The Great Detectives Present Dragnet: "Dragnet: The Big Tomato (EP4664)"

Release Date: March 29, 2025
Host: Adam Graham

Episode Overview

In this riveting episode of The Great Detectives Present Dragnet, host Adam Graham delves into the classic old-time radio episode titled "Dragnet: The Big Tomato." Graham's second journey through every episode of Dragnet brings listeners an engaging and detailed recounting of Detective Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner Ben Romero as they tackle a formidable narcotics ring targeting high school students in Los Angeles.

Case Background

Thursday, April 11
Los Angeles is abuzz with a tragic incident: the death of 17-year-old Kenneth (Ken) Morrow. Found crashed into a streetlight, Ken's severe injuries suggest a high-speed accident, but Detectives Friday and Romero sense foul play may be involved.

• [05:43]
  Ben Romero: "It was Thursday, April 11. It was warm in Los Angeles. We were working the day watch out of narcotics detail."

Initial Investigation

Detectives Friday and Romero begin their investigation by consulting the coroner, learning that Ken sustained multiple skull fractures and internal injuries. Suspecting vehicular negligence or criminal intent, they examine Ken's car and gather information from his family and school.

• [06:04]
  Joe Friday: "Cause of death, multiple fractures of the skull. Internal injury. Boy was 17 years old."

Discovery of Narcotics Involvement

As the detectives dig deeper, they uncover a small metal case containing marijuana in Ken's car. This discovery shifts the investigation towards a narcotics angle, indicating that Ken may have been involved in drug use or trafficking.

• [08:16]
  Joe Friday: "We found some in his car. We found some more in his locker upstairs."

Identifying the Ringleader

Interviews with Ken's girlfriend, Peggy Kane, reveal a noticeable change in Ken's behavior—swearing, neglecting studies, and associating with a new crowd. This leads detectives to Bob Lavelle, Ken's close friend, who inadvertently provides the nickname of the criminal mastermind: "Big Tomato."

• [09:29]
  Peggy Kane: "He began to swear. You know, bad talk, things like that."

• [18:44]
  Joe Friday: "The Big Tomato. That's what they call him."

Stakeout and Arrest

Armed with a lead on Tony Childs, suspected to be connected to "Big Tomato," Friday and Romero conduct a stakeout. After weeks of surveillance, a significant marijuana transaction is set up on Bruno Street. The detectives successfully intercept Tony Childs and his accomplices, ultimately leading to the identification and capture of "Big Tomato."

• [27:42]
  Ben Romero: "We spotted the man carrying a shopping bag emerge from behind a row of freight cars."

• [28:37]
  Ben Romero: "Tin can, huh? Full of marijuana. Did you look at the labels on those cans?"

Trial and Conviction

The culmination of the investigation results in a grand trial held in Superior Court. John A. Stanson, alias "Big Tomato," along with his associates, are convicted for violating the State Narcotic Act. Their convictions serve as a stern warning to others involved in narcotics distribution.

• [29:14]
  Narrator: "John A. Stanson, alias the Big Tomato, along with his associates in the narcotic gang, was tried and convicted for violating the State Narcotic Act."

Notable Quotes

• Ben Romero:
  "[05:11] News of Kenneth's tragic accident marked the beginning of a relentless pursuit to dismantle a growing narcotics operation impacting the youth of Los Angeles."

• Joe Friday:
  "[06:17] 'We're gonna have to dig up a fast answer somewhere. Lousy racket.'"

• Peggy Kane:
  "[09:29] 'He didn't talk the same. Ken was a real nice boy. Most of the time.'"

• Bob Lavelle:
  "[18:54] 'A big tomato. That's what they call him. You won't get him in 89 years.'"

• Joe Friday:
  "[25:05] 'It's about all.'"

Host Reflections

Adam Graham highlights the episode's unique elements, such as the intriguing nickname "Big Tomato" and the multiple layers of action that keep listeners engaged. He appreciates the depth of the investigation portrayed and the ethical stance taken by Detectives Friday and Romero in tackling narcotics crimes.

• [32:03]
  Host, Adam Graham: "This is a memorable episode because all of these titles have the big this and the big that in the title, but there's not actually a reference to the big family. But here we get the Big Tomato."

Conclusion

Dragnet: The Big Tomato showcases the meticulous and persistent efforts of law enforcement in battling narcotics distribution among youth. Through diligent investigation, strategic stakeouts, and unwavering commitment, Detectives Friday and Romero successfully bring down a significant narcotics ring, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community's young members.

For those new to the series, this episode offers a compelling blend of classic detective work, character development, and moral integrity, exemplifying why Dragnet remains a revered name in police procedural storytelling.

Further Engagement

If you enjoyed this detailed exploration of "Dragnet: The Big Tomato," consider following The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps bring these classic stories to life for new audiences.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Ben Romero [05:11]:
  "It was Thursday, April 11. It was warm in Los Angeles. We were working the day watch out of narcotics detail."

• Joe Friday [06:17]:
  "We're gonna have to dig up a fast answer somewhere. Lousy racket."

• Peggy Kane [09:29]:
  "He didn't talk the same. Ken was a real nice boy. Most of the time."

• Bob Lavelle [18:44]:
  "A big tomato. That's what they call him. You won't get him in 89 years."

• Joe Friday [25:05]:
  "It's about all."

Thank You to Our Supporters

Adam Graham extends heartfelt thanks to Rosa, a loyal Patreon supporter since January 2020, currently contributing at the Detective Sergeant level. Your support enables the continuation of these engaging investigative journeys.

Join the Investigation

Send your comments and thoughts to box13@greatdetectives.net, follow on Twitter @radiodetectives, and check out the Instagram at instagram.com/greatdetectives. Stay tuned for more thrilling episodes, including upcoming features on Charlie Chan and the Adventures of the Falcon.

From Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.