Gone South: Season 4, Episode 31 – "Bone Valley’s Gilbert King"

Release Date: May 21, 2025
Host: Jed Lipinski
Production: Audacy Originals

Introduction

In the 31st episode of Season 4 of Gone South, titled "Bone Valley’s Gilbert King," host Jed Lipinski delves deep into the harrowing true crime story of Leo Schofield—a man wrongfully convicted of murdering his wife in Florida. This episode not only explores the intricacies of the case but also highlights the transformative journey of Gilbert King, the Pulitzer Prize-winning writer, as he transitions from author to podcaster to advocate for justice.

The Genesis of Bone Valley

Gilbert King, renowned for his Pulitzer-winning book Devil in the Grove, ventures into podcasting with Bone Valley a year after the first season of Gone South. Initially skeptical, King was persuaded to listen after numerous recommendations. Contrary to his initial assumptions, Bone Valley isn't about literal bones in a valley but centers on the wrongful conviction of Leo Schofield for the 1987 murder of his wife, Michelle Schofield.

Gilbert King [00:50]: "I gave myself permission not to listen to the show, but after half a dozen people raved about it to me, I gave in."

Meeting Leo Schofield and Unraveling the Case

King immerses himself in Leo's story, becoming more than a narrator—he becomes an advocate for Leo's innocence. The podcast's second season builds upon the first, focusing on King’s transition into podcasting and the challenges faced in exonerating an innocent man within the flawed Florida judicial system.

Kelsey Interviewing Jeremy Scott [04:03]:
Kelsey Put, co-producer, discusses how she and Jeremy Scott began their investigation after being tipped off by a judge who handed King a business card stating, "Leo Scofield. Not just wrongfully convicted, he's an innocent man."

Jeremy Scott [04:30]: "I started reading it, and I saw it, like, I could see it in the transcript that the prosecutor didn't have a case."

Investigative Journalism and Breakthroughs

Relocating to Florida, King and Put embark on relentless investigative efforts. They recorded their daily grind—frustrations, meetings, and breakthroughs—which added an authentic layer to the podcast’s narrative. Their persistence paid off when they discovered that Jeremy Scott, initially implicated due to fingerprints, had confessed to Michelle's murder years later.

Jeremy Scott [07:18]: "He was so crystal clear in his transparency. And when he talked about the plea deals that he was offered that would have gotten him out in the early '90s, and he turned them down because he could not admit to something he couldn't do that he didn't do."

Uncovering Additional Crimes

As the investigation deepens, new revelations emerge. Jeremy Scott admits to another murder—the killing of a taxicab driver during his teenage years. These confessions, coupled with forensic evidence, solidify his guilt and further exonerate Leo Schofield.

Jeremy Scott [19:07]: "He said, 'I killed Michelle.' And that's how it played out for Leo. And it's just tragic, in my opinion."

Systemic Failures and Misrepresentations

King uncovers systemic failures within the Florida judicial system. The original investigation was marred by incompetence and possible misconduct, with prosecutor John Aguero manipulating testimonies to secure Leo's wrongful conviction. These revelations highlight the pervasive issues within the legal framework that allowed an innocent man to suffer for 35 years.

Jeremy Scott [15:12]: "I think he's absolutely right. [...] When you have a wrongful conviction, it takes a mountain to overcome them."

Impact of Storytelling and Advocacy

Bone Valley becomes a catalyst for change. The podcast's storytelling prowess draws the attention of influential figures, including Senator Marco Rubio, who previously advocated for the exoneration of the Groveland Four. Inspired by this, Senator Jonathan Martin emerges as a staunch advocate for Leo's release, demonstrating the profound impact of narrative-driven advocacy.

Jeremy Scott [35:40]: "I believe it's going to happen. And I think, you know, it is the power of storytelling."

Leo Schofield’s Parole and Continued Struggles

In April 2024, after serving 35 years, Leo Schofield is granted parole. However, his journey is far from over. Despite his innocence, Leo faces the residual challenges of a felony conviction, including constant monitoring and restrictions that hinder his reintegration into society.

Gilbert King [37:19]: "He was finally granted parole in April of 2024 after serving 35 years for the murder of his wife."

Reconciliation and Forgiveness

One of the most poignant moments in the episode is the reconciliation between Leo and Jeremy. Through the podcast, they forge a relationship built on truth and understanding. Leo expresses forgiveness towards Jeremy, showcasing the human capacity for empathy even in the darkest circumstances.

Jeremy Scott [38:53]: "They have this unbelievable conversation between them. [...] They understand the truth of what happened that night."

Conclusion

"Gone South’s" episode on "Bone Valley’s Gilbert King" is a testament to the power of storytelling in uncovering truth and fostering justice. Through relentless investigation, emotional depth, and unwavering advocacy, Gilbert King and his team illuminate the flaws within the judicial system and champion the cause of an innocent man seeking redemption. This episode not only serves as a gripping true crime narrative but also as an inspiring story of resilience and the quest for justice.

Notable Quotes

• Gilbert King [00:50]: "I gave myself permission not to listen to the show, but after half a dozen people raved about it to me, I gave in."

• Jeremy Scott [04:30]: "I could see it in the transcript that the prosecutor didn't have a case."

• Jeremy Scott [15:12]: "When you have a wrongful conviction, it takes a mountain to overcome them."

• Jeremy Scott [35:40]: "I believe it's going to happen. And I think, you know, it is the power of storytelling."

• Jeremy Scott [38:53]: "They understand the truth of what happened that night."

Further Engagement

For those captivated by Leo Schofield’s story and the relentless pursuit of justice portrayed in this episode, subscribing to Gone South ensures you won’t miss future installments that continue to explore Southern crimes and the human stories entwined within them.

Connect with Gone South:

• Email: gone south podcastmail.com
• Social Media: Follow on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram @thegonesouthpodcast
• Newsletter: Subscribe on Substack at Gone South with Jed Lipinski

Gone South is an Odyssey original podcast, created, written, and narrated by Jed Lipinski, with a dedicated team of executive producers and story editors ensuring each episode delivers compelling and insightful content.