The Cotton Club Murder | Slow Boil | 4

Summary

Hollywood & Crime: The Cotton Club Murder | Slow Boil | Episode 4 Summary

Introduction

"The Cotton Club Murder," the fourth episode of Wondery's Hollywood & Crime Season 8, delves deep into the enigmatic and tragic tale of Roy Raiden, a variety show producer whose aspirations in Hollywood culminate in a convoluted web of ambition, betrayal, and murder. This episode, titled "Slow Boil," meticulously unpacks the complexities of Roy's relationships, the tumultuous business dealings surrounding the Cotton Club film, and the relentless pursuit of justice by determined detectives.

Robert Evans and Roy Raiden: A Tenuous Partnership

The narrative begins by introducing Robert Evans, a seasoned Hollywood producer striving to revive his career through the Cotton Club project. Evans finds himself entangled with Roy Raiden, a charismatic but increasingly erratic partner whose promises of substantial investments soon reveal underlying tensions. Their partnership is further complicated by Laney Jacobs, Raiden's enigmatic business partner, whose assertive maneuvers threaten to destabilize the agreement between Evans and Raiden.

Josh Lucas narrates at [00:23]:
"Robert Evans opened his eyes against the overcast morning light... Laney Jacobs and Roy Radin were fighting over the partnership arrangement."

The Brewing Conflict

As pre-production on the Cotton Club spirals into financial woes, Roy's dependence on dubious funding sources, including a $35 million promise from the Puerto Rican government, raises red flags for Evans. Compounding these concerns is Roy's past involvement in a scandal where actress Melanie Haller was assaulted, an event that Evans's brother, Charles, warns could tarnish their project's reputation.

At [02:05], Josh Lucas highlights Evans's growing unease:
"Evans sat up straighter. He'd be in New York soon to meet with Roy. He would decide then. But it just might be time to cut ties with his new partner."

Laney Jacobs: The Catalyst of Tension

Laney Jacobs emerges as a pivotal figure whose relentless drive to secure her share of Roy's profits pushes the partnership to the brink. Her confrontation with Roy—demanding a 50% cut of his 45% stake—is a turning point that exposes the fragile foundation of their collaboration.

At [16:13], Tracy Patton recounts:
"Laney pace back and forth... Robert Evans offered him a drink, Roy said yes to a scotch and soda... Evans launched into conversation about sharing Laney's cut."

Roy's reaction is visceral and explosive, revealing his unwillingness to concede to Laney's demands. This confrontation sets the stage for the ensuing conflict that ultimately leads to his untimely death.

The Murder and Initial Investigation

On June 10th, 1983, Roy Raiden's body is discovered in a desolate canyon near Los Angeles, marking the beginning of a complex murder investigation. Initial leads by Detective Carlos Avila prove fruitless, and the case quickly goes cold. Five years later, Detective Bill Stoner and his partner Charlie Gunther resurrect the investigation, uncovering a possible link to Robert Evans and delving into Roy's troubled past.

At [07:34], Josh Lucas narrates:
"Nowhere on earth held more potential than spring in New York City... Roy was securing a whopping 35 million... But introducing Laney into the deal made Evans cringe."

Unraveling the Web: Key Suspects and Leads

The episode meticulously traces the investigation's progression, highlighting key figures such as Bill Menser, Alex Marty, and Bob Lowe. Bill Ryder, an ex-cop and former acquaintance of Roy, becomes a crucial witness. Despite his initial reluctance, Ryder eventually provides valuable information linking Menser and Marty to Roy's murder, though his fear for his family's safety complicates matters.

At [35:39], Josh Lucas explains:
"Roy Raiden's office... Jonathan ran into his office and asked Roy what was going on... Roy couldn't believe how absurd this had become."

Undercover Operations and Breakthroughs

Detectives Stoner and Avila employ strategic undercover operations to extract critical information from Bob Lowe, the limo driver implicated in the murder. This tense surveillance culminates in a pivotal moment where Lowe inadvertently admits his involvement, providing the detectives with the evidence needed to advance the case.

At [40:55], Josh Lucas describes the climax:
"Roy Raiden's office... They hear Low say, 'I was there.' Stoner throws Avila a satisfied look. The wait is over."

