Dragnet: The Big Threat (1951) (EP4736)

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio | Daily Mystery Dramas

Episode: Dragnet: The Big Threat (1951)
Release Date: June 21, 2025
Host: Adam Graham

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Episode Overview

In this gripping episode of Dragnet, titled The Big Threat (1951), listeners are taken on a meticulous journey through a classic police investigation that underscores the importance of community cooperation and the far-reaching consequences of inaction. The episode, narrated with authenticity and attention to detail, highlights the procedural drama and psychological tension characteristic of the Golden Age of Radio detective series.

Plot Summary

The story centers around Detective Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner, Sergeant Ben Romero, as they investigate a series of robberies and assaults in their Los Angeles neighborhood. The case begins with the assault of Lewis Butler, a middle-aged businessman who is brutally robbed and beaten, yet refuses to report the crime. This reluctance sets off a chain of events that underscore the episode's central themes of responsibility and the communal impact of individual actions.

Key Events:

1. Initial Investigation (03:00 - 10:23):

   • Incident Description: On October 8th, Checker Friday and Romero arrive at Butler's residence following a robbery. Butler's unwillingness to cooperate raises suspicions.
   • Dialogue Highlight:
     • Joe Friday: "It's only going to take a few minutes, sir." [07:02]
     • Lewis Butler: "I just don't want to talk about it, if you don't mind." [09:02]
   • Suspicion and Pressure: Friday persists, revealing that Butler might be protecting someone, hinting at deeper criminal connections.

2. Witness Intimidation (09:53 - 10:23):

   • Threats Unveiled: Butler admits that he and his family have been threatened to keep silent, implying involvement of a larger criminal network.
   • Investigation Progress: Butler eventually files a statement identifying the assailants as Marvin Carter and Ralph Quincy, leading to their indictment.

3. Unexpected Turns (11:19 - 20:06):

   • Court Proceedings: The trial against Carter and Quincy faces setbacks when Butler and his wife disappear before the arraignment, resulting in case dismissal.
   • Continued Pursuit: Despite the setback, Friday and Romero remain determined, orchestrating a statewide search that ultimately leads to Carter's arrest and subsequent conviction in Colorado for a separate murder case.

4. Case Resolution and Aftermath (21:22 - 27:53):

   • New Incidents: A fresh wave of robberies mimicking the earlier M.O. suggests ongoing criminal activity.
   • Informant's Lead: An informant, Bertie Simmons, provides a pivotal lead on Carter's whereabouts, culminating in Carter's capture.
   • Final Verdict: Carter is convicted of first-degree robbery and sentenced to life imprisonment, showcasing the persistent efforts of the police force.

Important Milestones:

• Butler's Reluctance: Butler's initial refusal to engage with the police highlights the challenges detectives face in securing cooperation from victims.
• Witness Assault: The brutal attack on Harold Bartlett, the son of Butler, illustrates the escalating dangers and the high stakes involved in the investigation.
• Case Dismissal and Recovery: The temporary dismissal of the case due to the Butlers' disappearance demonstrates the fragility of legal proceedings dependent on witness availability.
• Final Conviction: The eventual conviction of Marvin Carter serves as a testament to the detectives' unwavering dedication despite numerous obstacles.

Notable Quotes and Moments

• Pressure for Cooperation:
  • Joe Friday: "We'd like to straighten you out, Mr. Butler. It concerns a lot more people than just yourself." [07:09]
• Consequences of Inaction:
  • Joe Friday: "Without a complaining witness, our case was finished." [19:52]
• Host Reflection:
  • Adam Graham reflects on the episode's lesson: “The refusal of the first complainant to appear at trial led to the death of the policeman in Colorado. It brings home the weight of failing to follow through on your responsibility.” [29:05]

Host Commentary and Insights

At the conclusion of the episode, Adam Graham provides thoughtful analysis, drawing parallels between the narrative and real-life implications:

• Responsibility and Community Impact: Graham emphasizes the episode's moral that individual reluctance to cooperate can have dire consequences beyond the immediate incident.
• Character Appreciation: He highlights his fondness for the character Bertie Simmons, noting the depth and uniqueness of the portrayal.
• Episode Details: Graham clarifies the reuse of the episode title The Big Threat from 1951, distinguishing it from a similarly titled episode from 1953, ensuring clarity for long-time listeners.

Notable Host Quotes:

• “The refusal of the first complainant to appear at trial led to the death of the policeman in Colorado.” [29:05]
• “Bertie gets beers and clams, so I guess good for him.” [29:47]
• “This is one of those episodes where the title is reused… same title, entirely different in terms of its plot.” [29:47]

Listener Feedback and Community Engagement

Adam Graham engages with his audience by sharing listener comments and feedback, enriching the episode's interactive experience:

• Eddie's Appreciation:
  Eddie: “Listening to your analysis closer, I enjoy the show with new perspective and with other shows… I look forward almost daily.” [38:10]
  Graham's Response: He draws parallels to watching YouTube reactors, appreciating how new perspectives can renew the enjoyment of familiar content.

