The Great Detectives Present Dragnet (Old Time Radio)
Episode: Dragnet: The Big Casing (EP4758)
Release Date: July 17, 2025
Host: Adam Graham

Episode Overview

In this riveting installment of The Great Detectives Present Dragnet, host Adam Graham delves into Dragnet: The Big Casing, a classic episode that showcases the meticulous nature of police investigations and the intricate dance between assumption and evidence. This episode meticulously retraces the steps of detectives Joe Friday and Ben Romero as they unravel the mystery behind Marie Robertson's death, initially presumed to be a suicide but later exposed as a calculated murder.

Plot Summary

Introduction to the Case
The episode begins on a windy Sunday afternoon in Los Angeles, where Sergeant Joe Friday and Detective Ben Romero respond to a homicide call at the Kelsey Apartment Hotel. They find Marie Robertson dead from a gunshot wound to the right temple, with her husband, Andrew Robertson, claiming it was a suicide.

Initial Investigation
Mr. Robertson’s account paints a picture of a strained marriage filled with frequent arguments. He describes the tragic scene where Marie, amidst a heated dispute, allegedly took her own life. However, Detective Romero points out inconsistencies early on, noting the presence of an empty cartridge casing in the living room, which contradicts the suicide narrative.

Notable Quote:
“'This will end the argument once and for all.'” – Marie Robertson (00:58)

Challenging the Narrative
As the investigation progresses, genetic evidence and forensic analysis begin to unravel the truth. The detectives discover traces of flour on the gun's barrel, suggesting Marie attempted to ward off the weapon before the fatal shot. Furthermore, the trajectory of the bullet and the position of the empty casing raise red flags about the plausibility of a suicide.

Confronting the Suspect
When confronting Andrew Robertson, Detective Friday employs technical knowledge about firearms to dismantle his story. Despite Robertson’s steadfast insistence on his innocence, the accumulating evidence points towards murder. The detectives present their findings methodically, leading to Robertson’s eventual exoneration upon the coroner’s hearing.

Notable Quote:
“'It's beginning to shape up that way, isn't it?'” – Detective Friday (15:45)

Final Resolution
The episode culminates with the revelation that forensic evidence and meticulous detective work were pivotal in uncovering the truth, ultimately exonerating Andrew Robertson and highlighting the fallibility of first impressions in criminal investigations.

Host's Analysis and Insights

Humanity and Fallibility of Detectives
Adam Graham reflects on how The Big Casing underscores the humanity of detectives, illustrating that even seasoned officers like Joe Friday and Ben Romero can make premature judgments based on incomplete evidence. He emphasizes the importance of forensic science in ensuring justice is accurately served.

Notable Quote:
“'Trained police officers have experience and they can read a scene and they also have instinct that has been honed by that experience. But that's not a substitute for the work of the forensic scientist.'” – Adam Graham (29:52)

Forensic Evidence vs. Intuition
Graham highlights the episode’s focus on the critical role of forensic evidence in solving crimes. He points out how Lee Jones, the crime lab expert, methodically dissects the case, demonstrating that intuition and experience must be complemented by scientific analysis to avoid wrongful conclusions.

Character Depth and Performance
Special mention is made of Herb Butterfield’s portrayal of Lee Jones, whose professionalism and scientific acumen were pivotal in resolving the case. Graham appreciates the nuanced performances that bring depth to the characters, particularly in their interactions and confrontations.

Notable Quote:
“'Jones gets to the bottom of it.'” – Adam Graham (21:10)

Listener Engagement and Reflections
Graham shares insights from listener feedback, including comparisons to other crime dramas like Ironside and Adam-12. He acknowledges the enduring legacy of Dragnet and its influence on the genre, while also addressing modern adaptations and their reception.

Notable Quote:
“'Without Mathnet, I probably wouldn't be doing this podcast.'” – Adam Graham (40:30)

Conclusion and Takeaways

Dragnet: The Big Casing serves as a compelling narrative that not only entertains but also educates listeners about the complexities of criminal investigations. Adam Graham’s insightful analysis underscores the necessity of balancing instinct with empirical evidence, ensuring that justice prevails based on truth rather than assumption. This episode stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of Dragnet in illustrating the intricate workings of law enforcement and the pursuit of justice.

For those interested in classical radio dramas and the meticulous art of detective work, this episode offers both nostalgic charm and timeless lessons in investigative rigor.