The Human Element: Personal Struggles and Motivations

Throughout the episode, the personal lives and internal struggles of key individuals add depth to the narrative. Roy's deteriorating mental state, driven by substance abuse and mounting pressures, juxtaposes with Evans's desperate attempts to salvage his career. Laney Jacobs's unwavering determination to secure her investment reveals the personal vendettas intertwined with professional ambitions.

At [29:01], Josh Lucas notes:
"Roy Raiden's bedroom... Roy grabbed a pillow and pulled it over his head... He wasn't letting Laney get what was rightfully his."

Conclusion: A Slow Boil to a Boiling Point

"Slow Boil" aptly captures the gradual escalation of tensions that lead to Roy Raiden's murder. The episode skillfully interweaves personal vendettas, financial desperation, and moral compromises, painting a comprehensive picture of the dark side of Hollywood's glittering facade. The relentless pursuit by detectives, highlighted by strategic breakthroughs and unwavering determination, underscores the complexities of solving high-profile crimes entrenched in corruption and deceit.

In the final moments, Tracy Patton summarizes:
"Detective Bill Stoner pulls his windowless surveillance van over to the curb... They have Low. Now they need the bigger fish. Bill Mener."

Notable Quotes

• Josh Lucas [02:05]:
  "Evans sat up straighter. He'd be in New York soon to meet with Roy. He would decide then. But it just might be time to cut ties with his new partner."

• Tracy Patton [16:13]:
  "Laney paced back and forth... Roy Raiden didn't know show business and she had no right to be an equal partner."

• Josh Lucas [35:39]:
  "Roy's relationship with Laney had gone down the toilet after she accused him of conspiring with Tally Rogers to rob her."

• Josh Lucas [40:55]:
  "The wait is over. They have Low. Now they need the bigger fish. Bill Mener."

Final Thoughts

Episode 4 of "The Cotton Club Murder" masterfully balances narrative storytelling with procedural investigation, offering listeners a compelling journey through one of Hollywood's most perplexing crimes. By weaving together personal dramas, business rivalries, and investigative breakthroughs, Wondery continues to deliver an engaging and insightful true crime experience.

Transcript

[Tracy Patton]

Wondery plus subscribers can binge all episodes of Hollywood and Crime the Cotton Club Murder early and ad free. Join Wondery plus in the Wondery app or on Apple Podcasts.

[Josh Lucas]

Wondery.

[Tracy Patton]

Robert Evans opened his eyes against the overcast morning light. He blinked as his surroundings came into focus. Evans was sprawled in a giant bed at a house in Miami. Laney Jacobs house, to be specific. Apparently her old one prior to moving to L. A. It was late April 1983. He sat up, shirtless and ran his hand through his hair, then looked at the spot next to him. No Laney, just the imprint she'd left on her white silk pillow. Evans smiled, thinking back to how this thing between them had started. He sensed a spark when they first met, back in March. Then Evans launched his charm campaign by sending extravagant bouquets to Laney's house. It worked. He might be getting older, but Evans could still hook a woman as elegant as Laney. Not that he ever doubted himself just then. Laney glided into the room wearing a pale pink robe. She carried a silver tray holding two demitasse cups of espresso and two smooth lines of coke. Rise and shine, she said, presenting Evans with the tray. Evans snorted his line, then downed his espresso. Coke with a caffeine chaser. Best way to start the day. Laney slid into the bed, then draped herself next to Evans. Looks like the weather isn't our friend today. What do you say we move up the meeting with my attorneys? Evans sat up straighter.

[Josh Lucas]

Sure. Whatever you think. I'm ready to bring in some new blood.

[Tracy Patton]

