Dragnet: The Big Dance (EP4658)

Summary

Summary of "Dragnet: The Big Dance (EP4658)"

Hosted by Adam Graham on "The Great Detectives Present Dragnet (Old Time Radio)"
Release Date: March 22, 2025

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Introduction

In "Dragnet: The Big Dance," Detective Sergeant Joe Friday teams up with Officer Ben Romero to tackle a series of brutal robberies plaguing Los Angeles. This episode delves deep into the meticulous investigative processes of the LAPD, showcasing their dedication to upholding the law amidst chaos.

Plot Overview

The episode begins on a rainy Sunday morning, March 3rd, with Joe Friday returning from a bakery run to find his partner, Ben Romero, struggling to prepare breakfast. Their camaraderie is evident as they navigate the morning routine, setting the stage for their professional partnership.

At [04:21], Captain Harry Didion assigns them to a robbery detail targeting a pair of ruthless hold-up men responsible for 23 robberies over three months. The victims, Mr. and Mrs. John Wilden, owners of a newspaper and soda stand, provide critical descriptions that align with the suspects' profiles.

Investigation Process

Friday and Romero methodically follow leads, beginning with the Wildens' account of the attackers. Detective Young assists them in piecing together the suspects' identities. By [15:35], fingerprint analyses and victim testimonies point towards Fred Gunther and Harold Reimers as primary suspects.

Their investigation leads them to various establishments, including the Big Ten Cafe and a downtown dance hall where Fred Gunther's girlfriend, Lorraine Stanley, provides indirect clues about Gunther's whereabouts. The detectives employ classic Dragnet techniques—stakeouts, interviews, and surveillance—to narrow down their search.

Key Developments

• Suspect Identification: Through diligent cross-referencing of mug shots and victim descriptions, Gunther emerges as the central figure ([19:07]).

• Interrogations: The team conducts intense interrogations, particularly with Harold Reimers, who remains tight-lipped about the crimes ([26:20]).

• Breakthrough: A pivotal tip from Lorraine Stanley about Gunther's absence from his usual haunts leads to a high-stakes stakeout at the dance hall ([24:07]).

Climax and Resolution

During the stakeout, tensions rise as Gunther attempts to meet Lorraine Stanley at the dance hall. A confrontation ensues in the alley, culminating in Gunther's apprehension ([28:50]). Reimers is subsequently captured after a rigorous interrogation session ([26:20]).

The episode concludes with Friday summarizing the legal consequences faced by Gunther and Reimers. Both are convicted on multiple counts of robbery and assault, serving their sentences as per the law ([29:28]).

Notable Quotes

• Joe Friday on the nature of the case:
  "The story you are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent."
  [04:21]

• Detective Young on suspect descriptions:
  "One was a red head, the other one had dark hair. Both about the same height as you."
  [11:03]

• Lorraine Stanley reflecting on Gunther:
  "Poor Fred. He's gonna be awfully disappointed."
  [23:54]

• Joe Friday summarizing the case:
  "Fred Gunther and Harold Reimers were tried and convicted on several counts of robbery and assault. They received sentences as prescribed by law."
  [29:28]

Character Dynamics

The partnership between Joe Friday and Ben Romero is a central element, highlighting their professional synergy and mutual respect. Their interactions during mundane tasks, like breakfast preparations ([05:22] - [10:21]), humanize them, making the intense investigation process more relatable.

Investigative Techniques Highlighted

• Fingerprint Analysis: Demonstrates the importance of forensic evidence in identifying suspects ([15:24]).

• Surveillance and Stakeouts: Showcases strategic patience and tactical planning in apprehending suspects ([24:07] - [29:28]).

• Victim Interviews: Emphasizes gathering detailed accounts to build accurate suspect profiles ([11:03] - [14:44]).

Conclusion

"The Big Dance" encapsulates the relentless pursuit of justice by the LAPD. Through methodical investigation, collaboration, and unwavering determination, Joe Friday and Ben Romero successfully bring perpetrators to account. This episode not only entertains but also offers insight into the procedural aspects of law enforcement in the mid-20th century.

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For those interested in classic detective narratives and the intricacies of police work, "Dragnet: The Big Dance" serves as a quintessential example of timeless crime drama.

Transcript

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[Ben Romero]

It's.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome to the great detectives of Old Time Radio. In a moment, we're going to bring you this week's episode of Dragnet. But first, I do want to encourage you if you're enjoying the podcast, to follow us using your favorite podcast software. Today's program is brought to you in part by the financial support of our listeners. You can support the show on a one time basis by mailing a donation to Adam Graham Pillbox 15913. That's P15913 Boise, ID 83715 and you can also become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month by going to patreon.greatdetectives.net and I want to welcome Edward as our latest Patreon supporter at the shamus level of $4 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support, Edward. Now from January 18, 1951, here is the big dance.

