Skip to main content
OTR.FM
All shows
Friday - The Dragnet Podcast artwork

On demand

Friday - The Dragnet Podcast

Presented by OTRPODS

Friday - The Dragnet Podcast is your ultimate destination for reliving the thrilling world of the classic Dragnet radio show. Step back into the gritty streets of Los Angeles with Sergeant Joe Friday as he brings justice to life through captivating, true-to-form storytelling. This unparalleled collection features beautifully remastered audio, accurate transcriptions, and detailed episode descriptions to give listeners the most authentic Dragnet experience.

Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to old-time radio dramas, this podcast delivers the definitive version of Dragnet, preserving its iconic legacy for generations to come. Experience crime-solving at its finest with meticulous attention to detail, including cast insights for every episode.

245 episodes

  1. The Big Press: A Trail of Fear

    Mar 4, 2025 · 31 min

    A wave of brutal purse snatchings has left women across Los Angeles living in fear. Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero take on the case, setting a trap to lure the violent thieves out into the open. As they close in, the investigation reveals a pair of young criminals who have taken their crime spree too far. Originally aired: June 15, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell Tags: Dragnet, robbery, LAPD, truecrime, noir, thriller, justice, lawenforcement, investigation, crimewave, policework, LosAngeles, 1950s, detective, suspense, pursuit

  2. The Big Smart Guy: Murder in the Bartlett Hotel

    Mar 3, 2025 · 27 min

    When a woman is found murdered in the Bartlett Hotel, Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero are called in to investigate a supposed robbery gone wrong. The husband’s story doesn’t quite add up, and a witness points police to a suspicious man staying in a nearby hotel. As the pieces fall into place, Friday and Romero uncover a web of deception that turns this case into something much more sinister. Originally aired: June 8, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell Tags: Dragnet, homicide, detectives, LAPD, truecrime, noir, thriller, justice, lawenforcement, drama, investigation, deception, robbery, murder, crime, 1950s

  3. The Big Fake: Betrayal in Blue

    Mar 2, 2025 · 32 min

    A shocking accusation rocks the LAPD when rookie officer Russell Clark is charged with robbery and assault. Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero must unravel the truth behind the claims of a beaten and robbed civilian—who insists the officer is to blame. With the reputation of the department on the line, Friday and Romero dig deep into the case, searching for witnesses and evidence that could clear Clark's name—or confirm his guilt. Originally aired: June 1, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell Tags: Dragnet, police, LAPD, truecrime, investigation, justice, noir, betrayal, rookiecop, crime, deception, lawenforcement, 1950s, robbery, interrogation

  4. The Big Key: Murder on Christmas Morning

    Feb 10, 2025 · 32 min

    On Christmas morning, a woman's brutally beaten body is discovered outside San Andreas Cathedral. Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero follow a sparse trail of clues—an ordinary key, a cheap pen, and a set of boot prints—leading them into the rain-soaked streets of Los Angeles. As they sift through the city's shadows, they uncover a web of deception and desperation that brings them face-to-face with a dangerous killer. Originally aired: May 25, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell Tags: Dragnet, homicide, detectives, LAPD, truecrime, noir, thriller, justice, lawenforcement, drama, investigation, Christmas, mystery, LosAngeles, crime, 1950s

  5. The Big Pug: A Cruel Crime

    Jan 31, 2025 · 31 min

    An elderly woman is brutally attacked and robbed on her way to the bank, leaving Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero on the trail of two ruthless criminals. The investigation takes them through the streets of Los Angeles, uncovering clues that lead to an unexpected break in the case. As they track the violent thieves, Friday and Romero must rely on sharp detective work to bring justice to the victim. Originally aired: May 18, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Harry Bartell, Virginia Gregg Tags: Dragnet, robbery, detectives, LAPD, crime, truecrime, noir, investigation, lawenforcement, thriller, justice, pursuit, 1950s, LosAngeles, classicradio, drama

  6. The Big Knife: Terror in the Halls

    Jan 27, 2025 · 31 min

    A wave of brutal slashing attacks grips a Los Angeles high school, leaving students terrified and police scrambling for answers. As Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero investigate, they uncover a chilling pattern—each victim is a young, attractive girl. With tensions rising and the suspect still at large, the detectives must act fast before the assailant escalates. Will they catch the perpetrator before it's too late? Originally aired: May 11, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell Tags: Dragnet, crime, truecrime, LAPD, thriller, detectives, highschool, justice, lawenforcement, drama, 1950s, noir, mystery, suspense, danger, investigation, serialattacks

  7. The Big Badge: The Man Who Stole Authority

    Jan 26, 2025 · 31 min

    For two months, a ruthless criminal has terrorized the city, robbing and brutally assaulting his victims while impersonating a police officer. As the so-called "Badge Bandit" escalates his attacks, Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero launch an exhaustive manhunt, determined to bring him to justice. But when the suspect slips through their fingers, the case takes a dangerous turn, culminating in a dramatic showdown that puts the detectives' lives on the line. Originally aired: May 4, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Harry Bartell, Virginia Gregg, Raymond Burr Tags: Dragnet, detectives, LAPD, truecrime, noir, thriller, justice, lawenforcement, drama, investigation, pursuit, robbery, assault, fugitive, manhunt, crime, deception, 1950s

