Criminal Podcast Episode Summary: "Moon Rocks Wanted"

Introduction

In the intriguing episode titled "Moon Rocks Wanted," Criminal delves into the captivating story of Joe Goodhines, a former NASA special agent, and his extraordinary investigation into the illicit trade of moon rocks. Hosted by Phoebe Judge, this episode uncovers the complexities surrounding these coveted extraterrestrial artifacts, the lengths to which scammers would go to deceive collectors, and the ingenious methods employed by law enforcement to thwart these frauds.

Joe Goodhines’ Background at NASA

Joe Goodhines served as a special agent at NASA's Office of Inspector General from 1990 to 2000, initially working out of the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. His role involved investigating crimes and ensuring the integrity of NASA's operations during a pivotal time that included the end of the Cold War.

“When you walk around the center, you actually see alligators and wild animals right along where the astronauts or NASA officials would be walking. It's really a different world.”
—Joe Goodhines [02:23]

After Kennedy, Goodhines transitioned to the Johnson Space Center in Texas, where his proximity to Russian scientists stationed post-Cold War provided a unique vantage point for his investigative work.

The Issue of Fake Moon Rocks

Following the Apollo missions (1969-1972), NASA brought back approximately 840 pounds of moon rocks and soil. These samples were deemed national treasures, with strict regulations prohibiting private ownership. Despite these protections, the allure of owning a piece of the moon led to numerous scams.

“Moon rocks are like the ultimate collector's item. You're getting something that was brought back from space by man to earth that nobody is allowed to own because NASA treats them as a national treasure.”
—Joe Goodhines [04:10]

In 1969, the same year Apollo 11 returned, individuals began attempting to sell fake moon rocks. Ads promising to sell moon dust for exorbitant prices emerged, often operated by unsuspecting salesmen exploiting public fascination.

Operation Lunar Eclipse: The Sting Operation

Recognizing the persistent threat of fake moon rock scams, Goodhines devised a plan named Operation Lunar Eclipse to identify and apprehend fraudsters attempting to sell genuine moon rocks illegally.

Planning and Execution

Goodhines placed an advertisement in USA Today on September 18, 1998, featuring an image of an astronaut on the moon with the caption "Moon Rocks Wanted?" The ad included a fictitious address and phone number, setting the stage for his sting operation.

“My idea was put an ad in USA Today with an astronaut jumping on the moon under the caption moon rocks want it?”
—Joe Goodhines [08:49]

Weeks later, Goodhines received a call from Alan Rosen, who claimed to possess real moon rock specimens. Intrigued and cautious, Goodhines engaged Rosen, leading to a series of communications and tests to verify the authenticity of the claimed moon rocks.

“He’s testing us all the way along. He was very suspicious that our intent was to come in and grab the moon rock.”
—Joe Goodhines [16:42]

Securing Funding from Ross Perot

Realizing the need for substantial funds to make the operation credible, Goodhines reached out to Ross Perot, a renowned businessman and former presidential candidate. Surprisingly, Perot agreed to fund the operation, demonstrating unexpected support for the sting.

“He actually said, hey, if you need me to go down there and help you with it, I'll do it.”
—Joe Goodhines [22:25]

Perot’s contribution enabled Goodhines to convincingly present the operation to Rosen, facilitating the eventual seizure of the moon rock.

The Meeting and Seizure

Goodhines arranged a meeting between Rosen and an undercover postal service agent, Bob Krieger, at a Miami restaurant. The encounter was fraught with tension as Rosen remained suspicious of Goodhines and Krieger’s true identities. Nevertheless, the operation culminated in the successful seizure of the moon rock when Rosen handed it over to the undercover agents.

“I took the moon rock, put it in my pants pocket. Had a briefcase. I was armed. The idea was anybody would be focused on the briefcase, not my pocket.”
—Joe Goodhines [24:18]

Legal Proceedings

The seizure led to a legal battle over the ownership of the moon rock. The court ruled in favor of the United States, determining that the rock had been illegally obtained by Rosen and thus was rightful property of the nation. Despite the legal complexities, Rosen was not charged, and the moon rock was ultimately returned to Honduras.

“In the end, Alan Rosen was not charged and the rock was returned to Honduras.”
—Phoebe Judge [29:47]

Aftermath and Impact

Following his retirement from NASA in 2000, Goodhines founded a law firm and began teaching criminal investigation classes. Motivated by Operation Lunar Eclipse, he initiated the Moon Rock Project to educate future investigators on handling high-profile cases involving rare artifacts.

The Moon Rock Project

Goodhines incorporated his experience into his teaching, encouraging students to undertake projects tracking down missing Goodwill moon rocks. This initiative led to the recovery of over 70 missing moon rocks across various states and countries, restoring them to their rightful places and reinforcing the importance of preserving national treasures.

“I would say to my students, this is why it's important that nobody should privately own a moon rock, because we want some kid to be able to walk into a museum and be inspired to do something the way that astronaut was inspired by that moon rock.”
—Joe Goodhines [33:18]

Conclusion

"Moon Rocks Wanted" is a compelling narrative that highlights the intersection of space exploration, crime, and law enforcement. Through Joe Goodhines’ diligent efforts, the episode underscores the importance of safeguarding national treasures and the innovative strategies required to combat sophisticated scams. This story not only fascinates listeners with its unique premise but also serves as a testament to the dedication of those who protect our most valuable assets.

Notable Quotes

• “Moon rocks are like the ultimate collector's item. You're getting something that was brought back from space by man to earth that nobody is allowed to own because NASA treats them as a national treasure.”
  —Joe Goodhines [04:10]

• “He actually said, hey, if you need me to go down there and help you with it, I'll do it.”
  —Joe Goodhines [22:25]

• “I would say to my students, this is why it's important that nobody should privately own a moon rock, because we want some kid to be able to walk into a museum and be inspired to do something the way that astronaut was inspired by that moon rock.”
  —Joe Goodhines [33:18]

Further Information

For more details and to listen to the episode, visit Criminal by Vox Media. Stay updated by subscribing to their newsletter and following them on social media platforms.