The Murder Book: A True Crime Podcast

How does a high-profile murder investigation hit a brick wall? The case of Stanley Cohen's murder in Miami is a tangled web of conflicting testimonies and elusive evidence. Prosecutors David Waksman and later Kevin DeGregory and John Castrinakis grapple with the complexities of unreliable witnesses and the challenge of linking Joyce Cohen to the crime. As new strategies emerge, the spotlight turns to the arrest of Tommy Lamberti, believed to be a key conspirator. This episode delves into the relentless pursuit of justice and the intricate obstacles faced in solving this case.

Join us on a riveting journey as defense attorney Alan Ross faces the mounting challenges in Joyce Cohen's legal battle. Despite her claims of innocence, Ross prepares for a fierce courtroom showdown, piecing together public records and anticipated evidence. The stakes rise as prosecutors build a circumstantial case, weaving together gunpowder residue and other physical clues to sway the grand jury. Witness the unfolding tension and drama as the indictment draws near, setting the stage for a gripping legal saga.

The episode reaches a climax with Joyce Cohen's arrest in Chesapeake, capturing the stark contrast between her past and present. Detectives Spear and Andrew's strategic planning leads to her surrender, bringing an emotional response from those who have long awaited justice. To lighten the intensity, we feature an insightful conversation with Martha Villacorta, chief administrator at the Broadwater Correctional Institution. Her thoughtful yet humorous perspectives on managing a women's prison add a unique layer to the narrative, offering listeners a blend of crime, justice, and the human stories intertwined within.

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What if a gang inspired by a Chuck Norris movie held the key to a shocking murder mystery? Join us as we unravel the twists and turns of Detective Spear's intense investigation into the murder of Stanley Cohen. We start with a gripping interview in Broward County with Frank Angelo Zuccarello, a member of the notorious Riccitelli gang, who reveals chilling details about the crime, inconsistencies and all, and implicates several key figures, including Joyce Cohen and her boyfriend Lynn Barkley. Despite Zuccarello's fluctuating narratives, his cooperation offers a glimpse into the dark underbelly of organized crime and the strategic maneuvers within plea bargaining.

In our second segment, you'll be on the edge of your seat as Detective Rios meticulously extracts the truth from Zuccarello, leading to a harrowing confession. Zuccarello admits his role in a murder plot orchestrated by Joyce Cohen, painting a vivid picture of the planning and execution of Stan Cohen’s murder. From the strategic meetings to the chilling details of the crime, this confession propels the investigation forward, revealing the disturbing orchestration behind the fatal act and providing a significant breakthrough for the detectives.

The episode also delves into the relentless pursuit of justice by the detectives, despite numerous obstacles. Listen as we discuss the suspicions of Jerry Cohen-Huffman, the legal battles faced by Stan's children, and the relentless effort to link Joyce Cohen to the crime. We also explore Joyce's life post-murder, her budding romance with Robert Dietrich, and the ongoing legal disputes over Stan's estate. With a compelling mix of legal drama and personal turmoil, this episode leaves you questioning the true extent of Joyce Cohen's involvement in her husband's death. Prepare for an intense journey through one of the most complex murder investigations we've ever covered.

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What does it take to unravel the dark secrets behind a murder that seems more complex with every clue? Join us in this gripping episode of The Murder Book as we peel back the layers of Stanley Cohen's chilling murder case. This week, we shine a spotlight on Ben Abernathy, Stan's protege, whose unsettling conversations with Stan about infamous murder cases, including the notorious Musler murder, offer a haunting foreshadowing. Detective John Spear's relentless chase for truth takes him to Nashville, where a revealing interview with country singer Tanya Tucker exposes Joyce Cohen's profound unhappiness in her marriage and her desperate desire for financial freedom.

Our investigation intensifies as we scrutinize the enigmatic Joyce Cohen, whose volatile marriage to Stan was marred by jealousy, infidelity, and wild partying. We examine the tangled web of relationships, including Stan's candid confessions to Carol Hughes about Joyce's destructive behavior. Detectives piece together inconsistencies in Joyce's story, unveiling potential motives that place her at the heart of this meticulously planned crime. Lynn Barkley's role as a person of interest adds another layer of intrigue, though he ultimately clears his name through a polygraph test.

Despite Joyce's apparent exoneration through polygraph tests and the conclusion of Detective Dixon, prosecutor David Waxman remains skeptical. This episode takes you through the conflicting testimonies and unresolved suspicions, highlighting the ongoing quest for justice. From Frank Wheatley's chilling recount of Joyce's wild partying and financial demands to Kathy Dickett's sworn statement about Joyce's lifestyle, the narrative winds through a maze of jealousy, betrayal, and persistent doubt. Tune in as we navigate this labyrinth of intrigue and uncover the intricate layers of Stanley Cohen's murder mystery.

