Dragnet: The Big Quack (EP4562)

Summary

Summary of "Dragnet: The Big Quack (EP4562)"

Episode Release Date: November 30, 2024
Podcast: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio
Host: Adam Graham
Series: Dragnet

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1. Introduction to the Case

The episode opens with Detective Sergeant Friday (voiced by Ryan Reynolds) and his partner Sergeant Ben Romero arriving at the residence of Marla Hutchins in Los Angeles. Marla reports a burglary, accusing Dr. Arthur Schulte, a psychotherapist who had been treating her for headaches, of stealing her mink coats and jewelry.

Notable Quote:
Ryan Reynolds as Sergeant Friday [04:07]: “We were police officers, ma'am. This is Sergeant Romero. I'm Sergeant Friday, Central Burglary.”

2. Initial Investigation

Friday and Romero conduct a thorough examination of Marla Hutchins' apartment, finding no signs of forced entry. They gather detailed statements from Marla, who insists that Dr. Schulte was the only other person present during the estimated time of the burglary.

Notable Quote:
Marla Hutchins [05:00]: “I called you and if you could tell us what happened, please.”

3. Uncovering the Fraudulent College

The detectives delve into Dr. Schulte's background, discovering that he was affiliated with the Los Angeles College of Psychotherapeutics and Psychiatry—a seemingly legitimate institution located at a Franklin Street address in Hollywood. Upon visiting the college, they find the building abandoned with boarded-up doors, raising suspicions about the school's legitimacy.

Notable Quote:
Detective Friday [10:18]: “Los Angeles College of Psychotherapeutics and Psychiatry. Dr. Arthur William Schulte.”

4. Confrontation with Leo Donaldson

Investigating further, Friday and Romero identify Leo Donaldson, the founder and dean of the fraudulent college. Undercover as a prospective student named Frank Ditton, Detective Friday engages Donaldson in conversation, uncovering the extent of the diploma mill's operations. Donaldson entices Friday with promises of expedited degrees in exchange for hefty payments.

Notable Quote:
Leo Donaldson [16:23]: “Doctor, straight, practical and Applied psychology is the specialty that I want. What degree do I get, and how much will it cost?”

5. Arrest and Revelation

With sufficient evidence, Friday and Romero arrest Leo Donaldson for grand theft and proceed to locate Dr. Schulte, who is found working as a projectionist at the Crescent Theater. Upon searching Schulte's hotel room, they discover stolen mink coats and jewelry, directly linking him to the burglary. Additionally, they uncover Schulte's criminal history, including a conviction for interstate transportation of pornographic films.

Notable Quote:
Detective Friday [25:24]: “It's just a bill. Milliken Hotel. Let's go.”

6. Resolution and Aftermath

The episode concludes with the coroner's report revealing that Marla Hutchins died by suicide, likely influenced by the ineffective treatments administered by Schulte. Dr. Schulte is dismissed as he dies of natural causes before standing trial, while Leo Donaldson faces conviction for his role in the fraudulent education scheme.

Notable Quote:
Detective Friday [27:10]: “Arthur Schulte, free on bail pending trial, died of natural causes on June 15th in Fresno, California.”

7. Themes and Insights

"The Big Quack" highlights the dangers of fraudulent medical practices and diploma mills, emphasizing the importance of verifying credentials to protect public safety. The episode faithfully portrays realistic police procedures, reflecting Dragnet's reputation for authenticity.

Notable Quote:
Adam Graham Commentary [28:46]: “This is a solid episode that deals with a problem that we still have today. With diploma mills churning out unqualified practitioners and offering fraudulent degrees.”

8. Conclusion and Awards

The episode wraps up with an acknowledgment of Dragnet's contribution to law enforcement portrayal, receiving a citation of merit from the Los Angeles Police Department for its authentic storytelling and impact on public perception of policing.

Notable Quote:
Chief W.H. Parker [27:31]: “The Los Angeles Police Department awards this citation of merit to Dragnet for its authentic portrayal of cases from the files of this department...”

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Key Takeaways:

• Authenticity: The episode remains true to real police procedures, enhancing its credibility and educational value.
• Public Safety: It underscores the critical need to combat fraudulent medical practices to prevent harm.
• Cultural Impact: Dragnet's long-standing relationship with the LAPD and its influence on popular culture is evident through the episode's recognition and awards.

For listeners new to the series, "Dragnet: The Big Quack" offers a compelling and realistic glimpse into early 1950s law enforcement challenges, showcasing the meticulous efforts of detectives in solving crimes and safeguarding the community.