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[Joe Friday]

The story you are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent. You're a detective sergeant. You're assigned a robbery detail. For three months, you've been tracking a.

[Ben Romero]

Pair of hold up men.

[Joe Friday]

There's no pattern to their operation. They're young. They're brutal. Your job, stop them. Dragnet. The documented drama of an actual crime. For the next 30 minutes, in cooperation with the Los Angeles Police Department, you will travel step by step on the side of the law through an actual case transcribed from official police files. From beginning to end, from crime to punishment, Dragnet is the story of your police force in action.

[Fred Gunther]

It was Sunday, March 3rd. Was raining in Los Angeles. We were working the night. Watch out. A robbery detail. My partner's Ben Romero. The boss is Harry Didion, Captain of robbery. My name's Friday. I was on the way back from the neighborhood bakery shop and it was 8:45am when I got to Collis Avenue, number 4656.

[Ben Romero]

Joe?

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah?

[Ben Romero]

What happened? Wasn't the bakery open?

[Fred Gunther]

Oh, yeah, it was open. I got the stuff right here.

[Ben Romero]

They have any raisin bread? Yeah, right here. How about the butterhorn?

[Fred Gunther]

No, they don't make those on Sundays anymore. I got bear claws instead.

[Ben Romero]

Okay, well, let's get this stuff open. Okay. All right, here we are. Where do you keep your egg?

[Fred Gunther]

In the refrigerator, right over there. Find them?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, I got them. You know, Joe, I don't like to say anything, but I can't keep coming over here to your place every morning.

[Fred Gunther]

Well, it was your idea. Nobody asked you.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, but I know how you are. You don't know how to cook a decent breakfast for yourself.

[Fred Gunther]

The coffee Ready yet?

[Ben Romero]

Uh, no, it's not perkin yet. Hey, you sure there's nothing wrong with this pot? It's been on for 10 minutes.

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah, you forgot to plug it in.

[Ben Romero]

Oh, now, let's see.

[Fred Gunther]

Well, what do you want?

[Ben Romero]

Well, better put the toast on.

[Fred Gunther]

You always make the toast before you cook the eggs.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Fred Gunther]

Remember yesterday the toast was pretty cold.

[Ben Romero]

Oh yeah, that's right. I better hold off for a minute.

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Scrambled eggs okay?

[Fred Gunther]

Well, we had them yesterday.

[Ben Romero]

Oh yeah, that's right.

[Fred Gunther]

That the only way you know how to fix them?

[Ben Romero]

I know what you'd like. One of my Spanish armies, wouldn't you Say your mother was coming back.

[Fred Gunther]

Well, about three more days.

[Ben Romero]

That'll make a week, won't it?

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah, that's right.

[Ben Romero]

Well, I guess I can work something out with Amy. Wife doesn't like me coming over here every morning like this.

[Fred Gunther]

Boy, I told you before, I can make out all right here.

[Ben Romero]

Oh, I know how it is. You think you're imposing. You'd be lost without your can opener.

[Fred Gunther]

Say, is this omelet of yours gonna take very long? We haven't got very much time, you know.

[Ben Romero]

I'll have it on your plate in the jiffy. What time are we supposed to see those victims?

[Fred Gunther]

9:30 at the county hospital.

[Ben Romero]

Where's your tomato?

[Fred Gunther]

In the refrigerator.

[Ben Romero]

Oh, uh huh.

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah. 23 jobs in three months. Those guys really move, don't they?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. Mmm. Nice tomatoes, Joe.

[Fred Gunther]

That Hollenbeck job last night. Vicious punks.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, there's no reason to work the old man over the way they did. What'd the doctor say?

[Fred Gunther]

Well, he's gonna get over it all right. But they kicked out all of his front teeth. He's 50 years old.

[Ben Romero]

Same ammo every job.

[Fred Gunther]

Aren't you gonna peel those?

[Ben Romero]

No. Skins are good for you. Now you got a nice big Bermuda Bermuda onion.

[Fred Gunther]

Oh yeah. I'll get you one.

[Ben Romero]

Kids. 19, 20 year old stick up artist. Knock a man's senses for half a dollar. Robbing, slugging, kicking anywhere around the city. This'll be one bunch I'll be glad to catch up with. Here's your onion. Good.

[Fred Gunther]

Well now, wait a minute. You're going to peel that, aren't you?

[Ben Romero]

And lose half the flavor?

[Fred Gunther]

I don't know. I always peel them.

