Dragnet was a hard-hitting police drama from the 1940s that brought listeners into the gritty world of Los Angeles law enforcement with stark realism and clipped dialogue. Led by the no-nonsense Sergeant Joe Friday, each case was “just the facts” as he pursued justice through methodical investigation and moral resolve.
Dragnet
9/26/2025 – Brick Bat Slayer
In this episode of Dragnet, Friday and Romero are on the trail of the “Brick Bat Slayer,” a violent attacker terrorizing Los Angeles. The detectives follow a string of assaults that leave victims badly injured, building tension as they close in on the suspect. True to Dragnet’s style, the story unfolds with gritty realism and a dramatic, fact-based conclusion.
9/19/2025 – James Vickers
In the Dragnet radio episode “James Vickers” (aired December 14, 1950), Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner investigate the escape of a dangerous criminal from custody. The search for Vickers leads them through tense encounters and false leads, with the pressure mounting as they try to prevent further violence. The episode builds to a dramatic confrontation where justice finally catches up with the fugitive.
9/12/2025 – The Sullivan Kidnapping
In Dragnet: The Sullivan Kidnapping, Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner investigate the disappearance of a young child from the Sullivan family. The case unfolds with tense interviews, careful police procedure, and mounting pressure as the clock ticks. With methodical detective work, the officers piece together clues to track down the kidnapper and resolve the case.
9/5/2025 – Eric Kelby
In Dragnet: “Eric Kelby,” Sgt. Joe Friday and Officer Ben Romero investigate a troubling case involving a young man suspected of foul play. As the detectives dig deeper, they uncover layers of deception, conflicting accounts, and the tense emotions of those involved. True to Dragnet’s style, the story unfolds with stark realism and a focus on procedure, leading to a sobering resolution.
8/29/2025 – Myra the Redhead
In Dragnet: Myra the Redhead, Sergeant Joe Friday investigates the case of a young woman whose troubled path leads her into a world of crime. The episode unfolds with Dragnet’s signature realism, following the detectives step by step as they piece together her story. With its stark dialogue and moral weight, it highlights both the dangers of poor choices and the dedication of the police.
8/22/2025 – Police Academy
In Dragnet’s Police Academy episode, Sergeant Joe Friday and Officer Ben Romero step into the classroom to help train a new class of police recruits. The story highlights the discipline, challenges, and sense of duty required to join the force, while also showing the human side of the officers as mentors. True to Dragnet’s style, the drama emphasizes realism and respect for the work of law enforcement.