They were supposed to charter a yacht and enjoy the peaceful ocean, but there were storm clouds gathering. The ominous weather seemed a fitting metaphor for the turbulence unfolding over the Cotton Club. That's why they were in Miami, to find other investors for the film. Laney and Roy Radin were fighting over the partnership arrangement. Evans didn't want to be caught in the middle, but now it seemed there wasn't much choice. Laney put her espresso cup on the tray, her voice charged with energy. My lawyers think we can rope in a big fish to invest in Cotton Club American Express. Then we can say farewell to Roy. Any mention of money, especially if it was connected to a giant like Amex, made Evans perk up. Pre production on the Cotton Club project continued to hemorrhage money, and Roy had stepped in with the promise of 35 million from the Puerto Rican government. Not exactly pocket change, but lately Evan started to have serious doubts about working with him. The closer he got to Roy, the more the more he could see his inexperience. And Roy seemed to think he was going to have creative control on the film. The thought made Evans cringe. And it wasn't just that Roy was green. Evans had learned from his own brother, Charles, that Roy had been embroiled in an unsavory scandal. An actress named Melanie Haller was raped and beaten at a party in Roy's Long island house a few years ago. Charles warned him to steer clear of Roy Raiden. The press would have a field day if they heard he had ties to a producer. With an incident like that on his record, Evans was eager to hear what Laney's attorneys had to say about new investors. A few hours later, after the meeting and the storm clouds cleared, Evans was genuinely impressed. One of the lawyers turned out to be a tax whiz with a deep understanding of investments. It was decided they'd make a play for American Express. Forget what Roy said about cutting Laney out. Evans wanted her in. But that night in bed, his mind was racing. He looked over at Laney, who was sound asleep. Yes, her American Express idea was potentially very lucrative, but tossing aside $35 million would be reckless. Evans just wasn't sure he could deal with Roy's baggage. And at the very least, Laney deserved half of Roy's percentage in the agreement. Evans rolled over inside. He'd be in New York soon to meet with Roy. He would decide then. But it just might be time to cut ties with his new partner. This episode is brought to you by Audible, your destination for best selling audiobooks, exclusive Audible originals and more. New members can try audible free for 30 days. Visit audible.com cotton or text cotton to 500.

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[Tracy Patton]

From Wondry. I'm Tracy Patton along with my co host Josh Lucas and this is Hollywood and crime. The Cotton Club Murder in our last episode, Detective Carlos Avila's leads dried up and the Roy Radin murder investigation hit a dead end. Four years later, Detective Bill Stoner and his partner took over the cold case. They looked into an old lead, an ex cop with a direct line to their main suspect, Bill Menser. Meanwhile, Laney was the victim of a robbery. Eleven kilos of Coke and $270,000 were taken. She suspected that Roy Radin orchestrated it. Then she discovered Roy was planning another robbery altogether, cutting her out of the Cotton Club deal. This is episode four Slow Boil.

[Josh Lucas]

