Army Veteran James Neal Broke Into Estranged Wife’s Colorado Springs Home & Fatally Shot Danny Richmond; Sentenced to 45 Years in Prison (July 9, 1996)

On July 9, 1996September 14, 2019 By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Domestic Violence, Felony Crime, Homicide, Military Policy, VeteransLeave a comment

On July 9th, 1996, 911 received a phone call from a distressed man who reported a burglar was in his apartment. And then the operator hears a bang and the line goes dead. Homicide detective, Lt. Joe Kenda, of the Colorado Springs Police Department was informed shots were fired after what appeared to be a burglary gone wrong. He was informed Danny Richmond, 34, was dead and his roommate Savannah Neal, 50, was present at the time of the shooting. The pair had met at work. Danny was the 911 caller; he reported someone broke into the apartment before he was shot. Kenda has learned from experience that burglars usually pick locks but in this case, whoever this person was, shot at the front door multiple times. This person had a motive to kill the person behind the door. Danny was shot in the central chest and he was shot in excess of 48 inches away. They didn’t find any casings in the room.Kenda observed that Danny was laying in his bed and eating when he was shot.

Kenda noticed Danny’s wedding ring and assumed he was married so he thought maybe Savannah was letting him stay at her apartment because he was having troubles. Did Danny’s estrange wife have something to do with this? Kenda wondered why Savannah was not dead? Why was she not harmed? Kenda deduced the shooter was after one person: Danny Richmond. The police eventually found a 357 Magnum casing at the threshold of the door. It appeared this person reloaded the gun quickly and Kenda thought it very likely could be someone military because Fort Carson is in Colorado Springs. Kenda set out to learn more about Danny. Danny was described by his co-workers as great. One co-worker shared that Danny met Savannah Neal at work; she acted as his mentor. Kenda also learned that Danny was not really married but he wore a wedding ring to show his commitment to Savannah. Kenda learned they were in a personal relationship and were romantically involved.

Kenda was looking for a third person now that he learned about the relationship between Danny and Savannah. A co-worker shared that Savannah was married for 25 years to James Neal but they were having problems so she moved out. The co-worker confirmed that James was in the Army but now worked as a security guard. Kenda then went to the hospital to question Savannah. She admitted things were bad with James and when he found out about her seeing Danny, he was angry. She alleged that he stalked her and Danny; he made threats; and he followed her all over the city. She said the night of the shooting she fixed Danny something to eat and served him in bed. They both heard loud pounding at the door so she went towards the door as it exploded open. She observed that James had a gun in his hand and went straight to the bedroom and shot Danny then he just left. The whole thing happened in the course of 30 seconds.

Kenda needed to find James Neal. He put out an all points bulletin (APB) asking officers to be on the look out and aware that he was armed and dangerous. Minutes later a police officer spotted the gray Camry and pulled him over. James didn’t move so the police officer approached him unsure of what he may do. The officer went up to the driver side of the car and observed that James had blood on him near his shoulder and stomach; next to him was a 357 Magnum revolver. James was telling the officer that he wanted to die and was speaking coherently. He admitted to shooting himself as the officer pulled him over. One officer explained that he shot himself in those locations most likely because he lost his courage to commit suicide. James Neal admitted to Kenda that he wanted to die and he shot his wife’s boyfriend. James Neal was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to forty-five years in prison. Some relationships can turn to nightmare scenarios and this is one of them.

Investigation Discovery:

When the severed head of a wife and mother is found, Lt. Joe Kenda uses forensics and interrogation to find both her body and her killer. Then… a young man’s murder looks like a robbery gone wrong until Kenda learns the odd reason he’s living there. -The Line Goes Dead, Homicide Hunter (S6,E13)

Editor’s note: With a cable subscription, you can download the free ID Go app and watch Investigation Discovery programming at your convenience. And for those who do not have cable, you can watch “unlocked” episodes on the ID Go app including the latest premieres. For those who prefer commercial free programming during your binge session, Prime Video has an ID channel: ‘True Crime Files by Investigation Discovery” available for $3.99 a month. It’s a compilation of older seasons but totally worth the cost if you are a true crime addict. Download the ID Go app or purchase ID True Crime Files & binge away.

Related Links:
The Line Goes Dead | Homicide Hunter | Investigation Discovery (S6,E13)
The Line Goes Dead | Homicide Hunter | Investigation Discovery (website)
The Line Goes Dead | Homicide Hunter | Investigation Discovery (Amazon)
The Line Goes Dead | Homicide Hunter | Investigation Discovery (Hulu)
Homicide Hunter Premiered ‘The Line Goes Dead’ on ID: Army Veteran Murdered Estranged Wife’s Boyfriend Danny Richmond (November 30, 2016)
Violent Crime, Suicide & Non Combat Death at Fort Carson, Colorado (US Army)

Navy Petty Officer Elise Makdessi Murdered in Virginia Home; Spouse Eddie Makdessi Found Guilty of Murder, Sentenced to Life in Prison (May 14, 1996)

On May 14, 1996October 3, 2019 By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Domestic Violence, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military Policy, Navy, ScandalsLeave a comment

Navy Petty Officer Elise Makdessi worked as an Air Traffic Controller at Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia. Elise was married to Eddie Makdessi for five years and they lived off base in Virginia Beach. Elise unknowingly helped plan, organize, and carry out her own murder and it is unclear if she was a willing participant in the original plot with Eddie to scam the government out of money or if she was controlled by Eddie. Eddie Makdessi murdered Elise Makdessi and Navy Petty Officer Quincy Brown on May 14, 1996 as part of an elaborate scam. The whole thing was a set up. Elise thought she was part of an arrangement where she would invite Quincy Brown to the house, have sex with him, then accuse him of rape. She also manufactured evidence to make it look like she was documenting sexual abuse in an effort to sue the Navy and make millions. She had journals and created what looked like a rehearsed video outlining what four Navy men, including Quincy Brown, did to her on the job.

