Jeremy | Chapter 6 - Walk Down that Road

Summary

Bone Valley: Chapter 6 - Walk Down that Road

Release Date: May 7, 2025 | Host: Gilbert King | Production: Lava for Good Podcasts in association with Signal Co. No1

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Introduction

In Episode 6, titled "Walk Down that Road," of the groundbreaking podcast Bone Valley, host Gilbert King continues his deep dive into the wrongful conviction of Leo Scofield for the 1987 murder of Michelle Schofield. This chapter unravels new developments that not only vindicate Leo but also expose Jeremy Scott, a previously unidentified individual who has confessed to multiple murders, including that of Michelle. King, renowned for his Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative work, navigates the emotional and legal labyrinth surrounding this case, providing listeners with a compelling narrative of justice, forgiveness, and redemption.

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Reconnecting with Leo Scofield

The episode opens with Gilbert King recounting his return to Polk County in December 2024 to discuss his reporting in Central Florida. Amidst the Christmas decorations in downtown Lakeland, he unexpectedly encounters Leo Scofield outside the Polk Theater.

Gilbert King (02:48): "There was Leo surprising me. He had a big smile on his face and we hugged right there on the street."

King narrates their walk into the theater where Leo is greeted warmly by fans. This reunion sets the stage for Leo's public appearance where he shares his life post-incarceration.

Gilbert King (03:17): "This was a very surreal moment for me because I was just sitting there thinking."

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Leo's Motorcycle Accident

Shortly after his appearance, Leo suffers a devastating motorcycle accident, leading to severe injuries. King details Leo's hospitalization and the impact it has on his rehabilitation and daily life.

Gilbert King (04:00): "Leo told me the pain was unbearable. With plates and screws now holding his body together, he worried about whether he'd ever walk again, let alone play guitar."

Given the accident's severity, the Florida Parole Commission permits Leo to move back home from the halfway house, where he shares a living space with his wife, Chrissy.

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Discovering Jeremy Scott's Confession

Amidst Leo's recovery, King uncovers pivotal information: Jeremy Scott, after years of violent behavior, has confessed to Michelle Schofield's murder and potentially other crimes. Jeremy's wrongful association had previously led to Leo's conviction. This revelation is a turning point, challenging the existing legal framework and opening avenues for Leo's exoneration.

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The Pivotal Phone Call: Forgiveness and Redemption

One month post-accident, King arranges a critical phone call between Leo and Jeremy Scott, who has been transferred to a less restrictive prison environment. This conversation is laden with emotional weight as Leo confronts Jeremy directly.

Leo Scofield (12:14): "I want you to know that I forgive you with all my heart."

The dialogue captures Leo's profound forgiveness, despite Jeremy's actions that ruined his life. Jeremy expresses remorse, struggling with his actions and the consequences they have wrought.

Jeremy Scott (15:36): "Thank you, bro. Thank you."

This interaction not only humanizes both individuals but also underscores the complexities of forgiveness in the wake of tragedy.

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Implications for Justin: Building Bridges

The episode further explores the familial ramifications through Justin, Jeremy's son, and Jamie, Leo's ex-wife. Justin's desire to understand his father's true nature leads to a series of heartfelt exchanges facilitated by King.

Letters Between Justin and Jeremy

Letters become the medium through which Justin and Jeremy attempt to forge a connection. Jamie assists in mediating their communication, revealing layers of vulnerability and the longing for familial bonds.

Jamie (33:00): "Dear Justin, I was told that you were gonna write me. I guess it's kind of hard for you."

Through these letters, Jeremy conveys sincere remorse and a yearning to be part of Justin's life, while Justin grapples with reconciling his father's past with his present.

Justin (44:08): "I don't even think he's like himself now. How can I be like him if he's not like him?"

This correspondence highlights the healing potential of open communication, even amidst deep-seated pain and betrayal.

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Exploring the Past: Jamie's Testimony

Jamie imparts crucial insights into Jeremy's transformation over the years. Her testimony paints a picture of a man who, despite his heinous actions, grapples with his demons and seeks redemption.

Jamie (28:17): "I just knew he was mine. I didn't care who his dad was. That was my baby."

She emphasizes the duality of Jeremy's character—the capacity for both evil and deep-seated remorse—providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of his psychological state.

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Jeremy's Fear and Legacy

A poignant revelation emerges about Jeremy's deepest fear: being buried in prison, symbolizing his perpetual entrapment and the absence of closure. Justin steps forward to offer a solution, showcasing his capacity for forgiveness.

Justin (46:12): "I'll claim him. I don't want him buried in prison. I want him buried close to my other family."

This decision not only grants Jeremy the dignity of being buried among loved ones but also signifies Justin's personal growth and empathy.

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Conclusion: A Journey Towards Healing

Walk Down that Road encapsulates a profound journey of uncovering truth, battling wrongful convictions, and navigating the intricate paths of forgiveness and familial reconciliation. Gilbert King masterfully intertwines investigative journalism with intimate personal narratives, offering listeners a rich, engaging, and emotionally resonant experience.

Gilbert King (44:25): "It's just people gathering together and Caring for one."

