Dateline: True Crime Weekly – Episode Summary

Release Date: February 13, 2025

International Murder Investigation: The Anna Kanesevich Case

In this episode, Andrea Canning delves into a troubling international murder investigation involving Anna Kanesevich, a Florida woman who vanished in Spain a year ago. The case took a pivotal turn when Anna's husband, David Kanesevich, was arrested under suspicions of her murder.

Key Developments:

• Disappearance and Evidence: Anna moved from Fort Lauderdale to Madrid amidst marital separation. Surveillance footage emerged showing a man resembling David purchasing duct tape and spray paint near her apartment and disposing of a suitcase from the building (03:59).

• Federal Indictment: Initially charged with kidnapping in May, David faced upgraded charges to murder six months later, as authorities noted abrupt cessation of Anna's digital activities, suggesting her demise (06:11).

• Family Under Scrutiny: The FBI expanded its investigation to David's brother, Ugessa Kanesevich. Federal warrants allege Ugessa's involvement in tampering with evidence and obstructing the investigation by coercing Apple to lock David’s phone. Additionally, Ugessa traveled to Sevilla around the time Anna disappeared, raising further suspicions (07:24).

• Legal Countermovements: Anna’s family has initiated wrongful death lawsuits against both David and Ugessa, accusing them of fraudulent activities and interference related to Anna’s disappearance (10:37).

Notable Quote:

Brian Sheehan: “They believe that they will see the day that Ellen gets justice.” (20:19)

Philadelphia Case: Ellen Greenberg’s Mysterious Death

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the 14-year-long quest by Ellen Greenberg’s parents, Josh and Sandy Greenberg, to uncover the truth behind their daughter’s death. Originally ruled a homicide, the manner of death was later controversially changed to suicide, prompting the Greenbergs to seek justice relentlessly.

Case Highlights:

• The Night of the Incident: On January 26, 2011, Ellen returned home early from work and was later found dead with multiple stab wounds. Her fiancé, Sam Goldberg, reported being unable to enter the apartment initially and eventually discovered Ellen's body (14:38).

• Controversial Ruling: The medical examiner switched the death classification from homicide to suicide after a meeting with the district attorney's office, citing lack of forced entry and other factors (15:48).

• Family’s Investigation: Over the years, the Greenbergs have consulted numerous experts who argue that Ellen couldn’t have inflicted the wounds upon herself. A key testimony from a forensic pathologist highlighted inconsistencies, such as a stab wound lacking hemorrhaging, indicating Ellen’s inability to administer it post-mortem (17:31; 18:06).

• Recent Breakthrough: Just days before their scheduled civil trial, Dr. Marlon Osborne, the original medical examiner, submitted a verification suggesting Ellen’s death should not be classified as a suicide. Subsequently, a new, independent medical examiner has been tasked with reviewing the case, potentially reopening the investigation (18:29; 19:30).

Notable Quote:

Brian Sheehan: “She did not kill herself. And she turned around to her husband.” (20:19)

DATELINE Roundup: Key Crime Stories of the Week

1. Eric Thompson’s Retrial in Hawaii

Eric Thompson faces his second murder trial for the 2022 killing of his wife's former lover, John Takahara, an FSU law professor and acupuncturist. The defense is actively challenging the prosecution's case by highlighting the lack of eyewitnesses, the missing murder weapon, and insufficient electronic evidence tying Thompson to the crime scene.

Trial Insights:

• Defense Strategy: Emphasizes Eric’s character and the absence of concrete evidence.

• Notable Testimony: Eric's brother, Micha Thompson, provided character testimony, describing Eric as "an easygoing guy" who "wouldn't murder someone" (23:46).

• Trial Progress: As the defense scrutinizes the prosecution's case, Eric has pleaded not guilty, maintaining his innocence.

2. Donna Adelson’s Motion for Release in Florida

Donna Adelson, a 75-year-old accused of orchestrating a murder-for-hire plot against her son-in-law, Dan Markell, awaits her trial while seeking release from jail. Currently in protective custody, Adelson's defense argues that she is not a flight risk and contends that her arrest was based on misinterpretations of her travel intentions.

Key Points:

• Allegations: Accused of masterminding the plot to murder Markell.

• Defense Argument: Claims her trip to Vietnam was for vacation purposes, not flee from prosecution.

• Upcoming Rulings: A decision on her bond is expected by February 27, 2025, with the trial scheduled for June 2025 (27:57).

3. Dana Chandler’s Third Murder Trial in Kansas

Dana Chandler stands accused of the 2002 murders of her ex-husband, Mike Sisco, and his fiancée, Karen Harkness. This marks her third trial in two decades, following a guilty verdict overturned due to prosecutorial misconduct and a hung jury in her previous retrial.

Current Trial Developments:

• Self-Representation: Chandler is currently representing herself, though the court has appointed standby counsel to assist if needed (26:44).

• Defense Stance: Maintains her innocence throughout the proceedings.

Juror Questions in Trials: A Judicial Perspective

A notable segment of the episode features Judge Boyd Patterson, who discusses the growing trend of jurors posing questions during trials. This practice is seen in high-profile cases such as Jason Chin and Nima Momeni, where jurors actively engaged with the testimonies through their inquiries.

Judge Patterson’s Insights:

• State Variations: While 34 states and the federal system permit juror questions, some states like Minnesota, Texas, and Nebraska do not (29:45).

• Procedure: Jurors submit written questions, which are then reviewed by lawyers before being vetted by the judge for appropriateness (30:19).

• Benefits: Enhances juror engagement and ensures informed decision-making by clarifying uncertainties (31:26).

• Criticisms: Concerns include potential distractions, speculative questions, and the burden on prosecutors to address all juror inquiries without compromising legal strategies (32:17).

Notable Quote:

Judge Boyd Patterson: “They make more informed decisions.” (31:26)

Conclusion and Upcoming Highlights

The episode culminates with a preview of upcoming segments, including:

• Future Cases: Discussions on the ongoing trials of Eric Thompson and Dana Chandler.

• Special Features: Insights from Judge Patterson on the evolving dynamics of jury participation.

• Exclusive Interviews: Upcoming interviews with key figures involved in landmark true crime investigations.

Teaser: Next week, Blaine Alexander will host Andrea's temporary absence with a special guest, Keith Morrison, discussing his new podcast series, Murder in the Moonlight.

Notable Timestamped Quotes:

• Brian Sheehan: “They believe that they will see the day that Ellen gets justice.” (20:19)

• Judge Boyd Patterson: “They make more informed decisions.” (31:26)

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the intense investigations, legal battles, and evolving judicial practices discussed in this episode of Dateline: True Crime Weekly. Whether delving into international mysteries or scrutinizing local justice systems, Andrea Canning and her guests provide an in-depth look into the multifaceted world of true crime.