Five years earlier in 1991 the Navy Tailhook scandal in Nevada made national headlines. Navy Lieutenant Paula Coughlin was one of the alleged victims who went public with her story. Two years before Elise and Quincy were murdered, Paula Coughlin won 1.7 million after suing the Las Vegas Hilton hotel where the Tailhook Association convention was held. Eddie must have convinced Elise that they too could make millions if they alleged that Elise was sexually assaulted on the job. What they didn’t realize is that you can’t sue the Navy; Coughlin won a lawsuit against the Hilton hotel. The Feres Doctrine prevents any soldier or their family from suing the Department of Defense for compensatory damages. Investigators believe that knowledge of this information gave Eddie and Elise Makdessi the motive to come up with the false accusation scheme to sue the Navy. Eddie was a scammer and always looking for new ways to make quick money. Elise didn’t know she was double crossed until Eddie was plunging the knife. A month before the murders, Eddie purchased $700,000 worth of life insurance on Elise.

Eddie and Elise Makdessi invited Petty Officer Quincy Brown over to the house under the guise of having a threesome. DNA evidence revealed that Elise and Quincy Brown had sex. Investigators would learn that Eddie shot Quincy first, then stabbed Elise. He hurt himself to make it appear that Quincy invaded the house, knocked him out, raped and killed Elise, and then he awoke from unconsciousness and shot the intruder. Eddie staged the crime scene and he almost got away with it. But investigators figured out this was a ‘set up’ based on the crime scene evidence, interviews with Elise’s co-workers, the video tape, and the large insurance policy. They were also savvy enough to recognize that this was a copycat case. Elise’s sexual harassment and sexual assault claims were in fact fabricated. All the men she accused of sex crimes in the video passed a polygraph examination and her supervisors testified that Elise never reported sexual harassment or sexual assault like she claimed in her video testimony. Unfortunately Quincy Brown was the pawn they used in their game and he never got the chance to see that the allegations were proven false.

Eddie was indicted in 2001. But by the time investigators were ready to arrest Eddie Makdessi for the murder of Elise Makdessi and Quincy Brown, Eddie had fled the country. They eventually caught up with him in Russia. Unfortunately, Russia did not have an extradition treaty with the United States so police could not force Eddie to come back to the states. Mike Mather, an investigative reporter, went to Russia to interview Makdessi and learned that he was remarried with a child yet things weren’t going so well for Eddie financially in Russia. After that interview, Eddie decided to leave his wife and child in Russia and go back to America to face the charges. He was going to prove his innocence and clear his name. He was sure he would beat the charges. It would be ten years after he committed the first degree murders of Elise and Quincy Brown before he went to trial. On March 16, 2006, Eddie Makdessi was convicted of two counts of murder, sentenced to life in prison, and ordered to pay a $202,500 fine. The motive was the life insurance money. He used the $700,000 payout to travel the world before settling in Russia. Eddie continues to deny committing the crimes.

Elise Makdessi’s sister, Dawn Crosby, asked the jury to “show Eddie Makdessi that my sister’s life was worth more than $700,000.” –The Virginia-Pilot (March 17, 2006)

Forensic Files:

Full Episode: Virginia Beach police arrive at the Makdessi apartment to find Elise Makdessi and her lover, Quincy Brown, dead. Elise’s husband Eddie had reported that he killed Quincy Brown in self-defense after Brown had murdered Elise. Eddie gave the police a videotape Elise had made a week before, alleging that she had been the victim of sexual harassment. -Double Cross, Forensic Files (S13,E5)

Investigation Discovery:

Paramedics respond to a horrific crime scene – a woman is found tied to a bed with slashes across her body. Next to her on the floor, a man with three gunshot wounds. Detectives spend the next several years unraveling this bizarre mystery. -Last Man Standing, Solved (S2,E10)

When a Naval Officer is apparently raped and stabbed by a coworker, a mysterious VHS tape suggests the victim may have been silenced to prevent a scandal. Dogged investigation and cutting edge forensic science reveals a shocking murder plot. -Deadly Accusations, Unusual Suspects (S7,E4)

