Death County, PA – Episode Summary

Release Date: April 28, 2025
Hosted by: Joshua Vaughn
Podcast: Criminal Attorney by Wondery

Introduction

In the gripping episode titled "Death County, PA," hosted by award-winning journalist Joshua Vaughn, listeners are drawn into the harrowing journey of Lamont Jones. When Lamont discovers that his young cousin died under suspicious circumstances while in custody, he is propelled into a relentless quest for the truth, uncovering a web of corruption and institutional cover-ups within Dolphin County Prison.

The Tragic Case of Tyreek Riley

Timestamp: 01:25

The episode delves into the tragic death of Tyreek Riley, a 21-year-old Black man who died just two weeks after being arrested and incarcerated in Dolphin County Prison. The official report cites natural causes, but inconsistencies such as bruises and missing teeth raise red flags.

Key Details:

• Visible Injuries: "contusion to the mid forehead, contusion to the tongue, abrasions on the lips," among others.
• Internal Signs: "hemorrhaging in the lungs, oxygen deprivation in the brain."

Quote:
Graham Hetrick explains, "Tyreek still looks well nourished and well built. But Tyrek's body also shows signs of injury."
(01:25)

Graham Hetrick’s Investigation

Timestamp: 01:25 - 04:51

Graham Hetrick, the county coroner with a prominent presence both on television and in the community, conducts Tyreek's autopsy. Known for his catchphrase, "I speak for the dead," Graham’s findings in Tyreek’s case begin to unravel unsettling truths.

Key Points:

• Professional Background: Graham has ruled on thousands of deaths, rarely facing challenges to his conclusions.
• Critical Discovery: Unlike previous cases, Tyreek’s death reveals a disturbing pattern within the prison system.
• Community Impact: Tyreek’s death is not isolated; it suggests systemic issues that powerful local officials aim to suppress.

Lamont Jones’ Pursuit of Justice

Timestamp: 04:51 - 05:04

Driven by grief and suspicion, Lamont Jones confronts the officials responsible for his cousin’s death, refusing to accept the official narrative without question.

Notable Quote:
Lamont Jones declares, "This is serious. This is family, and I want to know what happened."
(04:51)

Voices from Within Dolphin County Prison

Timestamp: 04:54 - 05:14

The episode features haunting testimonies from unnamed inmates who reveal the dire conditions and mistreatment within Dolphin County Prison. Their accounts paint a grim picture of systemic abuse and neglect.

Key Excerpts:

• “I knew I was going to die in there. I could feel it. And I was like, you gotta get me out of here.”
  (04:54)
• “Dauphin county is the worst jail ever. How they treat us dead people rather die."
  (04:58)
• “Shame on every single person responsible for the death of so many people inside of this building here.”
  (05:04)

Institutional Corruption and Cover-Ups

Timestamp: 05:04 - 05:14

As Lamont digs deeper, he uncovers a pattern of suspicious deaths and systematic efforts by local authorities to conceal the truth. The investigation points to a larger conspiracy aimed at maintaining the prison’s façade of legitimacy.

Conclusion: The Ongoing Fight for Justice

Timestamp: 05:14 - End

Joshua Vaughn emphasizes that Lamont’s battle is far from over. The pursuit of justice against entrenched institutional corruption continues, highlighting the broader issue of accountability within the criminal justice system.

Closing Note:
Joshua Vaughn urges listeners to engage with the series for a comprehensive understanding of the unfolding drama:
“Death County, Pa. Pulls back the curtain on one of America's darkest institutional secrets.”
(05:14)

Additional Information

Listeners are encouraged to follow "Death County, PA" on the Wondery app or their preferred podcast platform. Exclusive early access and an ad-free experience are available through Wondery+, offering an immersive continuation of Lamont Jones’ quest for truth and justice.

Notable Quotes:

• Lamont Jones: "This is serious. This is family, and I want to know what happened."
  (04:51)

• Unnamed Inmate: "Dauphin county is the worst jail ever. How they treat us dead people rather die."
  (04:58)

This episode of "Death County, PA" masterfully interweaves personal tragedy with investigative journalism, shedding light on systemic issues within the criminal justice system. Through compelling narratives and firsthand accounts, listeners are invited to witness Lamont Jones’ unwavering determination to uncover the truth behind his cousin’s untimely death.