The Big Paint

<p>Originally Aired: October 20, 1953</p>

<p><strong>Dragnet #218, "The Big Paint,"</strong> finds Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner Frank Smith facing a sophisticated organized crime operation. An organized gang of thieves has been systematically stripping cars across Los Angeles, stealing radios and wheels with remarkable speed and efficiency. The stolen merchandise hasn't turned up at any of the usual outlets, and police have no leads on the gang's identity. Captain Nelson assigns Friday and Smith to the case after pressure mounts from the Police Commissioner and Chief Brown, with insurance companies demanding action. The thieves operate across multiple jurisdictions, hitting neighborhoods in the valley, Hollywood, Wiltshire, and beyond, even extending into Burbank, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica.</p>

<p>Before diving into the investigation, Smith shares an embarrassing personal story about falling victim to a street con artist who sold him a supposedly new electric razor that turned out to be worthless. The incident serves as a reminder that even experienced detectives can be fooled. With orders to use as many men as needed and stop the car stripping operation, Friday and Smith begin their investigation into one of the city's most elusive criminal enterprises.</p>