The Big Mole

Originally Aired: December 7, 1952

Dragnet #181, "The Big Mole," Sergeant Joe Friday and Officer Frank Smith investigate a puzzling series of nighttime burglaries plaguing Los Angeles businesses. The detectives arrive at Nichols Dry Goods Store on the corner of Constance and Westlake, where owner Gladys Nichols reports that $423.76 has been taken from her safe. The crime is particularly baffling because the burglar alarm never sounded, despite the shop owner's assurance that she activated it before closing. Even more curious, there are no signs of forced entry, and the safe appears to have been opened by someone who knew the combination.

As Friday patiently corrects Mrs. Nichols on the proper terminology—a safe is "burgled," not "robbed"—he learns that a young decorator named Alan Hoffman has a key to the store and comes in evenings to work with materials. While Mrs. Nichols insists Alan couldn't be responsible, Friday and Smith must determine how the thieves are getting in, why the alarm system failed, and whether this burglary connects to the larger string of crimes hitting the city.

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.