[Ben Romero]

Let's see now. All right, now mix the whole works together.

[Fred Gunther]

You gonna put it in that pan.

[Ben Romero]

On the stove there? Yes, sir.

[Fred Gunther]

Looks pretty hot, doesn't it? It's smoking, Joe.

[Ben Romero]

That's the way you cook a Spanish omelet. Hot fire and fast into the pan. The whole trick in making a good Spanish omelet is you got to work fast.

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah. Where are all those little brown flakes on the top there? Oh, the onion skins. I don't know. That doesn't look right to me.

[Ben Romero]

Well, you taste it.

[Fred Gunther]

I'll get it.

[Ben Romero]

Friday.

[Detective Young]

Talking Elton Young Joe Romero there with you?

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah, he's here.

[Ben Romero]

You two are supposed to see those.

[Joe Friday]

Robbery victims at the county hospital this morning, aren't you?

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah, at 9:30.

[Joe Friday]

Cancel that out.

[Detective Young]

Gonzalez and Powers are covering on that.

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah, how come?

[Ben Romero]

Just got the call.

[Detective Young]

South grand and Colonial, 211 and slugging. Same description, like the Kid Bandits.

[Fred Gunther]

All right, we'll get right on it.

[Detective Young]

It's a newsstand near the corner.

[Fred Gunther]

Right. Bye.

[Ben Romero]

Look at that, Joe. I just took it out of the pan. Yeah, Best Spanish almond I ever made.

[Fred Gunther]

That's too bad. We're not gonna have time to eat it. 8:55am we left the house and drove to the scene of the holdup. One door from the corner of south grand and Colonial Avenue. The victims were Mr. And Mrs. John Wilden, proprietors of a small newspaper and soft drink stand just off the intersection. Mrs. Wilden was being carried to a waiting ambulance. When we got there, she was unconscious from her forehead to her chin. Her face was a swollen mass of welts. Her nose had been broken and she had fractures of the jaw and cheekbone. Her husband, John Wilden, age 56, had a single bruise on his forehead over his left eye. We questioned him after the ambulance attendants gave him first aid. His description of the hold up men tallied almost perfectly.

[Detective Young]

One was a red head, other one had dark hair. Both about the same height. I'd say they're as tall as you are, Officer.

[Ben Romero]

That's just Joe. Kid Bennett.

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah. Had you ever seen either one of these men before, Mr. Wilden? Around the neighborhood maybe?

[Detective Young]

No, never did. I don't know why they picked on Madeline and me for a hold up. We'd never been robbed before. We just got this little hole in the wall here. Don't see how it could look worthwhile to any crook.

[Ben Romero]

You usually open up this early on Sunday morning? Oh, yes.

[Detective Young]

Sunday's one of our big days. You see, we handle all the Sunday papers. You get our big trade from the people going to church up the street there. St. Joseph's yes, sir.

[Fred Gunther]

I see.

[Detective Young]

After the church lets out, most of the people head down this way, pick up the Sunday papers. We sell about 15, 20 papers after every mass. It's a nice little business you know, we close up after 12:15.

[Fred Gunther]

Well, when did the hold up take place? Can you remember that, sir?

[Detective Young]

Well, I'd say 8:30. A few minutes after I went down to the Athens Cafe down the street there. I wanted to get some change. I left Madeline here to handle the counter. Madeline? That's my wife.

[Ben Romero]

Yes.

[Detective Young]

And when I got back, she wasn't behind the counter. I took a look behind here and saw her cash box laying on the cement there empty. And I didn't know what to think.

[Ben Romero]

What'd you do then?

[Detective Young]

I pushed through this door here. There's a little dinky storeroom just back at the counter. It's where we keep our supplies. Candy and soda water.

[Fred Gunther]

You mind if we take a look, sir?

[Detective Young]

No, no, no. Come right ahead. You see, when I came in, first thing I saw was Madeline, that's my wife, and she was lying there on the boards moaning. Had her hands over her face. The two young fellows are standing over her and both had guns.

[Fred Gunther]

What did they do when they saw you?

[Detective Young]

They grabbed me and asked for money. I told them I didn't have any. I began to holler for help. One of them slugged me with his gun. Then they ran out.

[Ben Romero]

Still a little shaky.

[Detective Young]

You mind if I sit down a minute?

[Ben Romero]

Go ahead. Oh, here, let me get this box for you.

[Detective Young]

Thank you.

[Fred Gunther]

Say, I wonder if we could get you some water. Maybe a cold drink from the cooler?

[Detective Young]

Oh, no, no. But you'll find a half pint behind those cases over there. A little brandy I keep put away over here. Yes, that's right behind those cases. I don't usually drink on Sundays. This is an exception, I guess.

