TLDR: This episode details the protracted and complex investigation into the 1986 murder of 14-year-old Sean Edwards, highlighting numerous leads, false confessions, and technological advancements that have yet to yield a definitive resolution.
The Big Idea: The investigation into Sean Edwards' murder is a case study in the challenges of cold case resolution, demonstrating how the passage of time, flawed initial investigations, and the complexities of human testimony can hinder justice.
Takeaways for Listeners:
The importance of meticulous evidence handling and chain of custody in criminal investigations.
The psychological dynamics of confessions and the potential for false statements under pressure.
The enduring impact of unsolved crimes on victims' families and the community.
Identified Speakers: Ashley Flowers (Host), Britt (Co-host/Guest), Cynthia Edwards (Sean's Mother), Kimberly Edwards (Sean's Sister), Detective Barry Bernstein, Detective Nicholas Derosa, Detective Jerry Mischke, Detective Sergeant Jason Jennings, John Scabelli (Times Herald Record reporter), John Milgram (Times Herald Record reporter), Julie Campbell (Times Herald Record reporter), Tristan Corden (Times Herald Record reporter), Dennis McCormick (Timothy Fairweather's lawyer), George Skiro (Forensic Scientist/Crime Scene Expert), Richard A. Leo (Police Interrogation Expert), Andrew Rosen (Investigator).
Top 3 Distinct Quotes
"There have been allegations with regard to running a homosexual drug ring." — Defense Attorney for Joey Salgado's Friend
"Dear parents, it was supposed to be a fight. I didn't do it. I am sorry." — Timothy Fairweather
"I didn't let them roam the streets they had a curfew to get home before dark he's the last kid I ever thought that would happen to" — Cynthia Edwards
Detailed Summary
This episode continues the investigation into the unsolved murder of Sean Edwards, detailing the frustrating and often circuitous path law enforcement has taken over three decades. Early leads involved individuals like Joey Selgado and Nelson, a rumored drug dealer, with attempted deals and investigations into potential weapons like steel-toed boots yielding no concrete evidence. A significant turning point occurred with the confession of 15-year-old Timothy Fairweather, who implicated himself and his friends, Joey Selgado and Eddie Devlin, in Sean's murder. However, Timothy's confession was later challenged by his alibi, supported by group home records placing him elsewhere at the time of the murder, and a subsequent polygraph test that he passed.
The investigation faced numerous setbacks due to issues with evidence handling, including improper preservation of biological evidence in plastic, leading to potential degradation and loss of DNA. Furthermore, the chain of custody for key evidence was unclear, and some lab testing records could not be located. Technological advancements, such as fingerprinting techniques on fabric and DNA analysis, were explored but did not immediately solve the case. Tips regarding the murder weapon and Sean's alleged involvement in drug activities were investigated but ultimately proved to be dead ends or misinterpretations.
Despite these challenges, the investigation remains active, with new leads and potential suspects emerging. The current focus appears to be on two directions: Sean's potential involvement in or knowledge of drug-related activities, or his discovery of some illegal activity. The narrative concludes with a poignant reflection on the enduring grief of Sean's family and a plea for information from the public, underscoring the ongoing quest for justice for the young victim.
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Very Unique Keywords
Cast off blood stains
Juvenile offender
Chain of custody
Polygraph test
Forensic genealogy
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