Transcript

[Ryan Reynolds]

Hey, I'm Ryan Reynolds. At Mint Mobile, we like to do the opposite of what big wireless does. They charge you a lot, we charge you a little. So naturally, when they announced they'd be raising their prices due to inflation, we decided to deflate our prices due to not hating you. That's right. We're cutting the price of mint unlimited from $30 a month to just $15 a month. Give it a [e-mail] Switch $45 upfront payment equivalent to $15 per month New customers on first three month plan only Taxes and fees extra speeds lower above 40 gigabytes. In details, how do you feel when.

[Adam Graham]

You switch to GEICO and save on your car insurance?

[Ryan Reynolds]

It's like going to work on one Thursday morning and thinking to yourself, just.

[Adam Graham]

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. 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 before we get started, I want to encourage you, if you enjoy the podcast, to follow us using your favorite podcast software. Today's program is brought 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, P.O. box 15913. That's P.O. box 15913, Boise, ID 83715. And you can also become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month by going to patreon.greatdetives.net well now, from October 12, 1950, here is the big Quack.

[Jack Webb]

Tonight in Colorado Springs, Colorado, a group of men are gathered together for their annual conference. For their day in day out service to the public, Dragnet honors the 57th Annual Conference of the International association of Chiefs of Police. 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 burglary detail. A man posing as a doctor is burglarizing homes in your city. You have his description, your job. Find him. Dragnet the documented story 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.

[Ryan Reynolds]

It was Sunday, November 22nd. It was chilly in Los Angeles. We were working the day watch out of burglary detail. My partner's Ben Romero. The boss is Thad Brown, Chief of detectives. My name's Friday. It was 9:35am when we got to 5918 Canyon Cove. The home of Marla Hutchins.

[Jack Webb]

Yes, Ms. Marla Hutchins?

[Marla Hutchins]

I'm Ms. Marla Hutchins.

[Ryan Reynolds]

We're police officers, ma'am. This is Sergeant Romero. I'm Sergeant Friday, Central Burglary.

[Marla Hutchins]

Come in.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Thank you.

[Marla Hutchins]

Betty told me she called you.

[Jack Webb]

Your maid.

[Marla Hutchins]

Yes. I'm Betty Gregg.

[Ryan Reynolds]

I called you and if you could tell us what happened, please.

[Marla Hutchins]

Dr. Arthur Schulte was treating me for headaches. I have. He took my mink coats and my jewelry.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Mm. Do you have a list of what's missing?

[Marla Hutchins]

Betty will have a list of what's missing here. I've written down everything I think's gone.

[Jack Webb]

Thank you.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Well, why do you say it Was this sin, Dr. Schulte? Is that right?

[Marla Hutchins]

Yes.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Why do you say it was him that took things, Ms. Hutchins?

[Marla Hutchins]

He didn't. I know he didn't. The doctor was the only other person in the apartment.

[Jack Webb]

Officer, when was this?

[Marla Hutchins]

Last night.

[Ryan Reynolds]

What time was the doctor here last night?

[Marla Hutchins]

It was about 8. I heard him leave later about 9:15.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Isn't that right, Ms. Hutchins?

[Marla Hutchins]

Yes, that's right.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Well, could the apartment have been entered without either one of you knowing it?

[Marla Hutchins]

No, sir. The back entrance is double latched and no one could have broken in the front way. My room's right beside the front door. And I would have heard.

[Jack Webb]

You told us on the phone that this Dr. Schulte was middle aged, dark, close to 5ft 11, stocky. And where's the goatee?

[Marla Hutchins]

Yes.

[Jack Webb]

No other distinguishing features, is that correct?

[Marla Hutchins]

Yes, sir.

[Jack Webb]

How about his clothes?

[Marla Hutchins]

The way he was dressed, he was about average. He had on a gray suit the last time we saw him.

[Jack Webb]

Thank you.

[Marla Hutchins]

You know who he is?

[Jack Webb]

We'll find out.

[Ryan Reynolds]

What kind of treatment were you taking from Dr. Schiltay, Ms. Hutchinson?

[Marla Hutchins]

You call it hypnotherapy? For my headaches.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Mm. Last night the same thing?

[Marla Hutchins]

Yes.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Or anything different from his previous visits?

[Marla Hutchins]

I was very nervous. He made me take three sleeping capsules and I went to sleep. And she was still sleeping this morning when I went in and found everything in the dressing table. All over the floor.