[Ben Romero]

Here you are, Mr. Weldon.

[Fred Gunther]

What's that on the floor there, Ben? Near your foot there.

[Ben Romero]

Let's see. Oh, lights are not very good. Oh, book of matches? Yeah.

[Fred Gunther]

These yours, Mr. Wilon? These matches?

[Detective Young]

No, I don't carry him.

[Fred Gunther]

Well, your wife's, I guess, huh?

[Detective Young]

I don't think so. Neither one of us smoke.

[Ben Romero]

What's that ad printed on the back here?

[Fred Gunther]

Big Ten Cafe. Steaks chop, short orders, open all night, West Pico. Do you handle cigarettes and cigars here, sir?

[Harold Reimers]

No, sir.

[Detective Young]

Candy, soft drinks, newspapers, that's all.

[Ben Romero]

Oh, inside of the matchbook cover, Joe. Some scribbling on it.

[Fred Gunther]

George Bell S. Cameron, Fifth and Alameda. Do you recognize this at all, Mr. Wilton?

[Detective Young]

Big Ten Cafe. No, I never been there.

[Fred Gunther]

Now, how about the names?

[Detective Young]

Here inside the COVID George Bell S. Cameron. No, I never heard of him.

[Ben Romero]

When you first came in here, Mr. Wilton, do you remember where the hold up men were standing.

[Detective Young]

Not too well. Well, one was over there and one was over there, I think.

[Ben Romero]

Could be Joe. One of them might have dropped it.

[Detective Young]

Trace them from that matchbook. Do you think that's possible?

[Fred Gunther]

I don't know yet.

[Detective Young]

How would you trace them that way? Analysis. Some kind of scientific work?

[Fred Gunther]

No, sir. Legwork. 9:28am we call Leighton fingerprints. As soon as they arrived, we dropped Mr. Wilden off at Georgia Street Receiving Hospital to see his wife. Ben and I drove back to the office. We had the crime report typed up and got out a supplementary broadcast on our original apb. We asked Frank Cunningham and R and I to run the names George Bell and S. Cameron through the files for possible mate. We checked with a restaurant advertised on the COVID of the matchbook. The Big Ten Cafe. The manager of the cafe failed to recognize either the names on the matchbook or the descriptions of the hold up men. 9:52. We checked back in at the office.

[Ben Romero]

I'll get it. Robbery to Maryland. Yeah, Frank. Yeah. Good. Right. Thank you.

[Fred Gunther]

Cunningham.

[Ben Romero]

You got a make on the name George Bell? Another one for Sam Cameron. Both of them run together. Got long juvenile records.

[Fred Gunther]

Good. You got an address on them?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. Won't be hard to run down.

[Fred Gunther]

What do you mean?

[Ben Romero]

Main jail.

[Fred Gunther]

Five days before, George Bell, a laborer, and Samuel Cameron, a part time jewelry salesman had been booked at the main jail on charges of being drunk and disorderly. The day after his arrest, Cameron was bailed out. Bell was still in the drunk tank. Ben and I went down to the main jail and talked to him. He didn't fit the description of either of the bandits. It was very cooperative. But he stated that he'd been very drunk and he couldn't remember too much.

[Harold Reimers]

Just don't know. Sergeant. Sam and I went out and tied my nan. When it came to we were here in the drunk tank.

[Ben Romero]

You have no idea at all how your names got on this matchbook?

[Harold Reimers]

I'm trying to think. We're pretty well heated up, Sam and me. That's another thing. That dirty Sam.

[Fred Gunther]

What do you mean?

[Harold Reimers]

He gets a friend of his to come up here and bail him out. Think he'd do anything for me? No. I bought the liquor. He lets me sit here.

[Fred Gunther]

Now.

[Harold Reimers]

You Dirty Sam.

[Fred Gunther]

Do you think he might remember about that matchbook?

[Harold Reimers]

I don't know. I'm disgusted with him. If you see him, you can tell him that. Just let him know he's off my list.

[Ben Romero]

How about the address here on the matchbook? George says 5th and Alameda. Doesn't that mean anything to you? Were you in Cameron hitting some of the spots around that area?

[Harold Reimers]

No, we were messing around over in Dog Town. Didn't get down by Alameda at all.

[Fred Gunther]

Well, it must have some tie in for you. Fifth and Alameda?

[Harold Reimers]

No. Only guy I know down there is Sanchez. Wait a minute. Yeah, just a minute. Sanchez. Gus Sanchez?

[Ben Romero]

Sure.

[Harold Reimers]

I wanted to see Gus. I thought he'd put up there for us.