• Webs' Postcard Story:
  Webs: Shares a personal anecdote about traveling across the country while listening to the podcast, enhancing the sense of community among listeners. [38:25]

• Spotify Listener’s Insight:
  A detailed critique of an episode's narrative inconsistency regarding the need for an investigation, sparking a discussion on storytelling coherence in Dragnet. [39:16]

Conclusion

Dragnet: The Big Threat (1951) is a compelling episode that masterfully intertwines investigative rigor with human elements, showcasing the profound impact of individual actions on broader societal outcomes. Through meticulous storytelling and insightful host commentary, Adam Graham not only recounts a classic detective tale but also imparts timeless lessons on responsibility and community engagement. Listener interactions further enrich the experience, fostering a vibrant and thoughtful audience community.

For more episodes and to subscribe, visit Great Detectives of Old Time Radio or your preferred podcast platform.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Joe Friday: "We'd like to straighten you out, Mr. Butler. It concerns a lot more people than just yourself." [07:09]
• Joe Friday: "Without a complaining witness, our case was finished." [19:52]
• Adam Graham: “The refusal of the first complainant to appear at trial led to the death of the policeman in Colorado.” [29:05]

Transcript

[Adam Graham]

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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 get into this week's episode of Dragnet. But first I do want to encourage you if you're enjoying the podcast to please follow us using your favorite podcast software. Today's program is brought to you in part by the financial support of our listeners. You can support the show on a one time basis by mailing a donation to Adam Graham, P.O. box 15913. That's P.O. box 15913, Boise, ID 83715 and I want to thank Eddie and Carolyn for sending along donations that way. Thank you so much for your support and you can also become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month by going to patreon.greatdetectives.net now from April 12, 1951 here is the big threat.

[Narrator]

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 robbery detail. A middle aged businessman in your city is robbed and beaten senseless. The hold up men escape. The victim refuses to report the crime. Your job? Investigate.

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]

It was Tuesday, October 8th. Was overcast in Los Angeles. We were working the day. Watch out. A robbery detail. My partner's Ben Romero. The boss is Captain Vidian. My name's Friday. It was 11:23am when we got to 700 South Hill Boulevard. The Butler Accordion Studios.

[Narrator]

What do you think?

[Joe Friday]

Well, I don't know. It must be upstairs, I guess, huh?

[Narrator]

Oh, yeah, yeah. There it is. Main office, second floor.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

Who is that, Joe?

[Joe Friday]

What?

[Narrator]

That portrait up there on the wall.

[Joe Friday]

All right, just a minute. Some printing underneath here.

[Narrator]

It's a nice painting.

[Joe Friday]

It says, Damien, the father of the accordion, Vienna, 1829.

[Narrator]

What do you know about that? Must be it down there, huh?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

Want to try it?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Yes, sir. Are you Lewis Butler?

[Lewis Butler]

Yeah, that's right. Can I help you?

[Joe Friday]

Police officers, Mr. Butler. I'd like to talk to you for a minute.

[Lewis Butler]

Is your name Friday?

[Joe Friday]

Yes, sir, that's right. This is my partner, Sergeant Romero.

[Narrator]

How do you do?

[Lewis Butler]

I'm sorry, Sergeant. I told you on the phone, I just don't want to talk about it.

[Joe Friday]

We'd appreciate it if we could have your cooperation. It's a pretty important matter.

[Lewis Butler]

Well, I'm the only one concerned in it, as far as I can see. I just as soon forget the whole thing. Besides, I got a pretty busy day ahead of me.

[Joe Friday]

Well, we'd like to straighten you out, Mr. Butler. It concerns a lot more people than just yourself. Now, we're not going to take much of your time. Just a few questions, that's all.

[Lewis Butler]

I told you on the phone, Sergeant, I don't want to talk about it. Can't you just forget about the whole thing?

[Joe Friday]

It's only going to take a few minutes, sir.

[Ben Romero]

All right.

[Lewis Butler]

Come in if you want.

[Narrator]

Thank you.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you.

[Lewis Butler]

Place is in kind of a mess. Wife's away to mothers. You can sit down if you want.

[Narrator]

Oh, thank you.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you very much.

[Lewis Butler]

All right, Pepper, I'll feed you. Just a minute.

[Narrator]

It's a nice cat you got there. Siamese.

[Ben Romero]

Little bit.

[Lewis Butler]

Yeah, it's my wife's. Don't care too much for cats myself. All right, Pepper.

[Narrator]

Now, wait a minute.

[Lewis Butler]

Your nose, Hatter.

[Harold Bartlett]

There you go, Pepper.

[Lewis Butler]

That ought to hold you for a while.

[Narrator]

Look at that, Jill. Sure goes for that milk, huh? Yeah, sure does.

[Lewis Butler]

You're gonna have to make it fast, Sergeant. I got an appointment for lunch downtown.

[Joe Friday]

All right, sir. I'd just like to have you elaborate on what Dr. Hart told us. Is he your family doctor, by the way?

[Lewis Butler]

Yeah, that's right. He had no business calling in the first place. I told him I didn't want it to get out. What'd he tell you?