[Ryan Reynolds]

I see. Have you known this Dr. Schulte Long, Ms. Hutchins?

[Marla Hutchins]

About four months.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Did you meet him at a party, maybe?

[Marla Hutchins]

No, I was a student of his.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Where was this?

[Marla Hutchins]

This small college in Hollywood. He was the head of the school. He was a teacher, too.

[Jack Webb]

Do you have the name and address for the college?

[Marla Hutchins]

Bet he can give it to you. It's in my desk.

[Ryan Reynolds]

You still a student there?

[Marla Hutchins]

No, I don't take the course. I stopped. College was closed. That's when he came here to treat me for my headaches.

[Jack Webb]

How did he start giving you these treatments, Ms. Hutchins?

[Marla Hutchins]

One day in his lecture, I fainted. He took me to his office and told me that pain was only a state of mind. State of mind?

[Ryan Reynolds]

Yes, ma'am.

[Marla Hutchins]

My headache didn't bother me anymore. He said that relief would only be temporary if I didn't take regular treatments.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Well, did you see him regularly?

[Marla Hutchins]

I saw him twice a week. Twice a week?

[Jack Webb]

Always here at the college.

[Marla Hutchins]

Then it closed. I don't know why. He telephoned and said he would continue here.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Well, where did you get in touch with him when the college closed?

[Marla Hutchins]

I never did. He always called here.

[Ryan Reynolds]

You have any idea where he is now?

[Marla Hutchins]

No. I just know that he's a thief.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Yes, ma'am.

[Marla Hutchins]

Why don't you lie down, Miss Hutchins? You look tired. All right.

[Jack Webb]

Thank you, Miss Hutchins.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Yes, ma'am. Thank you very much.

[Marla Hutchins]

All right. Would your gentleman like some coffee?

[Jack Webb]

Oh, Ben, I could show you some.

[Ryan Reynolds]

It would be very nice, miss. Thank you.

[Marla Hutchins]

Officer.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Yes, ma'am.

[Marla Hutchins]

If this man's just a common thief, treatments he's been giving Ms. Hutchins couldn't have been very good, could they?

[Ryan Reynolds]

She's still got the headaches, hasn't she? 11:50am we checked the apartment for physical evidence. There was nothing to indicate that the place had been broken into. We put in a call to Latent Fingerprints to send a man out to check the closet and dresser. We completed the crime report and Betty Gregg, the maid, gave us the name and address of Dr. Schulte's college, the Los Angeles College of Psychotherapeutics and Psychiatry at a Franklin street number in Hollywood. Ben and I got out of Teletype to Sacramento asking information on the chartering of the school that Dr. Schulte was supposed to have headed. We checked on Betty Gregg, the maid, and found that she was a Los Angeles girl, parents still living in the city. She had a good reputation. 2:35pm we went to the address where the College had been. It was a big brown clapboard house with several dormer windows facing the street. It was vacant. The front door was boarded up. A rental agency sign was stuck up on one of the pillars on the front porch.

[Jack Webb]

Joe, Front room there must have been where they had classes. Rows of chairs nailed down, you see?

[Ryan Reynolds]

Let me look. I don't see any papers inside. No mail.

[Jack Webb]

Hi. Yeah, my name's Tom Thompson. You interested in the place?

[Ryan Reynolds]

You're the agent?

[Jack Webb]

No, no, I just live next door. I'm a dry cleaner myself. But I sort of promised a real estate agent I'd keep an eye peeled, see if I could be of help. Anyone came around shopping?

[Ryan Reynolds]

Uh huh. Police officers were just checking.

[Jack Webb]

Oh. Something wrong? Somebody break in?

[Ryan Reynolds]

Did you live next door when this was a school here?

[Jack Webb]

Yeah, that psychology bunch here about, oh, 10 months, maybe less. I always thought it was kind of a shoestring operation. How do you mean? Oh, you know, not much though. They just make it into me. No class, you know, always just adults. Well, classes used to be. Mostly during the day. I was at work. The wife used to tell me there were no kids that she ever saw.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Did you know the man that ran the school?

[Jack Webb]

Uh, no, but he was a middle aged guy with a kind of a pointed beard. Had a pal, younger guy, never stopped to talk. They're pretty tight mouthed guys, like I said. Why, what'd he do? Routine investigation, Mr. Thompson.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Do you have any idea where they might be contacted now?

[Jack Webb]

No, no. Real estate agents said they skipped without paying last month's rent for him. He's been trying to find them.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Do you remember their names?