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah, go ahead.

[Harold Reimers]

I got it now. I think I have. Anyway, it was the morning after, and I woke up here in the tank. A big head, you know, really whipped.

[Fred Gunther]

Mm.

[Harold Reimers]

First thing, I thought I was out. I figured Gus Sanchez might pop for bail. Friend of mine, you know, Gus works at about 5th Nalameter. That's it.

[Fred Gunther]

Well, how's it tie in?

[Harold Reimers]

Well, this other mooch is in the tank next to me. Somebody spot bail for him, and he's getting out in an hour. So I asked him to call Gus for me, and he said he would. He wrote my name down, and he wrote down Sam's too. Dirty Sam. And he took down Gus's address? Yeah. Tristan Alameda.

[Ben Romero]

You remember what this man looked like when he took your name?

[Harold Reimers]

Oh, let's see. No, Everything was going around. He's kind of tall. I know.

[Fred Gunther]

Would you remember him if you saw him again?

[Harold Reimers]

Guy did me a favor, I'd remember him. Not like that. Dirty Sam.

[Fred Gunther]

Well, how about his name? Did he tell you that?

[Harold Reimers]

No, I didn't ask him. I should have, huh?

[Ben Romero]

You sure about the day this man was released?

[Harold Reimers]

Positive. The same guy came in Tuesday.

[Fred Gunther]

Okay, Belle, thanks very much. We'll be checking back with you.

[Harold Reimers]

Yeah. All right. What about this guy? You gotta pay for them.

[Fred Gunther]

Well, maybe if he's the one we want.

[Harold Reimers]

Yeah. What'd he do?

[Fred Gunther]

He lost his matches. Ben and I left the drunk tank and went down the hall to check with the officer in charge. We paged through the release book and found that seven men had been bailed out or discharged from the jail on the previous Tuesday. Went back to the Record Bureau and had them pull the mug shots on all seven men. Then we took the pictures back to the drunk tank and showed them to George Bell.

[Ben Romero]

No.

[Harold Reimers]

No.

[Fred Gunther]

No.

[Harold Reimers]

Yeah. This one, I think. Can't be sure. I think that's him.

[Fred Gunther]

George Bell attentively identified the mug shot of a Fred Gunther, WMA, 21 years old. Gunther had a previous record of grand theft auto, purse snatching and drunk charges. His picture matched closely with the description of one of the suspects. 4:00am we contacted the Kid Bandit's most recent victim, John Wilden, at his home. We asked him to look at the same group of mug shots that we'd shown to George Bell.

[Detective Young]

Here. Here. This here. He's one of them.

[Ben Romero]

You sure, Mr. Willie?

[Detective Young]

He's the one who slugged me.

[Harold Reimers]

Who is he?

[Fred Gunther]

His name's Fred Gunther.

[Detective Young]

Well, then you know him. You want me to identify him?

[Fred Gunther]

Yes, sir. When we find him.

[Joe Friday]

You are listening to Dragnet authentic stories of your police force in action.

[Fred Gunther]

Monday, March 4, 9am we checked out the suspect, Fred Gunther. No trace of him at any of his previous addresses. We began checking with the other victims of the Kid Bandits. After a day and a half of legwork, we sat down and figured up the results. More than two thirds of the victims definitely tabbed Gunther as one of the hold up men. The next step was the Record Bureau. We had them pull the packages on every one of Gunther's known friends and associates. There were more than 30 of them. We had mug shots pulled on each one of them and made the rounds of the victims for the second time. Approximately half of the victims had singled out one picture as that of Gunther's partner in the holdups. We pulled the package on the man and checked his mama sheet. His name was Harold Reimers, WMA, age 19. Previous record included car stripping and one charge ADW, no conviction. Friday, March 8th. We continued our check of the friends and associates known to the two suspects, Gunther and Reimers. We got nowhere. Two weeks passed. On March 23rd, we got a tip from an informant about a girlfriend of Fred Gunther's. A vocalist working at a downtown dance hall during intermissions.

[Ben Romero]

Long haul?

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah, one more flight.

[Ben Romero]

Climb four flights of stairs and then they expect you to dance.

[Fred Gunther]

Well, I guess this is it. Yeah. Come on.

[Ben Romero]

Big enough floor, huh?

[Fred Gunther]

It shows a little wear. Place has been here for years.

[Ben Romero]

Look at those walls in that ceiling. Sure could use a fresh coat of paint.

[Fred Gunther]

Her name's Stanley, is that right?

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, that's it.

[Fred Gunther]

Excuse me. Your name Lorraine Stanley?

