Introducing: Murder in the Moonlight

Dateline NBC

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Published: Mon Feb 10 2025

Hey Dateline fans! As a bonus for you, we’re sharing the trailer for Murder in the Moonlight, an all-new original podcast series from Dateline and Keith Morrison. In this podcast, Keith Morrison takes listeners to a quiet farmhouse on America’s Great Plains, where Sharmon and Wayne Stock have just celebrated Easter with their big, loving family. That night, under a pale moon, the couple is shot to death in their bedroom. The investigation includes four suspects, spans three states, and comes down to a single shiny clue: A gold ring found at the scene of the crime. Follow now to get the first two episodes on Monday, February 17th completely free. Or subscribe to Dateline Premium on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or DatelinePremium.com to hear the first two episodes now. Subscribers receive ad-free listening and early access to subsequent episodes.

Summary

Dateline NBC - Episode Summary: "Murder in the Moonlight"

Release Date: February 10, 2025

Overview

In the premiere episode titled "Murder in the Moonlight," Dateline NBC delves into a harrowing true-crime mystery that unfolds on a serene farm in the western plains. Hosted by renowned journalist Keith Morrison, the episode explores the brutal double murder that shattered a peaceful community, unraveling the complex web of deception, family ties, and the elusive search for truth.

Introduction to the Case

The episode opens with a vivid portrayal of rural tranquility, highlighting the deceptive calm that envelopes the setting:

[00:03] Speaker A: "There are verities in this great land. The simple joys of an Easter egg hunt. The family-centered traditions on a fine baked farm in the heart of the western plains. The all but certain confidence that some places are safe from chaos and violence."

This introduction sets the stage for the shocking contrast between the idyllic environment and the ensuing violence.

Discovery of the Crime Scene

The narrative quickly transitions to the grim discovery that disrupts the community's peace:

[00:25] Speaker B: "Never in a million years would you think that you'd see your parents house taped off the farm taped off by that yellow tape."

The description underscores the shock and disbelief experienced by those closest to the victims, emphasizing the severity of the crime.

Examining the Brutality and Complexity of the Case

Speaker A delves deeper into the nature of the crime, highlighting its brutality and the intricate challenges faced by investigators:

[00:31] Speaker A: "It was a very brutal crime scene. One of the worst I've ever seen. Careful what myths you choose to rely on. Like truth for example."

The discussion points to the complexities of uncovering the truth amidst prevailing myths and personal biases.

Themes of Truth and Deception

A central theme of the episode is the elusive nature of truth and the pervasive impact of deception:

[00:40] Speaker A: "Truth can be hidden in strange places. She looked at me and she said, I'm screwed. And I said, you just got to tell the truth. That's all you can do at this point."

This exchange highlights the critical importance of honesty in unraveling the mystery, as well as the challenges posed when truth becomes obscured.

The Role of Law Enforcement and Public Perception

The episode also touches upon the fragility of trust in law enforcement:

[01:54] Speaker B: "Was this and then it was that and then it was this and then it was that."

[01:57] Speaker A: "When a top lawman was caught in a lie, you wake up one morning and they say you're a criminal."

These segments reflect on how deceit within law enforcement can erode public confidence and complicate the pursuit of justice.

Keith Morrison's Introduction to the Podcast Series

As the episode concludes, Keith Morrison introduces "Murder in the Moonlight" as an all-new podcast series aimed at providing in-depth investigations into such perplexing cases:

[01:57] Speaker A: "I'm Keith Morrison and this is Murder in the moonlight, an all new podcast from Dateline beginning Monday, February 17th."

Exclusion of Advertisements and Promotional Content

The transcript includes promotional content for Grand Canyon University; however, adhering to the summary guidelines, this section is omitted to focus solely on the podcast's content.

Conclusion

"Murder in the Moonlight" sets the tone for a gripping investigative series, promising listeners an immersive exploration of true-crime mysteries. Through detailed storytelling and insightful analysis, Dateline NBC aims to shed light on cases that challenge our understanding of truth, trust, and the human psyche.

Notable Quotes Summary

[00:03]: "There are verities in this great land... safe from chaos and violence."
[00:25]: "Never in a million years would you think that you'd see your parents house taped off..."
[00:31]: "It was a very brutal crime scene... Careful what myths you choose to rely on."
[00:40]: "Truth can be hidden in strange places... That's all you can do at this point."
[01:54]: "Was this and then it was that and then it was this and then it was that."
[01:57]: "When a top lawman was caught in a lie... you're a criminal."

These quotes encapsulate the episode's exploration of crime, truth, and the intricate dynamics that investigators must navigate to uncover the reality behind heinous acts.

Listening Options

Listeners can access "Murder in the Moonlight" through Dateline NBC's platforms:

Free Access: Subscribe to receive the latest episodes at DatelinePremium.com.
Dateline Premium: Enjoy ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or directly through the Dateline Premium website.

Note: This summary is based on the provided transcript extract and aims to encapsulate the episode's primary focus and themes. For a comprehensive understanding, listening to the full episode is recommended.