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Could the result of a polygraph test be the key to solving a murder case? Join us as we examine the high-stakes journey of Joyce Cohen, who is accused of killing her husband, Stan Cohen. We dive into the meticulous efforts of her defense attorney, Alan Ross, who enlists the reputable George B. Slattery Sr. to administer a polygraph test. Despite initial skepticism, Slattery’s rigorous approach aims to uncover the truth behind Joyce's claims of innocence amidst erratic breathing and focus challenges.

As we move through the detailed procedures of the polygraph test, you'll get an inside look at the obstacles Slattery faces while trying to ensure accurate results. Joyce's initial inconclusive results add to the tension, leading to a nail-biting second attempt that she manages to pass. This milestone prompts Ross to plan a strategic press conference, only for the situation to take an unexpected turn when detectives demand an additional polygraph for Joyce. The episode encapsulates the intricate world of polygraph testing and the relentless pursuit of truth in a sensational murder trial.

Beyond the courtroom, we also touch on the contentious legal battles over Stan Cohen’s estate, valued initially at $13 million but burdened with debts. The strained relationships between Joyce and her stepchildren, Gabby and Jerry, further complicate the narrative. Personal stories of betrayal, suspicion, and resilience emerge, painting a vivid picture of the emotional and financial turmoil following Stan’s death. Don't miss this captivating episode that combines legal drama, personal conflict, and the relentless quest for justice.

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¿Qué sucede cuando el amor se convierte en una trampa mortal? En el episodio de hoy de The Murder Book en Español, exploramos la perturbadora historia de Nanny, conocida como "La Viuda Negra". Comenzamos con el regreso de Charlie a su hogar en el verano de 1928, lleno de resentimientos y tensiones acumuladas hacia Nanny. Su decisión de echarla de la casa familiar es una mezcla de nostalgia y desprecio, mientras que Nanny se marcha con una dignidad que deja a Charlie con un amargo vacío.

A medida que navegamos por la vida de Nanny, descubrimos su lucha por encontrar el amor y la independencia en un mundo que constantemente la defrauda. Desde su trabajo en fábricas hasta la atención masculina que recibe, Nanny se enfrenta a sus miedos y errores pasados con cautela. La trágica relación con Frank durante los últimos días de la Ley Seca nos muestra un matrimonio sacudido por el alcohol y la violencia, llevando a Nanny a tomar decisiones extremas para mantener las apariencias.

La saga familiar de Nanny se profundiza con su hija Melvina y el nacimiento trágico de su nieto Robert Lee Haynes. En el hospital, Nanny emerge como una figura protectora, dominando la situación. Sin embargo, la desesperación y el control la llevan a una noche sin dormir, donde el veneno para ratas se convierte en su herramienta de escape. Acompáñennos en este viaje oscuro y fascinante, mientras desentrañamos los lazos de amor y tragedia que han definido a "La Viuda Negra".

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What leads a family to suspect one of their own in the midst of mourning? This episode of "The Murder Book" takes you through the emotional whirlwind following Stan Cohen's shocking murder. From the moment the Miami Herald splashes Joyce Cohen's name across its front page, suspicion falls squarely on her shoulders, much to the dismay of her attorney, Alan Ross. Detectives John Speer and Sylvia Romans painstakingly gather evidence, examining a handgun found at the crime scene, only to find it wiped clean. Their quest for answers drives them back to the Cohen residence, as the tension between forensic investigation and personal grief intensifies.

Stan Cohen's family is left to pick up the pieces, and the strain rocks the very foundations of their relationships. Dr. Whetley's autopsy uncovers pivotal details about Stan's final moments, while CJ Levenstein takes on the grim task of cleaning the crime scene to spare his loved ones further pain. The friction between Joyce and her stepsons, Gary and Jerry, reaches a boiling point as they demand her cooperation with the police. The narrative captures the profound sorrow and suspicion enveloping the Cohen family, painting a portrait of a family on the brink.

The aftermath of Stan's funeral sees emotions running higher than ever. Rabbi Michael Elson, Gary, and the rest of the family grapple with the customs of mourning, while whispers continue to question Joyce's role in her husband's death. Len Levenstein's heartfelt eulogy stirs the mourners, and Joyce's son Sean spirals into troubling behavior. This episode brings you closer to the raw heartache and suspicions that fracture a once close-knit family, forever altered by a tragic and untimely loss.

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¿Qué harías si todo tu mundo se desmoronara tras tu boda soñada? En este episodio de "La Viuda Negra", te llevamos a través de la desgarradora transición de Nanme Doss desde la ilusión de su matrimonio con Charlie hasta la oscura realidad de vivir bajo el mismo techo que una suegra controladora. La noche de bodas fallida es solo el comienzo de un calvario doméstico donde cada tarea debe ser perfecta según las exigencias de su suegra. La presión emocional y el agotamiento pronto se convierten en la nueva normalidad para Nani, revelando una vida de matrimonio mucho más complicada de lo que alguna vez imaginó.

