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RUSC MAILING

14 July 2025

A Pioneering Crime Drama - 
Police Headquarters

Written by Ned Norris

I hope this note finds you in high spirits! Today, I’m thrilled to share a gem from the golden age of radio that often gets overshadowed by the more famous programs of its time: Police Headquarters. This pioneering crime drama first hit the airwaves back in 1932 and paved the way for the police procedural format we know today.

With just 39 episodes under its belt, Police Headquarters may have had a short run, but boy, did it pack a punch! Each 15-minute episode was designed to keep listeners on the edge of their seats. Picture this: a citizen reports a crime, and just like that, the police spring into action, employing the latest two-way radios to solve the puzzle. It’s a captivating mix of real-life incidents and imaginative storytelling that culminates in neatly wrapped-up endings—a source of comfort during the turbulent early ‘30s.

Some unforgettable tales from this series include the likes of “Red Dugan Murder,” “Laundry Truck kidnapping,” and “The Tommy Gun Murders.” Each title hints at a riveting adventure waiting to unfold, and let me tell you, they don’t disappoint!

What I find particularly charming about Police Headquarters is its reflection of the time—think detectives with fountain pens and the unmistakable hum of rotary phones. It’s as much a peek into the past as it is an exploration of crime and law enforcement of yesteryears.

So, whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast of vintage crime dramas or just a curious soul, I invite you into RUSC to explore this fascinating piece of radio history. You might just discover a new favorite!

Warmest wishes,

Ned Signature

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