Related Links:
Tailhook Plaintiff Wins Suit (1994)
Notes, Videotape Left Left by Woman Say She was Raped, the Oceana Worker was Slain by a Colleague, An Affidavit Says
DSS Returns Double Homicide Suspect to U.S.
Forensic Expert Uses Blood to Re-Create 1996 Slayings
Jury recommends life sentence for Makdessi
The word of a jailhouse snitch: Can it be trusted?
Man accused of killing wife, her lover a decade ago finally to go on trial
Officer, paramedic recall Elise Makdessi’s death
You’ll never believe what a convicted killer is requesting from a judge
State of Virginia: Adib Eddie Makdessi v. Harold Clarke (2016)
Female sailor’s false rape allegation, plot fails
Navy Petty Officer Quincy Brown Murdered by Military Spouse Motivated to Kill by Wife’s $700,000 Life Insurance Policy (May 14, 1996)
Press Release: Department of State Returns Double Homicide Suspect Adib “Eddie” Ramez Makdessi to U.S. (July 22, 2003)
Forensic Files Premiered ‘Double Cross’: Navy Sailors Elise Makdessi & Quincy Brown Found Murdered in Makdessi’s Virginia Home (October 24, 2008)
Solved Premiered ‘Last Man Standing’ on ID: Navy Sailors Elise Makdessi & Quincy Brown Found Murdered in Makdessi’s Virginia Home (October 26, 2009)
Unusual Suspects Premiered ‘Deadly Accusations’ on ID: Navy Sailors Elise Makdessi & Quincy Brown Found Murdered in Makdessi’s Virginia Home (January 25, 2015)
Double Cross | Forensic Files | IMDb
Double Cross | Forensic Files | FilmRise (S13,E5)
Double Cross | Forensic Files | Full Episode (YouTube)
Double Cross | Forensic Files | Netflix (Collection 9, E35)
Double Cross | Forensic Files | Amazon Prime Video (S21,E1)
Deadly Accusations | Unusual Suspects | Investigation Discovery (Amazon Video)
Deadly Accusations | Unusual Suspects | Investigation Discovery (S7,E4)
Last Man Standing | Solved | Investigation Discovery (S2,E10)
Last Man Standing | Solved | Investigation Discovery (website)
Servicemen’s Group Life Insurance is a Common Motive for Murder

Navy Petty Officer Quincy Brown Murdered by Military Spouse Eddie Makdessi; Makdessi Motivated to Kill by Wife Elise Makdessi’s $700,000 Life Insurance Policy (May 14, 1996)

On May 14, 1996July 7, 2019 By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military Policy, Navy, Scandals1 Comment

Honoring Navy Petty Officer Quincy Brown who died on May 14, 1996 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Petty Officer Brown and Petty Officer Elise Makdessi were murdered by Elise’s husband Eddie Makdessi in the Makdessi home. Quincy Brown was lured to the residence under false pretenses, not aware that he was part of a plot that ended with murder. Eddie shot Quincy Brown and then stabbed Elise Makdessi. He told the police that Quincy Brown broke into his home, knocked him out, raped and murdered Elise, and when he awoke he shot the intruder. Forensic science proved that Eddie’s version of events were not supported by the evidence. Investigators concluded that Eddie was most likely motivated to kill by his wife’s $700,000 life insurance policy he had purchased a month earlier. Eddie Makdessi was indicted in 2001 but wouldn’t go to trial for his crimes until 2006 as he fled the country with his life insurance money. Unfortunately, the United States didn’t have an extradition treaty with Russia. After Eddie Makdessi finally returned to the US, he was charged with two counts of first degree murder, found guilty, and sentenced to life in prison. He continues to deny that he committed the crimes.

Investigation Discovery:

Related Links:
Tailhook Plaintiff Wins Suit (1994)
Notes, Videotape Left Left by Woman Say She was Raped, the Oceana Worker was Slain by a Colleague, An Affidavit Says
DSS Returns Double Homicide Suspect to U.S.
Forensic Expert Uses Blood to Re-Create 1996 Slayings
Jury recommends life sentence for Makdessi
The word of a jailhouse snitch: Can it be trusted?
Man accused of killing wife, her lover a decade ago finally to go on trial
Officer, paramedic recall Elise Makdessi’s death
You’ll never believe what a convicted killer is requesting from a judge
State of Virginia: Adib Eddie Makdessi v. Harold Clarke (2016)
Female sailor’s false rape allegation, plot fails
Forensic Files Sex Crimes Double Cross 1
Forensic Files Sex Crimes Double Cross 2
Unusual Suspects: Deadly Accusations (Amazon Video)
Unusual Suspects: Deadly Accusations (ID YouTube)
Navy Petty Officer Elise Makdessi Double Crossed & Murdered by Husband Eddie, The $700,000 Life Insurance Policy was the Motive (May 14, 1996)
Press Release: Department of State Returns Double Homicide Suspect Adib “Eddie” Ramez Makdessi to U.S. (July 22, 2003)
Solved Premiered ‘Last Man Standing’ on ID: Navy Sailors Elise Makdessi & Quincy Brown Found Murdered in Makdessi’s Virginia Home (October 26, 2009)
Unusual Suspects Premiered ‘Deadly Accusations’ on ID: Navy Sailors Elise Makdessi & Quincy Brown Found Murdered in Makdessi’s Virginia Home (January 25, 2015)

Laura Uylaki Found Fatally Shot & Stabbed in Wolf Lake, Illinois; Marine Veteran Andrew Urdiales Sentenced to Death for Two Murders; Commuted to Life in Prison (April 14, 1996)