[Jack Webb]

Uh, well, let's see. Wait a minute. The older guy, the guy with the beard was named Schultz or something like that. I can't remember the young fellow though, but. Hey, wait a minute, wait a minute. I got their door. How's that? I got their door. The agent let me have the front door. I'm building a patio porch in the back of my house and the glass that I took out of the door has got the names lettered on it.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Oh, it's fine.

[Jack Webb]

Come on. I'll see if I still got it in the garage. It's right around here.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Okay.

[Jack Webb]

Little chilly today, huh?

[Ryan Reynolds]

Yeah, a little.

[Jack Webb]

Want to stand back in? One hit. You want to open?

[Ryan Reynolds]

That's the doorbell.

[Jack Webb]

Here we go. I like to keep a nice neat garage. Sure looks nice. Oh, thanks.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Say, do these men live in the house, Mr. Thompson, or do they just use it for the school?

[Jack Webb]

You know, best on just for classes like I say they're pretty tight leg guys. Not very friendly. Real quiet.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Mm.

[Jack Webb]

Yeah, here it is.

[Ryan Reynolds]

I got it. Just leave it right there. We'll come over there. You want us to move it? Let's see. Los Angeles College of Psychotherapeutics and Psychiatry. Dr. Arthur William Schulte.

[Jack Webb]

Schulte, D. A. A, Ph. D. S.C.D. well, of course, the Schultz.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Dr. Leo George Donaldson, D.V.

[Jack Webb]

Ph.D.S, c. D. I got it, Joe.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Okay, fine. We're much obliged, Mr. Thompson. Here's our card. If you hear anything regarding these men, we'd appreciate you calling us.

[Jack Webb]

Oh, sure, sure. I'd be glad to wait me here. Here's my card. Uh, Ideal cleaners over an iVar. If you get around that way while drop some stuff off. I'll see how it gets special attention.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Well, thank you very much, Ms. Thompson.

[Jack Webb]

No, it's okay. Sure glad I didn't throw that glass away, brother. Look at all the letters after the names, eh? Wonder what it takes to get a lineup of degrees like that paint brush.

[Ryan Reynolds]

In about 10 minutes. 5pm Ben and I drove back to the office. There was a report from Latent Fingerprints. Nothing. But the prints of the two girls had been found in the Hutchins apartment. We checked what information we had on Schulte and Donaldson through to the FBI on the teletype. A check of doctors registered with the Los Angeles County Medical association and the American Psychiatric association failed to turn up anybody named Dr. Schulte. We had our I Bureau and stats office make runs on Leo, Donaldson and Schulte and a rundown on the reports where the burglar had posed as a psychologist. The stats office turned up a couple of dozen new suspects. We pulled the mug shots and headed for the Hutchins apartment.

[Jack Webb]

Looks like something doing at the Hutchins department, huh?

[Ryan Reynolds]

A lot of cruiser cars, huh?

[Jack Webb]

Let's have a look. Sorry, can't go in.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Sergeant Friday, Romero, Central Burglary.

[Jack Webb]

Oh, sure, sergeant. What's the trouble? Girl, name of Hutchins. Shot herself. You are listening to Dragnet, Authentic stories of your police force in action.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Monday, November 23rd. During the morning, the coroner's office signed off Marla Hutchins case. The verdict was that she had taken her own life. The police psychiatrist told us that probably the hypnotic treatments by Schulte had hastened her death. The information we'd received from the medical association told us that they had had complaints against the operation of the Schulte School. They had pointed out to us that it takes over 12 years in recognized medical schools to become a member of the American Psychiatric Association. Schulte had been mass producing pseudo psychiatrists in eight weeks. 1:40pm we met with Captain Fulton.

[Jack Webb]

School was a phony. Degrees and diplomas sold anybody who had cash.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Yeah, they're not operating anymore.

[Jack Webb]

We checked that out. They're gone. Well, here's the answer to your teletype to Sacramento.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Thank you.

[Jack Webb]

Gives details on the application for the School of Shulde. He's listed as founder and Dean Donaldson.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Is listed as staff.

[Jack Webb]

There are no addresses other than the.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Franklin street number there. Mm. Anything else?

[Jack Webb]

A month ago, Leo Donaldson opened courses.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Of instruction in Los Angeles under the title of California Physicians College of Psychiatry.

[Jack Webb]

781 S. Hill St. Shulty associated with him?

[Ryan Reynolds]

No.

[Jack Webb]

Have any idea where Shuldy is?

