Deadly Divorce, Part 2 – A Detailed Summary

Podcast: 48 Hours
Host: CBS News
Episode: Deadly Divorce, Part 2
Release Date: March 27, 2025

Introduction

In the gripping two-part series titled "Deadly Divorce, Part 2," CBS News' award-winning correspondents delve deep into a harrowing case that has captivated the Reno community and beyond. This episode unravels the complex narrative surrounding Darren Mack, a multimillionaire accused of brutally murdering his wife, Charla Mack, and attempting to assassinate Judge Chuck Weller. The story is a poignant exploration of domestic turmoil, legal battles, and the quest for justice.

Case Background

Darren Mack, once perceived as a successful and affluent individual, found himself entangled in a tumultuous divorce with his wife, Charla Mack. Their marriage, which had previously been described as part of an "alternative lifestyle" involving swinging and sex parties, descended into acrimony without any semblance of love or respect.

Narrator: "There was absolutely no love in that garage that morning. There was bitter, bitter hate." (Timestamp: 07:15)

Their divorce proceedings were contentious, marked by relentless battles over finances and custody, under the stern oversight of Judge Chuck Weller. The animosity between Darren and Charla intensified, laying the groundwork for the tragic events that would unfold.

The Day of the Murder

On the morning of June 12th, a series of horrifying events shook the community:

1. Charla Mack's Murder: At approximately 11:05 AM in their Reno condominium complex, Charla was brutally stabbed to death in her garage. The brutality of the attack left the community in shock, with evidence pointing towards a slow and painful demise.

2. Judge Weller's Assassination Attempt: Mere hours later, at around 11:55 AM, a sniper's bullet struck Judge Weller in downtown Reno, critically injuring him. Initially unrelated in public perception, these two crimes were soon believed to be interconnected through Darren Mack.

Alicia Bitison, a friend and girlfriend of Darren Mack, provided crucial testimony linking Darren to both crimes. She revealed that Darren had legitimately met her at a shooting range just before the murders, unaware of her impending role as a witness.

Alicia Bitison: "When I didn't reach him, I immediately texted messaged him saying, you know, Judge Weller's been shot. Call me." (Timestamp: 20:45)

The Trial

Over a year later, Darren Mack's trial commenced, presenting two starkly different narratives from the prosecution and the defense.

Prosecution's Case

Prosecutor Robert Daskas outlined a compelling case against Darren Mack, emphasizing the premeditation and deliberate actions leading to both murders.

• Divorce Proceedings: The prosecution highlighted the heated exchanges in the courtroom, showcasing recordings that depicted the Mac's bitter divorce battle. Darren's disrespectful demeanor and refusal to comply with financial obligations were central to the state's argument.

  Prosecutor Daskas: "Darren Mack is essentially, you know, he's a spoiled brat. He got everything he ever wanted. And now he found himself in family court." (Timestamp: 35:30)

• Connection to Judge Weller: The chilling advice from host William Wagner to Darren during a cable access interview, suggesting that murdering his spouse and pleading insanity could result in a lighter sentence, was presented as evidence of Darren's calculated planning.

  Prosecutor Daskas: "He had a script basically laying out what's going to happen in a murder case." (Timestamp: 40:10)

Defense's Case

Defense Attorney Scott Freeman painted a picture of Darren as a victim of domestic abuse, asserting that Charla was the aggressor who instigated the fatal confrontation.

• Self-Defense Argument: The defense contended that Darren acted in self-defense during the altercation in the garage. Darren claimed that Charla attacked him, leading him to protect himself, which unfortunately resulted in her death.

  Darren Mack: "It was she, Darren says, who attacked him." (Timestamp: 50:20)

• Insanity Defense for Judge Weller's Shooting: For the attempted murder of Judge Weller, the defense introduced an insanity plea, suggesting that Darren was in a delusional state driven by aura of contempt towards the judge.

  Defense Attorney Freeman: "Darren Mack is not insane. It's an absolute joke what they did." (Timestamp: 1:05:40)

Key Testimonies

Alicia Bitison's testimony was pivotal, establishing a timeline and Darren's potential involvement in both murders. Additionally, testimonies from friends and family members shed light on Darren's state of mind and the toxic dynamics of his marriage.

Alicia Bitison: "I couldn't believe any of it. This can't be happening." (Timestamp: 22:10)

Judge Chuck Weller, in an unprecedented move, took the stand to address defamatory remarks made about him online, attempting to clear his name and provide context to his professional conduct during the divorce proceedings.

Judge Weller: "I'm diligent about my job, sir. I review the file before I go to court." (Timestamp: 1:30:50)

Verdict and Sentencing

After weeks of intense courtroom drama, Darren Mack made a shocking decision to accept a guilty plea for the murder of Charla Mack and attempted murder of Judge Weller. This plea was aimed at securing a better chance at parole by acknowledging his wrongdoing.

Judge Herndon: "Darren Mack will be 83 years old before he is eligible for parole." (Timestamp: 2:10:05)

However, just three weeks later, Darren experienced buyer's remorse, seeking to withdraw his plea, accusing his former attorneys of coercion and maladministration. This unexpected turn led to a legal tug-of-war, but ultimately, the motion to withdraw the plea was denied, solidifying his life sentence.

Aftermath

The case concluded with a $560 million settlement awarded to Darren and Charla Mack's daughter, Erica, in a wrongful death suit. The familial devastation was palpable, with Erica now left to navigate life without both parents.

Narrator: "A child without her mother and now without her father for a great many years is going to need a whole lot from both sides of the aisle." (Timestamp: 2:35:20)

The community grappled with the dual tragedies, reflecting on the perils of unresolved domestic conflicts and the profound impact of judicial adversities.

Conclusion

"Deadly Divorce, Part 2" serves as a poignant reminder of the destructive potential of unresolved personal and legal conflicts. Through meticulous reporting and in-depth analysis, 48 Hours presents a comprehensive account of Darren Mack's descent from affluence to incarceration, underscored by themes of love, betrayal, and the quest for justice. The episode not only chronicles a dark chapter in Reno's history but also raises questions about the efficacy of the family court system and the profound effects of personal trauma on individuals' actions.

Notable Quotes

• Narrator: "Nobody disputes that Charla was there that morning in Darren's garage to drop off her daughter." (Timestamp: 05:10)

• Darren Mack: "I loved her as deeply as a man can love a woman. And when it wasn't that way, it was as painful as anything I've ever experienced." (Timestamp: 1:00:15)

• Charla Mack's Final Song: "You think you've got it figured out. Smile, honey." (Timestamp: 2:50:45)

Impact and Reflections

This case highlights the intricate interplay between personal relationships and the legal system. It underscores the necessity for effective conflict resolution mechanisms and the profound consequences when they break down. The somber verdict and life sentence for Darren Mack serve as a stern reminder of accountability, while the substantial settlement underscores the long-lasting effects on the innocent, particularly children caught in the crossfire.

48 Hours continues to shed light on such complex cases, offering listeners a window into the multifaceted world of crime and justice, ensuring that stories like Darren Mack's are not forgotten but serve as lessons for society.