The Big Try

Originally Aired: September 29, 1953

Dragnet #215, "The Big Try," Friday and Smith's quiet morning at homicide is interrupted when reporter Sid Hughes calls with an urgent case. A man named Jan Patachek has phoned the newspaper saying he's going to kill himself and has barricaded himself in his apartment. Hughes is convinced this isn't a crank call, something in Patachek's voice tells him the threat is real. The man has given them until 11:05 to arrive at his address on North Hardmore, warning them not to try anything. As rain begins to fall over Los Angeles, Friday and Smith race against the clock to reach the apartment.

When they arrive at the Spanish-style apartment building at 11:03, police units are already on scene and a crowd has gathered in the courtyard. The detectives face a delicate situation: they have just minutes to make contact with a desperate man who has given them strict instructions to come alone. With Patachek threatening to take his own life, Friday must use all his skills to talk the man down and discover what has driven him to this breaking point.

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.