  8. The Big Job: Fugitive on the Run

    Jan 25, 2025 · 31 min

    When an escaped criminal is spotted in Los Angeles, Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero are assigned to track him down. Their investigation leads them to a cheap hotel, where their suspect, Alfred Garvey, is hiding under a false identity. But the arrest takes a tragic turn when an officer is shot in the line of duty. As Friday and Romero hunt down the killer, they uncover a deeper criminal operation—one that threatens to turn deadly at any moment. Originally aired: April 27, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell Tags: Dragnet, fugitive, detectives, LAPD, truecrime, noir, thriller, justice, lawenforcement, drama, investigation, pursuit, murder, crime, robbery, suspense, 1950s

  9. The Big Trial: Justice on the Line

    Jan 17, 2025 · 31 min

    When a hit-and-run driver leaves a woman critically injured, Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero take on an exhaustive search through over 4,000 cars to track him down. Their investigation uncovers damning evidence—but when the trial begins, the key witness vanishes. Will justice prevail, or will the case collapse under the weight of corruption? Originally aired: April 20, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Lee Marvin, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell Tags: Dragnet, hitandrun, LAPD, truecrime, investigation, justice, courtroom, felony, 1950s, crime, noir, drama, detective, police, pursuit, trial, witness

  10. The Big Watch: Hitchhike Bandits

    Jan 15, 2025 · 31 min

    In a chilling crime spree, a gang of ruthless bandits target army officers hitchhiking in Los Angeles. Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner Ben Romero face a race against time to track down the criminals before their violence escalates. Follow the gripping investigation that uncovers stolen goods, violent assaults, and a relentless thirst for justice. Originally aired: April 13, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Harry Bartell, Virginia Gregg Tags: Dragnet, hitchhikebandits, LAPD, noir, thriller, truecrime, justice, investigation, robbery, assault, murder, crime, armyofficers, detectives, 1950s, LosAngeles

  11. The Big Book: Fighting the Filth Trade

    Jan 12, 2025 · 31 min

    High school students in Los Angeles are flooded with obscene literature, prompting Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero to take on the dangerous task of dismantling the distribution network. From undercover stakeouts to intense interrogations, the investigation uncovers a well-organized operation. Will the detectives be able to cut off the supply at its source? Originally aired: April 6, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell Tags: Dragnet, LAPD, truecrime, detectives, lawenforcement, noir, thriller, justice, 1950s, investigation, obscenity, juvenilecrime, smuggling, stakeout, printingpress, courtroom, crime

  12. The Big Gangster Part 2: The Shaker Brothers

    Jan 7, 2025 · 31 min

    In this thrilling conclusion to the Valentine murder case, Sergeants Friday and Romero follow a trail that leads them to two dangerous out-of-town gangsters - the Shaker brothers. With the help of a brave young woman willing to risk her safety to assist the police, the detectives race to prevent further bloodshed in Los Angeles. Originally aired March 30, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb (Sgt. Joe Friday), Barton Yarborough (Officer Ben Romero) Tags: Dragnet, LAPD, organized crime, murder investigation, true crime, 1950s, police procedural, gang violence, noir, detective work, homicide, surveillance, undercover, stakeout

  13. The Big Gangster Part 1: Valentine's Last Stand

    Jan 6, 2025 · 31 min

    When notorious hoodlum Gus Valentine becomes the target of machine gun fire on the streets of Los Angeles, Sergeants Joe Friday and Ben Romero must prevent an impending gang war. As Valentine refuses to cooperate with police, the detectives race against time to uncover who's behind the attacks. This gripping episode showcases the dangerous balance between organized crime and law enforcement in 1950s Los Angeles. Originally aired: March 23, 1950 Cast: Jack Webb (Sgt. Joe Friday), Barton Yarborough (Officer Ben Romero) Tags: Dragnet, LAPD, organized crime, gang violence, detectives, noir, investigation, true crime, 1950s, police procedural, suspense, machine gun, gambling, homicide, Valentine, drama

  14. The Big Boys: Reckless Youth on the Run

    Jan 6, 2025 · 32 min

    Four young, dangerous criminals storm into Los Angeles, leaving a trail of robberies and stolen cars. Armed and fearless, they are determined to evade justice. Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero face a relentless pursuit through the city to bring the gang to justice. This gripping episode showcases courage, quick thinking, and the unyielding dedication of the LAPD. Originally aired: March 16, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell Tags: Dragnet, youthcrime, detectives, LAPD, truecrime, noir, thriller, suspense, 1950s, drama, lawenforcement, robbery, gang, pursuit, stolen, investigation, justice, manhunt

  15. The Big Thank You: Betrayal in the Cellar

    Jan 2, 2025 · 32 min

    When Annie Marie Johnson, a parolee with a dark past, begins forging signatures on her parole reports, Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero suspect something more sinister is at play. A meticulous investigation into her benefactor, Mrs. Laura Muller, unveils a chilling tale of betrayal, greed, and a terrible crime hidden in the cellar of a quiet Los Angeles home. This haunting case reveals the lengths people will go to cover their secrets. Originally aired: March 9, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell Tags: Dragnet, murder, detectives, LAPD, truecrime, noir, thriller, justice, lawenforcement, drama, betrayal, investigation, greed, 1950s, suspense, crime, cellar, forgery, Muller

