Podcast Summary: The Great Detectives Present Dragnet (Old Time Radio)

Episode: Dragnet: The Big Children (EP4670)
Release Date: April 5, 2025
Host: Adam Graham

Introduction

In this episode, host Adam Graham delves into the classic radio series Dragnet, presenting the episode titled "The Big Children." Graham provides an in-depth analysis after the episode, offering insights into its production and cultural impact.

Dragnet Episode: "The Big Children"

[00:28]
Adam Graham sets the stage for the podcast, introducing the episode of Dragnet.

[01:39]
The episode begins with a narration that sets up the premise: Detective Sergeant Joe Friday is assigned to the juvenile bureau to investigate a peculiar case involving two children begging for food in an affluent neighborhood.

[02:55]
Joe Friday recounts the day he received a complaint about a seven-year-old boy and his sister begging for food, despite living in the upscale Bel Air district. Accompanied by his partner, Ben Romero, Joe heads to the reported location at 1335 Georgia Street.

[03:18] – [06:23]
Upon arrival, Joe and Ben meet Ms. Jeanette Bajan, the housekeeper, who expresses concern about the children's behavior and the apparent neglect at home. Through their conversation, they learn that the children's mother, Mrs. Jean Kessler, has been absent for several days, leaving the children to fend for themselves.

[07:20] – [11:18]
Joe and Ben speak with Richard Kessler, the eight-year-old son, who reveals that Mrs. Kessler has left the children alone multiple times. Richard expresses worry about his younger brother, Johnny, who is ill and has not been adequately cared for. The situation escalates when Johnny is found unconscious and later dies from a basal skull fracture, highlighting severe neglect and possible abuse.

[12:56] – [19:48]
The detectives continue their investigation, uncovering Mrs. Kessler's troubled past, including her alcohol abuse and tumultuous relationships with various boyfriends, particularly Larry Bartel. Despite extensive efforts, locating Mrs. Kessler proves challenging as she evades capture, deepening the mystery surrounding her disappearance and Johnny's death.

[21:02] – [25:43]
Larry Bartel is eventually apprehended and interrogated. He claims innocence, stating that Johnny's injury was accidental, resulting from disciplining the child for misbehavior. However, inconsistencies in his story and evidence, such as the blood-stained coat, raise suspicions about his involvement in Johnny's death. The tension peaks as Mrs. Kessler is finally located but remains elusive, leaving her fate uncertain.

[25:55] – [27:22]
The episode concludes with Mrs. Jean Kessler being found guilty of manslaughter. She is sentenced to one year in county jail and loses custody of her children. Joe Friday delivers a heartfelt closing statement, emphasizing the show's commitment to portraying authentic police work and real-life cases.

Notable Quotes

• Ms. Jeanette Bajan ([04:33]):
  "I think only something is wrong if they do not get it at home."

• Richard Kessler ([10:14]):
  "My little brother Johnny. He hasn't eaten much for a while. Must be hungry by now."

• Larry Bartel ([22:16]):
  "Crazy dame. Told her I saw her. Then she tried to hit me with a bottle, cut herself."

• Mrs. Jean Kessler ([24:32]):
  "I need Larry so bad. He's young, like me. I love him. I gave him all my love."

• Joe Friday ([33:52]):
  "You didn't have any left for your kids."

Host's Commentary by Adam Graham

After the Dragnet episode, Adam Graham provides a critical analysis of "The Big Children." He highlights the heartbreaking nature of the case, emphasizing that such tragedies can occur in affluent neighborhoods, challenging the misconception that neglect is confined to poorer areas.

Graham points out an inconsiderate decision in the episode—naming the character Larry Bartel after the real actor Harry Bartel. He notes the inconsistency between the character's negative traits and the real Harry Bartel's reputation, suggesting that this could have led to potential objections from the actor, which might have prompted changes in later adaptations (e.g., the TV version renaming the character to Larry Carpenter).

Furthermore, Graham discusses the cultural impact of Dragnet and Jack Webb's role in its success. He references Jack Webb's humble acknowledgment of listener support, quoting that Webb viewed each listener's letter as representative of a broader audience. This feedback loop was instrumental in shaping the show’s direction and solidifying its place in popular culture.

Graham also touches upon Dragnet's accolades, including winning the Motion Picture Herald FAME Award and Jack Webb receiving the Most Promising Star of Tomorrow award, underscoring the show's significance in the broadcasting landscape of the early 1950s.

Conclusion

This episode of The Great Detectives Present Dragnet not only revisits a compelling and tragic case from the classic radio series but also offers thoughtful commentary on its production choices and societal implications. Adam Graham effectively bridges the gap between the historical content of Dragnet and its enduring relevance, providing listeners with both entertainment and meaningful reflection.

Listener Engagement

Adam Graham encourages listeners to support the podcast through donations or Patreon, thanking regular supporters and inviting new listeners to follow and review the podcast on their preferred platforms.

For those interested in classic radio dramas and insightful analyses of iconic series, this episode offers a comprehensive exploration of Dragnet's "The Big Children," enriched with historical context and critical perspectives.