The episode serves as a testament to the enduring human spirit's capacity to seek justice, foster understanding, and heal even the deepest wounds.

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Notable Quotes

• Gilbert King (03:17): "This was a very surreal moment for me because I was just sitting there thinking."

• Leo Scofield (12:14): "I want you to know that I forgive you with all my heart."

• Jamie (28:17): "I just knew he was mine. I didn't care who his dad was. That was my baby."

• Justin (44:08): "I don't even think he's like himself now. How can I be like him if he's not like him?"

• Justin (46:12): "I'll claim him. I don't want him buried in prison. I want him buried close to my other family."

• Gilbert King (44:25): "It's just people gathering together and Caring for one."

---

Final Thoughts

Bone Valley continues to deliver an unparalleled blend of investigative depth and human storytelling. Episode 6, Walk Down that Road, not only advances the narrative towards uncovering the truth but also delves into the emotional landscapes of those affected by miscarried justice. Gilbert King's empathetic approach ensures that listeners are both informed and emotionally engaged, making this chapter an essential installment in the series.

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Bone Valley is produced by Lava for Good Podcasts in association with Signal Co. No1. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Threads at Lava for Good Podcasts to stay updated on future episodes.

Transcript

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[Greenlight Representative]

So are there any updates that you.

[Podcast Host]

Can share about Leo? Well, there's one very interesting update where some of you are aware, but Mr. Schofield, Leo Scofield is here tonight yes.

[Leo]

Leo, where are you, buddy?

[Podcast Host]

He sat down next to me and took questions from the audience. Leo, can you tell us how you're doing on the day to day, you and Chrissy and with your grandbabies? Just tell us about your life because we are so thrilled to see you here tonight.

[Leo Scofield]

Yeah, thank you so much for that. I'm doing great. This is a very surreal moment for me because I was just sitting there thinking.

[Podcast Host]

He was as graceful as ever, sharing memories of his years in Lakeland and the decades long fight to prove his innocence. At the end of the night, he received a standing ovation and he lingered for more photos with fans. It was late now and I walked him to his bike. He pulled his helmet down, swung his leg over his Harley Davidson and fired it up. For a moment he just sat there smiling, proud, like a man who had returned to Polk county and finally took back a piece of himself. Then he rode off and I watched the red glow of his tail light disappear into the night. The next time I saw him, a month later, he wasn't on a bike. He was in a hospital bed. Leo had been riding his Harley one night, his daughter Ashley on the back, when a driver made a sudden left turn in front of them. There was no time to stop. Leo suffered an open book pelvis fracture, a torn bladder, a broken back and shattered hands, wrists and an ankle. Ashley's injuries were only slightly less severe. Leo told me the pain was unbearable. With plates and screws now holding his body together, he worried about whether he'd ever walk again, let alone play guitar. He was laying in a bed in the living room of the home he now shared with his wife, Chrissy. Due to the severity of Leo's accident, the Florida Parole Commission allowed him to leave the halfway house and move home. I'd come to visit Leo partly because something interesting had come up in my ongoing investigation. Something I'd never known before and something that could make a difference. I was just telling Leo about it when I got a phone call. I looked at the screen and saw who it was, showed it to Leo, whose eyes widened. Should I take this? I asked him. He nodded and sat up straight.

[Leo]

Hey, you there?

[Jeremy]

Yeah.

[Leo Scofield]

Hey, Jeremy.

[Podcast Host]

Do you hear my madness Laughter hides.

[Justin]

My fears.

[Podcast Host]

Sorrow depths are endless in this valley of tears I wanna see a revelation I wanna know who you are.

[Justin]

I'm reaching out in desperation to.

[Podcast Host]

The one who's holding the stars to the one who's holding the stars to the one who's holding the stars to the bone Valley Season two Jeremy Chapter six Walk down that Road the news I was telling Leo that day was about Jeremy. He had called me a few weeks earlier from the new prison he'd been transferred to, and he was in a pretty decent mood. So I asked him a question I'd always been curious about. It was about something he'd said in court when the state of Florida was deciding whether Jeremy's confession was enough to grant Leo a new trial.

[Leo]

Honestly, do you remember in 2017 when they brought you back to the evidentiary hearing, that woman, Victoria Avalon, she was the one that questioned you for the state?

[Jeremy]

Yeah, she was bashing me. That was crazy.

[Podcast Host]

In this hearing, prosecutor Victoria Avalon approached Jeremy and showed him a picture that she shielded from the gallery.

[Leo]

You know what her big thing was when she showed you the picture? And she said, look at this.

[Podcast Host]

As soon as Jeremy saw it, he turned his head away. He didn't want to look. Said he'd seen it before.

[Leo]

See it again. Is this what you did to her?

[Podcast Host]

No, I didn't hear that answer.

[Jamie]

No, I didn't do that.

[Podcast Host]

I wanted to know what picture Avalon had showed him and what Jeremy really meant when he said, no, I didn't do that.

[Jeremy]

Yeah, show me a naked picture.

[Leo]

Picture of Michelle.

[Jeremy]

Yeah. Yeah, Michelle.

[Leo]

And you. You. You. You said, I didn't do that.

