48 Hours

This episode investigates the death of Davis McClendon, which transitioned from a suspected traffic accident to a murder investigation. Following an oil trail from the crash site led investigators to the home of Bud Ackerman, where evidence on his vehicle and a history of surveillance and controlling behavior toward his estranged wife, Meredith Haney, were uncovered. The trial of Bud Ackerman centered on digital evidence from vehicle infotainment systems and security footage, with prosecutors arguing intentionality while the defense claimed an unavoidable accident. The proceedings concluded with a rapid guilty verdict and a 45-year prison sentence for Ackerman.

This episode examines two profound cases of wrongful conviction and the long journeys toward justice. First, it explores the case of Gloria Killian, who was convicted of a robbery-murder based on the perjured testimony of career criminal Gary Massey, and her eventual exoneration through the dedicated efforts of investigator Joyce Ride. Next, the episode details the legal battle of Clarence Elkins, whose conviction for murdering his mother-in-law relied heavily on the eyewitness testimony of his six-year-old niece. Despite the emergence of a new suspect and the recantation of the child's testimony, Elkins faced years of judicial refusal before finally being exonerated in 2005.

This episode explores the conflicting narratives surrounding the killing of Gerald Douglas Wyatt by 17-year-old Sterling Barber. While law enforcement initially viewed the incident as a violent robbery, witnesses have come forward with accounts of Wyatt's history as a predator, creating a tension between the victim's wife's denial and documented evidence of misconduct. The investigation follows Barber's complex legal battle, from his initial conviction and life sentence to the Georgia Supreme Court's decision to overturn the verdict after ruling that child molestation can justify self-defense. Despite this breakthrough, Barber remains in a state of prolonged legal limbo due to procedural delays and rotating officials in a small Georgia county.

Hosts Anne-Marie Green and Natalie Morales investigate the murder of Kenneth Fandridge, detailing how a rare genetic forehead crease and a trail of evidence involving a maroon minivan led investigators to Stephen Milner. The episode explores the investigation into the suspect's obsession with Tanya Fandridge and the role of security footage in identifying him. The episode also covers the trial of Stephen Milner, where he claimed self-defense, and the prosecution's use of DNA and surveillance evidence to secure a conviction. The discussion concludes by reflecting on the tragic history of stalking involving the Fandridges and the importance of taking such behavior seriously.

This episode investigates the murder of Kenneth Fandridge, discovered in an Intel parking garage with evidence suggesting a premeditated crime. The investigation uncovers a pattern of stalking by Dr. Stephen Milner, a veterinarian who used tracking devices and 'burner cars' to harass Kenneth's wife, Tanya. Despite the destruction of key physical evidence, detectives built a case using surveillance footage and DNA found on the victim's hands. The narrative concludes with Milner's trial and life sentence, following his claims that he acted to protect Tanya, and explores the lasting impact on the community and the legal system.

A special episode of 48 Hours Case by Case examining the significant legal development in the case against Luigi Mangione. The program details Mangione's recent guilty plea to federal stalking charges and his courtroom admission regarding the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Legal analysts discuss the implications of this plea on the pending New York State second-degree murder trial, including potential double jeopardy arguments and the tension between federal and state prosecutors. The episode also explores the broader societal context surrounding the crime, noting how public frustration with the health insurance industry has fueled intense fascination with the case. Through courtroom observations and statements from the victim's family, the discussion covers the details of Mangione's premeditated actions, the upcoming sentencing in the federal case, and the legal complexities of parallel prosecutions.

This episode covers the third week of the Lindsay Clancy trial, focusing on the presentation of medical evidence and the intense emotional atmosphere in the courtroom. The discussion highlights the defense's argument regarding postpartum psychosis exacerbated by medication, as well as tense cross-examinations of mental health professionals. The segment also explores the cross-examination of Dr. Tufts and the implications for pending civil lawsuits involving medical malpractice. Additionally, testimony from Lindsay Clancy's childhood friend and teachers is discussed, highlighting the complexities of postpartum psychosis and its potential impact on public discourse regarding maternal mental health.