[Narrator]

He said you came to him for treatment night before last, and he told him you'd been beaten up and robbed. He treated you for cuts and bruises about the face and head.

[Lewis Butler]

No, it was nothing. Didn't amount to anything.

[Joe Friday]

Well, was there actually a robbery, Mr. Butler?

[Lewis Butler]

Believe me, Sergeant, it didn't amount to anything. I don't even want to go into it.

[Joe Friday]

How much did the robbery involve? Money, I mean.

[Lewis Butler]

I'd rather not say. I don't want any fuss made about it. That's why I didn't report it. Just isn't worth it to me.

[Narrator]

We understand the holdup men took more than $800 from you. Wouldn't you like to get that money back?

[Lewis Butler]

I don't want to be nasty about this thing, but I was the one who was held up. Now, if I don't want to press the case, I don't see why anyone else should worry about it. It was my money.

[Joe Friday]

How about the beating that the thieves gave you?

[Lewis Butler]

It's nothing serious. It's like I told you on the phone. I want to forget about the whole thing.

[Joe Friday]

Well, it must have involved more than just a few scratches, from the looks of you. And the doctor had to treat you.

[Lewis Butler]

Take my word for it.

[Joe Friday]

Please.

[Lewis Butler]

I'm all right. I don't want to press charges.

[Narrator]

Appreciate it if you'd give us some kind of an explanation, Mr. Butler.

[Lewis Butler]

Why, I don't want to bother, that's all. There's nothing to explain.

[Joe Friday]

Well, you have to admit that this is a little unusual. Somebody beats you up, slugs you, takes $800 from you, and you don't want to do anything about it.

[Lewis Butler]

You're going to have to excuse me a minute. I have one of my accordion students down the hall in the practice room. Almost time for him to go. I have to give him his lesson for next week.

[Joe Friday]

All right, sir. Go right ahead.

[Lewis Butler]

It'll only be a.

[Narrator]

How about that?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

Acts like he's scared to death.

[Joe Friday]

Well, whoever it was, they gave him a going over. Half of his head in bandages, face all swollen.

[Narrator]

Sure, something phony.

[Joe Friday]

Well, he's not gonna be much help unless we can talk him into a crime report.

[Narrator]

Somebody's got to him. I'll bet on him. Oh, hi there, Kitty. Hi, Kitty.

[Lewis Butler]

I've been thinking it over, officers. Sorry. You had to come out here, go to all this trouble. But I just as soon forget the whole thing. I don't even want to talk about it, if you don't mind.

[Joe Friday]

We don't mean to high pressure you, Butler, but we'd like some kind of an explanation.

[Lewis Butler]

Can't you understand? I just don't want to make a big fuss about it. I'd like to have you go along with my feelings in the matter. It's my affair, isn't it?

[Joe Friday]

No, sir. It's ours too. Half a dozen people like yourself have been beaten up and robbed in this neighborhood. All in the last five weeks. Now if we can find the thieves, we can put a stop to it. We can make sure the same thing doesn't happen to your neighbors.

[Lewis Butler]

Well, they're going to have to look out for themselves. I'm not getting tied up in a big investigation. The neighbors. Don't worry about me.

[Narrator]

It goes a little further than that, huh? You've been beaten up and robbed once. How do you know it isn't going to happen again?

[Lewis Butler]

Well, it's not, that's all. I'll make sure it doesn't.

[Joe Friday]

How? What's going to stop the same thieves from knocking you over again?

[Lewis Butler]

Look, if it's all the same to you, I want to forget about this. I'm going to have to be running along. It's getting late.

[Joe Friday]

Now there's just one more thing, butler. When the doctor was treating you the other night, this Dr. Hart, he says you told him that you knew who the hold up men were. Now is that right?

[Lewis Butler]

No, he got it all mixed up. I didn't mean it that way.

[Joe Friday]

How did you mean it?

[Lewis Butler]

I'm in a funny position. I just can't explain, that's all. I can't take the chance.

[Narrator]

Did the holdup men threaten you?

[Lewis Butler]

I can't talk about it. Give me a break, please.

[Joe Friday]

You're making a mistake, mister. Play ball with those thieves and they'll ruin you.

[Lewis Butler]

It's not only me, it's my family too. I'm not gonna take the chance.

[Joe Friday]

If they threatened you and your family, you're taking more of a chance keeping quiet about it. They'll bleed you white. Blackmail, robbery, anything you can think of. Now this has happened before.

[Lewis Butler]

Can't you see the spot I'm in? I know who they are. I know what they can do. I got a wife to think about. Would you put your family in that position?

[Narrator]

You're buying protection from a couple of hoods. Now figure it out. How much is it Worth? How far can you trust them?

[Lewis Butler]

If you pick them up, they'll know. I told you, I don't want anything to happen. Can't you see that? I haven't any choice. What else can I do?

[Joe Friday]

Help us put the thieves where they belong. You'll have all the protection you need. And they're locked up.

[Lewis Butler]

It's a big order. I don't know.

[Joe Friday]

You and your wife will be under 24 hour guard. Now that's a promise.

[Lewis Butler]

How long would that have to go on?

