Dateline Originals: Murder in the Moonlight - Episode 4: About Face
Introduction
In the gripping fourth episode of Murder in the Moonlight, titled "About Face," host Keith Morrison delves deep into a convoluted murder case that spans multiple states and involves a web of confessions, conflicting testimonies, and emerging evidence. This episode, released on April 30, 2025, masterfully unravels the complexities of a high-profile investigation, highlighting the challenges faced by detectives and defense attorneys alike.
The Initial Confessions
The episode opens with Detective Jim Rohr reflecting on the nature of confessions in murder investigations. Morrison sets the stage by emphasizing the significance of obtaining confessions from suspects:
“If there's anything like a Holy Grail gold standard in a high-pressure murder investigation, then surely that must be the confession” (01:03).
In this case, three out of four suspects—Matt Livers, Jessica Reed, and Greg Fester—confessed to their involvement in the murders of Wayne and Charman Stark. Matt Livers admitted, “I did the shooting” (01:49), while Jessica Reed and Greg Fester provided their own versions of events, each adding layers of complexity to the investigation.
Discovery of Evidence
As the investigation progresses, Detective Rohr uncovers critical evidence that shifts the direction of the case. While searching the house where Jessica Reed was held, he discovers a hidden cigarette box containing a 12-gauge shotgun shell and a poignant letter from Jessica:
“...that’s something I did for you. Me, and for you to love me as much as I love you.” (05:35).
This letter, along with a diary entry where Jessica writes, “I killed someone. He was older. I loved it” (06:32), provides a chilling insight into her psyche and complicates her involvement in the murders.
Investigation Developments
Detective Rohr's meticulous investigation leads him to connect the confessions with physical evidence. Ballistics tests confirm that the shell in Jessica's possession matches the murder weapon, a gun stolen from a Wisconsin farm. Additionally, DNA analysis links Jessica and Greg directly to the crime scene, solidifying their culpability.
“If she recognizes a picture of one of the people who were the subject of the confession in Nebraska, that’s their verification of the original story.” (03:16).
Rohr's discovery of a marijuana pipe and a gold ring with DNA evidence further ties Jessica and Greg to the murders, leaving little doubt about their involvement.
Defense Attorneys' Perspectives
The episode shifts focus to the defense attorneys representing Matt Livers and Nick Sampson. Jerry Susi, Nick's attorney, uncovers discrepancies in the prosecution's case that suggest his client may be innocent:
“...during this period of time when the murder's supposed to be taking place, is texting back and forth with a roommate...” (19:21).
Susi discovers that Matt Livers and Nick Sampson have solid alibis, with both having credible witnesses and alibi confirmations. Matt's girlfriend confirms his presence 30 miles away in Lincoln, Nebraska, during the time of the murders, and Nick's girlfriend provides a similar alibi, supported by a polygraph test (17:20).
Evidence Against the Accused
Despite initial confessions, the evidence begins to point towards the possibility that Matt Livers and Nick Sampson were framed. Ballistics tests reveal that the gun found under Nick's bed was not the murder weapon, and the blood spotted on his genesis was not human. These revelations cast serious doubt on the integrity of the confessions and suggest the involvement of additional parties (20:04).
Moreover, the lack of communication between Matt and Nick, as evidenced by their phone records, undermines Matt’s confession of planning the murder together. This disconnect raises critical questions about the validity of their accusations against Jessica Reed and Greg Fester (18:55).
Legal Developments and Challenges
As defense attorneys dig deeper, they confront the unsettling possibility that Livers and Sampson may be innocent. Julie Bear, Matt Livers' defense attorney, confronts him with the new arrests of Jessica Reed and Greg Fester, seeking to establish their lack of connection with her client:
“Maybe he was lying to you. Not a chance.” (21:17).
The lack of initial communication about Reed and Fester’s involvement to the Nebraska authorities complicates the legal proceedings, creating tension between the prosecution and the defense.
The Turning Point
The breakthrough comes when Jerry Susi, frustrated with the lack of information, obtains the arrest warrant affidavit detailing Reed and Fester’s confessions. This document provides concrete evidence linking them directly to the murders, exonerating Livers and Sampson. The affidavits reveal critical details, such as the matching shotgun shells and DNA evidence, that were previously undisclosed to the defense.
Conclusion & Cliffhanger
As the episode draws to a close, Detective Rohr and the defense attorneys face the daunting task of reconciling the conflicting evidence. Jessica Reed’s fluctuating testimonies and the newfound evidence create a precarious balance between truth and deception. The episode ends on a suspenseful note, setting the stage for the next installment:
“Next on Murder in the Moonlight, who was telling the truth about that awful night on the farm and what would happen to Matt Livers and Nick Sampson?”
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Keith Morrison (01:03): “If there's anything like a Holy Grail gold standard in a high-pressure murder investigation, then surely that must be the confession.”
- Matt Livers (01:49): “I did the shooting.”
- Detective Jim Rohr (03:35): “It would help explain how two teens from Wisconsin end up at such a remote location...”
- Jessica Reed (06:00): “I killed someone. He was older. I loved it.”
- Detective Jim Rohr (07:27): “I thought jail was the safest place for this girl. She said she loved killing...”
- Jerry Susi (19:21): “That’s theoretically possible, but there's no evidence of that.”
Timestamps
- Advertisements and non-content segments have been omitted for clarity and focus on the core narrative.
Final Thoughts
"Murder in the Moonlight - Episode 4: About Face" offers a compelling exploration of a murder case fraught with conflicting confessions and emerging evidence. Through meticulous investigation and legal maneuvering, the episode highlights the intricate dance between truth and deception in the pursuit of justice. For listeners seeking an in-depth and engaging true crime narrative, this episode delivers a masterclass in storytelling and investigative journalism.