Nowhere on earth held more potential than spring in New York City. Leaves were back on the trees, people were out in the streets, and the sweet smell of new beginnings hung in the air. Roy Raiden loved that feeling. It was late April 1983. Roy's driver pulled up to 234 East 61st street, the Upper east side townhouse Robert Evans occupied while he was in Manhattan. Roy stepped out of the car and buttoned the jacket of his three piece suit. He pulled open the iron gate in front of Evans ivy laced brownstone and rang the bell. Roy felt downright cocky coming into this meeting with Evans. The Cotton Club deal was moving swiftly through his banker connection, Jose Alegria. Roy was in the process of securing a whopping 35 million. They'd be meeting with Alegria himself in a few days here in New York to hammer out more details. They weren't done raising the cash just yet. Both he and Evans still had to find another 8 million each. But Roy wasn't sweating it. He had money coming in from the sale of Ocean Castle, his Southampton mansion. Plus there was always Johnny Stopelli, his godfather. Stopelli had mob ties and deep pockets and said he'd be willing to invest in the film. Roy had to laugh. Even Goodfellas wanted to be in the movie business. Uncle Johnny was also stepping in with advice. He warned Roy that any show of weakness could get him squeezed out. Always stay in control, he'd say. Roy assured him he would not. Everything was perfect. Roy's relationship with Laney had gone down the toilet after she accused him of conspiring with Tally Rogers to rob her. And there were still a few loose ends that needed to be tied up in the contract. Namely getting rid of Laney. Evans answered the door and led Roy inside. Up the spiral staircase to a massive home library where leather bound books lined the walls. Evans offered him a drink and Roy said yes to a scotch and soda. He poured the perfect scotch and soda ratio and handed the glass to Roy. The two sat down on some leather club chairs. Then Evans launched into conversation. I've been doing some serious thinking. I believe Laney is entitled to half of your 45%. None of this finder's fee business. It's only fair. Roy blinked in surprise. He couldn't be hearing this right, but Evans just kept talking about Laney. Roy balled up his hands into fists. This was bullshit. Evans was stabbing him in the back. Laney Jacobs didn't know show business and she had no right to be an equal partner. He glared at Evans, then slammed his drink down. He got up, then brushed past him to march down the spiral staircase and out to the street. Good thing he told his driver to wait. Roy barreled into the backseat of his car and told the driver to step on it back to the Mayflower Hotel. This was the thanks he got after finding an investor. Roy was serving him up $35 million on a silver platter. When he got back his apartment at the Mayflower, there was more bad news. Laney had the nerve to call him and tell him she was going to be at Evans townhouse the next night. Roy was enraged. He needed to blow off steam and ended up at Studio 54 snorting lines until 4am If Laney and Evans thought they could strong arm him, they were very wrong. He'd go back to Evans Place tomorrow with a message. You don't mess with roy Raiden. It's June 4, 1987, almost four years since the body of Roy Raiden was found. LA Sheriff's Department Detective Bill Stoner sits in a hotel diner in Los Angeles. His partner, Charlie Guenther, is next to him. Stoner glances at the man sitting across from them. Bill Rider, an ex cop and their current best chance at a break in this cold case. They found him through the photos in Bill Menser's apartment, the ones of some gun toting guys in a canyon. Mincer has turned into one of their prime suspects in Roy's murder and his ex wife identified Ryder in one of the photos. Detective Avila's case File notes from 1983 link the photos to Roy's murder location, but it's never been confirmed. Ryder anxiously twirls a spoon in his coffee. He's stout, with dark hair and a thick beard. He looks around like he's half expecting an unwelcome visitor to walk through the door. Ryder admits that he knows who took part in Roy Raiden's murder. But he's too scared to identify them. Stoner, who has a soothing demeanor, leans in and says all they want to do is solve the case for Roy's family. Ryder nods and takes a breath. Look, I want to help you, but I don't want my interview recorded. And nothing on paper, nothing that can trace me back to you. If you agree to that, then I can say more. Stoner and Gunther both agree. Ryder starts talking. Back in 83, he was playing poker with Bill Menser and a guy named Alex Martyr. They were bragging about killing Roy Raiden. At first he didn't believe them. But then they showed him newspaper articles about the case and gave him more details. That's when he knew they were telling the truth. It's haunted him all these years. Stoner asks how he met Menser and Marty. Ryder says he hired them when he was head of security for his brother in law, Hustler magazine publisher Larry Flint. Stoner knows all about Flint. He's a controversial figure, always embroiled in lawsuits and scandals. Ryder adds that there was another member of Menser's crew. Guy named Bob Lowe. Ryder heard that Lowe drove the limo the night of the murder. Stoner cocks his eyebrow at Gunther. They may have finally found their mysterious limo driver. Gunther asks the million dollar question. Do you know who wanted Roy Raiden out of the picture? Ryder hesitates. Menser said that Robert Evans was somehow involved. And Menser's girlfriend, Laney. Stoner knows they're onto something big. But first they need to connect the location to those photos. The next day, Stoner drives up Interstate 5 towards Caswell Canyon. Charlie Gunther is riding shotgun. Ryder's in the backseat. They get off on the Hungry Valley Road exit. Then Ryder tells them to turn down a bumpy one lane dirt road. Stoner realizes that sure enough, they're near the area where Raiden's body was found. He slowly rolls down the gravelly path and comes to a stop where it dead ends. The men all get out of the car and inch down the rest of the slope on foot. Once they're at the bottom, Ryder stops them. He announces that this is the spot where the photos were taken. He's sure of it. Stoner takes out one of the photos and holds it up. It's a perfect match. Then he turns around to look at the spot where he knows Roy's body was found. He uses his feet to measure the distance to that gruesome sight. 1. 2. 3. Then he hits the spot. The cops found Roy's decaying corpse just 100ft from where this picture was taken. Their investigation just took another leap, but they need more. Stoner walks back to where Ryder and Gunther are standing. He nods at Gunther, then removes his sunglasses so Ryder can see his eyes. Stoner asks if Ryder would consider wearing a wire and talk directly to Menser and Marty. Ryder looks down, shaking his head. Menser and Marty, they're stone quote killers. I have a wife and kids. If they caught me wearing a wire, they'd kill me or my family. I can't do it. Stoner is disappointed. They've hit another wall. But if Ryder won't wear a wire, they need to find another way to.

