashed when the cell door closed on them." – Joe Friday [23:08]
- "An interesting personal dynamic here with an antisocial perpetrator who spreads his method and creates copycats..." – Adam Graham [29:40]
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