[Jeremy]

Ah, the way. The way they was trying to say is that I raped there. That's. But that's where these people is getting an idea from. From her.

[Leo]

So that's what. That's what you thought?

[Jeremy]

Yeah. She told me a dead picture of a woman that way, man. Oh, damn. Well, she had all her clothes on. She had a jury on everything. Yeah. I mean, but this is the way they came at me with that, you know, show me these pictures. Right.

[Leo]

The. The autopsy report said there was no sexual anything. There's no evidence of that.

[Jeremy]

I don't know. That's why. That's why.

[Podcast Host]

That's what been killing me on the stand. He thought that Avalon was accusing him of raping Michelle, that he'd left her like that, naked at the crime scene, something he knew was not true.

[Leo]

I'm sorry.

[Jeremy]

I might be. I might. I might do a lot of crazy stuff in my. In my life, man, but I ain't on that part there.

[Podcast Host]

Avalon argued to the judge that when Jeremy said, no, I didn't do that, he was recanting his confession. And the Polk county judge agreed. He ruled that Jeremy had recanted. And with that, Leo Scofield was denied a new trial, even though some of Jeremy's last words in the hearing were, I killed her.

[Jeremy]

I still don't understand why I did it that night. I can't say if alcohol did it or drugs did it or whatever, because there still ain't no excuse in it.

[Leo]

No, I know.

[Podcast Host]

When I went to Leo's house that day after the motorcycle crash, it was to play in the recording of my call with Jeremy so he would finally know for sure that Jeremy didn't recant his confession. The state had gotten it wrong. And in the four years I've been talking to Jeremy, he has never once denied killing Michelle. It was when I was standing next to Leo's bed that my phone rang. The caller ID displayed a prison in North Florida. It's Jeremy, I told Leo. Should I pick up?

[Leo]

Hey, you there?

[Jeremy]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Leo nodded.

[Leo]

Hey, I just gotta tell you something. I don't know how you feel about this, but I just happen to be with Leo right now.

[Podcast Host]

Jeremy was calling from his new prison. He was no longer in solitary confinement. Now he was in protective management with around 80 other inmates like Jeremy, who have to be separated from general population for their safety. I told him Leo had been in a serious motorcycle accident.

[Leo]

With all these broken bones, Is he.

[Jeremy]

Gonna be all right?

[Leo]

I don't know, man. I think he's gonna be all right. He's very coherent, but he's got a lot of broken bones. You want to say hello to him?

[Jeremy]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

I put the phone on speaker and held it out in front of Leo, who scooted up in his bed.

[Leo]

He's right here.

[Leo Scofield]

Hey, Jeremy. How are you, buddy?

[Jeremy]

Hey. You doing all right?

[Leo Scofield]

I was in a motorcycle accident with my daughter and got broken up.

[Podcast Host]

Leo explained the accident, how he and his daughter had both suffered serious injuries.

[Leo Scofield]

Wasn't thinking right.

[Jeremy]

Again.

[Podcast Host]

There was a nervous energy between them, an awkwardness in the small talk. But Leo didn't linger there. He got right to the point.

[Leo Scofield]

Yeah, I'm gonna have to do that all over again. Jeremy, I want to tell you something. And this. This has come from a long time of. Of prayer and, you know, just a lot of thought. And I'm grateful for the opportunity to thank you for telling the truth. I want you to know that I forgive you with all my heart.

[Podcast Host]

Silence stretched on the other end as Leo continued.

[Leo Scofield]

You got a lot of people that care about you now because you did the right thing. And it means a lot to me. It means a lot to my family. And I thank you for that and thank you with all my heart, bud.

[Jeremy]

I thank you, bro.

[Podcast Host]

In one of his letters, Jeremy had written, I hope someday I will come face to face with Leo so I can look at him and say I'm sorry for what I did. But now, on the phone, Jeremy seemed lost for words, his nervousness filling the silence. Leo guided him, almost instinctively, helping a fellow inmate steady himself.

[Leo Scofield]

Hey. I heard you met Oscar.

[Jeremy]

Me and Oscar can be good friends.

[Leo Scofield]

Yeah. He misses you. He called me last week. He told me when you were leaving. He. He missed coming by and seeing you. But I'm glad you're out of there, buddy. You gotta stay out of trouble, man, you know?

[Jeremy]

Yeah, he was trying to bury me there. 36 years. I don't know, man. I mean, it's getting to me now, I guess. I don't know. I'm getting old.

[Leo Scofield]

Yeah, I hear you. I definitely hear you.

[Podcast Host]

Leo knew that number too well. It was how long he had waited for freedom. Jeremy talked about his recent transfer and the struggles adjusting to life there. Leo listened, his concern genuine.

[Leo Scofield]

Yeah, just. It's just a step down phase. Complete it so you can get out. You'll get out of there. You get out of there. You got it.

[Podcast Host]

After years in prison, Leo knew how to navigate hardship. He reassured Jeremy that he could get through this.

[Leo Scofield]

So you got. You got friends out here that care about you. They're not gonna lie to you, they're not gonna sell you short, they're not gonna tell you stories, none of that stuff. You. You gained a lot of respect with people out here just because you were brave enough to tell the truth. And that was a big deal, Jeremy. That was a really big deal because it changed my life. And. And I definitely appreciate you for it.