[Narrator]

Long enough to bring them to trial and convict him.

[Lewis Butler]

How about they warned me about telling the police. They said they'd get both of us if I did. Me and my wife. Now they meant it too. They'd get us. What can you do about it?

[Joe Friday]

Get them first. After another hour of talking, we finally persuaded the robbery victim, Louis Butler, to come downtown with us. He dictated a full statement about the holdup and filed a crime report. He told us he'd been robbed and slugged late at night a few blocks from his music studio. $820 had been taken from him by two bandits, both of whom were armed, both of whom he recognized. He said one of the men was a Marvin Carter, a former bartender at a neighborhood tavern. The other was Ralph Quincy, a merchant seaman. We went across the street and met with Deputy District Attorney Fred Henderson. The next day, the case was presented to the grand jury and a true bill was returned. The two suspects, Marvin Carter and Ralph Quincy, were indicted on one count of armed robbery. That afternoon, both of them were booked at the main jail and then released after posting a required bail of $10,000. 4:30pm Ben and I went back to the office and met with Captain Didion.

[Captain Didion]

How are you making out on it?

[Narrator]

Pretty fair shape, Skipper. The arraignment set for two weeks from Thursday.

[Captain Didion]

How about protection for the victim?

[Joe Friday]

Well, it's all set up. Butler and his wife are under 24 hour guard. Three teams of men on it.

[Captain Didion]

There's two thieves getting out on bail. It's not gonna make it any easier. Who are you working with from the DA's office?

[Narrator]

Henderson seems to think we've got enough to convict both men.

[Captain Didion]

What makes him so sure?

[Joe Friday]

Well, for one thing, we got a line on a couple of good witnesses to the holdup. Excuse me.

[Captain Didion]

Robbery. Didian. Yeah, Mike. No, I'll check it before I leave. Right. What was that about? Witness?

[Joe Friday]

A man by the name of Bartlett runs a drugstore. He and his son were in the neighborhood when Lewis Butler was held up. They're supposed to have spotted the two thieves running from the scene.

[Captain Didion]

Have you talked to him yet?

[Narrator]

Just over the phone. We've got an appointment with him at 6 o' clock tonight. Take their stuff.

[Captain Didion]

I guess I don't have to tell you. Stay as close to this thing as you can. If we miss this time, we may not get another chance. You know as well as anyone how tough it's been reaching these thieves.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, we wouldn't be this far along if Butler didn't decide to cooperate and file charges.

[Captain Didion]

I wish I knew how many victims there are in this thing. Just like Butler. People we don't even know about. So scared they don't dare file charges.

[Narrator]

Guess there's a dozen of them anyway.

[Captain Didion]

I can't figure. People hire a police force on salary to protect them and their property. Then they turn around, try to make a deal with a bunch of hoods, buy them off. How far have you gotten on the hold up gang?

[Joe Friday]

How do you mean?

[Captain Didion]

The two men you've got tabbed, Carter and Quincy. Anyone else working with them?

[Lewis Butler]

Possible.

[Joe Friday]

Not sure yet. Both Carter and Quincy have juvenile records. That's about it. We're still checking on them.

[Captain Didion]

Robbery. Did he. Yeah.

[Narrator]

Tom. Mm.

[Captain Didion]

That right?

[Narrator]

No.

[Captain Didion]

I'll tell em. They're here with me now. Right. Thank you. It started already.

[Narrator]

How's that?

[Captain Didion]

The victim, Louis Butler, he got a phone call at his house a few minutes ago.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Captain Didion]

Figured it was one of the hold up gang. They gave Butler a choice.

[Joe Friday]

What'd they say?

[Captain Didion]

Either he drops the charges or they'll kill him.

[Joe Friday]

5:30Pm Captain Didion issued orders that the two suspects in the case, Marvin Carter and Ralph Quincy, be placed under 24 hour surveillance. An additional team of men was assigned to guard Lois Butler. Each officer was carefully instructed to take all possible precautions to prevent the robbery victim and his wife from being harmed in any way. 6:00pm Ben and I met with the two witnesses to the holdup. A drugstore proprietor, Sam Bartlett and his teenage son Harold. They told us that they'd been in the immediate vicinity the night Butler was robbed and that they'd gotten a good look at the two gunmen as they ran from the scene of the hold up. Bartlett and his son Harold identified the suspects as Marvin Carter and Ralph Quincy. Statements were taken and both witnesses were warned to maintain absolute secrecy about their part in the case.

[Ben Romero]

Case?

[Joe Friday]

Next day we made arrangements to have the druggist and his son subpoenaed for the superior court arraignment. Six days went by. Thursday, October 17, 8am we checked in the office and found the message waiting for us.

[Narrator]

What is it, Joe?

[Joe Friday]

The druggist son, Harold Bartlett.

[Narrator]

What about him?

[Joe Friday]

Found him in an alley, three o' clock this morning.

[Narrator]

What?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah. Slugged and beaten. Late that afternoon, Ben and I received permission from the doctors to visit briefly with our witness, 17 year old Harold Bartlett. His injuries were painful, but not critical. The beating he'd received was nothing less than brutal. His left forearm had been broken and he'd been beaten viciously about the face and chest. He told us that he was on his way home from a neighborhood movie just before midnight when two men jumped him from behind on a deserted street.

