The Great Detectives Present Dragnet (Old Time Radio)

Episode: Dragnet: The Big Hold-Up (EP4646)

Release Date: March 8, 2025

Host: Adam Graham

Introduction

In this gripping episode of "Dragnet," host Adam Graham delves into the harrowing case of the Rattlesnake Bandit and his enigmatic accomplice, Lois Hagen. Set against the backdrop of 1950s Los Angeles, this story showcases the relentless pursuit of justice by Detective Joe Friday and his partner, Ben Romero. Through meticulous police work and unwavering determination, "The Big Hold-Up" underscores the brutal nature of the crimes and the intricate investigation that ultimately brings the perpetrators to justice.

The Crime Spree: Rattlesnake Bandit and Lois Hagen

The episode opens with the onset of a ruthless crime spree led by the Rattlesnake Bandit, a moniker earned through his swift and vicious robberies. Over a span of 96 hours, the Bandit and his blonde accomplice, later identified as Lois Hagen, terrorized Los Angeles, committing a series of armed robberies and brutal assaults. Unlike typical criminals seeking substantial financial gains, their motives appeared inexplicable, with each robbery yielding no more than $50.

Notable Quote:

• Joe Friday (00:03:04): "You're a detective sergeant. You're assigned a homicide detail. Stop him."

Investigation Efforts by Joe Friday and Ben Romero

Detective Joe Friday, portrayed with characteristic stoicism, takes charge of the homicide detail tasked with capturing the Bandit. Alongside his seasoned partner, Ben Romero, Friday meticulously reviews police records and victim testimonies to piece together the Bandit's pattern. The brutality of the crimes, combined with the minimal financial gain, suggested a sadistic motive rather than typical criminal intent.

Early in the investigation, they receive a critical report from Ralph Younger, a high school English teacher and one of the victims, who provides a detailed description of the Bandit and the getaway vehicle.

Notable Quote:

• Ralph Younger (00:07:33): "He rushed up to me and started slugging me in the face with his gun. Went down."

Key Breakthrough: Identification and Stalking

Through persistent follow-ups and analysis of witness statements, Friday and Romero identify Lois Hagen as the Bandit's female accomplice. A significant breakthrough occurs when they trace Lois's whereabouts to a small apartment in West Hollywood. Despite initial dead ends, including unresponsive witnesses and falsified alibis, the detectives remain undeterred.

The turning point comes when repeated robberies and consistent use of a blue Chevrolet coupe with license plate 5POLE389 provide a tangible lead. The detectives deploy a strategic stakeout using surveillance teams to monitor the suspected vehicle, culminating in a meticulously planned sting operation.

Notable Quote:

• Ben Romero (00:14:53): "It was a stolen car, Ms. Young. We took it from one of his other victims. It was found out in Wiltshire this morning."

The Sting Operation and Capture

The culmination of the investigation is marked by a high-stakes sting operation at a service station on Hill Street. Detectives pose as employees to monitor the getaway car closely. Their patience pays off when Lois Hagen returns to the service station to address a minor vehicle issue. As predicted, she retrieves the blue coupe, triggering the arrest.

Inside the apartment, a tense confrontation ensues. Lois initially resists, but the overwhelming presence of law enforcement leads to the Bandit's fatal altercation with Detective Friday. The Bandit's demise marks the end of their brutal reign, while Lois is apprehended and faces charges for her involvement.

Notable Quote:

• Joe Friday (00:26:43): "Police officers. You Lois Hagen, you get out of here."

Trial and Outcome

Following the arrest, the trial of Lois Hagen is swift. She is convicted on six counts of armed robbery and assault with a deadly weapon. The court sentences her as per the law, resulting in her incarceration in the state penitentiary for women. The death of Frank Ralston Kilbride, the Rattlesnake Bandit, brings closure to the case, highlighting the effectiveness of diligent law enforcement.

Notable Quote:

• Narrator (00:28:26): "The body of the dead hold up man was identified as that of Frank Ralston Kilbride. His accomplice, Lois Hagen, was tried and convicted on six counts of armed robbery and assault with a deadly weapon."

Host's Commentary and Insights

In his post-episode analysis, Adam Graham reflects on the case's intricacies and its place within the broader "Dragnet" series. He notes that while the case shares similarities with other episodes involving robberies and car-related crimes, the sheer brutality and apparent sadism of the perpetrators set it apart.

Graham empathizes deeply with the victims, particularly highlighting the severe physical and emotional trauma inflicted on individuals like Ralph Younger. He observes that the criminals' critical mistake—persistently using the same getaway car—underscored their lack of experience and contributed significantly to their downfall.

Notable Quote:

• Adam Graham (00:29:53): "The criminals made a key mistake that's never explained. They switched to just using one car, which ultimately led the police to tracking them down again."

Graham also discusses the evolution of his podcast, announcing a shift from traditional article postings to a more engaging newsletter format. This transition aims to enhance listener interaction and provide deeper insights into topics related to audio dramas and mysteries.

Conclusion

"The Big Hold-Up" stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of justice by Detective Joe Friday and his team. Through strategic investigation and unwavering dedication, the episode encapsulates the essence of "Dragnet"— showcasing the valor and tenacity required to combat crime. Host Adam Graham's insightful analysis further enriches the listening experience, providing a comprehensive understanding of the case's significance within the series.

Notable Quotes Recap

• Joe Friday (00:03:04): "You're a detective sergeant. You're assigned a homicide detail. Stop him."
• Ralph Younger (00:07:33): "He rushed up to me and started slugging me in the face with his gun. Went down."
• Ben Romero (00:14:53): "It was a stolen car, Ms. Young. We took it from one of his other victims. It was found out in Wiltshire this morning."
• Joe Friday (00:26:43): "Police officers. You Lois Hagen, you get out of here."
• Narrator (00:28:26): "The body of the dead hold up man was identified as that of Frank Ralston Kilbride. His accomplice, Lois Hagen, was tried and convicted on six counts of armed robbery and assault with a deadly weapon."
• Adam Graham (00:29:53): "The criminals made a key mistake that's never explained. They switched to just using one car, which ultimately led the police to tracking them down again."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates all critical aspects of the "Dragnet: The Big Hold-Up" episode, providing listeners and new audiences with a detailed understanding of the narrative, characters, and underlying themes.