[Podcast Host]

Leo stared at the phone I was holding in front of him.

[Jeremy]

This happened, bro. I really did.

[Podcast Host]

I just hated that this happened, bro. I really did. At that moment, with Jeremy standing at the telephone, surrounded by other inmates, I realized this might be his apology. These were the words he had chosen for a place where any display of vulnerability could be dangerous.

[Leo Scofield]

Yeah. Yeah. I'm sorry it happened at all. But now it's your turn to stop doing right. You hear me? You just keep doing your part, and you're gonna be all right. Okay?

[Jeremy]

I had changed my life over and that thought I'd never do that.

[Leo Scofield]

I believe in you, Jeremy. You're gonna do well. You hear me?

[Jeremy]

Thank you, bro. Thank you.

[Leo Scofield]

Yes. Thank you, Jerry.

[Podcast Host]

Keep praying for me, he tells Leo.

[Leo Scofield]

I will. I won't stop, Jeremy. I promise.

[Podcast Host]

Leo handed me my phone, and I told Jeremy goodbye for now. Said we talk again. Later, just as I was about to end the call, I thought I heard his voice again. Mr. King? I put the phone to my ear. Jeremy was still there.

[Leo]

Hey, Jeremy, can you hear me?

[Jeremy]

Thank you. Yeah.

[Leo]

Hey, I'm glad you got a chance. Okay.

[Jeremy]

Thank you.

[Leo]

My pleasure.

[Podcast Host]

He said, I really thank you for that.

[Gilbert King]

Thank you for using Global Telling.

[Leo Scofield]

He was getting choked up.

[Podcast Host]

Thank you, Julie.

[Leo Scofield]

I was feeling weird.

[Leo]

Yeah.

[Leo Scofield]

I'm thinking as we're going, I'm thinking, now, this is my wife's murderer.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, I know, I know. I know.

[Leo Scofield]

It doesn't get more real than that. You know, I was praying and I told God, I said, I'm going to forgive him, because I know that's what you want me to do. But the test of that was today.

[Podcast Host]

Later on, Jeremy called me again.

[Leo]

Hello?

[Podcast Host]

Can you hear me?

[Leo]

Yeah.

[Jeremy]

Hey.

[Leo]

Hey.

[Podcast Host]

I asked if it helped, hearing Leo's words.

[Jeremy]

I ain't gonna lie. I mean, it really freaked me out talking to him, but made me feel a lot better. No, I ain't gonna lie. It nearly broke me down. No, dude, I get. I get very good emotional, you know?

[Leo]

Yeah.

[Jeremy]

But to hear him be free was really, really touching, you know, because he never deserved to be in prison and life and tape doesn't mean, you know.

[Podcast Host]

He says his life's been taken because of me.

[Leo]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Jeremy knows he took Michelle Schofield's life, too. Forever. He's spoken to me many times about Michelle and her family with what I understand as sincere remorse. It reminds me of some condemned men, moments from execution, who, in their final words, attempt to ease the suffering they caused. Listening to Jeremy now, I couldn't help but think of Michelle's family and whether his contrition might possibly offer a tiny measure of consolation.

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[Justin]

Sorry, I got a habit of tearing my nails off when I get nervous.

[Podcast Host]

It's been tough finding time to meet with Justin lately. He'd been so busy with work and caring for his kids with Ariel. To make things easier, they moved north back to Lakeland so they'd have more family support. Now Justin's mom, Jamie, is there for his kids in ways she wasn't always able to be there for him in the past.

[Justin]

What I want out of her is to be more involved with the grandkids. Like, I want her to make up her past with the grandkids. That would mean more to me than anything, you know, because we know where we're at. We know.

[Podcast Host]

When I first met Justin, I could tell how excited he was about going down this path with me. He wanted to solve all the mysteries about how he came into the world to know everything. But I wanted to deliver the details gently. So I promised Justin I'd come back to him with everything I had learned, especially from his mom. And now it was time for him to hear it. Okay, so I'm just going to give you some. Some similar things that Jamie said and just talk to you about them. I could tell that Justin was nervous. It was almost like now he was realizing the reason for Jamie's silence. Over the years, it was hard for Jamie to say some of these things, so it's gonna be hard for Justin to hear them. I started from the beginning. So she starts talking about meeting Jeremy at 17 and the piercing blue eyes.

[Gilbert King]

The first thing I thought was his eyes. He had the most piercing eyes.

[Podcast Host]

I told Justin about how Jamie first met Jeremy and why she was drawn to him.

[Gilbert King]

Well, we found that club Secrets. Jeremy came in, and none of us had ever seen him before. And we danced, and that was it.

[Podcast Host]

And she talked about learning about his activities and some of the things he used to do was hang around these gay bars. Like there was one called fantasy 2000 and another one called the Green Parrot.

[Justin]

Parrot's over here.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. You've probably seen.

[Justin]

I've been there.

[Gilbert King]

Jeremy, he waited outside Green Parrot, and they knew he was there and jumped him. And he got some of his own medicine.

