The case of Stephen Scher and Martin Dillon is a complex and tragic tale involving betrayal, murder, and the pursuit of justice over several decades. It centers on the 1976 death of Martin Dillon, a well-respected environmentalist, who was initially believed to have accidentally shot himself during a skeet shooting trip with his close friend, Dr. Stephen Scher. However, suspicions quickly arose due to Scher's affair with Dillon's wife, Patricia, and his subsequent marriage to her shortly after Dillon's death.

Despite the doubts surrounding Scher's account, the case was initially ruled an accidental death, and no charges were filed. It wasn't until nearly 20 years later, in 1995, that the case was reopened due to persistent doubts and new forensic evidence that suggested foul play. The evidence contradicted Scher's version of events, indicating that Dillon had been shot at close range, which was inconsistent with an accidental discharge.

In 1996, Scher was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. The prosecution argued that Scher had intentionally killed Dillon to continue his affair with Patricia and eliminate him as an obstacle. Scher was convicted in 1997, but the conviction was later overturned on appeal due to procedural issues.

In 2008, Scher was retried, and the forensic evidence played a crucial role in disproving his claims of an accidental shooting. Once again, he was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Scher remained incarcerated until his death.

The case highlights the importance of forensic science in uncovering the truth and demonstrates how persistence in seeking justice can eventually bring closure, even many years after a crime has been committed.