CounterClock Podcast Episode Summary
Title: ANNOUNCING: Park Predators Weekly!
Host: Delia D'Ambra (audiochuck)
Release Date: October 15, 2024

Delia D'Ambra returns to the CounterClock podcast with an exciting announcement: her spin-off series, Park Predators, will now be a weekly show. In this detailed episode, D'Ambra delves into a chilling true-crime story that unfolds within the rugged terrains of Joshua Tree National Park. This summary captures the intricate details of the case, the investigative process, key individuals involved, and the eventual legal proceedings.

Introduction to Park Predators

Delia D'Ambra:
“Hi Counterclock listeners. Delia here... I wanted to let you know that my other podcast, Park Predators, is now a weekly show...” (01:49)

D'Ambra sets the stage for the inaugural episode of Park Predators, promising a deep dive into mysterious and violent crimes hidden within national parks and forests worldwide.

Case Overview: The Murder of Henry Allen Stange

The episode centers around the 2018 murder of 54-year-old Henry Allen Stange in Joshua Tree National Park, California. The narrative begins with hikers discovering Stange’s remains, which led to a complex investigation involving personal relationships, substance abuse, and obsessive behavior.

Discovery of the Body

Mark Powers' Discovery:
“At around noon on Friday, June 1, 2018, a hiker named Mark Powers found the remains of Henry Allen Stange...” (02:30)

While hiking near the intersection of Bighorn Pass Road and Park Boulevard, Mark Powers stumbled upon vitally decomposed remains, prompting immediate involvement from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office and the National Park Service (NPS).

Initial Investigation and Evidence

Forensic Findings:
“Nearly a day and a half later, the forensic pathologist... found several fractures on the victim's skull, as well as multiple wounds to his chest and neck...” (09:15)

The autopsy revealed Henry was a victim of sharp-force trauma, indicative of a homicide. Importantly, Henry was not listed as a missing person, adding layers of complexity to the investigation.

Key Individuals Involved

1. Henry Allen Stange:

   • A separated father battling opioid addiction.
   • Last seen alive on May 24, 2018.

2. Ashley Stapp:

   • A 27-year-old woman involved romantically with both Henry and Curtis.
   • Struggled with substance abuse.

3. Curtis Kruger:

   • A 30-year-old U.S. Marine lieutenant.
   • Exhibited obsessive and controlling behavior towards Ashley.

The Love Triangle and Motive

Delia D'Ambra:
“I’m talking about stuff like out of control jealousy, stalking, manipulation, and even physical and emotional abuse...” (05:45)

The intertwined relationships between Henry, Ashley, and Curtis formed the crux of the investigation. Curtis's obsession with Ashley and his aggressive measures to control her were pivotal in understanding the motive behind Henry's murder.

Surveillance and Cell Phone Evidence

Investigative Breakthrough:
“At 3:35pm on the 24th, Henry got on his radio for about 20 minutes... by Thursday, May 24th, he was killed.” (13:50)

Cell phone data placed Curtis near Henry’s home on the day of the murder, and wiretapped conversations between Ashley and Curtis provided incriminating evidence. These communications revealed discussions about the murder and attempts to cover it up.

Arrests and Initial Charges

Delia D'Ambra:
“On Wednesday, August 29, investigators felt like they had more than enough to arrest Curtis and Ashley for Henry's murder.” (17:41)

Curtis and Ashley were arrested based on wiretap evidence and surveillance data. Initially held under suspicion, their release shortly after raised public outcry and questions about the adequacy of the initial evidence.

Legal Proceedings and Trial

Curtis Kruger's Testimony:
“I took an American's life thinking he was more of a threat than he was...” (45:10)

The trial revealed the depth of Curtis’s obsession and his role in manipulating the events leading to Henry’s death. Ashley’s testimony, initially as a defense witness, later shifted to a plea deal where she admitted partial involvement to protect Curtis.

Verdict and Sentencing

Court Ruling:
“The jury found Curtis guilty of second-degree murder as well as assault with a deadly weapon...” (48:25)

Curtis was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison for Henry's murder and an additional three years for the assault charge stemming from a prior attack in January 2018.

Aftermath and Reflections

Family Impact:
“Henry was murdered the last week of May. His remains were found in the desert near Joshua Tree... Our lives will never be the same.” - Judy Stange Gardner (30:05)

Victim impact statements highlighted the profound emotional toll on Henry’s family, emphasizing the irreversible nature of the loss and the desire for justice.

Conclusion

Delia D'Ambra's Park Predators episode meticulously chronicles a tragic case of jealousy and obsession leading to a brutal murder. Through thorough investigation, compelling testimony, and legal battles, the story underscores the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of justice within the serene yet unforgiving landscapes of national parks.

Notable Quotes:

• Delia D'Ambra:
  “Was there a reason why someone wanted Henry dead? It turns out jealousy was at the heart of it.” (Multiple timestamps)

• Ashley Stapp:
  “I was only using Henry as a means to satisfy my addiction.” (37:07)

• Curtis Kruger at Sentencing:
  “I took an American's life thinking he was more of a threat than he was. I destroyed a family, a beautiful American family.” (49:50)

Further Resources

For more information on the sources and to explore additional episodes, visit ParkPredators.com or follow Park Predators on Instagram at @arcpredators.

This comprehensive summary provides an in-depth look into the Park Predators episode, ensuring listeners unfamiliar with the podcast can grasp the key elements, significant discussions, and the unfolding of the true-crime narrative.