[Podcast Host]

I told Justin how Jeremy had done a short stint in prison and 1988 for burglary, and how when he'd gotten out, he come back into Jamie's life a different person. Darker, more violent.

[Gilbert King]

And that's when his eyes were empty. And there was nothing. I mean, he never smiled. There was no love there. It was all fear. By the end.

[Podcast Host]

I told him about how his mom was with Jeremy when he was arrested for the murder of Donald Moorhead. And so they put her in the car, but she talks about that moment of being in the police car, and just like, finally, it's over. He's not somebody I need to worry about. I don't need to be threatened by anymore and scared of. So that was a really big moment in her life to just sort of be Free from him that way because.

[Justin]

You know, be able to breathe.

[Gilbert King]

And when they shut that door, I could breathe.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. It occurred to me that Justin might never have known the full story of how he came into this world if his father, Jeremy Scott, had never agreed to talk to me and his mother. Jamie might never have opened up if Justin hadn't reached out wanting to know everything.

[Gilbert King]

A family. He hadn't seen a family brought up. Right. He's heard about his dad's family. He's seen our family, which is dysfunctional as all get out. And I think in the back of his mind, he wanted a family brought up. Right. He wants his family to be loved and to have the mother and father and to have that dynamic core, you know, that's what he wants for his kids.

[Podcast Host]

And Justin's family is growing. And you also mentioned you have some good news to tell me, but you're waiting for you to tell me in person.

[Jamie]

Yeah. Alright. Yeah. So my girl's pregnant.

[Podcast Host]

Oh, man.

[Jamie]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Congratulations. Justin and his girlfriend Ariel will be welcoming a fifth child into the family.

[Gilbert King]

I see him with Val and I see him with those girls and how good he is and the fear that he has that he's going to ruin it. Not that something's going to.

[Podcast Host]

Justin's family has always tried to reassure him, you are not your father. But Jamie's view on this has shifted.

[Gilbert King]

He is. And for me to tell him he's not his father, he knows I'm lying. He looks in the mirror and sees his father. You know, because he's seen pictures of his dad, he's googled everything. I've realized he is his father. He's just the good side of Jeremy. He's the one that made me realize.

[Podcast Host]

She wanted you to know that Jeremy also had a good side to him and that, you know, that he could be charming, that he could be sweet and caring and empathic at times. And she made a point of saying that, like she started looking at it differently when she saw you growing up.

[Justin]

Like all the good things she saw out of him.

[Podcast Host]

Right? Right.

[Gilbert King]

I told you. He's what Jeremy could have been with a different childhood if Jeremy had had the love and the nurturing and didn't get hit in the head and didn't have the upbringing he had, had the attention he needed. And that's the difference. Jeremy had to fend for himself and was pretty much thrown out on the streets when he was a little kid and had to learn how to survive. I don't think Jeremy's an evil person. I really don't. But he does evil things and he always will. He's not going to change. And it's not because he's an evil person. It's because he has no control. He doesn't know how to. And a part of me feels sorry for him.

[Podcast Host]

There was one part of Jamie's story that I wanted to make sure I got right when I told it to Justin. So I read him what his mom said about the day he was born. She says, I went into really, really hard labor and he was in stress. It was just. It was scary. And he ended up being in the hospital for like, six weeks. And I couldn't hold him.

[Gilbert King]

I couldn't touch him, and I couldn't touch him. And I would sit there and I would look at him, and I just fell so in love with this baby. And I just knew. I just knew he was mine. I didn't care who his dad was. I didn't care how he came. That was my baby. That was my child. I think he's one of the best things I've ever done. He really is. That little boy has saved me. And I love him so much. And I'm so proud of him and so proud of what he's become. In spite of me and in spite of his father, he is one of the most wonderful people.

[Justin]

I've never heard her talk like that. She's always had trouble expressing her emotions. I knew how she felt, you know, she just. She's closed off. I don't know. I don't know what to think because that made me want to cry so much bad, you know? And I know she loves me. I know she loves me.

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[Ryan]

30 year old movies? Have you said cool beans in the past 90 days? Do you think Discover isn't widely accepted? If this sounds like you, you're stuck in the past. Discover is accepted at 99% of places that take credit cards nationwide. And every time you make a purchase with your card, you automatically earn cash back. Welcome to the now it pays to Discover. Learn [e-mail] credit card based on the February 2024 Nielsen report, busy work weeks.

[Podcast Host]

And weekends can leave you feeling drained. Prolon's five day nutrition program works at the cellular level to rejuvenate you with boxes labeled by day so you know exactly what to eat. Developed at USC's Longevity Institute, this science backed program makes your cells believe they are fasting to support fat loss, skin appearance and healthy blood sugar levels. Feel the difference and get real results in just five days. Get 15% off today plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their five day program at prolonlife.com iheartra that's prolonlife.com iheart testing, 1, 2, 3. Testing, 1, 2, 3. Okay, just saw Justin pull into the parking lot, so he should be up here any second. The very first time I talked to Justin, he told me he wanted to start communicating with his dad.

[Jamie]

Hey, you made it four minutes late.