On April 14, 1996August 6, 2020 By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military Policy, Scandals, USMCLeave a comment

Screen Shot 2017-08-07 at 4.48.05 PM — Laura Uylaki, Civilian, Indiana

April 14, 1996: Laura Uylaki, 25, Hammond, Indiana

Marine veteran Andrew Urdiales is accused of murdering eight women from 1986 to 1996, five in California and three in Illinois, and raping and abducting 19 year old Jennifer Asbenson who escaped and survived. Urdiales was indicted for three murders in Illinois and was sentenced to death but the death sentence was commuted after Governor Pat Quinn of Illinois abolished capital punishment in 2011. Instead he received three life sentences for the murders of Laura Uylaki, Cassandra Corum, and Lynn Huber. A gun confiscated in a separate incident linked the three murders in Illinois together and during an interrogation, Urdiales admitted in detail to five cold case murders in California too.

After years of legal wrangling, Urdiales was eventually extradited to California and indicted in 2009 on five counts of first degree murder. He was accused of killing Robbin Brandley, Julie McGhee, Mary Ann Wells, Tammie Erwin, and Denise Maney while stationed at Camp Pendleton Marine Corps base. On May 23, 2018, Andrew Urdiales was convicted of five murders by a jury that deliberated for about a day before recommending in June 2018 that he be sentenced to death for each of the five murders. On November 2, 2018, corrections officials said they found Urdiales unresponsive during a security check at San Quentin State Prison; former Marine and serial killer Andrew Urdiales died by suicide.

In the News:

The murders occurred when Andrew Urdiales was stationed at various Marine Corps facilities in Southern California. -CBS Los Angeles (October 5, 2018)

Related Links:
48 Hours Mystery: Escape from a Serial Killer
State of Illinois vs. Andrew Urdiales (2007)
OC goes after Illinois serial killer suspect
Serial Killer Wanted for Trial in Saddleback Slayings
Former Pendleton Marine Turned Serial Killer To Be Charged With SoCal Murders
Serial killer charged with 5 murders in SoCal
Triple killer charged in five California murders
Serial killer to face charges in 5 deaths in Southern California
Illinois convict faces charges in 5 California deaths
OCDA finally charges murderer responsible for 1986 Saddleback stabbing
Andrew Urdiales, Serial Killer, Extradited to OC For Killing Saddleback College Student Robbin Brandley
Ex-Marine accused in deaths of 5 Southern Calif. women to be extradited
Ex-Marine indicted in serial murders of five women in California
California Seeks Death for Chicago Serial Killer
Serial Killer’s Brother Called to Testify at California Murder Trial
Ex-Marine Andrew Urdiales Sentenced to Death for California Serial Killings
Serial killer Andrew Urdiales sentenced to death in murders of 5 women in Southern California
Ex-Marine Serial Killer Who Slayed 5 SoCal Women Gets Death Penalty
Andrew Urdiales: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know
Serial killer Andrew Urdiales was a monster masquerading as a marine who nearly got away with murder
Serial killer Andrew Urdiales dies of possible suicide on San Quentin’s death row
Ex-Marine Turned Notorious Serial Killer Commits Suicide On Death Row
‘Eyes of the devil’: Serial killer and mass murderer take own lives on death row
Two death row killers die in apparent suicides over weekend, San Quentin officials say
2 serial killers found dead within hours on California’s death row
24 Years After Encounter With Serial Killer, Woman Still Seeks Justice
10 Killers Who Targeted College Women
Near-victim of serial killer recalls years of struggle after her attack
Timeline: A look back at the Andrew Urdiales murders
Violent Crime, Non Combat Death, and Suicide at Camp Pendleton, California (US Marine Corps)
Honoring the Victims of Serial Killer Andrew Urdiales, US Marine Corps, in California and Illinois (1986-1996)
Convicted Serial Killer Andrew Urdiales Died by Suicide in Prison; Found Guilty of 8 Murders in Illinois & California, Sentenced to Death (November 2, 2018)
David Wohl interviews the only survivor of an attack by a confessed serial killer: Part 1
David Wohl interviews the one survivor of serial killer Andrew Urdiales: Part 2

Michael James & Jackie Burden Gunned Down in North Carolina by Army Privates James Burmeister & Malcolm Wright in Racially Motivated Random Act of Violence (December 7, 1995)

On December 7, 1995August 7, 2019 By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military Policy, ScandalsLeave a comment

