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.