[Harold Bartlett]

Well, I drove around some maybe five or ten minutes. Must have been at least three men in the car.

[Joe Friday]

Why do you say that?

[Harold Bartlett]

There were two of them in the backseat with me. Somebody else had to be doing the driving. Mm.

[Narrator]

And it had to be a sedan and a club coupe?

[Harold Bartlett]

I guess so, yeah. After he drove around a while, they stopped the car. And then they began slugging me. Didn't say a word the whole time. Just started slugging me. I asked them why they just kept slugging me.

[Joe Friday]

I see.

[Harold Bartlett]

At first I think they were hitting me with their fists. Then it felt like something a lot harder. A piece of iron or metal or something. That's when I grabbed the cloth off of my face and I started to holler.

[Joe Friday]

What happened then?

[Harold Bartlett]

Yes. Nobody heard me. Nobody came anyway. One of the men swore at me and grabbed my arm, hit it with something. Sure sore.

[Narrator]

They didn't say anything to you all this time?

[Harold Bartlett]

No, not Joel. Just before they pushed me out of the car. Seemed like I was at that car for hours.

[Joe Friday]

When they started to talk to you, Harry, what'd they say?

[Harold Bartlett]

It was about that robbery my father and me saw. The one you talked to us about last week.

[Joe Friday]

Mm. What'd they say about it?

[Harold Bartlett]

I said, maybe this will help you keep your mouth shut. Stay out of other people's business. I said that a couple of times. I said a lot more would happen to dad and me if we went to the police, if we were witnesses at that trial.

[Narrator]

Do you remember if the men called each other by name?

[Harold Bartlett]

No, I don't. I don't remember anyway.

[Joe Friday]

Well, son, you remember when we talked to you and your father last week? We told you to say nothing about the case to anyone.

[Harold Bartlett]

Did we remember, Sergeant? This is my fault.

[Joe Friday]

Well, did you tell other people that you were a witness in the case? Did you mention it in public?

[Harold Bartlett]

Yes, I did. Yeah. I didn't think it was that important. Guess I Talked about it quite a bit. I'm sorry. It's my fault.

[Narrator]

That's all right, Harry. If you remember it, from now on, it'll save a lot more trouble.

[Harold Bartlett]

I remember, Sergeant. Those two men last night scared me for a while. Guess most of us talker, huh?

[Narrator]

Harry Main, sir.

[Harold Bartlett]

They were warning me about staying away from the cops. They said they'd kill me and my dad if we were witnesses. They were probably just trying to scare us, huh? They were fooling.

[Joe Friday]

Well, you had a sample last night, son.

[Harold Bartlett]

Yeah.

[Joe Friday]

Were they fooling? After we left Harry Bartlett, we went back to the office and arranged for a 24 hour guard to be assigned to the teenage boy and his father. A thorough investigation of the attack on the boy failed to turn up any leads on the surface. The two robbery suspects, Carter and Quincy, were not involved. During the week that followed, we heard of no further threats or attacks either on the victim, Lewis Butler, or the witnesses involved in the case. Ben and I worked with Deputy District Attorney Henderson preparing the case against the two suspects. Two days before the trial opened in Superior Court, we got an urgent call.

[Narrator]

Yeah, I know, but how'd it happen? Mm. Yeah. You're all right, Tom. Thanks.

[Joe Friday]

What's the trouble?

[Narrator]

Couldn't be worse. No victim.

[Joe Friday]

What do you mean?

[Narrator]

Mr. And Mrs. Butler and disappeared.

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

[Joe Friday]

Tuesday, November 5, 9:00am the trial of robbery suspects Marvin Carter and Ralph Quincy opened in Superior Court Department 88. The complaining witness, Lewis Butler, failed to appear. For two solid days. We'd been busy checking all of the Butler's friends and relatives in the city. They couldn't help. Each time the Butlers had left their residence, they'd been under surveillance. We'd had an understanding with them that in the event that they were in their automobile and for some reason the officers assigned to them lost them in traffic, the Butlers would immediately return to their home. On the night of November 3, under the pretext of going to a neighborhood theater, the Butlers made a right hand turn from a left hand lane of traffic. So it became obvious that they were trying to elude the officers following them. A check was made at their home as prearranged, and they failed to return. When they failed to appear for the trial, a bench warrant was issued by Superior Court for the missing couple. Deputy District Attorney Henderson asked the court to grant a delay in order to find the Butlers. It was granted. In the meantime, we'd gotten out of broadcast and an APB Missing Persons Detail helped out in the search. Still no sign. Tuesday, November 12, 11am Deputy DA Henderson phoned us from the hall of Justice.

[Narrator]

When was that, Fred? Is that right? Yeah. Well, thanks a lot.

[Joe Friday]

What do you have to say?

[Narrator]

The attorney for Carter and Quincy asked the court for dismissal. No complaining witness.

[Joe Friday]

Well, the judge rule on it yet?

