161. Downfall

This story concerns a theft operation that crosses state lines. The story seems routine enough, though the cast is a good one here. That Inspector Erskine would catch the bad guys here is a given.

What makes a difference is the relationship between mastermind Martin Ashton (Carl Betz) and his daughter (Anne Archer). Like Inspector Erskine in 1965, the older Ashton disapproves of the relationship between his associate and his daughter. Unlike the good inspector, Martin Ashton behaves in a rotten manner, and hires a gun to kill the associate. The fallout? Lynne Ashton finds out that she cannot trust her father. Hence the story is more of a human interest story than a crime drama.

• Guest star Anne Archer is the daughter of actress Marjorie Lord (Make Room For Daddy).
• Pittsburgh native Carl Betz starred in The Donna Reed Show (1958-66) and Judd for the Defense (1967-69). His character here is a far cry from Dr. Alex Stone!
• Michael Burns made a name for himself in Dragnet 1967 as “Benjie ‘Blue Boy’ Carver” in "The LSD Story" (12 January 1967). Once again, he is on the wrong side of the law. Mr. Burns left acting, and became a college professor.
• Speaking of Mr. Burns: He does drive an interesting car: A 1970-71 Ford Thunderbird four-door sedan (the Webmaster’s favourite).