Summary of "Dragnet: The Big Bindle (EP4778)"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Great Detectives Present Dragnet (Old Time Radio)
• Host: Adam Graham
• Episode: Dragnet: The Big Bindle (EP4778)
• Release Date: August 14, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "The Big Bindle," listeners are transported back to the classic days of old-time radio detective dramas. Hosted by Adam Graham, this installment of Dragnet delves into the intricate world of narcotics investigation, showcasing the meticulous methods of Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner, Ben Romero, as they navigate the underbelly of Los Angeles to dismantle a high-grade heroin distribution ring.

Main Plot

1. Investigation Begins

The episode kicks off with Sergeant Joe Friday and Detective Ben Romero from the narcotics division receiving information about Monty Wilkins, a recent narcotics offender believed to be central to a burgeoning heroin distribution network. The narrative sets the scene on a foggy and rainy Tuesday morning, emphasizing the city's gritty backdrop.

Joe Friday [03:13]: "The story you're about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent."

2. Interrogation of Monty Wilkins

Friday and Romero arrive at the main jail felony section to interrogate Monty Wilkins. Through a strategic questioning sequence, they extract crucial information about the source and quality of the heroin being distributed.

Ben Romero [03:32]: "We want to see Monty Wilkins. Booked in last night on narcotics booking numbers 906351."

Joe Friday [05:34]: "How long you been on the stuff this time?"

Monty Wilkins [05:47]: "About 2 caps a day. When you were picked up down in Slauson last night, you had seven caps on you."

Monty reveals that the heroin isn't of the usual Mexican variety but suggests it might be coming from the East Coast, indicating a more sophisticated and high-quality source. This revelation points the detectives towards the Plaza Royal Hotel as a central hub for the narcotics operation.

3. Planning the Undercover Operation

Realizing the need for a more direct approach, Friday and Romero devise an undercover strategy to infiltrate the Plaza Royal Hotel. They decide to pose as narcotics buyers, adopting the identities of Joe Edwards and his partner.

Joe Friday [10:27]: "You're a local Phoenix hoodlum. Things got too hot for you down there and you came up to LA to cool off. How about Joe Edwards?"

4. Infiltrating the Plaza Royal Hotel

Romero meticulously prepares for his undercover role by obtaining forged identification, clothing, and even a bindle disguised to carry narcotics. His departure to Phoenix marks the beginning of the operation to stake out the hotel.

Ben Romero [13:10]: "I think I helped you quite a bit, haven't I?"

Upon arrival at the Plaza Royal Hotel, Romero checks in under his assumed name, making initial contacts and subtly probing for connections to the narcotics ring. Over the following days, he builds rapport with key figures, including Kirk Harding and Horace L. Smith, while keeping his true identity concealed.

5. The Confrontation

As the operation progresses, tension mounts leading to a climactic encounter in the hotel bar. Recognizing Kirk Harding's suspicious behavior, Friday and Romero move in to apprehend the criminals during what appears to be a planned drug transaction.

Joe Friday [26:56]: "Freeze, mister."

A brief scuffle ensues, resulting in the arrest of Harding and Smith. The operation concludes successfully with the capture of Lucille Cosgrove, who played a pivotal role in the distribution network.

6. Resolution and Convictions

The episode culminates with a courtroom scene where the arrested individuals face trial. All three suspects are convicted for violation of state narcotics laws, with Harding and Smith also receiving convictions for attempted murder.

Narrator [27:13]: "The story you have just heard was true. Only the names were changed to protect the innocent. On January 4, trial was held in Superior Court..."

Key Moments and Notable Quotes

• Interrogation Insights:

  Joe Friday [06:02]: "It's good stuff. It's not Mexican. We know that, Monty."

• Undercover Preparation:

  Ben Romero [12:33]: "I went home and removed all Los Angeles labels from the clothing that I was to take with me to Phoenix, Arizona."

• Confrontation:

  Joe Friday [26:56]: "Freeze, mister."

• Courtroom Outcome:

  Narrator [27:13]: "All three suspects, Kirk Arthur Harding, Horace L. Smith and Lucille Marie Cosgrove, were convicted for violation of a state narcotics act, a felony."

Conclusion

"The Big Bindle" exemplifies the classic detective narrative, highlighting the relentless pursuit of justice by law enforcement officers. Through strategic planning, undercover operations, and unwavering determination, Joe Friday and Ben Romero successfully dismantle a sophisticated heroin distribution network. The episode not only entertains but also underscores the complexities and dangers inherent in narcotics investigations.

Listeners are left with a profound appreciation for the meticulous nature of police work and the moral imperatives that drive detectives to confront and overcome organized crime. The seamless blend of suspense, character development, and procedural accuracy makes this episode a standout in the Dragnet series.

This summary captures the essence of the "Dragnet: The Big Bindle" episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those unfamiliar with the original broadcast.