[Tracy Patton]

Get to menser&mar April 29, 1983 Early Evening Shadows stretched across the courtyard at Robert Evans townhouse. Laney paced back and forth across the brick floor. Usually nothing fazed her, but Evans had warned her that Roy had stormed out of their meeting yesterday. Now he was due back here any minute. The thought of dealing with Roy made her stomach do flips. She paused, forcing a deep breath. Evans was upstairs. He said Laney needed to confront Roy face to face. She and Evans had spent the afternoon in a coaching session. He seemed confident she could convince Roy into giving her what she wanted. Half of Roy's cut. A few minutes crawled by. Laney heard Roy before she saw him. His booming voice rumbled through the house. She wondered if the man could ever enter a room without shouting. Roy spotted her and then stepped into the courtyard. Laney thought he looked like hell warmed over. His eyes were bloodshot and his face haggard, but his suit, as always, impeccable. She'd grown to loathe Roy in the last month, but Evans, determined to salvage the deal, insisted on a last ditch effort. If only Roy would finally listen for a change. Lainey steadied herself and dived in. Roy, I'm going to say this for the last time. If you're getting 45% of the company, then I get half of your percentage. It's not a request. It's fair compensation. Without me, you would have never met Bob Evans. Roy stared at her, slack jawed like she'd just sprouted a second head. He shook his head vigorously as he repeated no. Then he exploded with rage and unleashed a torrent of curse words. Laney gasped. Roy's tirade continued. When she tried to interject, he just cut her off. Then Laney did something that she never expected to do. She started crying. Big heaving sobs that wouldn't stop. Worse, she found herself pleading with this monster. But all it did was enrage him more. She'd never felt such a potent mix of humiliation and anger. She remembered the respect she'd fought for and won as a Coke distributor in Florida. And now this thing was reflected, refusing to see her worth. Through her haze of tears, she saw Bob Evans rush out to the terrace. He wasn't alone. By his side was the day's vip, Puerto Rican banker, Jose Alegria. Evans voice cut through the air. He shouted at Roy to knock it off, that Laney should stay in the deal. He'd even split the difference of their shares to make Laney's cut. Roy threw up his hands in disgust. He said there was no way in hell that was happening. Then Roy jumped to his feet and ushered Alegria out of the house. Lainey stared after them. She sniffed back a tear. This wasn't over yet.

[Josh Lucas]

Roy practically shoved Jose Alegria into the waiting limo, barking orders at the driver to get moving. The banker had confusion written all over his face. What in God's name just happened? Roy, don't worry about it. Laney's delusional if she thinks she can snake her way into this deal. Roy was still seething at the thought of Laney and Evans being in cahoots. But Alegria, who he'd counted as an ally, threw him a curveball. Alegria suggested Roy just give her what she asked for. Roy's jaw clenched. He wasn't handing her a dime more than a finder's fee. The limo crawled through Manhattan traffic. Roy closed his eyes. He wished he could forget the sound of Laney's voice, like nails on a chalkboard. He shook his head. It was hard to believe he ever spent time with her. Hell, he'd actually found her amusing at one time. Must have been the Coke. Evans might be a sucker for her charms, but Roy wasn't a sucker of any kind. It was clear now Laney Jacobs was a serious threat to Roy's success and his entire future in Hollywood.

[Tracy Patton]

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[Tracy Patton]

By early May 1983, after the disastrous meetings in New York, Robert Evans wished he had never even heard the name Roy Raiden. What started out as a golden opportunity to get the Cotton Club off the ground and Evans back on top of the Hollywood pyramid now threatened to topple him entirely. Roy Raiden wasn't a partner he was becoming a liability. He'd gone off the rails in front of the money man, Alegria. Everything about the guy screamed amateur hour. Clearly, Evans had to get out of his deal with Roy, but finding a way seemed impossible. Laney seemed sure about that Amex money, but he knew better than to count on it. Maybe Alegria had the same doubts. He might be just as interested in cutting Roy out. He phoned Alegria and asked if he'd still finance the movie if Roy wasn't involved, but Alegria didn't want to hear it. He told Evans he didn't feel good about doing anything behind Roy's back. Alegria made it clear that if Evans still wanted this money to get the Cotton Club made, he'd have to work it out with Roy Raiden. Crap. But maybe Evans just had to change his thinking. Maybe he could still do this without Roy Raiden. He was, after all, Robert Evans. He could buy Roy out of his contract and then use the 35 mil plus get more somewhere else. And if Roy wouldn't bite, there had to be another way to get him out for good.