[Narrator]

Yeah. Case dismissed.

[Joe Friday]

No matter how guilty the two men might have seemed, there was nothing further anyone could do. Without a complaining witness, our case was finished. The two suspects, Carter and Quincy, were released from custody in a few days. Quincy left town for the East. Carter remained in the city. The search for Mr. And Mrs. Butler went on. No sign of either one of them. December came, then the Christmas holidays. New Year's. On January 16, Lewis Butler suddenly reappeared back in town and surrendered on the bench warrant. They explained to the judge that because of the numerous threats. Threats on their lives just before the trial, they were afraid to appear. And that they left the state without telling anyone. The judge gave them a lecture and a warning and dismissed charges. Another month passed. February and then March. On April 2, we got word from Denver, Colorado that one of our former robbery suspects, Ralph Quincy, had shot and killed a 24 year old policeman while attempting a robbery in that city. Quincy was tried and convicted of murder and received a life term. In the meantime, we'd heard little or nothing about the other former robbery suspect, Marvin Carter. Another two months passed. Spring months wore on into summer. Monday, July 8, 8am Friday Romero, see you a minute?

[Narrator]

Yes, Skipper.

[Captain Didion]

You wanna sit down? Got something for you. Yeah, A holdup victim, man by the name of Sheridan. Came in late last night, filed this crime crime report. Here, have a look.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you.

[Captain Didion]

Procedure you can notice there. It happened in the same area where we had that rash of holdups last fall.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, I see. Victim robbed and beaten.

[Captain Didion]

Suspects use the same approach. Same mo. Followed it right down the line.

[Narrator]

Yeah, Victim warned not to contact police. Bodily harm threatened if victim did so.

[Joe Friday]

How about the descriptions of the hold up men here? The victim pretty sure about them.

[Captain Didion]

Gaffney handled a report the victim said. Said he got a good look at one of the thieves. Gaffney gave him a bunch of mug shots to look at. Here's the one he picked out of the lot.

[Narrator]

Thanks. Have a look, Joe. Marvin Carter.

[Joe Friday]

As soon as the robbery reported come in. An immediate check had been made of Marvin Carter's last known address. An apartment in the West Pico district. The landlord revealed that the suspect had moved at least two months before we got out A broadcast and an APB on him. Together with Sergeants Gonzales and Henry, Ben and I started on a systematic check of all of Carter's known friends, relatives and associates. After that, we started on the places he was known to frequent. Hotels, bars, restaurants. No luck. Two weeks went by. There were no further reports of robberies where the M.O. of the criminal matched that of Carter's. Tuesday, July 26, 2pm we got a call from one of our informants, Bertie Simmons, who told us that he might have some information for us. He said it concerned Marvin Carter. He told us he'd meet us at MacArthur park on the 6th street side at 2:30pm 2:50pm.

[Ben Romero]

You'Ll have to excuse me, sergeant. Sorry I'm late. I have to move from that other place. Things haven't been going too good for me.

[Narrator]

That's all right, Birdie. What's up? What's the matter? No luck with the horses?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, a lot of luck. It's all bad. If there's a pig in the race, I have to bet on him every time. Getting so I can't even pick them to show anymore. I don't know.

[Joe Friday]

What else is new with you, Birdie? No job yet?

[Ben Romero]

No, I'm still looking, but down around some of the joints. South Main, Alameda. Keeping an air to the ground.

[Joe Friday]

Wanna smoke?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, thanks. Don't mind if I do.

[Joe Friday]

There you go. Light for.

[Narrator]

What have you heard, Birdie? Anything that'll help that Marvin Carter?

[Ben Romero]

You're still looking for a marcher?

[Narrator]

That's right. Any rumble?

[Ben Romero]

I heard it last night, having a beer downtown. I knew you fellas were in a little bind on the thing. I always like to help you when you're in a bind.

[Joe Friday]

Well, what'd you hear?

[Ben Romero]

Bert Kyle is still in town, hiding out. Like I say, Always like to help you out when you need it. I know what it is to be in a bind. That's when you appreciate help most. I'm kind of in a bind right now. Little short, you know.

[Joe Friday]

A couple of dollars, Burt, that's all I have on me. Will that help you out any?

[Ben Romero]

You saved my life, sergeant. Tell you the truth, I didn't know where dinner was coming from tonight. No need telling you. I appreciate it.

[Narrator]

What was this you heard about Carter?

[Ben Romero]

Still in town? There's a place down by Venice, near the beach. Carter's been seen there once, twice lately. It's a little secret seafood joint. Beer and clams. Down by the beach?

[Joe Friday]

Well, now, is that somebody's story or is it the real thing?

[Ben Romero]

The real thing, sergeant. You know me better than that. No phony leads from me.

[Narrator]

Where's Carter supposed to be staying?

[Captain Didion]

Down there.

[Narrator]

Do you know?

[Ben Romero]

Well, I do and I don't, I guess.

[Narrator]

What do you mean?

[Ben Romero]

This mooch who told me about Carter last night, he didn't know the address. But he described the place Carter's supposed to be hiding out in. I know the joint he mean.