[Ryan Reynolds]

No, we don't, but we're looking. We've got the support of the medical people to push a bunco charge for the operation of the old school.

[Jack Webb]

Donaldson should be able to give you.

[Ryan Reynolds]

A lead on Schulte.

[Jack Webb]

Figures he might be in contact. Looks like they actually ran the school together, even though Schulte was legally responsible.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Ben and I have an idea on how maybe we can find out.

[Jack Webb]

How's that?

[Ryan Reynolds]

We thought one of us could make a pitch to Donaldson, see if he'd sell a degree from the new school, get evidence to support a bunco warrant, and check at the same time to see if Donelson has contact with Schulte. Well, I'll let the bunco detail know we're trying. You think you can do it? I can try. You know anything else about Donaldson's courses? No, that doesn't bother me. How come? Neither does Donaldson. In trying to get Schulte through his former associate, Leo Donaldson, we again contacted the Medical Association. They furnished us with the name of Ralph Morse, a graduate of the Franklin Street School who had since been killed in an auto accident. Tuesday, 11:30am Ben and I get the 781 South Hill Street, a seven story office building in the heart of the Los Angeles business district. The directory in the lobby listed the California Physicians College of psychiatry for rooms 214 and 216. Ben waited outside in the car. I took the elevator up.

[Jack Webb]

Yes, may I help you?

[Ryan Reynolds]

Dr. Donaldson.

[Jack Webb]

I'm Dr. Leo Donaldson. Do you have assistance?

[Ryan Reynolds]

Well, my name is Frank Ditton. I wanted to ask about the curriculum here.

[Jack Webb]

Well, we've just opened. Mr. Ditton. We're not quite ready to start classes. You understand this is very advanced instruction. Most of our students will have had considerable background in psychiatry.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Oh, well, a friend of mine Dr. Morse said that he was sure I'd be a good student for you.

[Jack Webb]

Dr. Morse? I'm not sure I place him.

[Ryan Reynolds]

He was one of your students at the Franklin street school. Said that Dr. Schulte knew him quite well.

[Jack Webb]

Oh. Oh, yes, Yes, I remember. Brilliant man. How's he getting along?

[Ryan Reynolds]

He was killed in a car collision.

[Jack Webb]

Oh, that's too bad.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Well, frankly, what I was interested in was being able to take over his practice. Could I get the same deal he got?

[Jack Webb]

I think so, Mr. Ditton. What'd you have in mind?

[Ryan Reynolds]

Well, take some courses and get a degree. I worked with Morse for a while. I can set up a clinic. He did okay. I figure maybe I can, too.

[Jack Webb]

Well, here's a list of the courses we'll offer.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Thank you.

[Jack Webb]

We'll go over it together, and you can indicate what sphere of study you'd like to undertake.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Does Dr. Schulte teach any of these courses?

[Jack Webb]

No, he doesn't. Now, the first semester will include Painless and Drugless Childbirth, Practical and Applied Psychology, autosuggestion, prenatal suggestion.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Yeah. Well, look, Dr. Donaldson. Straight, practical and Applied psychology is the specialty that I want. What degree do I get, and how much will it cost?

[Jack Webb]

Well, the least expensive is a doctor of psychotherapy at $450. A doctorate of philosophy and psychology is $500 for all purposes. If you can afford it, Mr. Ditton is a doctorate of science. That's 800. That course was $1,000 at the Franklin Street School.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Yeah, well, I don't know. That's a lot of money. Guess I have to have it, though. Wonder if you'd take a check now.

[Jack Webb]

Certainly. You understand what a tremendous advantage these degrees are to the professional man, who, for one reason or another, may never have had a chance to get a college diploma.

[Ryan Reynolds]

The course is very hard.

[Jack Webb]

You look like an intelligent man, Mr. Didn't. Sure you'd have no difficulty.

[Ryan Reynolds]

All right. Well, say, look, Doctor, I live out in Van Nuys now, and I'm working three days a week at the present time. It's going to be pretty tough to get downtown here. Do I have to be here every day?

[Jack Webb]

Since it's the diplomas most of our students are interested in, we have, on occasion, made exceptions in cases like yours.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Well, I'd appreciate that.

[Jack Webb]

We could possibly, in the case of a doctorate of science, present you with your diploma in advance of your taking the course, and you could launch into private practice at once and take the course whenever it suited you.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Couldn't ask for a better deal.

