Felonious Florida: George and Florence | Episode 6 Summary

Overview

In Episode 6 of Season 5, titled "George and Florence," Felonious Florida delves deep into the haunting unsolved case of the Altidor Massacre. This episode meticulously unpacks the evidence, investigates the suspect's alibi, and explores the family's enduring quest for justice nearly three decades after the brutal murders. Hosted by David Schutz, the episode offers a compelling narrative that intertwines investigative journalism with personal testimonies, painting a vivid picture of a case that has remained stubbornly unresolved.

The Altidor Massacre: A Tragic Beginning

On a serene spring morning in 1997, the peaceful community of Miramar, Florida, was shattered by the quadruple homicide of three generations of the Altidore family. George Altidore, the husband, father, and son-in-law, became the primary suspect due to the overwhelming circumstantial evidence against him. However, his seemingly airtight alibi—supported by a phone call from his wife, Marie, placing him at work during the time of the murders—left investigators stymied.

Suspicious Behavior and Circumstantial Evidence

Fabiola Altidore, Marie’s cousin, provides crucial insights into the family's dynamics and George's behavior leading up to the tragedy. She recounts the morning after the murders when George appeared unusually composed, having freshened up while the rest of the family showed signs of acute distress.

Fabiola [02:17]: "They thought he was grieving like they were. And then I kept saying, no, he's not. He has wet tears. He has none and it's his family."

Her observations raised red flags about George's authenticity in expressing grief, leading to increased suspicion among the family members.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) report, led by Special Agent Leslie D'Ambrosia, summarized the key findings that painted George as a controlling figure whose history of dominance and jealousy could have culminated in the murders. The report also dismissed the idea of an external home invasion, instead suggesting the killings were personalized and premeditated.

FDLE Report (07:21): "These murders were a crime of interpersonal violence. Overkill was exhibited which indicates personalization of the crime."

The Elusive Alibi and Investigative Dead-Ends

Despite mounting evidence, George's alibi remained unshakable for years. The supposed phone call from Marie at 7:09 AM placed George at work, a claim he maintained. Investigators, including Detective Ron Peluzzo, grappled with the absence of hard evidence and the strength of George's legal representation, led by high-profile attorneys Vincent Farina and Richard Diaz.

Detective Ron Peluzzo [15:32]: "Until something catastrophic comes along. I don't see how he's not the one who did this."

A New Investigation: Uncovering Hidden Connections

Fast forward to 2007, Detective Danny Smith, driven by a personal connection to the case, spearheads a renewed investigation. His discovery of George's remarriage to Florence Daudin in 2001 introduced a new layer to the mystery. Florence's unexpected presence in George's life, especially her visit to the Altidor home the night before the murders, warranted further scrutiny.

Detective Danny Smith [26:14]: "He just kind of walked away from it. That always bothered me too."

Investigators unearth that Florence was involved in George’s activities shortly before the killings, suggesting a potential motive rooted in personal relationships or jealousy. However, concrete evidence linking Florence to the crime remained elusive.

Technological Advances and Renewed Hope

Embracing advancements in DNA technology, Detective Smith re-examines the evidence with modern forensic methods. Despite multiple attempts, including using the M Vac system to extract microscopic DNA particles from the crime scene, no definitive genetic evidence was found linking George or Florence to the murders.

George Altidore's Attorney [29:37]: "That was done. And no DNA was found on the wall on any of the testing."

Family's Plea for Justice

The Altidore family, especially Fabiola, remains adamant about George's culpability, arguing that the circumstantial evidence is sufficient for a trial. Their frustration stems from decades of unanswered questions and the perceived inaction of law enforcement.

Fabiola [34:10]: "Everything that needs to be brought to the table is on the table. Now. What are you going to do with it?"

Investigators' Dilemma and Legal Constraints

Miramar Police Chief Delrish Moss emphasizes the limitations faced by law enforcement in proceeding without concrete evidence, despite acknowledging the circumstantial case against George.

Chief Delrish Moss [39:45]: "We work in a system that allows us to do certain things, and we can only work within those parameters."

The prosecutors require probable cause and reasonable proof to charge George officially, a standard that the existing evidence has not met.

Enduring Grief and Lingering Questions

Years have passed, but the scars of the Altidor Massacre remain deeply etched in the family's lives. As Detective Smith retires without resolution, the family's hope persists that one day justice will be served.

Detective Ron Peluzzo [43:42]: "I want justice for my mom, my sister, and my two nieces, mostly the children, Samantha and Sabrina."

Conclusion

"George and Florence | 6" masterfully navigates the complexities of the Altidor Massacre case, highlighting the intricate web of evidence, personal testimonies, and the relentless pursuit of truth by both the investigators and the grieving family. As the case remains unsolved, the episode underscores the enduring pain of loss and the unyielding hope for justice, leaving listeners contemplating the elusive nature of truth in the face of overwhelming odds.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Fabiola Altidore [02:17]: "They thought he was grieving like they were. And then I kept saying, no, he's not. He has wet tears. He has none and it's his family."

• FDLE Special Agent Leslie D'Ambrosia [07:21]: "These murders were a crime of interpersonal violence. Overkill was exhibited which indicates personalization of the crime."

• Detective Danny Smith [15:57]: "You go into the woods and a compass always points north, no matter what you do."

• Fabiola Altidore [34:10]: "Everything that needs to be brought to the table is on the table. Now. What are you going to do with it?"

• Detective Ron Peluzzo [43:42]: "I want justice for my mom, my sister, and my two nieces, mostly the children, Samantha and Sabrina."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Felonious Florida not only sheds light on the dark corridors of a cold case but also humanizes the relentless pursuit of justice by those left behind. It serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of unsolved crimes on families and communities alike.

For more detailed insights and to explore additional episodes, visit feloniousflorida.com.