Related Links:
Jackie ReJee Burden (1968-1995) – Find A Grave Memorial
Michael James (1959-1995) – Find A Grave Memorial
N.C. racial shooting victims buried
Army investigates GIs’ extremist ties
Army opens investigation of soldiers in hate groups New probe follows N.C. double slaying attributed to 2 privates
Killing Lifts Lid On Fort Bragg’s Racist Underground — `Skinhead’ Soldiers Gather At Local Bars
Racial Slaying Prompts Military Investigation at Base
Slayings of 2 Blacks Raise New Issues for Military
Ranks Filled with Race Radicals? Alleged Hate Crime in N.C. Affects Army
Task Force Finds No Widespread Extremist Activities
Former Paratrooper Testifies He Helped Make the Bomb
Ex-Soldier Guilty of Killing Black Couple
Ex-Soldier Convicted Of Murdering Couple
Skinhead paratrooper convicted of murdering black couple
Burmeister’s Cold Exterior Cracks at Sentencing
Former soldier goes to prison for racial murders
Ex-soldier gets life for racial murders
Ex-Paratrooper Gets Life Sentence in Racial Slayings
Ex-G.I. at Fort Bragg Is Convicted in Killing of 2 Blacks
Soldier Gets Life Term for Race Murders / Eleven Jurors Wanted James Burmeister to Die for His Crimes
Convicted Killer Refuses to Testify
Another Soldier Convicted in Race-Based Killings
2nd Ex-Soldier is Senteced to Life in Slaying of 2 Blacks
Discrimination resurfaces in the military
Murders impel US army to flush out neo-Nazi groups
FORT LEWIS: Soldiers to be searched for gang tattoos
Extremism in the Ranks
Skinhead’s spider web
Fort Bragg’s Deadly Summer | Vanity Fair
Skinhead Paratrooper Dies in Federal Prison
Soldier Convicted To Prison 12 Years Ago Dies In Prison
Criminal Gangs in the Military – Gangs – POLICE Magazine
Sikh shooting latest violent link to Fort Bragg

Adrianne Jones Murdered by Air Force Academy Cadet David Graham and Naval Academy Cadet Diane Zamora; Motive Was Jealousy (1995)

On December 4, 1995 By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Cold Cases, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Navy, Scandals, USAFLeave a comment

Grab Cut Insert Cut Grab Cut Insert Cut Grab Cut Insert Cut 8422901-3157.8362201 15176#corbis — Adrianne Jones

Adrianne Jones was murdered December 4th, 1995 by Air Force Academy Cadet David Graham and his girlfriend and Naval Academy Cadet Diane Zamora. The crime occurred while they were all still in high school in Texas prior to David joining the Air Force Academy and Diane joining the Naval Academy. All three of them had very bright futures. Adrianne Jones was missing for quite some time before her body was discovered. The case went unsolved until Diane Zamora admitted to some friends at the Naval Academy that she had killed someone with her boyfriend. David Graham admitted to his role in the crime; he was sentenced to life in prison. Diane Zamora denies her role in the crime to this day; she was sentenced to life in prison.

Related Links:
Obituary: Adrianne Jessica Jones
The Killer Cadets
Young, In Love, In Jail
Twisted Love in a Small Texas Town
A Tale of Love and Murder in a Small Town
Review: ‘Love’s Deadly Triangle: The Texas Cadet Murder’
Ex-cadet Recants His Confession In Teen’s Murder
2 Portraits of Midshipman Emerge at Murder Trial
Friend says Zamora told her of killing; Witness says parents of accused also knew months before arrest
Texas Murder Trial Winds Down Diane Zamora’s Riveting Testimony Appears Critical
Former Air Force cadet gets life in Texas teen’s slaying
Cadet’s conviction closes chapter
Diane Zamora: ‘I’m not a killer’
Inmates who never met say they want to marry
Former Air Force cadet expresses remorse for 1995 slaying of teen
Inmate David Graham starts prison blog
5 Things to Know About the ‘Sealed in Blood’ Case — Teenage Lovers Turned Murderers
Re-examining the Brutal Slaying of High Schooler Adrianne Jones, 21 Years Later
People Magazine Investigates murder of Adrianne Jones in Grand Prairie, Texas
True crime show investigates 20-year-old midshipman murder case
The Texas Cadet Killers: Revisiting the Adrianne Jones Murder
20 years later, Zamora maintains from prison she didn’t kill Adrianne Jones
Exclusive: ‘Killer Cadet’ speaks out from behind bars; ‘Lie Guy’ weighs in
Exclusive: ‘Killer Cadet’ Speaks Out From Behind Bars (Part 1)
Exclusive: ‘Killer Cadet’ Speaks Out From Behind Bars (Part 2)
People Magazine Investigates: ‘In the Name of Love’

“In 1995, bright 16-year old student Adrianne Jones is found shot to death in Grand Prairie, Texas. Police don’t have any strong suspects, until nine months later when a game of Truth-or-Dare leads to a startling confession.” -Investigation Discovery

Elsie Jennes Found Murdered in House Fire; Army Veteran William Jennes II Pleaded Guilty to 2nd Degree Murder, Sentenced to 48 Years in Prison (July 17, 1995)

On July 17, 1995September 14, 2019 By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Domestic Violence, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military Policy, VeteransLeave a comment

Housewife Elsie Jennes is found dead in the basement of her burning home. Lt Joe Kenda has no leads until Elsie’s son, William, turns up in a police station over 50 miles away, equipped with a suitcase, a pet yellow labrador, and a bizarre story to tell. -The Spy Who Killed Me, Homicide Hunter (S2, E4)

Elspeth ‘Elsie’ Troost Jennes was murdered by her husband Army veteran William Jennes II on July 17, 1995 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. According to William’s confession, he was sick and tired of Elsie nagging him about the finances and getting a job so he retrieved his gun and shot her in the face and back. Jennes admitted to pouring gasoline all over the house and setting it on fire in an attempt to destroy the evidence. He quickly left with their son and dropped him off in Canyon City, Colorado where he went to the police because he didn’t know what was going on. Jennes then drove west along Highway 50 where he threw his gun into the Arkansas River. The police knew it would be virtually impossible to recover the gun because of the strength of the current in that particular river. But Jennes’ confession gave the police the evidence they needed to charge him with murder. Apparently, Jennes became overwhelmed with the financial situation in his life and after 14 years of marriage decided to murder his wife Elsie instead of making things right. William Jennes II pleaded guilty to second degree murder in an attempt to protect his son from having to testify in court and was sentenced to 48 years in prison.

