Ep 21. The Big Shock

The episode titled "The Big Shock" is the twenty-first episode of the fourth season of the iconic television show Dragnet. The episode, like most in the series, is based on a true story and takes the audience through the intricate and often unnerving steps taken by LAPD detectives to solve complex and mysterious crimes.

In this particular episode, Detectives Joe Friday and Bill Gannon are called in to investigate a shocking and heinous crime - a young female nurse has been brutally attacked and left for dead in her own apartment. The victim, Susan, is a young and well-liked nurse who works the night shift at a local hospital.

The detectives soon discover that the attack appears to have been motivated by robbery, with the perpetrator ransacking Susan's apartment and stealing several valuable items. However, as they dig deeper into the case, they realize that the attack may be linked to a much larger criminal operation, and that Susan's attack was not an isolated incident.

The investigation takes the detectives through a complex web of suspects, including shady acquaintances of Susan's, potential drug users and dealers, and even some of her own colleagues at the hospital. With each lead, the detectives must carefully gather evidence and ask the right questions to bring them closer to the truth.

Along the way, the detectives encounter several challenges that threaten to derail their investigation. They must navigate a difficult and uncooperative witness, and also face resistance from some of the hospital staff who are protective of their own. But through their hard work and determination, Friday and Gannon are eventually able to uncover the truth about Susan's attack and bring the perpetrator to justice.

As with all episodes of Dragnet, "The Big Shock" is a gripping and intense exploration of crime investigation and the men and women who work tirelessly to protect their communities. Through the meticulous and thorough work of Friday and Gannon, the audience is given a firsthand look into the complex and often frustrating process of solving a major crime. Despite the challenges they face, the detectives never give up on their pursuit of justice, and the final resolution of the case is both satisfying and emotionally impactful.

Overall, "The Big Shock" is a classic episode of Dragnet that serves as a testament to the show's enduring popularity and influence. Its focus on detailed police work, realistic characterizations, and tense, dramatic storytelling make it a standout example of the series. Whether you're a longtime fan of Dragnet or simply looking for compelling crime drama, this episode is sure to captivate and entertain.