This episode revisits the 1995 disappearance of news anchor Jody Huestad in Mason City, Iowa. It details the immediate aftermath of her abduction, including evidence of a struggle and the investigation into potential suspects like John Van Syce, whose perceived obsession with Jody drew scrutiny. The investigation further explores the emergence of serial rapist Tony Jackson, whose presence in the area raises chilling possibilities regarding the crime. The episode also examines the investigative efforts by journalists and family members through initiatives like FindJody.com, while highlighting criticisms regarding crime scene preservation and the ongoing search for answers.

This episode explores the 1996 murder of 14-year-old Crystal Champagne and the wrongful conviction of Damon Thibodeau, who confessed to the crime under intense police interrogation despite significant forensic discrepancies. The narrative follows the legal battle led by attorneys Denny LaBeouf and Steve Kaplan to prove his innocence through new evidence regarding timelines, physical inconsistencies, and DNA testing that found no connection between him and the crime. The story concludes with Thibodeau's eventual exoneration and release from Angola prison, noting that even the original prosecutor admitted the reliance on a false confession was an error. Following his emotional reunion with family, the episode touches upon Thibodeau's journey to start a new life and the ongoing investigation into Crystal Champagne's murder.

In this episode of Postmortem, Natalie Morales and Anne-Marie Greene examine the 48 Hours report on Sean Doyle. The discussion details Doyle's escalating pattern of domestic violence against survivors Cece Opinowski and Sarah Vollmer prior to the murder of Lori Leonard, highlighting the failure of law enforcement to address early reports of abuse. The conversation also explores the profound emotional devastation inflicted upon Lori's family, including her young sons and nephew Dustin. The episode concludes by examining the legal nuances behind Doyle's second-degree murder conviction and the significance of CeCe's testimony at trial.

This episode explores the violent history of Sean Doyle, beginning with his 1996 attack on Cece Opinowski and tracing the investigation into the 2003 disappearance of Lori Leonard. The narrative follows the discovery of Leonard's body in a toolbox and the forensic evidence that ultimately linked Doyle to the crime. The episode details the trial and conviction of Doyle, highlighting how physical evidence and testimony from previous victims established his pattern of behavior. It concludes with reflections on the lasting impact of domestic violence and the enduring grief experienced by the victims' families.

This episode examines the ongoing trial of Lindsay Clancy, focusing on courtroom testimonies from medical professionals and a former nanny. The discussion explores conflicting interpretations of her mental state through journal entries and eyewitness accounts of her parenting. The coverage also details observations of the defendant's emotional state in court and the defense attorney's cross-examination regarding forensic evidence. Additionally, the episode covers the recent jury view of the crime scene and reflects on the importance of mental health awareness following this tragedy.

This episode explores the unraveling of Kathy Spires' marriage to Steve Markham, a man who used elaborate lies about being a CIA hitman to charm her. As Kathy discovers his true identity as Eric Wright and uncovers evidence of bigamy and a criminal past, her investigation leads to a life of fear and isolation. The narrative follows the subsequent investigation into Wright for the 24-year-old murder of Lester Marks, focusing on the connection between unrefined gold bars found with Wright and the victim's known possessions. The case concludes with Wright's guilty plea for voluntary manslaughter following a preliminary hearing that found probable cause for trial.

This episode investigates the 1892 double homicide of Andrew and Abby Borden in Fall River, Massachusetts. We explore the brutal nature of the crimes, the lack of forensic evidence available at the time, and the intense suspicion cast upon Lizzie Borden due to potential motives involving family resentment and inheritance. The narrative follows the historic 1893 trial, detailing the evidence presented regarding a possible hatchet murder and an attempted purchase of poison. We also examine a modern-day experiment where a new jury reviews the same evidence, ultimately tracing Lizzie's life after the trial through her eventual death as a recluse in 1927.

Host Anne-Marie Greene and correspondent Erin Moriarty examine the 1979 murder of Katina Rose Salerno by her boyfriend, Stephen Burns. The episode explores the long-term impact of the crime on witnesses and family members, detailing the emotional toll of seeking justice through thirteen parole hearings. The discussion highlights the resilience of the Salerno family, noting how they have channeled their tragedy into service-oriented professions. It also reflects on the complexities of the parole system and the profound sense of betrayal felt by those who once welcomed the perpetrator into their lives.