Source: ‘The Spy Who Killed Me’ Homicide Hunter, Investigation Discovery

Related Links:
Elspeth “Elsie” Troost Jennes (1959-1995) | Find A Grave
News Footage 1995: Elspeth T. Jennes Case | Homicide Hunter: Lt. Joe Kenda
Actual news footage from 1995 surrounding the Elspeth Jennes case | Homicide Hunter: Lt. Joe Kenda
The Spy Who Killed Me | Homicide Hunter | Investigation Discovery (preview)
The Spy Who Killed Me | Homicide Hunter | Investigation Discovery (S2, E4)
The Spy Who Killed Me | Homicide Hunter | Investigation Discovery (website)
The Spy Who Killed Me | Homicide Hunter | Investigation Discovery (Amazon)
The Spy Who Killed Me | Homicide Hunter | Investigation Discovery (Hulu)
Homicide Hunter Premiered ‘The Spy Who Killed Me’ on ID: William Jennes II Shot & Killed Wife Elspeth ‘Elsie’ Jennes Over Finances (October 30, 2012)

Oklahoma City Bombing: 168 People Died in an Act of Domestic Terrorism at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building (April 19, 1995)

On April 19, 1995November 25, 2018 By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military Policy, Scandals, VeteransLeave a comment

Oklahoma City Bombing FBI — Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Photo: FBI.gov)

“On the morning of April 19, 1995, an ex-Army soldier and security guard named Timothy McVeigh parked a rented Ryder truck in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City. He was about to commit mass murder.

Inside the vehicle was a powerful bomb made out of a deadly cocktail of agricultural fertilizer, diesel fuel, and other chemicals. McVeigh got out, locked the door, and headed towards his getaway car. He ignited one timed fuse, then another.

At precisely 9:02 a.m., the bomb exploded.”

Read more at Oklahoma City Bombing – FBI.

“The events of April 19, 1995, dramatically changed Oklahoma City and all of us who remember that spring morning. But the stories of the 168 people killed live in our hearts as well as in the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum. Learn more about the victims here.” -Oklahoma City National Memorial

Learn what motivated domestic terrorists Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols to commit the Oklahoma City Bombing, which killed 168 people on April 19, 1995. Discover the federal and local clean up efforts and the fate of McVeigh and Nichols. -History

USA: Oklahoma City Bombing Rescue – 1995 | Today in History | 19 Apr 16 -AP Archive

In the News:

The FBI has released long-secret security tapes showing the chaos immediately after the 1995 bombing of the Oklahoma City federal building. The soundless recordings show people rushing from nearby buildings after the fertilizer bomb went off. (Sept. 27) -Associated Press

Don Lemon talks with the child survivors of the Oklahoma City bombing 15 years after the attack. -CNN

20 years after the terror attack, survivors and families of victims look back on the devastating terror attack. -CBS News

20 years ago tomorrow, domestic terrorist Timothy McVeigh and his co-conspirators set off an enormous truck bomb in downtown Oklahoma City. The blast killed 168 people, including 19 children. Anna Werner reports on that awful day after visiting the site. -CBS This Morning

Americans remember the bombing that killed 168 people and injured hundreds more. -ABC News

Remembering the April 19, 1995 tragedy in Oklahoma when a truck bomb exploded outside of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building injuring hundreds and leaving 168 people dead. -NBC News

Today marks the 23rd anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing, a time to remember the 168 lives lost in an act of domestic terrorism that rocked the nation. -CBS News

On the morning of Wednesday, April 19, 1995, a former Army soldier parked a rented Ryder truck in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.He got out, locked it and ignited two fuses. At 9:02 a.m., the explosion ripped through the building where 500 people worked and children attended America’s Kids day care. The blast killed 168 people including 19 children under the age of 6. -PennLive.com

USA: Oklahoma City: Remains of Bombed Building to be Demolished. -AP Archive

Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum:

At the 20th anniversary remembrance for the Oklahoma City bombing, the former president says it’s important for all Americans to remember how much they owe Oklahomans. -CBS News

Video of The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum. -CNN

American Experience PBS:

Premiering at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival. Coming to American Experience PBS on February 7, 2017 at 9/8c. -American Experience, PBS

After the Oklahoma City Bombing, Clinton’s ability to reach Americans on a personal level did much to help the nation’s grief. “It’s kind of a throwaway line now, I feel your pain, but he literally could,” says Robert McNeely. “I mean he could take people and just hug them and connect to them in a way and really listen to them.” -American Experience, PBS

Oklahoma City explores how a series of deadly encounters between American citizens and federal law enforcement—including the standoffs at Ruby Ridge and Waco—led to the bombing of the Murrah Building in Oklahoma City in April 1995, the worst act of domestic terrorism in American history. -American Experience, PBS

