Crime Junkie
Crime Junkie
"The media frenzy surrounding my arrest has caused a measurable harm to many people, especially my family. I've lost everything but I cannot survive the loss of my wife and son and daughter. My death should satisfy the media's thirst for blood so that hopefully everyone else who has been affected by this case can truly begin the process of healing." — Richard Hammond (as read from suicide note)
The episode revisits the unsolved murder of Peggy Hedrick, focusing on potential suspects after the exoneration of Tim, who had been wrongly convicted. Initial scrutiny falls on Peggy's on-again, off-again boyfriend, Matt Zulner. Despite an alibi, discrepancies in the timeline and a note found in Peggy's purse addressed to Matt raise questions. The investigation also explores the possibility of a connection to other murders in the area, including those of Linda Holt and Mona Heus, initially attributed to Donnie Long. However, Long confessed only to the latter two and denied involvement in Peggy's murder. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Dr. Richard Hammond, an ophthalmologist whose residence was found to contain extensive hidden camera surveillance equipment, recording devices, and disturbing videotapes, some of which may have involved minors. Evidence destruction in Hammond's case and the potential connections to Peggy's case, particularly the presence of Tom McCann shoes found in Hammond's closet, are discussed, alongside the suspicious circumstances surrounding Hammond's death by suicide.
Further examination highlights the investigative shortcomings, including missed opportunities to question suspects about critical evidence and the destruction of extensive evidence in the Hammond case, which was cited as an effort to protect victims but potentially prevented further investigation and accountability. The possibility of other individuals, such as Randy Anglin, being involved is also explored, based on fragmented information and escalating criminal activity. The episode concludes by emphasizing the ongoing fight for justice for Peggy Hedrick, driven by her family and advocates, and calls for the Colorado Attorney General's Office to reopen the case and explore new investigative avenues, including advanced DNA testing.