This episode recounts the tragic 1979 murder of Katina Salarno by her boyfriend, Stephen Burns, and the decades-long struggle of her family to keep him imprisoned. It details the events leading up to the crime, the investigation, and the enduring grief felt by the Salarno family as they face his parole hearings. The episode explores the long-term impact of the murder on the family, highlighting their transformation into advocates for victims' rights. It examines the conflicting perspectives between the family's fear of recidivism and arguments regarding Burns' rehabilitation and eligibility for elderly parole, concluding with the parole board's decision to deny his release due to a lack of demonstrated change.

Legal analyst Caroline Polisi and correspondent Chanel Call examine the trial of Lindsay Clancy, who is accused of murdering her three children. The discussion explores the legal complexities surrounding a postpartum psychosis defense, the prosecution's argument for premeditation, and the challenges of jury selection in such a high-profile case. The episode also details the emotional testimony of Patrick Clancy, focusing on his perspective on Lindsay's mental health, medication, and diagnosis. The conversation covers the intense courtroom atmosphere, including the profound impact of playing the 911 call from the night of the killings, and the defense strategy aimed at portraying the defendant as a mother struggling with severe mental illness.

This episode recounts the harrowing kidnapping and survival story of Jackie Maris and Tamara Brooks, who were abducted at gunpoint by fugitive Roy Dean Ratliff. After enduring hours of terror and sexual assault while held captive in a car, the girls managed to overpower their attacker using a knife and a whiskey bottle. The ordeal reached a violent climax in the Mojave Desert during a tense standoff involving a high-speed pursuit and a deadly gunbattle with Kern County deputies. Following the fatal shooting of Ratliff, the girls were rescued unharmed. The episode explores the aftermath of the event, including the psychological impact on the survivors and the profound support they received from their community.

This episode explores the 1989 disappearance of Tiffany Sessions and the massive, organized search effort led by her father, Pat Sessions. The investigation faced numerous false leads, including fake confessions and extortion attempts, while navigating a complex landscape of local serial murders. As investigators focused on Paul Rolls, a potential link found in an address book led to a significant excavation attempt. Although the dig failed to recover remains due to the challenges of detecting older skeletal remains, Sheriff Darnell's identification of Rolls as a suspect provided a sense of justice. The episode concludes with Pat Sessions' dedication to advocating for other families of missing children to honor Tiffany's memory.

This episode explores the 2003 disappearance and murder of Justine Vandershoot, focusing on the investigation into her boyfriend Danny Bessemer and his roommate Brandon Fernandez. The hosts detail the discovery of the burial site by an equestrian guide and examine the suspects' disturbing fascination with violence. The discussion also covers the legal complexities surrounding Brandon's attempt to seek resentencing under a changed California law and the profound emotional toll on Justine's family. In response to their tragedy, the Vandershoots have turned to advocacy, working to raise awareness for teen dating violence and educate others on recognizing red flags in relationships.

This episode explores the 2003 disappearance and murder of 17-year-old Justine Vandershoot in Auburn, California. The investigation reveals a toxic and possessive relationship between Justine and her boyfriend, Danny Bessemer, and uncovers how a confession from his friend, Brandon Fernandez, led to the discovery of her body. The narrative follows the shifting roles and conflicting statements between Bessemer and Fernandez, detailing the legal battles regarding sentencing under changing California laws. It also covers the prosecution's efforts to prove direct involvement, the impact of the trial on the Vandershoot family, and the legacy of 'Justine's Law' in the fight against dating violence.

This episode examines the preliminary hearing of singer-songwriter D4VD, who faces murder charges for the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Investigative reporter Richard Winton details gruesome evidence presented in court, including the discovery of remains in a Tesla and a kiddie pool, as well as allegations of a cover-up involving aliases and the purchase of body bags and chainsaws. The discussion explores the defendant's digital footprint, examining how his musical work and social media presence are being scrutinized alongside evidence of an alleged sexual relationship with the victim. Amidst intense media scrutiny, Celeste's family has chosen to remain private.