At the time of the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995, the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building was home to several government agencies — and a daycare. -American Experience, PBS

During the stand-off between federal agents and the Branch Davidians in Waco, Texas in 1993, people gathered on a hill roughly three miles away to see what was happening at the compound. One of those drawn to Waco was a 24-year-old Army veteran named Timothy McVeigh. -American Experience, PBS

Filmmaker Barak Goodman and editor Don Kleszy discuss their newest documentary, “Oklahoma City” and how it led to the creation of another one-hour film about Ruby Ridge. -American Experience, PBS

The 1995 Oklahoma City Bombing was the largest act of domestic terrorism in U.S. history. A new documentary on the PBS series American Experience takes a fresh look at the events and motivations that led to the attack by Timothy McVeigh, and finds resonance for today. -PBS NewsHour

At the 20th anniversary, we look back at the Oklahoma City bombing. Public television station OETA shares reflections from survivors and victims’ families, and Judy Woodruff talks to former Deputy Attorney General Jamie Gorelick, former Director of Homeland Security of Oklahoma Kerry Pettingill and Barry Grissom, U.S. attorney for the district of Kansas, for lessons learned from the attack. -PBS NewsHour

On April 19, 1995, Timothy McVeigh, a former soldier deeply influenced by the literature and ideas of the radical right, parked a Ryder truck with a five-ton fertilizer bomb in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal building in Oklahoma City. Moments later, 168 people were killed and 675 were injured in the blast. OKLAHOMA CITY traces the events — including the deadly encounters between American citizens and law enforcement at Ruby Ridge and Waco — that led McVeigh to commit the worst act of domestic terrorism in American history. With a virulent strain of anti-government anger still with us, the film is both a cautionary tale and an extremely timely warning. -YouTube Movies

Related Links:
Oklahoma City Bombing
Oklahoma City Bombing – FBI
Oklahoma City bombing – HISTORY
Oklahoma City Bombing Fast Facts
The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
Oklahoma City National Memorial (U.S. National Park Service)
American Experience PBS Premiered ‘Oklahoma City’: Timothy McVeigh & Terry Nichols Conspired to Bomb the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building (February 7, 2017)
Oxygen Premiered ‘In Defense Of Timothy McVeigh’: Convicted Oklahoma City Bomber Executed by Feds in 2001 for Terrorism (June 25, 2018)

Denise Maney Found Fatally Shot & Stabbed in Palm Springs, California; Marine Veteran Andrew Urdiales Sentenced to Death for Five Murders (March 11, 1995)

On March 11, 1995August 6, 2020 By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military Policy, Scandals, USMC1 Comment

Screen Shot 2017-08-07 at 4.34.58 PM — Denise Maney, Civilian, California

March 11, 1995: Denise Maney, 32, Palm Springs, California

In the News:

The murders occurred when Andrew Urdiales was stationed at various Marine Corps facilities in Southern California. -CBS Los Angeles (October 5, 2018)

Related Links:
48 Hours Mystery: Escape from a Serial Killer
State of Illinois vs. Andrew Urdiales (2007)
OC goes after Illinois serial killer suspect
Serial Killer Wanted for Trial in Saddleback Slayings
Former Pendleton Marine Turned Serial Killer To Be Charged With SoCal Murders
Serial killer charged with 5 murders in SoCal
Triple killer charged in five California murders
Serial killer to face charges in 5 deaths in Southern California
Illinois convict faces charges in 5 California deaths
OCDA finally charges murderer responsible for 1986 Saddleback stabbing
Andrew Urdiales, Serial Killer, Extradited to OC For Killing Saddleback College Student Robbin Brandley
Ex-Marine accused in deaths of 5 Southern Calif. women to be extradited
Ex-Marine indicted in serial murders of five women in California
California Seeks Death for Chicago Serial Killer
Serial Killer’s Brother Called to Testify at California Murder Trial
Ex-Marine Andrew Urdiales Sentenced to Death for California Serial Killings
Serial killer Andrew Urdiales sentenced to death in murders of 5 women in Southern California
Ex-Marine Serial Killer Who Slayed 5 SoCal Women Gets Death Penalty
Andrew Urdiales: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know
Serial killer Andrew Urdiales was a monster masquerading as a marine who nearly got away with murder
Serial killer Andrew Urdiales dies of possible suicide on San Quentin’s death row
Ex-Marine Turned Notorious Serial Killer Commits Suicide On Death Row
‘Eyes of the devil’: Serial killer and mass murderer take own lives on death row
Two death row killers die in apparent suicides over weekend, San Quentin officials say
2 serial killers found dead within hours on California’s death row
24 Years After Encounter With Serial Killer, Woman Still Seeks Justice
10 Killers Who Targeted College Women
Near-victim of serial killer recalls years of struggle after her attack
Timeline: A look back at the Andrew Urdiales murders
Violent Crime, Non Combat Death, and Suicide at Camp Pendleton, California (USMC)
Honoring the Victims of Serial Killer Andrew Urdiales, US Marine Corps, in California and Illinois (1986-1996)
Convicted Serial Killer Andrew Urdiales Died by Suicide in Prison; Found Guilty of 8 Murders in Illinois & California, Sentenced to Death (November 2, 2018)
David Wohl interviews the only survivor of an attack by a confessed serial killer: Part 1
David Wohl interviews the one survivor of serial killer Andrew Urdiales: Part 2

