Bear Brook: The Pursuit Season 2, Episode Release Date: February 27, 2023

Introduction

In "The Pursuit," the second episode of Bear Brook's critically acclaimed second season, host Jason Moon delves deep into the perplexing case of Sharon Johnson’s murder and the subsequent investigation that has left many questioning the integrity of the criminal justice system. This episode meticulously unpacks the complexities surrounding Kerry Carroll’s wrongful conviction, exploring whether true justice can ever be served years after the fact.

Background of the Case

Sharon Johnson was brutally murdered in July 1988, with her body discovered near Bear Brook State Park. The evidence was circumstantial at best, leading authorities to focus suspicion on her husband, Ken Johnson. Despite Ken’s tumultuous reputation and lack of a solid alibi, concrete evidence against him was scarce, centering primarily on a dubious confession he had made years earlier.

Key Characters

• Sharon Johnson: The victim whose mysterious death sparked one of New Hampshire’s most enduring cold cases.

• Ken Johnson: Sharon’s husband, whose questionable behavior and unresolved alibis made him the prime suspect. His gambling debts and alleged creation of a fictional individual named "Bob" further complicated the investigation.

• Detective Roland Lammy: A seasoned detective likened to TV icons like Kojak, Lammy is portrayed as relentless and intuitive, determined to uncover the truth behind Sharon’s death.

• Tony Puff: A 19-year-old connected to Ken through Ken’s adopted daughter, Lisa Johnson. Initially brought in as part of a sting operation, Tony’s revelations become pivotal in unraveling the case.

Investigation Steps and Findings

Detective Lammy took charge of the investigation in January 1989, bringing his unconventional methods to the forefront. Early on, Lammy focused on two primary mysteries:

1. The elusive figure named "Bob," who allegedly owed Sharon and Ken $4,000.
2. The perplexing disappearance and eventual relocation of Sharon’s green Subaru.

Despite extensive efforts, these leads remained unanswered until Tony Puff came into the picture. Initially considered a suspect with his own troubled past, Tony was later enlisted by Lammy to wear a wire and help trap Ken Johnson. However, the sting operation in Warwick, Rhode Island, failed to yield the desired results, leading Lammy to question the validity of his leads and the authenticity of the testimonies involved.

Notable Insights and Developments

• The Kojak Comparison: Lammy’s intimidating presence and relentless pursuit drew comparisons to the fictional detective Kojak. As Lammy himself noted, “All I could think of was, remember” (05:18), highlighting his methodical and somewhat theatrical approach to investigation.

• Suspicion Around Ken Johnson: Friends and family of Sharon exhibited widespread distrust towards Ken. Claims of his controlling nature, failed business ventures, and abusive behavior painted him as a likely suspect. For instance, Sharon’s friend Connie Howard recounted, “I had my own questions for Ken, so I did invite him over. I was anxious just to have him in my house” (19:51).

• Tony Puff’s Revelation: The turning point came when Tony admitted under pressure that Ken had asked him to move Sharon’s car. This confession (26:30) provided the first tangible lead, although subsequent attempts to use it against Ken faltered, prompting Lammy to suspect a deeper conspiracy.

• Oedipus Rex Parallel: Lammy’s chalkboard quote, “He escapes who is not pursued” (07:10), drawn from Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex, subtly foreshadows the detective’s obsessive quest for truth, mirroring Oedipus's own tragic journey.

Cliffhanger and Ongoing Mystery

As the episode concludes, Lammy remains undeterred, convinced that there are deeper layers to Ken Johnson’s involvement and Tony Puff’s role in the case. The unresolved nature of Tony’s cooperation and the lingering questions about Ken’s innocence set the stage for future revelations.

Notable Quotes

• Detective Lammy: “It’s not about being reckless. It was about really caring. If a detective arrives at a murder scene and isn’t moved by what he sees, he should be out on the highway catching speeders.” (35:00)

• Sharon Johnson’s Friend, Connie Howard: “I was anxious just to have him in my house.” (19:51)

• Tony Puff’s Letter: “I sometimes feel like blowing my brains out. One day I will get fucked up enough to do it.” (33:47)

Conclusion

"The Pursuit" serves as a gripping exploration of a cold case that intertwines personal vendettas, flawed investigative techniques, and the enduring quest for justice. With each revelation, Bear Brook encourages listeners to ponder the complexities of truth and the profound impact of unresolved mysteries on all those involved.

Credits

• Produced by: Jason Moon
• Edited by: Katie Colinari
• Additional Reporting: Paul Cuno Booth
• Special Thanks: Professors Paul Christison, Francis Dunn, and Kirk Ormond for their expertise on the Sophocles translation.

For more detailed timelines and additional resources, listeners are encouraged to visit bearbrookpodcast.com.