Podcast Summary: The Great Detectives Present Dragnet (Old Time Radio) Episode: Dragnet: The Big Ben (EP4718)
Release Date: May 31, 2025
Host: Adam Graham

Introduction

In this episode of The Great Detectives Present Dragnet, host Adam Graham delves into the gripping tale of Sergeant Joe Friday as he confronts a violent robbery that leads to a high-stakes manhunt. The episode skillfully intertwines authentic police procedural drama with insightful commentary, providing listeners with both an engaging narrative and behind-the-scenes perspectives.

The Crime Incident

The story begins on a warm Monday morning in Los Angeles, July 9th, where Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner, Ben Romero, are assigned to a robbery detail. At [03:25], they respond to a call from the Stacey Hollywood Department Store's Personnel Department regarding a violent incident.

Sergeant Friday introduces the gravity of the situation:

“The story you are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent.”
— Joe Friday [02:51]

Victim Sidney Ferguson recounts the harrowing experience of being robbed and assaulted by an armed individual on [06:10]:

“Man flagged me down. Looked like his car was stalled... he came over. He pointed a gun at me and told me to get out.”
— Sidney Ferguson [06:16]

Ferguson provides crucial details about the assailant and the vehicle involved, setting the stage for the ensuing investigation.

Investigation Process

Sergeant Friday and Detective Romero embark on a meticulous investigation. By [14:34], they verify the license number provided by Joe Friday, linking it to a 1949 Chevrolet sedan owned by Jack B. Grant. Their search leads them to Grant's residence, where they collaborate with the landlady, Mrs. Ida Fisher.

Sergeant Friday emphasizes the thoroughness of their work:

“A police department goes all out doubles its efforts to run down a criminal who attacks a police officer.”
— Narrator [21:17]

The team conducts stakeouts and explores various leads, including interviews with Grant's acquaintances and surveillance of potential hideouts.

Apprehension of the Suspect

Despite meticulous efforts, Jack Grant evades capture initially. At [26:39], Detective Friday confronts Anthony Baxter, a friend of Grant, leading to the crucial breakthrough.

“Hotel Filbert, room 605.”
— Joe Friday [26:39]

With precise coordination, Sergeant Friday and his team locate Grant at the Filbert Hotel. The tense encounter culminates in Grant's apprehension by [27:17]:

“Police officer. Watch your pants... I wouldn't want to shoot you.”
— Joe Friday [27:17]

Trial and Conclusion

The episode concludes with a summary of the legal proceedings. On November 7th, Jack Grant stands trial and is convicted on multiple charges, including assault to commit murder and first-degree robbery.

Narrator provides closure:

“You have just heard Dragnet, a series of authentic cases from official files.”
— Narrator [28:32]

Host’s Reflections and Listener Comments

Host Adam Graham offers personal insights and reflections on the episode. He contrasts the radio portrayal of Joe Friday with the TV versions, highlighting the depth and emotional intensity brought by characters like Ben Romero.

A listener, Sham Shspade, shares their emotional response:

“It's episodes like this that make me regret that Dragnet is written in reality... My stomach ached for Joe and Ben, and my heart breaks for the wife.”
— Sham Shspade [29:21]

Adam Graham responds thoughtfully:

“Dragnet does a really good job of bringing home how difficult these situations are that law enforcement has to deal with...”
— Adam Graham [29:21]

He also acknowledges the support from Patreon supporters, fostering a sense of community among listeners.

Notable Quotes

• Joe Friday:
  “The story you are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent.”
  — [02:51]

• Sidney Ferguson:
  “Man flagged me down... he took my wallet from me, all the money I had, $14.”
  — [06:16]

• Sergeant Friday:
  “A police department goes all out doubles its efforts to run down a criminal who attacks a police officer.”
  — [21:17]

• Joe Friday:
  “Hotel Filbert, room 605.”
  — [26:39]

• Sham Shspade:
  “It's episodes like this that make me regret that Dragnet is written in reality... My stomach ached for Joe and Ben, and my heart breaks for the wife.”
  — [29:21]

Conclusion

Dragnet: The Big Ben offers a compelling narrative that showcases the relentless pursuit of justice by Sergeant Joe Friday and his team. Through authentic storytelling and heartfelt reflections, the episode underscores the emotional and procedural complexities faced by law enforcement. Adam Graham’s insightful commentary enhances the listening experience, making it both informative and emotionally resonant for fans and newcomers alike.

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