[Podcast Host]

Oh yeah, you're four minutes late. We're gonna hold you that. Good to see you. He wanted to, but he couldn't figure out how. He needed my help with the logistics. Ariel wasn't comfortable with the idea of Jeremy sending his letters to Justin at their house. And I think Justin needed my help emotionally too, that way. But you know, before we start, let me just do this real quick. I know. I can imagine you are.

[Jamie]

I.

[Podcast Host]

You know, the funny thing is, Jeremy's kind of excited too. Like I told him that, you know, it's hard to write these letters and I said, but be patient. Justin had been trying to write his dad, but each time he tried, he struggled to find the words. I think, you know, you don't know.

[Jamie]

What to write or anything.

[Podcast Host]

I know. So many years. I know. So Jeremy, after waiting weeks for a letter from his son, couldn't wait anymore. He wrote Justin a letter and sent it to me so I could deliver it in person. Ariel, he asked me to give you this.

[Jamie]

Is this like his handwriting or is it.

[Podcast Host]

What it is?

[Jamie]

That's his.

[Podcast Host]

Everything is his handwriting. Justin smiled as I handed him the letter. But as soon as he held it, I saw his eyes start to well up. And all I could think about was how carefully Jeremy had written this letter. How he talked to Mary about finding the right words about how to say what he really felt.

[Jamie]

Oh, he writes curses.

[Podcast Host]

He's been practicing a lot.

[Jamie]

I can write cursive, but I can't write like this. You want me to read it out loud?

[Podcast Host]

Do you mind?

[Jamie]

No, I don't.

[Podcast Host]

Okay, go for it.

[Jamie]

It's just a little nervous.

[Podcast Host]

I know.

[Jamie]

Dear Justin, I was told that you were gonna write me. I guess it's kind of hard for you. We really don't know each other. I would like to get to know you better. I know it's hard for you not knowing what to say. I don't know what you have heard about me. But if you want to ask me something, anything. You are a grown man and I won't lie to you. There's a lot of stuff I did growing up. And I hate myself for those things. I hurt your mother, the only woman to ever love me. And I hurt my family. I'm 54 years old now. I have done a lot of thinking since I've been locked up. I gave my whole life away for nothing. But it cost me everything that I love. I don't know how your mother feels about me. He still thinks about my mom.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, he does.

[Jamie]

Justin, I'm sorry for not being there for you. I know what it is like growing up with no father around. I can't change the time. If I could, then we would still be a family. Now that makes me happy too. Because he wants you know what I mean? He's not a monster. I have heard that you have a son. That his name is val and is two years old. Mr. King has told me that he visit with you. Val? Yeah, at a playground. He told me. He told me how you were playing with Val and how the two of you were having fun. I'm glad that you spent with your son. Makes me so happy to hear about that. The two of you. That makes me emotional. Mr. King said that you are a very thoughtful young man and a dedicated father. So you work as a manager. That's good. I sure didn't keep a job. It's been a long time since I heard from anyone in my family. When grandma passed a while back. And I wish you could have spent some time with your great grandma. She saw you back in eight. Oh, so she did get to see me. I was told that you would like to meet some of my family. That would be nice. Well, so I wanted to write and hope that this will help you to write me. Just you ask anything that you want. Well, I'm sorry it has taken so long to write. Give my grandson a hug and a bunch of kisses. Okay. That makes me. You take care of yourself. Love that. Then he put Happy four for July. That makes me. I mean, obviously, you know, we're past that age of me being kid now and everything, but one thing that it makes me have is that, like, connection. Feeling like a kid again.

[Podcast Host]

Watching Justin read this letter and take in Jeremy's words is complicated for me. This isn't some story about a long lost father reconnecting with the sun through a genealogy website. This is different. This is heavy. And I'm always careful to keep expectations low. The father in this story is still locked inside the dead end of prison where he'll spend the rest of his life. But Justin seems to understand this. He's realistic and he wants to give his father a chance.

[Jamie]

Okay, so this was about four or five days ago because I started on it, and I ain't gonna lie, I went started to the first sentence and then I stopped because I didn't know what to write.

[Podcast Host]

Writer's block.

[Jamie]

Yeah. And then I wrote it again, so. Dear dad, even as I think of what to write down to start my letter off, I just keep thinking how this is the start of our relationship, which I think is awesome.

[Podcast Host]

Justin and Jeremy keep writing letters to each other. Jeremy mails me his for Justin, and I either bring them to his house or take a picture and message them to him. To Justin. Dear Son, I got your letter and I was glad you wrote. I really would like to get to know you a lot better. Tell me about you. How far did you go to school? Do you like sports? What kind of music do you like?

[Jeremy]

Who?

[Jamie]

Jeremy. Hey, Dad. I spent majority of my life in Florida. And I wouldn't say I'm book smart, but I'm definitely street smart. I'm talkative and quiet at the same time. I pretty much learned to sit back and. And listen and only talk to learn. I like sports, anime, art, music. I like a lot of stuff. Well, my brain likes new stuff. And I love challenges, too. Mind games, puzzles are my favorite.