This episode explores the profound impact of unreliable expert testimony on the justice system, focusing on the wrongful convictions of Jim Richardson and Terry Henson. It details how fraudulent evidence from discredited experts like Fred Zane led to years of unjust incarceration before DNA findings and new investigations provided exoneration. Through a mock trial experiment, the program demonstrates how even highly credible-seeming experts can mislead jurors. The investigation highlights the systemic vulnerabilities created when expert witnesses manipulate data or provide flawed analysis, ultimately influencing jury verdicts in high-stakes criminal cases.

This episode examines the dramatic trial and verdict of the Casey Anthony murder case, exploring the intense tension between the prosecution's forensic evidence and the defense's theory of a tragic accident. The narrative details the legal proceedings, including debates over chloroform and duct tape, as well as the scrutiny placed on the Anthony family's behavior following the disappearance of Kaylee Anthony. The episode also covers the aftermath of the shocking acquittal for first-degree murder, documenting the polarized public reaction and the intense media frenzy that turned the trial into a national spectacle. It concludes with the legal aftermath regarding subsequent misdemeanor sentencing.

This episode explores the cold case of Jeannie Childs, whose 1993 murder was solved decades later through advances in genetic genealogy and DNA technology. The investigation progressed from identifying a suspect via family trees to the strategic collection of DNA from a discarded napkin at a hockey game. The discussion also details the trial of Jerry Westrom, including other persons of interest and the Minnesota Supreme Court's reversal of Westrom's second-degree murder conviction due to legal rulings on included offenses. The episode concludes with reflections on the lack of motive in the case and the impact of the verdict on the victim's family.

This episode recounts the 1993 murder of Jeannie Childs in a Minneapolis high-rise and the decades-long investigation that followed. After years of dead ends, investigators utilized investigative genetic genealogy to link unidentified DNA from the scene to Jerry Westrom, using evidence such as a discarded napkin and bloody footprints. The narrative follows Westrom's trial, where the prosecution presented DNA and footprint analysis against defense arguments regarding alternative suspects and the limitations of forensic timing. Following an eight-day trial, Westrom was convicted of first and second-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison, leaving a legacy of enduring grief for Jeannie's family.

This episode explores the details of the Lindsay Clancy case, focusing on the prosecution and defense arguments regarding her mental state. It covers the timeline of the night of the killings, the medical history involving postpartum psychosis, and the husband's perspective on his wife's deteriorating health. The discussion also delves into the upcoming trial strategy, examining legal arguments regarding her medication history and comparisons to other high-profile filicide cases. The episode further explores the legal standards for insanity in Massachusetts and the potential impact of testimony from her husband, Patrick.

This episode investigates the death of Jeffrey Locker, a successful motivational speaker found dead in Harlem. While initial evidence suggested a robbery, Kenneth Minor's confession revealed an alleged plot by Locker to orchestrate his own murder to ensure his family could collect significant life insurance benefits. The narrative explores the complex trial of Kenneth Minor, examining conflicting forensic expert testimonies and witness accounts regarding whether the death was an assisted suicide or a deliberate stabbing. Ultimately, the case concluded with a guilty verdict for murder and a sentence of 20 years to life for Minor.

This episode investigates the mysterious 1981 disappearance of Mary Louise Day and the decades-long search for the truth. The investigation initially focused on potential murder following the discovery of a child's shoe in a backyard and suspicious behavior by her parents, leading to theories of an elaborate identity theft plot involving an imposter known as 'Phoenix Mary.' Through the use of facial recognition technology and DNA testing, investigators eventually confirmed that the woman found in Arizona was indeed the original Mary Louise Day. The episode explores her struggle to prove her identity and the conflicting investigative conclusions regarding her past.