[Lorraine Stanley]

Yeah, that's right. Sweet Lorraine. That's my billing. You with the band?

[Fred Gunther]

No, we're police officers. I'd like to talk to you for a minute if we can.

[Ben Romero]

Oh, sure.

[Lorraine Stanley]

All right. I was just rehearsing a little. What's it about, Officer?

[Ben Romero]

Do you know a Fred Gunther, Ms. Stanley?

[Lorraine Stanley]

Fred? Yeah, I know him. I used to be engaged to Fred.

[Ben Romero]

You happen to know where he is now?

[Lorraine Stanley]

No, I don't. Guess I haven't heard from him in 3, 4 months. Usually looks me up when I'M in town. Maybe he's sore about something. I don't know.

[Fred Gunther]

Has he contacted you at all?

[Lorraine Stanley]

Not since I got back from Bakersfield a month ago. I played 32 weeks in Bakersfield. The Ramble Inn. Sure hated to leave. Nice place.

[Fred Gunther]

Where does Gunther stay in town? Do you happen to know that?

[Lorraine Stanley]

Used to be that hotel on South Flower. Called him there, but they said he moved. Used to like Fred a lot. Not have to marry me.

[Ben Romero]

Do you have any idea where he might have gone, where we could contact him?

[Lorraine Stanley]

No, I really don't. Nothing wrong, is there? But Fred, I mean.

[Fred Gunther]

No, it's just routine investigation. We'd like to talk to him.

[Lorraine Stanley]

What's it about? Can you tell me?

[Fred Gunther]

It's a robbery investigation. We want to locate Gunther. Do you happen to know any of his friends here in the city?

[Lorraine Stanley]

No. Maybe that's why he didn't call. He's in trouble. Robbery, Is that it?

[Fred Gunther]

Well, we just like to talk to him, that's all.

[Lorraine Stanley]

Well, if he's done something wrong, I'm not gonna hide him. I can't afford to get mixed up in it. I've got a career to think about. I've worked too hard to throw it away.

[Ben Romero]

Well, how about the places Gunther usually visits, Ms. Stanley? Bars, restaurants. You know any of those?

[Lorraine Stanley]

Yeah, I remember a few. I can give you the names if you like. Poor Fred. I hope he didn't do it for me, ma'am. Fred says he's in love with me. I don't know. He thinks I want money. Maybe that's why he's doing it. I told him, but he never believed me. All I want is my career.

[Fred Gunther]

Well, do you think that Gunther might come around here to see you?

[Lorraine Stanley]

Probably. He usually does when I'm in town.

[Fred Gunther]

How about where you're living?

[Lorraine Stanley]

I'm staying at a different hotel this trip. He doesn't know where he is. Poor Fred. He's gonna be awfully disappointed.

[Ben Romero]

How do you mean?

[Lorraine Stanley]

Oh, he said he was gonna get money and buy a ring. He's gonna marry me this time. Poor Fred. This is my new theme, officers. You like it?

[Detective Young]

Uh huh.

[Fred Gunther]

Just one more thing, Ms. Stanley. If Gunther contacts you by phone, will you be sure and let us know?

[Lorraine Stanley]

All right, I'll do that. Sure. Beautiful theme, isn't it? Piano Player in Bakersfield. He wrote it for me.

[Ben Romero]

Beautiful. Yes, ma'am.

[Lorraine Stanley]

Oh, Fred understands. I don't want to hurt him, but I can't marry him. How do I make him understand? How do I explain it?

[Fred Gunther]

I don't Think you'll have to, ma'am. Before we left Lorraine Stanley, we told her that if Gunther should contact her, not to tell him that she talked with us. Stakeouts were placed on the dance hall where she worked and at the hotel where she was staying. Staying? Gunther's known hangouts were also covered. The next night, the Kid Bandits were back in business. They hit twice a liquor store on Franklin Avenue. In a tavern on South Flower. Gunther and Reimers were again identified as the two suspects. The stakeouts continued. The search went on. Four days later, we got a tip from the proprietor of a shoe shine stand on West Temple with Gunther's partner. Harold Reimers had been seen entering a small hotel up the street from his stand. We drove over and checked with the desk clerk. He identified Reimer's mug shot. He told us the suspect wasn't in, but that he was expected back that night. Ben and I went on stakeout in his hotel room. 7pm Reimers failed a show.

[Ben Romero]

Getting a little hungry, Joe. You? Yeah.

[Fred Gunther]

What time you got now?

[Ben Romero]

20 after 7. Stomach's starting to growl. And what's that? A parade?

[Fred Gunther]

I don't think so.

[Ben Romero]

Let's see.

[Fred Gunther]

Well, it's a Salvation army band.