  16. The Big Kill: Justice in the Shadows

    Jan 1, 2025 · 31 min

    When police officer Robert Fillmore is gunned down on his own doorstep, Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero embark on a relentless pursuit of the killer. The trail leads through deception, violence, and a dramatic standoff in the San Pedro Hills. This harrowing tale of justice and tragedy highlights the dangers faced by those who uphold the law. Originally aired: March 2, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell Tags: Dragnet, homicide, detectives, LAPD, truecrime, noir, thriller, justice, lawenforcement, drama, investigation, revenge, pursuit, murder, crime, SanPedro, shotgun, tragedy, 1950s

  17. The Big Grifter: The Gentleman Conman

    Dec 31, 2024 · 31 min

    For over 35 years, Gentleman Wallace has perfected the art of the swindle, leaving a trail of victims across the country. From phony checks to elaborate scams, this master confidence man returns to Los Angeles for one last grand scheme. Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero race to stop him in this intricate tale of deception, greed, and justice. Originally aired: February 23, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell

  18. The Big Girl: A Dangerous Masquerade

    Dec 28, 2024 · 32 min

    Sixteen robberies, three shootings, and a trail of shattered lives lead Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero to uncover the shocking truth behind the "Bandit Queen." A string of assaults by a tall, beautiful hitchhiker ends with a tense showdown, revealing an unexpected identity and a tragic finale. This gripping tale explores deception, violence, and justice in Los Angeles. Originally aired: February 9, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell

  19. Claude Jimmerson: A Neighborhood’s Nightmare

    Dec 27, 2024 · 32 min

    The disappearance of two young girls sends shockwaves through a Los Angeles neighborhood. As Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero piece together the grim evidence, a chilling discovery in the hills leads to an unthinkable conclusion. This harrowing investigation unveils a story of betrayal, tragedy, and justice. Originally aired: February 2, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell

  20. The Big Man, Part 2: Closing the Net

    Dec 26, 2024 · 31 min

    After seven months of relentless investigation, Sergeant Joe Friday and his team zero in on Arthur Belmont, the elusive kingpin of the Pacific Coast narcotics trade. As Belmont's network begins to crumble, an intricate game of surveillance and deception culminates in a high-stakes showdown at a hardware store. This gripping conclusion reveals the dangers and triumphs of the narcotics bureau’s most challenging case. Originally aired: January 19, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell

  21. The Big Man, Part 1: The Narcotics Trail

    Dec 25, 2024 · 31 min

    Sergeant Joe Friday goes undercover in a high-stakes operation to infiltrate a narcotics ring and get closer to the elusive kingpin, Arthur Belmont. With a new identity, Friday navigates dangerous gangs, gains trust through bold moves, and uncovers the inner workings of a vast drug network. This tense investigation showcases the relentless pursuit of justice in the face of danger. Originally aired: January 12, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell

  22. Max Tyler: The Escaped Convict

    Dec 24, 2024 · 31 min

    A daring prison break sends Max Tyler, a former soldier turned criminal, on the run. With his wife and children caught in the crossfire, Sergeant Joe Friday must confront his past and track down an old friend in a desperate bid for justice. From the shadows of the San Quentin prison farm to a tense standoff on the California coast, this emotional case explores trust, betrayal, and redemption. Originally aired: January 5, 1950. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell

  23. The Roseland Roof Murders: A Deadly Gang

    Dec 23, 2024 · 33 min

    A ruthless gang of armed robbers terrorizes Los Angeles, leaving death and destruction in their wake. When a pharmacy heist turns into a tragic double homicide, Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero follow a trail of cold-blooded killers who stop at nothing to escape justice. This gripping story reveals the unyielding pursuit of law enforcement against all odds. Originally aired: December 29, 1949. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell

  24. .22 Rifle for Christmas: A Tragic Lesson

    Dec 22, 2024 · 31 min

    A missing boy, a Christmas gift, and a heartbreaking accident. When nine-year-old Stanley Johnstone disappears, Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero uncover a grim story involving a .22 rifle meant to be a holiday surprise. What begins as a routine investigation turns into a poignant tale of friendship, tragedy, and the unintended consequences of giving children firearms. Experience one of Dragnet’s most emotional cases. Originally aired: December 22, 1949. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell

  25. The Jade Thumb Rings: A Tale of Greed

    Dec 21, 2024 · 31 min

    When $8,000 worth of rare jade thumb rings is stolen in a violent robbery, Sergeant Joe Friday and Ben Romero dive into a tangled web of greed and betrayal. A jeweler is left fighting for his life, a child witness provides a vital clue, and a gang of schemers is unmasked. Follow this intricate investigation as justice prevails in this gripping story of high stakes and determination. Originally aired: December 8, 1949. Cast: Jack Webb, Barton Yarborough, Raymond Burr, Virginia Gregg, Harry Bartell