[Joe Friday]

But you don't know the address.

[Ben Romero]

No, but I can point out the place. He means it's a shack right along the speedway down there, down by the beach.

[Narrator]

You want to run down there with us now?

[Joe Friday]

Sure.

[Ben Romero]

I'll point it out for you. I'm not going near it, though.

[Joe Friday]

Why do you say that?

[Ben Romero]

Don't want to mix with it, that's all. I got the word.

[Joe Friday]

What do you mean?

[Ben Romero]

Carter won't be an easy one to take.

[Joe Friday]

How do you know?

[Ben Romero]

He's got a gun.

[Joe Friday]

2:55Pm along with our informant Bertie Simmons, Ben and I drove down to the beach town of Venice. Bertie pointed out a brown wooden frame cottage where Carter was supposed to be hiding out. While Bertie waited in the car, Ben and I checked it out. Was nobody at home. But there was plenty of evidence inside the cottage that Carter was living there. I went back down the street to where we parked our car. I kept an eye on the cottage while Ben got to a phone to call the office.

[Ben Romero]

Pretty down here. I saw you.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, it's a nice day.

[Ben Romero]

I don't get out in the air enough. I think that's my trouble. Some of this good ocean air. Makes you feel like a million.

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Did you notice the place where your partner went to phone down the street there?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, what about it?

[Ben Romero]

You see the sign Beer and Clan right over the door? Beer and Clan?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Best in the city. I know. I've been there. Only great. Good beer for a dime. Fresh clams. Nothing better. You like clams?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, they're all right once in a while.

[Ben Romero]

What am I gonna do if you two have to wait here all night?

[Joe Friday]

Well, we'll get you back to town, Burt. We'll figure out something for you. Hi, Ben. Did you get ahold of Captain?

[Narrator]

Yeah. Marvin Carter was picked up downtown 20 minutes ago.

[Joe Friday]

What?

[Narrator]

Yeah, driving to rent it. Car traffic unit picked him up.

[Joe Friday]

Will they tab him on his description?

[Narrator]

Not at first. Reason they noticed him was because he was double parked on a busy street. And they pulled him over and got a better look at him. I did.

[Joe Friday]

Any trouble with him?

[Narrator]

None at all. Got him booked at Main Jail.

[Ben Romero]

Say, that's sure too Bad.

[Narrator]

And what do you mean, Bert?

[Ben Romero]

Sure case, isn't it? How long you fellas been working on it?

[Narrator]

Just about a year, huh, Joe?

[Joe Friday]

Yeah, just about.

[Ben Romero]

Coming all this way for nothing. You're ready to make the pinch and somebody else does it for you. Must be kind of disappointing, huh? All that time, all that work.

[Joe Friday]

Well, Carter's in jail. That's the main thing. I guess we better drive back in, huh, Bill?

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Say, just a minute, Sergeant. No use coming all this way for nothing. Wonder if you'd do me a favor.

[Narrator]

What's that, Bert?

[Ben Romero]

That sign down the street.

[Narrator]

Which?

[Ben Romero]

The blue and white sign. Beer and Clam. Wonder if you could drop me off. Right in front of you. Baron Klein.

[Narrator]

Oh, yeah, Berto, huh?

[Ben Romero]

Sure nice of you. Just like I was saying.

[Joe Friday]

What's that?

[Ben Romero]

No use coming all this way for nothing.

[Narrator]

The story you have just heard was true. Only the names were changed to protect the innocent.

On October 29, trial was held in Superior Court Department 86, City and County of Los Angeles, State of California. In a moment, the results of that trial. Marvin Lawrence Carter was tried and convicted on several counts of first degree robbery and was sentenced to the state penitentiary where he is now serving his term. First degree robbery is punishable by imprisonment from five years to life.

Ladies and gentlemen, Ms. Lyle Rooks, editor of Radio Television Mirror. The readers of Radio Television Mirror have chosen Dragnet, the favorite program of its type for 1950. I am privileged to present the citation to you on behalf of the editors and readers of Radio Television Mirror throughout the Nation.

[Joe Friday]

Thank you, Ms. Rooks.

[Narrator]

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.

[Joe Friday]

Stay tuned for counterspy next. Over many NBC stations.