This episode explores the legal saga of Dana Chandler, accused of the 2002 murders of Mike Sisco and Karen Harkness. The narrative follows the progression from a deadlocked second trial—marked by tension between the prosecution's motive-based case and the defense's lack of physical evidence—to Chandler's decision to represent herself in a third trial. Through intense courtroom drama involving secret recordings and the testimony of her daughter, Haley Seal, the episode details the conflicting accounts of Chandler's whereabouts. The saga concludes with a guilty verdict, leaving behind a profound sense of loss for the victims' family and a debate over whether the focus of the case shifted too far from the victims to the defendant.

This episode explores the 2002 double murder of Mike Sisco and Karen Harkness and the complex legal saga surrounding Dana Chandler. It details the investigation, the discovery of a lack of forensic evidence, and the subsequent 2012 conviction which was later overturned by the Kansas Supreme Court due to prosecutorial misconduct. The narrative follows the pursuit of a retrial and the emotional toll on the victims' daughter, Haley, as she navigates legal appeals, allegations regarding the media's role in the arrest, and the involvement of the organization Miracle of Innocence.

This special episode of Case by Case covers the murder verdict of Larry Miliete, who was found guilty of the 2021 disappearance and death of his wife, Maya Miliete. The case, which centered on a circumstantial no-body investigation, involved testimony regarding domestic violence, an extramarital affair, and Larry's use of spellcasters to control his wife. Despite the lack of a body, evidence including surveillance audio of loud bangs, unaccounted vehicle travel, and cell phone data led to the conviction in Chula Vista.

Angela recounts her harrowing kidnapping at age 17 by Robert Coppa, detailing how her meticulous memorization of details led to his arrest and life sentence. The episode follows her journey from victim to activist through the founding of PAVE. The narrative then transitions to Delaney's story, exploring the profound emotional aftermath of her sexual assault. This includes the secondary trauma of social ostracization, online harassment, and the struggle with suicidal ideation, ultimately highlighting a shared journey toward finding strength as survivors.

Investigator Clay Bryant revisits the 1970 murder of Gwendolyn Moore, a case that haunted him since childhood. Through new forensic evidence found during an exhumation and the persistence of a relative, the long-dormant case is reopened to charge Marshall Moore with murder. The investigation then shifts to the disappearance of Fred Wilkerson, whose remains were discovered in a well on Connie Quedens' property. Forensic evidence links the skeletal remains to Fred, leading to a trial where the prosecution presents a theory of an execution-style murder motivated by a property dispute. The case concludes with a guilty verdict and a life sentence for Quedens.

This episode explores the terrifying reality of dark web murder-for-hire plots, focusing on the case of Alexis Stern, who was targeted for assassination. The investigation delves into the connection between an online alias, Mastermind3ly, and her ex-boyfriend, Adrian Fry, while tracking the elusive figure known as Yura through digital forensics. The investigation traces digital clues from a password linked to Moldova to a man in New York City. It details several real-world murder-for-hire cases in the US and UK uncovered through investigation, ultimately leading to a tense, live-streamed confrontation with a primary suspect.

This episode details the ongoing trial of Larry Miliete for the murder of his wife, Maya. The prosecution presents new witness testimonies and digital evidence, including Jamie Laird's testimony regarding an affair and evidence of Larry's controlling behavior through social media and emails. The investigation also focuses on circumstantial evidence used to reconstruct Maya's disappearance, such as unexplained vehicle mileage and cell phone records. As both sides rest their cases, the episode explores the complexities of prosecuting a no-body homicide case and the defense's legal strategies.

This episode explores the brutal 1992 murders of the Davis family in Somerville, Texas, and the subsequent wrongful conviction of Anthony Graves. Driven by investigative tunnel vision and false testimony from Robert Carter, Graves was placed on death row for a crime he did not commit. The narrative follows the journey toward exoneration, fueled by the efforts of a journalism class and prosecutor Kelly Siegler in uncovering evidence of misconduct. It details Graves's eventual release after 18 years of incarceration, his emotional reunion with family, and the ongoing legal struggles regarding compensation and accountability for the systemic failures that led to his imprisonment.