[Podcast Host]

So tell me, how tall are you? I'm about six feet and a half. Got all my hair. I'm 54 years old. Same age as your mama. I don't know what all your mother has told you about me. I want to make sure that you understand. I love your mom more than anything. And I always will. If you talk with her, tell her I said hello. Okay. So how is your grandma doing? I'm sure that she told you about what me and your mom did. Took off with the car, and then we were all over the state.

[Jamie]

I didn't know he took her car.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, they went for some big, long road trip together. Boy, was she mad.

[Jamie]

Oh, it was. I bet she was.

[Podcast Host]

But I think if she was really mad, she would have called the cops faster. But she didn't. Once this communication has opened up, it revealed a side of Jeremy that I'd never truly seen in the four years we've been speaking. Between them, there's an openness, almost a giddiness, as they begin to learn about each other.

[Jamie]

To Jeremy. Hey, Dad. I got your letter from Gilbert and I was super excited. We're like 10,000 away, except this father and son.

[Podcast Host]

You were right. We're like pen pals. I like that because I don't have many people to write me. I never knew who my father was. I always wanted to meet him, but I never did. I don't even know his name.

[Jamie]

Dear Dad, I had a stepdad and some other father figures, but never got that father son bond. Except with Henry and Todd. Henry was cool and married my grandma, but he died in his sleep. Todd was cool and he taught me, my brother Alex and my sister, how to defend ourselves. He had drug problems and got caught robbing banks. He dated my mom for a bit.

[Podcast Host]

Dear Justin, I was looking at those pictures you sent of you and Val. I couldn't stop myself from crying. Just seeing you with your son. It makes me so happy to see that the two of you together. I know Val will be in good hands. Enjoy it while you can, because Val will start growing, and before you know it, he will be a man with kids of his own. There's empathy and remorse, but there's also vulnerability. The raw need Jeremy feels for family, for belonging. He takes pride in knowing his son has not followed the same path he did. He's trying on the role of a father, something he's never known, searching for ways to show love in a way he's never received. I hope one day that I will get to meet both of you, my son and grandson. So tell me about this family of yours.

[Jamie]

I have four kids now, but one of them is from. From my actual seat. But I love each one of them like they were my own. I pretty much been winging life up until the point I had vowed. And then I started to Learn about being responsible. Life can be amazing and scary at times. Val can say ball, mama, dad, and nana at the moment. And I get excited about the small things with Val.

[Podcast Host]

Sound like you are ready to walk down that road. She has three kids of her own. As long as you are happy and she is happy, that's all that matters. Val, I'm sorry for not being there for you growing up. I'm glad that you are doing the right thing with your son.

[Jamie]

I'm not mad at you, by the way. I mean, I wish you would have thought before you acted, but we all make mistakes and we, Val, and I appreciate the fact that you were man enough to still want to talk with me. I'm very proud of you too. And I'm super excited about you wanting to step forward and face your demons.

[Podcast Host]

Well, son, maybe one day you can come to visit me.

[Jamie]

That would be cool.

[Podcast Host]

Well, I hope to hear from you soon. I will. Close for now. I do love you, son.

[Jamie]

Don't you forget that I'm standing beside you. Lord Justin.

[Podcast Host]

Love, dad. Jeremy, you know, very early on you said learning all about this would actually help me be a better father. I'm just wondering if you still think about that.

[Justin]

I think it has made me a better father because I feel like it evolved from me worried about me turning into him to me helping him find who he is.

[Podcast Host]

I don't hear you talking about wondering if you are your dad.

[Justin]

I don't even think he's like himself now. How can I be like him if he's not like him? You know, you're not the scary Jeremy that everybody thought you was anymore. You're just. You're messed up in the head, Jeremy, you know, and you need love.

[Podcast Host]

I asked Justin what does he hope to gain by learning his father's story and telling his own.

[Justin]

I think it's more important to my family than anything else because not just Jeremy, but everybody's been through a lot. You know, It'll just be nice for once in a life. A positive story. You know, if. If I could have one positive story from a. Like a. Like a super bad situation. Like no one in their right mind would ever think Jeremy would do 180. Like nobody. So what happens when you see him? You would want to know his story, right? You want to want to know what happened, what made him change, and to find out it was his heart, you know, the. The hard work he put in, you know, the support team he has behind him and everything else. It's just people gathering together and Caring for one.

[Podcast Host]

One of the things I told Justin is what Jeremy fears most. It's not a fear for his safety or his health in prison, but a fear about what will happen after he dies. The thought that haunts him most is being buried in the prison cemetery. And it turns out you'd have to have somebody, like, claim you. Claim your body after your death.

[Justin]

I'll claim him. I don't want him buried in prison. I don't care what state mind he is or anything. I don't want him buried there.

[Podcast Host]

He said he didn't think anybody in his immediate family, including his mother and his aunts, would claim him, so he was.

[Justin]

Am I allowed to claim him?

[Podcast Host]

I think you would be.

[Justin]

Then I'll claim him on that. I'm jumping right on that one if I can. I want him buried over here. I want him buried close to my other family. Just. Just because someone does something bad doesn't mean they're not family. You know, he might not be the father, but he's still my dad. But he's gonna be buried like a human being. We at least give him that for the fight he put in.