[Jack Webb]

Everything's mentioned in this catalog. The forms are in the back. Why don't you sit down right there.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Oh, thank you very much. Rules and regulations. No books are required of students. Well, that's a break, huh?

[Jack Webb]

We lecture a little differently from some colleges and therefore, we've dispensed with texts because we feel they tend to confuse the data.

[Ryan Reynolds]

When I take the course, who will be my instructor?

[Jack Webb]

Hi, Will.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Well, Morse talked a lot about Dr. Schulte. Does he teach any of the classes?

[Jack Webb]

No. Dr. Schulte was associated with me in the operation of the Franklin Street School, but is not the staff member of the California Physicians College of Psychiatry.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Well, I was just wondering, if I paid extra, could I get some classes with him? Morse said that he picked up a lot of useful information from Schulte. He's a fellow with a goatee.

[Jack Webb]

Yes, that's right. Well, truthfully, I have no idea where Dr. Schulte is presently located.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Understand now, this one regulation here, no student will be admitted who cannot show documentary proof of the successful completion of secondary school work.

[Jack Webb]

High school. You can understand that, can't you, Mr. Ditton? I mean, well, there are certain minimum academic standards we must observe in order to maintain the quality of our degree.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Dr. Donaldson accepted my check to the amount of $800. I asked for a receipt and he filled out a blank doctorate of Science degree which he carefully lettered with the name Frank Ditton and signed himself as dean. I arrested Donaldson and Ben and I took him in for booking. 1pm we received a long teletype from Washington. Arthur Schulte had a record of arrests and convictions back East. It started with a conviction 16 years ago for the interstate transportation of pornographic motion pictures. The record gave us no known addresses, but important in the information was the fact that Schulte had originally been trained and had worked at being a projectionist in movie theaters. In the MO Was the notation that he'd been known to take up his old occupation when sought by authorities. 1:35pm we contacted the local office of the Motion Picture Projectionist Union, where they told us that they had placed an Arthur Schulte in the booth of one of the Main street newsreel houses on Sunday. That was the day before. 2:30pm The Crescent Theater was buried between two bars and advertised an hour of newsreels and short subjects for 20 cents.

[Jack Webb]

Where's the manager? I'm him.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Can we talk to you a minute? Police officers.

[Jack Webb]

What?

[Ryan Reynolds]

I say we're police officers. We'd like to talk to you.

[Jack Webb]

Nobody here to take over why don't you come in and I can open the booth door here and talk.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Okay. Right around the back, I guess.

[Jack Webb]

Here.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Ben. Where is he? Hey, mister.

[Jack Webb]

Okay, what's the trouble, Officers?

[Ryan Reynolds]

Do you have a man by the name of Schulte working here?

[Jack Webb]

That's right. Projectionist isn't working right this minute, though. Comes on duty at four an hour.

[Ryan Reynolds]

All right. I wonder if you'd take a look at this description, please.

[Jack Webb]

Sure.

[Ryan Reynolds]

There we are.

[Jack Webb]

5:11. Man working here is clean shaven, no goatee. That's how that sounds the same. Any idea where he lives?

[Ryan Reynolds]

No, I don't. We'll have to wait for him here.

[Jack Webb]

All right.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Wait a minute.

[Jack Webb]

Just one. Where you want to wait inside?

[Ryan Reynolds]

Well, I think we'd rather stay up in the projection booth if it's all right.

[Jack Webb]

Up the steel stairs there on the right. Tell Pete Eigen he's the man up there now. I said it was okay. All right.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Don't say anything to him when he gets here, will you, Sir?

[Jack Webb]

Man won't. Officer.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Come on, Ben, get us. This way. It's a long climb, huh?

[Jack Webb]

Yeah, it's right up there.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Oh, yeah. This must be it. Hey, mister.

[Jack Webb]

Mister. Yeah?

[Ryan Reynolds]

Police officers.

[Jack Webb]

Anything wrong?

[Ryan Reynolds]

We're going to have to wait here. The manager said it was okay.

[Jack Webb]

Wait for what?

[Ryan Reynolds]

We want to talk to your relief man.

[Jack Webb]

You mean the doc? You know him? Well, just since yesterday.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Why do you call him the doc?

[Jack Webb]

Well, you know, speaks kind of fancy for a projectionist. What do you do?

[Ryan Reynolds]

Oh, he just likes to talk to him.

[Jack Webb]

Okay. You know, the guy doesn't come on for about an hour.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Yeah, they told us.

