Podcast Summary: Crime Stories with Nancy Grace

Episode: Discarded Straw DNA Leads to Arrest in 41-Year-Old Murder Case | Crime Alert 6AM 12.02.25

Date: December 2, 2025
Host: iHeartPodcasts and CrimeOnline

Overview: Justice After Four Decades—DNA Technology Breaks Long Island Cold Case

In this episode, Crime Stories with Nancy Grace spotlights a remarkable breakthrough in a 41-year-old cold case on Long Island. Using cutting-edge DNA analysis, law enforcement has finally arrested a suspect in the 1984 rape and murder of Teresa Fusco, a local teenager. The episode details the journey from wrongful convictions to renewed hope for the victim’s family, highlighting the power of scientific persistence in resolving old injustices.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Major Break in Long Island Cold Case (00:01–03:00)

• Case Background:
  • 16-year-old Teresa Fusco disappeared after her late shift at a Lynnbrook roller skating rink in November 1984.
  • Her remains were found weeks later in nearby woods.
  • The case led to three wrongful convictions, with two men later awarded multimillion-dollar settlements after DNA evidence exonerated them in 2003.
• Breakthrough Details:
  • Investigators, inspired by fresh leads, placed Richard Billido (63) under surveillance in 2024.
  • A discarded cup and straw at a smoothie shop were collected, providing DNA evidence matching samples from Fusco's body.
• Current Status:
  • Billido, only 23 at the time of the crime, has been charged with two counts of murder and pleaded not guilty.
  • He faces up to 25 years to life if convicted, and is being held without bail.

2. Emotional Response from Family and Authorities

• Family Reaction:
  • Teresa’s father, Thomas Fusco, described mixed emotions upon reopening the case but expressed hope for long-awaited closure.
    • “While revisiting the case is painful, [I] hope the new arrest will finally bring closure to our family.” (Paraphrased, 01:50)
• Official Statements:
  • Nassau County DA Ann Donnelly praised the blend of persistence and modern forensic science:
    • “This case [is] an example of how persistence and modern science can work hand in hand.” (02:10)
  • Chief Prosecutor Jared Rosenblatt addressed prior investigative errors:
    • “The defendant appeared aware that previous mistakes in the investigation had allowed someone to escape accountability. The time for reckoning has finally come.” (02:40)

3. Broader Context of Related Cases

• The original investigation was criticized for its failures and gained notoriety due to two additional disappearances:
  • Kelly Morrissey vanished during the same period and remains missing.
  • Jacqueline Martarella’s body was found a year later at a local golf course.
• The Fusco cold case, once a symbol of failed justice, is now seen as evidence that justice delayed is not justice denied.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Modern Investigations:
  DA Ann Donnelly: “Persistence and modern science can work hand in hand.” (02:10)
• On Justice and Accountability:
  Jared Rosenblatt: “The time for reckoning has finally come.” (02:40)
• Victim’s Family:
  Thomas Fusco (paraphrased): “Hoping the new arrest will finally bring closure.” (01:50)

Other Breaking Crime News (06:22–09:40)

Texas Workplace Shooting (06:22–07:07)

• Incident: Jose Hernandez Gallo killed three coworkers at a San Antonio landscape supply company before taking his own life.
• Details:
  • Attack was not random; motive still under investigation.

North Carolina Hospital Shooting (07:08–08:18)

• Incident: Officer Roger Smith fatally shot in the WakeMed Hospital emergency department lobby.
• Aftermath:
  • Person of interest detained; scene closed for investigation.
  • Governor Stein underscored risks faced by law enforcement daily.

Federal Terrorism Arrests (08:19–09:40)

• Details:
  • Two young men charged with attempting to aid ISIS, tied to an alleged Halloween terror plot.
  • Suspects arrested in NJ and Washington while allegedly planning travel abroad and discussing potential domestic attacks on LGBTQ venues and a theme park.
  • A 16-year-old also detained as part of the network; federal officials emphasized the importance of disrupting these threats early.

Timeline of Major Segments (Timestamps)

• 00:01–03:00: Long Island cold case update, arrest of Richard Billido, reactions from family and officials.
• 06:22–07:07: San Antonio workplace shooting details.
• 07:08–08:18: Police officer killed at a North Carolina hospital.
• 08:19–09:40: Counter-terrorism arrests related to the Islamic State.

Overall Tone & Language

• Direct, compassionate, urgent: The episode maintains Nancy Grace’s characteristic intensity and focus on seeking justice, bringing expert commentary and emotional nuance to the stories.
• Factual & respectful: The pieces are delivered with deference to victims and their families and a critical eye toward law enforcement process, consistent with Crime Stories’ mission.

Takeaway

This episode demonstrates how persistent investigation and revolutionary DNA technology can right historical wrongs, bringing renewed hope to victims’ families even four decades later. It also offers updates on other major crimes, reaffirming the necessity of vigilance, evidence-based prosecution, and enduring support for justice and public safety.