[Podcast Host]

You said you were better with talking than writing. Yeah, let's just do a quick thing here. I just talked to him, and I'll. I'll write it down afterwards and send it to him.

[Justin]

Just, like, act like I'm talking to him.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, sure.

[Jamie]

Okay. All right.

[Justin]

Dear Jeremy, is. Oh, Justin your son? I had Christmas and I met.

[Podcast Host]

Bone Valley is a production of Lava for Good podcast in association with Signal company Number one.

[Jamie]

I just got your letter that you wrote to me from Gilbert today too. And it really sucks about not being able to visit yet, but we'll try.

[Justin]

To set up a thing to go visit soon enough, and it'll be a while.

[Podcast Host]

Our executive producers are Jason Flom, Jeff Kempler, and Kevin Werdes.

[Jamie]

But I did get permission to talk to you about my daughter that's coming to be.

[Justin]

Yeah, I'm kind of starting my own tree kind of thing now. And, you know, they have a grandfather.

[Jamie]

Now to look up for, so you.

[Justin]

Gotta make sure you stay in line for them.

[Jamie]

Keep your head up.

[Podcast Host]

Kara Kornhaber is our senior producer. Jackie Pauley and Hannah Beale are our producers.

[Leo]

What do you think? What's your prediction for tomorrow, Jeremy?

[Jeremy]

Kansas City all day History will be made.

[Jamie]

Hey, dad. Sorry for the late response, but Gilbert did really good and gave me your birthday. Let it ride on my birthday. It really brightened up my day and.

[Justin]

Everything felt like a little kid.

[Podcast Host]

You know, Britt Spangler is our sound designer. Marianne McCune is our editor. Fact checking by Dania Suleiman.

[Leo Scofield]

I got two more bikes, but I don't know if I'll ride them again or not. But we'll see.

[Jeremy]

You gotta take your time, that's all.

[Leo Scofield]

Yeah, yeah.

[Jeremy]

It's like putting tricycle wheels on there and just learning, you know, down a dirt road or something, you know?

[Leo Scofield]

Yeah, yeah. It's a pretty good idea. All right, bud. You take care of yourself.

[Podcast Host]

Jeff Clyburn is our head of marketing and operations. Our social media director is Ismati Guardrama.

[Justin]

And Guinevere was born. She's so beautiful.

[Jamie]

I'll eventually be able to send you pictures of her.

[Podcast Host]

Our social media manager is Sarah Gibbons, and our art director is Andrew Nelson.

[Jamie]

Everything's been going good. I really do care about you, dad. And I want to say happy birthday as well. I hope you get this before your birthday, but happy birthday, old man.

[Podcast Host]

I love you.

[Jamie]

Just.

[Jeremy]

All right, let Mary know I called.

[Leo]

You too, because she worried I will. I'm gonna tell her right now.

[Jeremy]

I said everything's good.

[Leo]

Okay?

[Jeremy]

And I'm gonna send her. I'm gonna send her a snapshot picture.

[Podcast Host]

Additional research and production by Kelsey Decker. Additional sound recording by James Johnson.

[Leo Scofield]

He said they just had dinner and it was coleslaw, two pieces of cold bread and a rat patty.

[Gilbert King]

Said, what's a rat patty?

[Jamie]

And he said, it's a.

[Gilbert King]

A hamburger patty that has no real meat.

[Podcast Host]

Bone Valley is written and produced by me, Gilbert King. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Tik Tok, and threads at Lava. For good.

[Justin]

Stay good and stay on the right track. All right?

[Jamie]

I love you, dad.

[Podcast Host]

Bye.

[Justin]

I don't know why I said bye.

[Podcast Host]

You're very good at writing letters. That's incredible. That was like a letter and you did your end sa. Here at the Almond Joy Factory, where.

[Jamie]

Tropical vibes abound, we use soft, fresh.

[Gilbert King]

Tasting coconut, the crunchiest almonds, and delicious chocolate candy. Ah.

[Justin]

But do you know what our most.

[Podcast Host]

Most important ingredient is? Sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don't. Almond Joy's got nuts and something even.

[Jamie]

Way better than that.

[Podcast Host]

Yes, Almond Joy is made with almonds. And Jo.

[Ryan]

Are you still quoting 30 year old movies? Have you said cool beans in the past 90 days? Do you think Discover isn't widely accepted? If this sounds like you, you're stuck in the past. Discover is accepted at 99% of places that take credit cards nationwide. And every time you make a purchase with your card, you automatically earn cash back. Welcome to the now it pays to Discover. Learn [e-mail] credit card Based on the February 2024 Nielsen report, Amazon One Medical.

[Amazon One Medical Representative]

Presents painful thoughts do they ever actually.

[Jamie]

Clean the ball pit at these kids play gyms?

[Justin]

Or is my kid just swimming in a vat of bacteria, catching whatever cootie.

[Podcast Host]

Of the day is breeding in there?

[Justin]

A cootie that'll probably take down our whole family.

[Amazon One Medical Representative]

Luckily, with Amazon One Medical 24. 7 Virtual Care, you can get checked out for whatever ball pititis you've contracted. Amazon One Medical Healthcare just got less painful.

[Podcast Host]

You're listening to an iHeart podcast.