[Jack Webb]

You want to look at the picture? You can both sit by the observation port on the film safes there. Yeah, thanks.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Sit over here, Ben. Is this all right here?

[Jack Webb]

Yeah, that's fine.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Huh? Well, what's the matter?

[Jack Webb]

I've seen this newsreel.

[Ryan Reynolds]

5:45Pm Schulte was nearly two hours late. Ben and I were worrying about whether somehow he'd been tipped.

[Jack Webb]

Usual for men to be this late for a shift. Not in a house like this. Bigger house would be different. Way it is with a doc. Being late like this just cost the boss a couple of bucks.

[Ryan Reynolds]

How do you mean?

[Jack Webb]

I got more dough. I'm over my maximum hours. The old guy stay away long enough, I'd be on golden.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Golden? What's that?

[Jack Webb]

Yeah, double and a half time. Boys in the business call it golden time. Oh. Most dough you can get is double golden. You get that working over maximum number of hours. After midnight on a Sunday, huh? That's double golden. Never happened to me, though. How do you stand? What do you mean? The money, the noise. You get used to it. Don't pay any attention after a while.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Don't you get tired of hearing the same soundtrack over and over?

[Jack Webb]

No, you just know it's there. It never registers what they're saying. I mean, just if it stops when it shouldn't. Get used to it over the years. Been doing this long? 11.

[Ryan Reynolds]

It's a long time.

[Jack Webb]

Excuse me, I gotta make a switchover.

[Ryan Reynolds]

What'd you say?

[Jack Webb]

I said I gotta make a switch over.

[Ryan Reynolds]

I've been watching you do that all afternoon. How do you know when to turn the other projector on?

[Jack Webb]

Mark's on the film up in the right corner on the screen. Usually a black dot. Look through the window.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Look, Ben, right here.

[Jack Webb]

The first dot tells me to start the other projector. When the second dot hits, I cut this one, turn on the other one. Now watch. Okay. Say the first one.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Uh huh.

[Jack Webb]

Now the second dot. See? Uh huh. Smooth. You never know the difference. Simple stuff. People never seem to notice the switches. Just a minute. Hi, Doc. A little late. Sorry, I overslept. Your name, children? That's right.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Police officers would like to talk to you.

[Jack Webb]

I have to go to work. It'll wait.

[Ryan Reynolds]

You want to go downstairs?

[Jack Webb]

All right.

[Ryan Reynolds]

This way. All right. This will be fine. Right here. You say your name is Schulte? Arthur William Schulte?

[Jack Webb]

That's correct. Ever been known by any other name?

[Ryan Reynolds]

Why do you operate a school called the Los Angeles College of Psychotherapeutics and Psychiatry during the past year?

[Jack Webb]

I'm not saying anything. Where are you living, mister? I'm not saying anything.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Let me see your identification.

[Marla Hutchins]

Here.

[Jack Webb]

My wallet. No, you hold it. See, open that part there. I take out the card. Union card, little ticket stubs, Social Security card.

[Ryan Reynolds]

That second thing there behind the cash. Yeah. Let's try that folded piece of paper there.

[Jack Webb]

It's just a bill. What is it, Jim?

[Ryan Reynolds]

It's a bill. Milliken Hotel. Let's go. We drove to the Milliken Hotel about six blocks from the theater in the same skid road district. We got the key from the room clerk and went up to Schulte's room. Looked like any dingy hotel room. A small foot locker sat at the end of the bed on the baggage stand. Two suitcases were over by the closet. And sitting on the floor alongside the bureau were two waist high stacks of books.

[Jack Webb]

You got the key to the small trunk? I Don't have to submit to this.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Let's open it up.

[Jack Webb]

Open it yourself. Here's the key.

[Ryan Reynolds]

All right. Two mink coats.

[Jack Webb]

I'll check the rest of the room, Joe.

[Ryan Reynolds]

All right. Is this your property, Doctor?

[Jack Webb]

I'm not saying anything. Just clothes. Regular stuff. And girl.

[Ryan Reynolds]

How about those suitcases over there? You got them? What do you got?

[Jack Webb]

How about this?

[Ryan Reynolds]

It's a cigar box. It's taped shut. What's inside, Doctor?

[Jack Webb]

Nothing you'd be interested in. I'll open it. Jill.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Schulte. Bracelets, rings, matched, earrings fit our stolen property reports.

[Jack Webb]

These were gifts. People say you took them. They're sick. I've done them a lot of good. They know. They thank me. This way.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Yeah.

[Jack Webb]

People I get these things from. They know I've helped them.