Pero la lucha de Nani no termina ahí. Nos sumergimos en la espiral de desolación que enfrenta al criar a sus cuatro hijas mientras su esposo busca consuelo en brazos ajenos. Cada día es una prueba de resistencia emocional y física, mientras Nannie intenta mantener una apariencia de perfección ante la sociedad. Con una hija en la que deposita todas sus esperanzas y un hogar que se desmorona a su alrededor, su batalla contra la soledad y el desequilibrio es constante. Acompáñanos en esta narrativa conmovedora y profunda, donde cada detalle revela la lucha interna y la desesperación de una mujer que solo quiere lo mejor para sus hijas.

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Imagine receiving a call that shatters your world in an instant. This episode of Murder Book plunges you into the heart-wrenching events of March 7, 1986, when the tight-knit community of Coconut Grove awoke to the shocking news of Stan Cohen's murder. We'll guide you through the frantic moments experienced by Anne Sheldon and the Levensteins as they converge on the crime scene, discovering a neighborhood gripped by fear and confusion. Experience the raw, emotional turmoil as friends and family grapple with the unthinkable tragedy that has befallen them.

As the investigation unfolds, we explore the tangled web of emotions and clues surrounding Joyce Cohen's frantic account of an intruder and her husband's brutal injury. Detective Spear faces the daunting task of unraveling inconsistencies while confronting Joyce's emotional collapse. Hear how Officer Edward Golden's discovery of a .34 caliber Smith Wesson revolver becomes the pivotal piece of evidence, meticulously documented by forensic technician Sylvia Romans amid a flurry of disruptions. Tune in as we piece together this intricate puzzle, revealing the painstaking efforts of law enforcement to bring clarity to that haunting night.

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What happens when a criminal defense attorney crosses the line from defending clients to joining their illicit activities? Our latest Murder Book episode explores the gripping story of Stan Cohen’s life and untimely death, set against the backdrop of Miami’s 1980s underworld. We'll introduce you to two criminal defense attorneys with very different approaches: the ethical powerhouse Alan Ross and the dangerously entangled Frank Lino Diaz. Discover how the lucrative drug trade blurred the lines between legality and crime, ultimately shaping Miami's legal landscape.

Stan Cohen built a thriving career in Miami’s booming construction industry. His journey from high school hallways to university frat houses laid the foundation for lifelong friendships and professional success. Alongside his business partner and fraternity brother Marvin Sheldon, Stan's SAC Construction Company left a lasting mark on Miami's skyline. But while his career soared, his personal life was a rollercoaster of marriages, bachelor escapades, and loyal connections with friends like Len Levenstein. 

When love struck, Stan’s whirlwind romance with Joyce MacDillon led to an elegant wedding that seamlessly blended their differing traditions. Their life in Coconut Grove, filled with family and fraternity bonds, was highlighted by unforgettable fraternity spearfishing tournaments. The shared adventures and enduring friendships within the  fraternity painted a picture of camaraderie and loyalty. Tune in to uncover how these elements of Stan’s life set the stage for the dramatic events that ensued.

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¿Qué sucede cuando la desesperación y la pobreza se entrelazan en una pequeña comunidad rural? En este episodio de The Murder Book en Español, nos adentramos en la vida de James Hustle, un joven granjero que hereda una tierra en ruinas, y Lou Hassell, una mujer embarazada y abandonada por su familia. Ambos enfrentan la exclusión social y la miseria en Blue Mountain, luchando por encontrar un rayo de esperanza en medio de la adversidad. Las historias de James y Lou se entrelazan para mostrar la cruda realidad de la vida rural y las complejidades de las relaciones humanas en tiempos de desesperación.

A continuación, exploramos la trágica historia de Nani, una niña de siete años que sufre un accidente devastador que cambia su vida para siempre. Bajo el cuidado severo de James, Nani enfrenta dolores físicos y emocionales que la llevan a desarrollar un profundo odio hacia él. Este capítulo expone la brutalidad de su existencia y la falta de compasión en su entorno, creando una imagen vívida de su sufrimiento en la granja Hustle. La miseria y el dolor moldean su carácter y su destino de una manera que nadie podría haber anticipado.

Finalmente, descubrimos el ascenso de Nanny en Blue Mountain, donde su valentía y determinación la llevan a escapar de la opresión familiar y encontrar su lugar en la fábrica de hilos de lino. Con el tiempo, Nanny se convierte en una figura clave en su comunidad, pero su deseo de control y liberación la conducen a un oscuro camino. Acompáñanos mientras desentrañamos su plan para liberarse a través del matrimonio con Charlie, y cómo estas experiencias la transforman en una asesina en serie. Este episodio está lleno de tragedia, esperanza y metamorfosis personal, ofreciendo una mirada detallada a las decisiones y circunstancias que moldearon la vida de Nanny. ¡No te pierdas este fascinante relato!

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