The Great Detectives Present Dragnet (Old Time Radio)

Episode: Dragnet: The Big Couple (EP4694)
Release Date: May 3, 2025
Host: Adam Graham

Introduction

In this episode of The Great Detectives Present Dragnet, host Adam Graham delves into the classic radio episode titled "The Big Couple." Graham meticulously guides listeners through the intricate investigation led by Officers Friday and Romero as they unravel the deceptive schemes of con artists Tom and Doris Herbert.

Case Overview

[02:34] The episode begins with a narration setting the stage for a true crime story deeply rooted in fraud and deception. Officers Friday and Romero are assigned to a bunco detail targeting a veteran husband-wife confidence team, Tom and Doris Herbert, who have a 17-year history of swindling churches across various cities.

Notable Quote:
"Their criminal record dates back 17 years. Their masters in the art of swindling." – Officer Friday [04:01]

Investigation Unfolds

The officers' investigation takes them to Reverend Andrew Olson's church, where they first interact with the Herberts under the guise of researching a church history book. Initially, the Herberts appear sincere, but discrepancies soon emerge.

Key Events:

• Initial Interaction: Officers approach Reverend Olson about the Herberts' project. Upon learning that the publishing of the church history book was abruptly canceled, suspicion arises.

  Notable Quote:
  "They suggested that I talk it over with the church board, so I did." – Officer Friday [08:58]

• Financial Discrepancies: It is revealed that the Herberts convinced the church to finance the publication, leading to a significant loss of $804.61. The officers discover that the Herberts have a history of defrauding religious institutions.

• Tracking the Herberts: Utilizing APBs and collaborating with other law enforcement agencies, Friday and Romero trace the Herberts through various states, finally linking them to a new scam selling fraudulent health insurance policies exploiting the polio fear prevalent at the time.

  Notable Quote:
  "They promised everything, and they had a lot of takers." – Officer Friday [16:01]

Confrontation and Resolution

The climax of the investigation occurs when Officers Friday and Romero identify the Herberts at a bar near the Lockheed Air Terminal. A tense confrontation ensues as they attempt to apprehend Tom and Doris Herbert before their suspected flight to Mexico City.

Notable Quotes:
"We have to get a plane." – Officer Romero [27:33]
"We have to get the plane. We can't let them escape." – Officer Friday [27:39]

Despite initial resistance and manipulation by the Herberts, the officers successfully detain them, leading to their conviction on multiple counts of grand theft. The Herberts are sentenced to confinement, showcasing the effectiveness and perseverance of law enforcement.

Host Reflections

After the reenactment, Adam Graham provides insightful commentary on the case's relevance to modern-day scams, particularly highlighting the health insurance fraud employed by the Herberts.

Insights:

• Parallel to Modern Scams: Graham draws parallels between the Herberts' exploitation of polio fears and contemporary scams that prey on societal anxieties to deceive unsuspecting victims.

  Notable Quote:
  "The health insurance scam is particularly salient. The fear of polio in those days was huge for parents and essentially they played into that as an opportunity to relieve that fear with false hope." – Adam Graham [30:05]

• Authenticity and Realism: He commends the episode's realistic portrayal of 1950s life, noting the authenticity in settings like exercise classes and airports, which add depth to the narrative.

  Notable Quote:
  "This series continues to capture so many elements of life in the 1950s due to realism." – Adam Graham [30:05]

Listener Feedback

Graham shares heartfelt messages from listeners, reflecting appreciation and personal connections to the podcast. Notably, Caleb from Pennsylvania offers condolences and engages in a deep discussion about the challenges of linking fictional cases to real-life crimes, emphasizing the podcast's impact on understanding true crime complexities.

Notable Audience Comments:

• Ron and Nancy:
  "Thanks Adam. Keep these programs coming. Our daughter is an author so we understand and appreciate the time and effort you put in on research."

• Caleb N.:
  "I really enjoyed the format of this episode where the crime has been solved and it was really just the interrogation and hearing from the suspect."

Conclusion

Adam Graham wraps up the episode by acknowledging the ongoing support from listeners and Patreon supporters, particularly thanking Gary for his consistent backing since August 2016. He reiterates the podcast’s commitment to delivering authentic and engaging true crime stories, promising more compelling content in future episodes.

Final Thoughts:
"If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software and be sure to rate and review the podcast wherever you download it from." – Adam Graham [40:47]

Final Remarks

Dragnet: The Big Couple offers a captivating journey through a meticulously recreated 1950s investigation, highlighting the enduring relevance of fraud prevention and the relentless pursuit of justice. Adam Graham’s expert narration and analysis enrich the listening experience, making it both educational and enthralling for true crime enthusiasts.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "Their criminal record dates back 17 years. Their masters in the art of swindling." – Officer Friday [04:01]
• "They suggested that I talk it over with the church board, so I did." – Officer Friday [08:58]
• "They promised everything, and they had a lot of takers." – Officer Friday [16:01]
• "We have to get a plane." – Officer Romero [27:33]
• "We have to get the plane. We can't let them escape." – Officer Friday [27:39]
• "The health insurance scam is particularly salient. The fear of polio in those days was huge for parents and essentially they played into that as an opportunity to relieve that fear with false hope." – Adam Graham [30:05]
• "This series continues to capture so many elements of life in the 1950s due to realism." – Adam Graham [30:05]
• "If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software and be sure to rate and review the podcast wherever you download it from." – Adam Graham [40:47]

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of Dragnet: The Big Couple, providing listeners with a clear understanding of the episode's narrative, investigative process, and its broader implications, all while highlighting key moments through direct quotes.