[Ben Romero]

Oh, yeah? Saturday night. Might as well check the office, huh? See if we can't get a relief. Would you get me Michigan 5211, please? Michigan 5211. Yeah, we'll pay for it. Thanks. Would you close the window, George? Little noise.

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah. Okay.

[Joe Friday]

Rob.

[Ben Romero]

Briefly. Yeah, Young. This is from Merrill. How's that? You sure? Okay, thank you. Gunther and Reimers, they pulled a hole up down south Maine. When? 20 minutes ago. Gunther got away? Yeah, they got Reimer.

[Fred Gunther]

7:45Pm Ben and I got back to the city hall and went to the interrogation room together with Young and Carr from Robbery. We tried to question the suspect, Harold Reimers. We talked to him for over an hour. He refused to tell us anything. We took him to the main jail where he was booked on 211 PC. 9:15pm we went back to the office, huh?

[Ben Romero]

Get it.

[Joe Friday]

Robbery.

[Ben Romero]

Romero. In just a minute, FIO Joe.

[Fred Gunther]

Okay, thanks. Friday talking.

[Lorraine Stanley]

Sergeant, this is lorraine Stanley.

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah, Ms. Stanley, I'm over at work.

[Lorraine Stanley]

Except dance hall, you remember?

[Fred Gunther]

Yes, ma'am.

[Ben Romero]

Anything wrong?

[Lorraine Stanley]

Well, Fred just called me, Sergeant. I told the officers here.

[Fred Gunther]

Fred Gunther? Yes, ma'am. Where is he? Did he say?

[Lorraine Stanley]

No, all he said was he wanted to see me.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, he said he was coming right over.

[Fred Gunther]

9:25Pm we called the men on stakeout at the dance hall and alerted Them, Dalton, Young, Ben and I got in the car and drove over. We checked with the detail on stakeout. Gunther hadn't been spotted. Because of the large crowd entering and leaving the dance hall. It was possible that he could have gotten in unnoticed. We talked to the Stanley girl. She hadn't seen or heard anything further from the suspect. Ben and I staked out in her dressing room. Where Gunther said he'd meet the girl was a small converted storeroom at one end of the dance floor, just behind the bandstand. Lorraine Stanley was on during the intermission. We waited.

[Ben Romero]

What have you got?

[Fred Gunther]

You almost 10:30.

[Ben Romero]

This guy must feel pretty sure of himself. He pulls a robbery, he's almost picked up. And three hours later he makes a date to show in a public play.

[Fred Gunther]

Well, he hasn't shown yet. I'm not too sure about that Stanley girl.

[Ben Romero]

How do you mean?

[Fred Gunther]

Well, if she's that big an attraction for him, this is the only way out, huh? Besides that fire escape off the alley.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. Young's covering the alley.

[Fred Gunther]

Come on.

[Ben Romero]

Down here, Joe.

[Detective Young]

He got by me. He's up the alley behind one of those trucks.

[Ben Romero]

He can't go far. That's a dead end.

[Fred Gunther]

Stay here, Young, and cut him off.

[Ben Romero]

You all right? Yeah.

[Detective Young]

He slugged me, knocked me down.

[Fred Gunther]

I didn't see him in the dark. Come on, Ben.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah.

[Fred Gunther]

Easy, huh?

[Ben Romero]

Short dark.

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah.

[Ben Romero]

Watch us behind that truck. Make room.

[Lorraine Stanley]

I'm coming out.

[Ben Romero]

Watch your Joe. Missed him coming at you, Young.

[Fred Gunther]

Don't shoot.

[Detective Young]

Don't shoot.

[Ben Romero]

All right, stand still.

[Fred Gunther]

You want to stay with him, Young? We'll call in.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah, right.

[Detective Young]

Close this place, that little cafe off.

[Fred Gunther]

The alley to the left.

[Ben Romero]

Thanks.

[Fred Gunther]

Come on, then.

[Ben Romero]

Yeah. Oh, here it is.

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah. I guess they got a phone inside. Come on.

[Ben Romero]

Wait a minute. Soon as we get Gunther downtown, we're going to come right back here.

[Fred Gunther]

What for?

[Ben Romero]

Take a look at that fry cook in the window there.

[Fred Gunther]

Yeah? What about him?

[Ben Romero]

That fella makes a Spanish armored exactly like I do.

[Joe Friday]

The story you have just heard was true. Only the names were changed to protect the innocent. On July 19, trial was held in Superior Court Department 86, City and County of Los Angeles, State of California. In a moment, the results of that trial. Fred Gunther and Harold Reimers were tried and convicted on several counts of robbery and assault. They received sentences as prescribed by law. And they're now serving their terms in the state penalty a century. You have just heard, Dragnet. A series of authentic cases from official filers. Technical advice comes from the office of Chief of Police W.H. parker, Los Angeles Police Department we the people is next with stories of Today on NBC.