[Ryan Reynolds]

The way you help Marla Hutchins?

[Jack Webb]

The story you have just heard was true. Only the names were changed to protect the innocent. Arthur Schulte, free on bail pending trial, died of natural causes on June 15th in Fresno, California. Leo Donaldson was tried and convicted of grand theft and served a term prescribed by law in the state penitentiary. And now here is our star, Jack Webb.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Thank you. When the rookie policeman becomes a full fledged member of the department, one of the first things he becomes aware of is the time worn tradition of the peace officer. He has pride in the men he works with. Pride in his job.

[Jack Webb]

Ladies and gentlemen, the Chief of Police of the City of Los Angeles, WH Parker. The Los Angeles Police Department awards this citation of merit to Dragnet for its authentic portrayal of cases from the files of this department, bringing great credit to the Los Angeles Police Department and its officers and enhancing the prestige of law enforcement generally among its millions of listeners.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Thank you, Chief Parker.

[Jack Webb]

You have just heard Dragnet, a series of authentic cases from official files. Technical advice comes from the office of Chief of Police W.H. parker, Los Angeles Police Department. Next, we the People. Three chimes mean good times on NBC.

[Adam Graham]

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

[Ryan Reynolds]

It's like going to work on one Thursday morning and thinking to yourself, just.

[Adam Graham]

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.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Yep.

[Adam Graham]

Switching and saving with GEICO feels just like that. Get more with geico. Welcome back. This is a solid episode that deals with a problem that we still have today. With diploma mills churning out unqualified practitioners and offering fraudulent degrees. When people who use big words, but are not actually qualified, ethical, and don't know what they're doing. Start messing around with people's minds, minds and bodies, it can really do great harm. As this episode brings home. And this is yet another example of Dragnet educating the public about a real problem and a lesser known threat to public safety. The whole bit about the movie projectors provides some interesting insight into that profession, which I'm sure has changed in the past 75 years, as have many others. But it's also probably an area of Jack Webb's particular interest. In Michael Hayd's book My Name Is Friday, he mentions that on set when Webb was just working as an actor, he spent time in between scenes really questioning the various people who were working on the film and getting a handle on every aspect of the movie making business to understand it. He certainly would have wanted to understand the projection part of the movie business. And it wouldn't surprise me if this came from his own research. The award provided at the end was definitely well earned and it illustrates that a year in to its production, Dragnet already had this special place in popular culture and certainly in its relationship with the Los Angeles Police Department. Well, now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day and I want to go ahead and thank Ron. Ron's been one of our Patreon supporters since March of 2022, currently supporting the podcast at the shamus level of $4 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support, Ron, and that will actually do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software and be sure to rate and review the podcast wherever you download it from. We'll be back next Saturday with another episode of Dragnet. Join us on Tuesday for a previously uncirculated Hearthstone of the death Squad. And of course, tomorrow is our Sunday replay. But our whole regular lineup gets properly restarted on Monday when we will bring you the Adventures of the Falcon. Where.

[Jack Webb]

And you're Vicky Terrence, huh?

[Marla Hutchins]

Well, I heard you're a good detective, but that's kind of stretching it.

[Jack Webb]

Why? I've just been looking at a picture of you and O'Hara nightclubbing together.

[Marla Hutchins]

I didn't know we'd been published.

[Jack Webb]

You don't read the Police Gazette? Come in.

[Marla Hutchins]

Thanks.

[Jack Webb]

Well, now, why do you want a detective?

[Marla Hutchins]

Well, Mr. Waring.

[Jack Webb]

Oh, call me Mike. I'll call you Vicky. Unless O'Hara objects.

[Marla Hutchins]

Don't worry about Joey. He's a lion in the ring, but.

[Jack Webb]

A lamb out of it with you as Little Bo Peep. I can believe it. But back to business.

[Marla Hutchins]

Well, Mike, there's a fellow I used to go with in Detroit, Ken Floyd. He's come to New York and wants to make trouble between me and Joey.

[Jack Webb]

How?

[Marla Hutchins]

Well, he has some wacky yarn. He's threatened to tell Joey.

[Jack Webb]

What yarn?

[Marla Hutchins]

Well, it hasn't anything to do with what I want you for.

[Jack Webb]

Vicki. I found out when people who want to hire me start holding out on me.

[Marla Hutchins]

I'm not holding out. But I'm beginning to wonder if I didn't make a mistake coming here.

[Jack Webb]

So am I, Angela.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to Box13greatdetives.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.