Army OTS Candidate Lisa Gaudenzi Disappeared from Virginia Home; 15 Years Later, Spouse Lawrence Pleaded Guilty to Murder, Sentenced to 25 Years (1995)

On January 26, 1995January 16, 2018 By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Cold Cases, Domestic Violence, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military PolicyLeave a comment

Screen Shot 2018-01-15 at 9.04.45 PM — Lisa Gaudenzi, US Army

Army Officer Training School (OTS) candidate Lisa Gaudenzi, 31, disappeared from her Caroline County residence in Ruther Glen, Virginia on January 26, 1995. Lisa was a married, mother of two children, and was supposed to report for duty in Fort Lee, Virginia but never showed up. Her husband Lawrence Gaudenzi said the last time he saw Lisa was when he dropped her off at the bus station. The military police looked into the absence but after no solid leads, deemed Lisa absent without leave (AWOL); she was eventually dishonorably discharged. After an extensive investigation, spanned over 15 years, Lawrence Gaudenzi was charged with Lisa’s murder on May 16, 2008, despite Lisa’s body never being found.

For no apparent reason, during the middle of his trial, Lawrence Gaudenzi pleaded guilty to second degree in May 2009 and was sentenced to 25 years in prison. Prosecutor’s theorized that Lawrence overheard Lisa tell a friend that she was getting a divorce from Lawrence after OTS. Lisa was tiring of Lawrence’s violence and control issues; she was ready to move on. After about a year in prison, Lawrence Gaudenzi finally led investigators to where he hid Lisa’s body in Spotsylvania County 15 years prior. Virginia State Police found the last of Lisa’s remains on June 9, 2010 and delivered them to her family. Lisa’s AWOL and Army discharge status were upgraded and she was buried with full military honors.

Related Links:
Website: Finding Lisa
Foul Play Suspected in U.S. Army Soldier’s Disappearance
Gaudenzi Arrested for Murder
Man charged in wife’s 1995 Caroline County death
Murder trial set for man charged in missing-person case
‘Cold Case’ Murder Trial Begins
After 14 Years, Murder Trial Starts In Case Of Missing Woman
Lawrence Gaudenzi pleads guilty, gets 25 years in prison
Angry family blasts killer
Husband confesses to hiding wife’s body in drum of acid
Police led to remains of Va. woman
15 years later: Gaudenzi remains found in Spotsy
VSP Brings Closure to 1995 Homicide Case
After 15 years, father finds peace in knowing truth about his murdered daughter
“No-body” Murder Trials in the United States
Lancaster murder trial begins in Spotsylvania County
Day 2 of Lancaster murder trial
Caroline prosecutor wins no-body murder conviction
Happily Never After | Vanishing Bride (Investigation Discovery)
The Perfect Suspect | GI Gone (Investigation Discovery)

A mother of two vanishes the day before she reports for Officer Training School. Her husband claims she ran off with another lover, but her family suspects something much worse. It takes 14 years for the truth to emerge…from the least likely of sources. -The Perfect Suspect

MILITARY JUSTICE FOR ALL

Tag: Murder

Army Veteran James Neal Broke Into Estranged Wife’s Colorado Springs Home & Fatally Shot Danny Richmond; Sentenced to 45 Years in Prison (July 9, 1996)

Navy Petty Officer Elise Makdessi Murdered in Virginia Home; Spouse Eddie Makdessi Found Guilty of Murder, Sentenced to Life in Prison (May 14, 1996)

Navy Petty Officer Quincy Brown Murdered by Military Spouse Eddie Makdessi; Makdessi Motivated to Kill by Wife Elise Makdessi’s $700,000 Life Insurance Policy (May 14, 1996)

Laura Uylaki Found Fatally Shot & Stabbed in Wolf Lake, Illinois; Marine Veteran Andrew Urdiales Sentenced to Death for Two Murders; Commuted to Life in Prison (April 14, 1996)

Michael James & Jackie Burden Gunned Down in North Carolina by Army Privates James Burmeister & Malcolm Wright in Racially Motivated Random Act of Violence (December 7, 1995)

Adrianne Jones Murdered by Air Force Academy Cadet David Graham and Naval Academy Cadet Diane Zamora; Motive Was Jealousy (1995)

Elsie Jennes Found Murdered in House Fire; Army Veteran William Jennes II Pleaded Guilty to 2nd Degree Murder, Sentenced to 48 Years in Prison (July 17, 1995)

Oklahoma City Bombing: 168 People Died in an Act of Domestic Terrorism at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building (April 19, 1995)

Denise Maney Found Fatally Shot & Stabbed in Palm Springs, California; Marine Veteran Andrew Urdiales Sentenced to Death for Five Murders (March 11, 1995)

Army OTS Candidate Lisa Gaudenzi Disappeared from Virginia Home; 15 Years Later, Spouse Lawrence Pleaded Guilty to Murder, Sentenced to 25 Years (1995)

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