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[Shipstation]

The ones who get it done. The most important part is the one you need now and the best partner is the one who can deliver. That's why millions of maintenance and repair pros trust Grainger because we have professional grade supplies for every industry, even hard to find products and we have same day pickup and next day delivery on most orders. But most importantly, we have an unwavering commitment to help keep you up and running. Call clickgrainger.com or just stop by Granger for the ones who get it done.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. One thing that's standing out to me this time through Dragnet is how many of these early cases are about series of brutal robberies and horrible holdups now. I don't think all of them are all the same. I think each is interesting to listen to as you're listening to the episode and has its own unique twist. But in memory they do tend to kind of blend together. Joel Friday trying to help out Ben Romero with breakfast and Mom Friday's absence seems to be a case of the very near sighted leading the blind. I get the idea that in terms of main dishes, Ben really just knows how to do scrambled eggs in Spanish omelets and that's about it. On the bright side, at least when he went to the bakery, Friday didn't have to find a bakery that carried graham bread. We already talked in a previous episode about what a challenge that would be, Though I do have to say it seems to me that if Friday had just been allowed to have cereal or milk, and I don't think even he could mess that up, he actually would have been able to eat before going on the call rather than spending his morning before work running to the bakery to pick up things to help Ben. Help him. Alright, well, listener comments and feedback now. And we have a comment regarding Matthew Slade and the episode Passage to Tangiers. And over on YouTube, Saysoft writes that grilled camel liver sounds yummy. To each their own. Well, now it is time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day. And I want to go ahead and thank Robert. Robert's been one of our patreon supporters since August 2016, currently supporting the podcast at the Detective Sergeant level of $7.14 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support, Robert. And that will actually do it for today. 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. We'll be back next Saturday with another episode of Dragnet. Join us this weekend for Public Domain video [e-mail] on our YouTube channel. And now on Spotify, where we will be bringing you a TV episode of Dragnet. And the great detectives of Old Time Radio returns on Monday with an episode of the Adventures of the Falcon, where.

[Joe Friday]

Well, I don't know whether you've heard, Soldier, but you've got a namesake in town. There's another Tony Poletti. You call that news? According to phone book, there are 11 of them in New York. Well, the one I had in mind works for a gambler named Frank Novak. So? So I got a rumble that a couple of hoods just moved in from Detroit looking for him. What's that got to do with me? Nothing, I hope, but these boys are kind of trigger happy. I'd hate to see him make a mistake. Listen to Marie. Ain't either limit. Mistakes have happened before, Tony. That's how they finally caught up with Murder Incorporated. They got the wrong man.

[Ben Romero]

What do you think he should do?

[Joe Friday]

Well, I've already called the police, and.

[Ben Romero]

If you people have no objection, I'd.

[Joe Friday]

Like to stick close for a couple of days. You're out of your mind.

[Fred Gunther]

Why?

[Ben Romero]

I think it makes sen. Oh, now.

[Joe Friday]

Look, honey, there's nothing to worry about.

[Ben Romero]

What do you mean, there's nothing to worry about? Didn't you just hear him say Mike.

[Joe Friday]

Was always a great warrior? You should have seen him at Remagen. Well, just the same, Tony, if you don't mind. I do mind. The day I need a nursemaid, I'll be ready for the old soldier's home.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to box Thirteenreatdetectives.net Follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and check us out on Instagram instagram.com greatdetectives From Boise, Idaho, this is your host Adam Graham signing off.

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You just realized your business needed to hire someone yesterday. How can you find amazing candidates fast? Easy. Just use Indeed. Stop struggling to get your job post seen on other job sites with Indeed sponsored jobs. Your post jumps to the top of the page for your relevant candidates so you can reach the people you want faster. According to Indeed data, sponsored jobs posted directly on indeed have 45% more applications than non sponsored jobs. Don't wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed and listeners of this show will get a $75 sponsored job credit. To get your jobs more visibility@ Indeed.com Arts just go to Indeed.com Arts right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you need for.

[Shipstation]

The ones who get it done. The most important part is the one you need now and the best partner is the one who can deliver. That's why millions of maintenance and repair pros trust Grainger because we have professional grade supplies for every industry, even hard to find products and we have same day pickup and next day delivery on most orders. But most importantly, we have an unwavering commitment to help keep you up and running. Call clickgrainger.com or just stop by Grainger for the ones who get it done.