Issue 75, February 19, 2024

15-Year-Old Boy Charged in Triple Homicide Case, Community Holds Vigil for Shooting Victim Kevin Parada

February 19, 2024

🕵️Trivia Question

In the United States, capital murder cases are subject to a unique and exhaustive jury selection process known as?
Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

PODCAST: All Killa No Filla | The Unabomber

Embark on a chilling yet comedic journey with comedians Rachel Fairburn and Kiri Pritchard-McLean as they delve into their shared fascination with serial killers.

In part 2 of their Unabomber special, they examine Ted Kaczynski's bombings from 1978 to 1995, interspersed with banter about nostalgic scents, knock-off shoes, and a spooky caller update.

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What’s Happening Now

15-Year-Old Boy Charged with Capital Murder in Triple Homicide Case in Little Rock, Ark.

A 15-year-old boy in Little Rock, Ark., has been charged with capital murder after three people were found shot dead at a home in a central Arkansas community.

The victims were identified as Jacob Martin Sr., Dara Martin, and Aleah Martin.

The suspect, who has not been named, was also charged with arson, abuse of a corpse, and tampering with physical evidence.

The teen is being held without bond.

It is unclear if he is related to the victims.

The bodies were discovered when officers responded to a structure fire in Traskwood, about 35 miles southwest of Little Rock.

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Community Holds Vigil for Shooting Victim Kevin Parada, Two suspects Arrested

On a dark Tuesday night, a vigil was held near Martha Escutia Primary Center in Bell to honor Kevin Parada, one of four individuals shot and killed in southeast Los Angeles County.

Residents gathered around a street sign with Parada's photo and flowers, offering prayers and condolences in Spanish.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department announced the arrest of two suspects in connection with the shootings, believed to be random in nature.

Officials expressed concern over the proximity of the shootings to schools and urged the community to remain vigilant.

Families of the victims mourned their tragic loss and sought assistance to cover funeral expenses.

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⚖️ Safety Tip of the Day: Jury Safety: Ensuring Fairness and Security

If you find yourself invited as a juror, prioritize safety by respecting confidentiality, actively listening to evidence, and maintaining impartiality. Engage in constructive deliberations with fellow jurors, considering different viewpoints to reach a fair verdict. Report any safety concerns or improper behavior to court personnel promptly to ensure a secure and just trial process.

Cold Case Highlights

The Unsolved Murder of Alexandra Wiwcharuk: A Family's Quest for Justice

In 1961, Johnny Cash performed in Saskatoon, Canada, and sang "Girl in Saskatoon" to a local beauty queen named Alexandra Wiwcharuk.

She was found murdered in 1962, and the case remains unsolved.

Alexandra was known for her beauty and outgoing personality, loved by friends and family.

Despite efforts by her nieces to investigate and bring closure, the case has gone cold for nearly 62 years.

The family seeks justice and answers for Alexandra's brutal murder, determined to keep her memory alive and dedicated to solving the case, passing the torch to future generations. 

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Cracking the Cold Case: Detective Hutchison's Innovative Techniques for Justice

Detective Matt Hutchison of the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety in California shares his innovative techniques for solving cold cases that were once deemed unsolvable.

Through advancements in forensic technology and collaborative efforts with the community, law enforcement agencies are experiencing success in bringing long-awaited closure to victims' families and holding perpetrators accountable.

Hutchison's dedication and persistence in investigating cold cases are highlighted in this episode of Policing Matters, emphasizing the importance of never giving up in the relentless pursuit of justice.

The episode also discusses the re-opening of cold cases, technological advancements in forensics, the value of perseverance, collaborative investigative efforts, and creative methods used to solve cases.

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‎PODCAST: Policing Matters | Unlocking Cold Case Mysteries: One Detective's Quest for Justice

‎The resolution of cold cases offers hope and justice amid challenging criminal investigations. Detective Matt Hutchison shares his innovative approach to solving long-standing crimes on the Policing Matters podcast.

Through persistence and forensic advancements, law enforcement brings closure to victims' families, showcasing the transformative power of dedication and collaboration.

Listen Now

🔍Trivia Answer
'Voir Dire’

"Voir dire" is a French term that translates to "to speak the truth." In the legal context, it refers to the process of questioning potential jurors to determine their suitability and impartiality for serving on a jury in a trial. During voir dire, attorneys from both sides ask questions to assess jurors' biases, experiences, and qualifications to ensure a fair and impartial jury is selected for the trial. This process aims to ensure a fair and impartial jury capable of deciding the defendant's guilt or innocence, as well as any potential punishment, including the death penalty