Issue 110, April 08, 2024

Infant Remains Found at Waste Facility, Execution of Michael Dewayne Smith Sparks Debate Over Death Penalty

🕵️^{Trivia Question}

What is the term commonly used to describe the crime of killing one's own infant shortly after birth?
Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

‎PODCAST: Dateline | After the Verdict: Lauren’s Promise

In October 2018, Lauren McCluskey, 21, was murdered by her ex-boyfriend at the University of Utah despite reports of stalking. Her parents vowed to prevent similar tragedies. In an interview, Jill McCluskey discusses campus safety measures and the global impact of the foundation established in Lauren's memory.

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What’s Happening Now

Infant Remains Found at West Palm Beach Waste Facility, Investigation Underway

Authorities in West Palm Beach discovered the remains of an infant at a Solid Waste Authority facility on April 2.

The discovery was made by a worker who found body parts that appeared to be from an infant.

Detectives have been searching through garbage at the facility for additional remains, but no other remains have been found.

The investigation is ongoing to identify the infant's remains, with surveillance video and truck movement being reviewed.

Those with information on the case are encouraged to contact authorities.

Execution of Michael Dewayne Smith in Oklahoma Sparks Debate Over Death Penalty

Michael Dewayne Smith, convicted of killing two people in Oklahoma over two decades ago, was executed, marking the state's first execution of the year.

Smith, sentenced to death for the murders of Janet Moore and Sharath Pulluru, received a lethal injection at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary and was declared dead at 10:20 a.m.

Smith maintained his innocence but previous confessions led to his conviction.

Appeals for clemency were denied and the execution proceeded swiftly.

The state's resumption of capital punishment in 2021 followed concerns over bungled executions.

Smith's case adds to the ongoing debate over the death penalty in Oklahoma.

🚘Safety Tip of the Day: Avoid Drive-By Shootings

A safety tip to avoid drive-by shootings is to be aware of your surroundings and stay vigilant while in public spaces, especially in areas with a history of violence. If you notice any suspicious vehicles or individuals approaching, quickly move to a safe location and alert authorities if necessary. Additionally, avoiding confrontations and conflicts with others can help reduce the risk of becoming a target in drive-by shootings.

Cold Case Highlights

Governor Newsom Offers Rewards for Unsolved Murders in California

Gov. Gavin Newsom announced four $50,000 rewards for information on the unsolved murders of Alan Schwalbe in Costa Mesa, Gregory Ruffin, and Lamontee Stevenson in San Diego, and Victoria Barrios in Santa Ana.

Barrios, an 18-year-old girl, was killed in a drive-by shooting in Santa Ana in 2019.

The case remains unsolved, with investigators suspecting it was gang-related.

Newsom's reward, paired with another from the Santa Ana Police Department, aims to encourage witnesses to come forward.

The victim's mother pleads for justice and urges anyone with information to speak up.

Other cases include Schwalbe's stabbing death in 1993 and the shootings of Ruffin and Stevenson in San Diego in 2019.

Contact information for providing tips to law enforcement is provided.

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Unsolved Tragedies: A Mother's Quest for Justice and Community Support

Veronica Zastro proudly displays a necklace in memory of her son, Mateo Zastro, who was tragically shot to death at 3 years old on September 29, 2022.

Despite the devastating loss, no one has been charged with his murder.

Mateo was one of 120 children under 16 who lost their lives to gun violence in Chicago since 2018, with 85 cases remaining unsolved.

His mother, burdened with grief, continues to seek justice for her son, questioning if his memory has faded for others.

The high rate of unsolved murders of children highlights the urgent need for improved homicide clearance rates and community support.

PODCAST: ‎Morbid | Marie Robards

Steven Robards, 38, died in 1993, initially believed to be a heart attack. The truth emerged when his daughter Marie confessed to her friend that she'd murdered him using chemicals from her school's lab. The rare case shocked Fort Worth, sparking debate over Marie's motives and eventual conviction.

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🔍^{Trivia Answer}
Neonaticide

Neonaticide refers to the act of killing a newborn infant within the first 24 hours of life. This tragic crime often occurs due to factors such as fear, denial of pregnancy, mental illness, or extreme stress. Neonaticide cases are rare but deeply troubling, highlighting the need for support systems and resources for vulnerable mothers facing unexpected pregnancies.