"This is the story of Devon Dunnever." — Ashley Flowers
"The significance of that request can't be overstated. Like a decision in either direction as far as Anthony's supposed confessions go is basically game over." — Brett
"We acknowledge that there is no probable cause to demonstrate that you were responsible for the 1998 death of Devon Dunnever. We regret that you were wrongfully convicted of this crime. We apologize to you and your family for the events that led to your conviction." — Unnamed officers (read from apology letter)
This episode recounts the harrowing case of Devon Dunnever, a five-year-old girl who disappeared from her Ohio neighborhood in 1998 and was later found murdered. The initial search effort was extensive, involving hundreds of volunteers, but was hampered by a severe storm. Devon's body was discovered in a wooded area, with evidence of multiple stab wounds. The investigation quickly focused on a 12-year-old boy named Anthony, who had been present in the vicinity. Despite his lack of prior criminal history and his mother's assurances, Anthony was subjected to a coercive interrogation, ultimately leading to a confession.
The narrative highlights significant procedural irregularities during Anthony's interrogation, including his age, the lack of parental presence during key interviews, and the use of questionable tactics by law enforcement, such as "voice stress tests." The podcast emphasizes the potential impact of racial bias on the investigation, given Anthony's background and the predominantly white community and law enforcement. Despite the confession, the defense presented compelling arguments for Anthony's innocence, including the lack of physical evidence, the questionable nature of the confession, and the existence of potential alternative suspects and investigative oversights.
Ultimately, Anthony's conviction was overturned on appeal due to the admission of coerced statements. The case reveals a pattern of systemic failures, including insufficient exploration of alternative leads and the pressure to close the case, which led to a wrongful conviction. While Anthony was exonerated and received compensation, Devon's murder remains unsolved, leaving a profound sense of injustice for her family and highlighting the ongoing complexities and challenges within the justice system.