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[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. This is a case where the show tells a story that teaches a lesson without connecting the dots in a direct way. But it has to be said that the refusal of the first complainant to appear at trial led to the death of the policeman in Colorado. It brings home the weight of failing to follow through on your responsibility and goes back to what they were trying to tell him earlier. That the decision to report the crime wasn't just about him. On a lighter note, I love Bertie Simmons. He has to be one of my all time favorite Herb Butterfield characters. I didn't make the connection that it was Butterfield in the past, but I recognize it now and it's so different than nearly every other character I've heard him do, though. Poor Joe had to give away his last couple bucks for an unnecessary tip. That didn't help them solve the case though. On the bright side, Bertie gets beers and clams, so I guess good for him. It's also worth noting that this is one of those episodes where the title is reused. That's why we designated it. If you look up at the title, it says the Big Tribe 1951, because there's another one in, I believe, 1953. Same title, entirely different in terms of its plot. Well, we turn now to listener comments and feedback and we start with a note from Eddie who writes, Dear Adam, I've been listening to your Dragnet podcast for about two weeks now. I've always loved Dragnet before, and listening to them again about two or three years ago I got the main theme of each. But listening to your analysis closer, I enjoy the show with new perspective and with other shows. Your thoughts at the end are interesting and informative. I look forward almost daily. Thank you, Eddie. Well, thank you so much, Eddie. And there's something to be said for and your note kind of gives me some insight into some of my own viewing habits because sometimes I find myself watching YouTube reactors reacting to movies that I've already seen or TV shows. It's something that I enjoy. I can't do a ton of it, don't have a ton of time for that. But I struggle to put into words, but I think that it's sort of the same thing. You get a new perspective on the program that you know and therefore you kind of experience it in a different way. I find myself saying, oh well, how is she going to react to It's a Wonderful Life? And it is the power of getting new perspective. And also sometimes it's just getting the joy of being able to vicariously experience something again for the first time that you know quite well. I appreciate your insight, Eddie. And then I got a postcard from the webs. No relation to Jack, I assume, but this is a lovely postcard from the Carlsbad Caverns national park over in New Mexico. And the postcard raids had and my dad and I have been driving from Georgia to Washington State on the way. We've been listening to your podcast from the start. Saw on our stop. You could mail from the caverns themselves. Hope you are doing well. Well thank you so much. Hope you had a wonderful trip and I appreciate you thinking of me to send me a card while you're out on your travel. And again, I did post the picture on Instagram. I'll have to scroll through some audiograms, but it's there [e-mail] greatdetective and then we have a comment on Spotify regarding the episode the Big Trunk Listener writes lol, they need to know why he jumped before they can do an investigation. I feel like the investigation would be what uncover that. And honestly, when I first read it, I was confused since that's not a main plot of the episode. But listening I recalled, I think that was the stuff they were talking about at the beginning. And indeed the opening narration has Friday saying that they needed to know who he was and why he jumped before they could proceed with the investigation. And I think the listener is right. That is a very odd statement to make. And it's easy to overlook because it's just kind of a throwaway. Before they got put onto the case of the retired performer who got killed by a guy because they thought she had valuables in her trunk. And it feels like that got written because they're like, okay, Friday has to say something since they don't have the case at the beginning. So let's just give Friday some words to say because it doesn't make sense. Because as the listener said, an investigation would be what you would do to determine who he was and why he jumped. Not only that, but if you had this jumper and you knew why he had jumped and you knew who he was, what else exactly do you have to investigate? It's not like some complex robbery case where, you know, you lift a tool, print, and then you have to go and, you know, do searches, figure out what the exact tool was that made the mark. I mean, once the two facts that Friday says that you need before the investigation can proceed are obtained, there is nothing really left to investigate. Now, there might be some police nomenclature that we're missing here, some sort of separation between investigations. So maybe this isn't quite, quite as silly as it sounds. And I mean, I would tend to give benefit of the doubt to Dragnet. But if anyone is an expert on why he would say that, because it's such a weird thing to say. And it's so weird too, on Dragnet because it's generally very well written, which I guess is a reason why I just tended to Overlook. Okay, wait a second. That. That actually kind of sounds like nonsense. Good catch. And if anyone has any way to make sense of it, I would really love to hear from you. All right, well, now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day. And I want to go ahead and thank Brett, patreon supporter since April 2024, currently supporting the podcast at the shamus level of $4 or more per month. Thanks so much for your support, Brett. And that will do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your phone favorite podcast software and be sure to rate and review the podcast wherever you download it from. Public Domain Video Theater first video we'll be dropping this weekend. Hopefully we'll be bringing you our first summer movie. And of course, we'll be back next Saturday with another episode of Dragnet. But join us back here on Monday for the Adventures of the Falcon, where Hello.

[Bertie Simmons]

Have I the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Michael Waring?

[Narrator]

If that's your idea of pleasure. Who is this?

[Bertie Simmons]

I'm afraid my name won't mean much to you. It's George Venizelos.

[Narrator]

George Venizelos?

[Bertie Simmons]

Yes. Your embassy suggested I get in touch with you.

[Narrator]

What can I do for you?

[Bertie Simmons]

I believe the shoe is on the other foot. I'd like to do something for you. You're aware that the Communist party is outlawed in Greece?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Bertie Simmons]

Well, suppose I told you that the number one man is right here in Athens. What would you say to that?

[Narrator]

Well, the first thing I'd say is what's his name?

[Bertie Simmons]

I take it then, you're interested.

[Narrator]

Interested is hardly the word.

[Bertie Simmons]

Well, I live at 14 Tricopus Trikoopas.

[Narrator]

That's the street right near the monument to Byron, isn't it?

[Bertie Simmons]

That's the one. Can I expect you at 10?

[Narrator]

You wouldn't want to make it early in.

[Bertie Simmons]

Try to be patient, Mr. Wedding. After all, you chaps have been looking for this fellow for years. A few hours more or less shouldn't matter.

[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 greatdetectives From Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.

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