This episode investigates the unsolved 2002 murder of Jennifer Harris in Fannin County, Texas. It details the discovery of her body in the Red River and examines the potential mishandling of evidence by authorities, alongside the complex personal histories involving her ex-husband Rob Holman and former boyfriend James Hamilton. The investigation explores various theories, including a potential pregnancy and the impact of local gossip on the case. Despite leads from witnesses like Deborah Lambert and the efforts of investigators and private eyes to re-examine the flaws in the original work, the case remains stalled, leaving the family and investigators still seeking justice.

Host Anne-Marie Greene and correspondent Vladimir Dutier examine the 1987 murder of Salonia Reid and the decades-long investigation into her husband, Reginald Reed Sr. The episode explores key evidence, including suspicious life insurance policies and DNA complexities involving identical twins, alongside the intense legal battle during his 2022 trial. The discussion also highlights the conflicting perspectives following Reed's conviction. While the prosecution maintains that justice has been served, the investigation reveals the emotional struggle of Reginald Jr., who remains connected to his father despite the gravity of the crime.

This episode follows the decades-long journey of Reggie Reed, whose mother, Salonia, was murdered in 1987. The investigation initially centered on suspects Reginald Reed Sr. and Jimmy Ray Barnes, but the case remained cold until the discovery of suspicious life insurance policies and new DNA evidence linked to Reginald's twin brother. The narrative details the high-stakes trial of Reginald Reed, which resulted in a guilty verdict following an immunity agreement with his brother. The episode concludes by exploring the complex aftermath, including Reggie's internal struggle with his father's conviction and his efforts to honor his mother's memory through his newborn daughter.

This episode explores the wrongful accusation and subsequent exoneration of Maurice Pierce and others in the 1991 Austin yogurt shop murders. It details the intense police interrogation, coerced confessions, and the devastating personal impact on the families involved. The narrative follows the use of DNA evidence to identify Robert Eugene Brashears as the true killer and recounts the tragic 2010 death of Maurice Pierce during a police pursuit. The conversation also addresses unethical interrogation tactics, the importance of investigative journalism, and the family's ongoing fight for systemic reform.

This episode investigates the disappearance of Paige Bergfeld in Grand Junction, Colorado, uncovering a secret life as a high-income escort and exploring suspicions surrounding her ex-husbands. The investigation eventually identified Lester Ralph Jones as the primary suspect. Following the discovery of Paige's remains five years later, forensic evidence and digital trails—including a burner phone and an incriminating call to a sheriff—led to the arrest and conviction of Jones for first-degree murder and kidnapping. Despite the verdict, her family continues to grapple with the profound loss.

This episode investigates the discovery of multiple bodies in a bay in Waldport and the subsequent manhunt for Christian Longo. The narrative explores how Longo used financial fraud and the impersonation of journalist Michael Finkel to evade justice while fleeing to Mexico. The story follows the legal proceedings through Longo's trial and death sentence, touching upon his eventual shift toward admitting guilt and the psychological complexities of his actions. It concludes with the impact of his crimes on his family and the ultimate commutation of his death sentence by the Oregon Governor.

CBS News correspondent Jonathan Vigliotti and producer Michelle Fannucci examine the criminal case against David Pierce following the deaths of Christy Giles and Hilda Cabrales. The episode explores the investigative process, the role of Jan Sillier's determination, and the testimony of several 'Jane Doe' victims during the trial. The discussion further details evidence presented during the trial, including incriminating Google searches suggesting plans to flee to Ukraine, and the emotional impact on Pierce's family. The episode concludes with the final verdict finding him guilty of murder and sexual assault.

This episode investigates the deaths of Christy Giles and Hilda Marcella Cabrales, following the investigation into suspects David Pierce and Brandt Osborne. The narrative traces the timeline from the women's final night out to the discovery of their overdoses and the police efforts to uncover a pattern of sexual assault and deception. The coverage details the trial and subsequent conviction of David Pierce for first-degree murder and multiple sexual assaults, driven by forensic evidence and testimony from 'Jane Doe' victims. While Pierce was found guilty on all counts, the jury remained deadlocked regarding his accomplice, Brandt Osborne, leaving a complex legal conclusion to this tragedy.