Issue 246, October 15, 2024

Felony Murder Suspect Posed as Utility Worker in Rochester Hills Attack, New Evidence Revealed in Menendez Brothers Appeal

October 15, 2024

🕵️Trivia Question

What is the felony murder rule, and how does it apply in the United States?
Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

PODCAST: Snapped: Women Who Murder | Barbara Burns

The body of a Florida woman has been discovered in an abandoned trailer.

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What’s Happening Now

Felony Murder Suspect Posed as Utility Worker in Rochester Hills Attack

Carlos Jose Hernandez, 37, was arrested and charged with felony murder and unlawful imprisonment in connection with the gruesome attack in Rochester Hills, Michigan.

He posed as a utility worker to gain entry to a home, where he and another suspect killed a man, tied up his wife, and stole valuables.

The woman managed to call 911, and Hernandez was arrested in Louisiana, with another suspect arrested in Michigan.

The suspects may have known the victims owned a jewelry and pawn shop.

DTE Energy warned against allowing impostors into homes, urging people to verify credentials.

Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald called it a brutal crime deserving of harsh punishment.

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UPDATE: District Attorney Gascon Reveals New Evidence in Menendez Brothers Case for Appeal

Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon revealed new evidence in the Menendez brothers case as they appeal their 1989 murder convictions.

Gascon released a letter from Erik Menendez alleging abuse from his father, Jose Menendez, before the killings.

Gascon aims to reevaluate their case after 35 years in prison, emphasizing the need for justice.

Additional evidence includes a former Menudo member's claim of being assaulted by Jose Menendez.

The brothers admitted to the murders, citing abuse, while prosecutors argued their motive was financial gain.

Both are serving life sentences, with growing support for a new review of their case.

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👁️Safety Tip of the Day: Be aware of the legal consequences of participating in dangerous activities.

Understanding this rule emphasizes the importance of making safe and responsible choices. Engaging in criminal activity not only puts your life at risk but can also lead to severe legal consequences for you and others involved. Stay informed and think twice before participating in any risky behavior to protect yourself and those around you.

Cold Case Highlights

California Woman Missing for 50 Years Identified Through DNA Evidence, Possible Zodiac Killer Connection Remains Unresolved

A California woman missing for over 50 years has been identified through DNA evidence.

Donna Lass, a 25-year-old nurse, disappeared in September 1970 in South Lake Tahoe.

A skull found 15 years later was linked to her through DNA.

The case had remained unsolved for decades, with theories suggesting involvement of the Zodiac Killer.

The South Lake Tahoe Police Department informed Lass' family of the discovery.

The sheriff’s office expressed gratitude for the closure brought to the family and hopes for further progress in cold cases.

Questions about Lass' cause of death and possible connections to the Zodiac Killer remain unanswered.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the authorities.

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Long Unsolved Murders in Kansas City Linked to Trucker through DNA Evidence

In Kansas City, two women were murdered around 25 years ago but the killer was never caught.

Recently, Gary Dion Davis, a trucker, has been linked to the murders through DNA evidence.

Police believe he could be a serial killer and may have killed others.

Davis has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder.

The families of the victims, Christina King and Pearl Barnes, may finally get some closure if Davis is convicted.

The Kansas City police have started a cold case unit in 2022 and have identified suspects from 11 cold cases, including those of King and Barnes.

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PODCAST: Morbid | The DeFeo Family Murder

On November 13, 1974, Ronald DeFeo Jr. rushed into Henry’s Bar in Amityville, shouting for help and claiming someone killed his parents. A group found his family shot in their beds. DeFeo later confessed, claiming he couldn’t stop shooting. Convicted in 1975, his case led to infamous supernatural claims.

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🔍Trivia Answer
The felony murder rule charges murder if death occurs during a felony.

Under the felony murder rule, if a person commits a felony (such as robbery, arson, or burglary) and someone dies as a result—whether it’s a victim, a co-felon, or a police-officer the perpetrator can be charged with murder. This rule aims to hold individuals accountable for the foreseeable consequences of their criminal actions. The application of this rule varies by state, with some states imposing harsher penalties than others. For example, in many jurisdictions, a defendant can face life imprisonment for felony murder, regardless of their intent to kill.