Dragnet was a police drama series that followed the realistic cases of Los Angeles Police Detective Sergeant Joe Friday, portrayed by Jack Webb, as he investigated crimes based on actual police files, with the names changed to protect the innocent; the show was known for its semi-documentary style and focus on detailed police procedures, often featuring everyday crimes like theft, fraud, and even sex crimes, presented with a very matter-of-fact tone.

Central character: Sergeant Joe Friday, a dedicated and by-the-book detective.

Realism: The show aimed to depict police work as accurately as possible, including realistic police jargon and procedures.

Impact: "Dragnet" is considered a pioneering police drama that set a standard for realistic crime shows on radio and later television.