[Josh Lucas]

It was May 10, 1983. Back at his office at the Regency Hotel in West Hollywood, Roy Raiden slammed the phone receiver back into the cradle, then picked it up and slammed it again. Then he did it once more, for emphasis. Jonathan ran into his office and asked Roy what was going on. Roy laughed hysterically. He couldn't believe how absurd this had all become. He told Jonathan he just got off the phone with Robert Evans and Evans had the gall to try and buy Roy out of the company for $2 million. Roy started shaking as he recalled the conversation. Jonathan shot him a look of pure disbelief. Roy, just take it. Take the damn money and run. Roy wasn't about to run. Jonathan didn't get it. Roy wouldn't let Laney get what was rightfully his. Evans throwing that kind of money around meant he saw a massive return on the future. Roy wouldn't walk away for a meal easily $2 million when there were bigger profits on the table. Jonathan tried to reason with him. So what if this deal fell through? There would be other deals with other producers. Roy's answer was to dump some blow onto the back of his hand and snort. Then he looked up at his assistant. Let me tell you something, kid. I'm the one making this happen for Evans. You told me once, Evans isn't exactly on top of the food chain. He needs me. Roy signaled he was done with the discussion by abruptly leaving the apartment. When he returned a few hours later, Jonathan had a worried look on his face. There had been a strange phone call. A man who identified himself as Michael Scalise warned Roy to drop out of the movie deal and go back to New York or else there would be trouble. Roy said he didn't know anyone named Scalise. Sounded like a bad joke. But by nightfall, Roy's bravado wavered. The walls of the apartment felt like they were closing in. A dark mood settled over him. He picked up the phone, called his mother. Roy hesitated for a beat, then asked if she loved him. His mother's voice held a flicker of panic. She said, of course I love you. What's going on, Roy? Roy said everything was fine, that he loved her. He asked her to please tell his two sisters and his ex wife, Tony that he loved them too. In case I get killed in a plane crash, he quickly added Roy hung up, feeling anxious. He told himself things would be better in the morning. But as Roy stared at the Hollywood lights flickering outside his window, he wasn't so sure.

[Tracy Patton]

It was the morning of May 12, 1983. Laney Jacobs was back in LA. She stared at the phone on her nightstand. She just had a call with her business partner. Not Robert Evans. Her other business partner. Drug kingpin Milan Belichasis. Milan told her he had settled the debt to the Colombians for the missing cocaine. Fine. Now she was on the hook to pay him back. Plus, she was still out 270 grand. Tallie Rogers, the little weasel, had vanished without a trace. No chance of recouping her losses there. The Cotton Club was her golden ticket. But it all hinged on Roy. He was a roadblock she needed to get past if she wanted to get her share. Laney put her hand on the receiver of her white push button phone. She tentatively lifted it off the cradle and put it to her ear. Roy's smug face flashed in her mind, but she stayed calm. This call had to be made. She dialed the numbers she knew by heart. At this point, after just one ring, a man picked up. It was Jonathan Lawson.

[Josh Lucas]

Roy Raiden's office.

[Tracy Patton]

Hi Jonathan, it's Laney. Can I speak to Roy?

[Josh Lucas]

He's not up yet.

[Tracy Patton]

Okay, tell him I need to meet with him tonight at Touch Nightclub. No excuses. It's urgent. Laney hung up. This time she was calling the shots on the Cotton Club deal.

[Josh Lucas]

Sunlight poured into Roy Raiden's bedroom at the Regency Plaza Suite in Los Angeles. Roy grabbed a pillow and pulled it over his head. He had a throbbing headache and just wanted to sleep it off a little longer. It was May 12, 1983. Roy heard a noise in the next room. He sat up and blinked. He could hear Jonathan's voice, but Roy couldn't tell who he was talking to. He's not up yet. He threw the covers off and grabbed his black silk robe. Roy walked into the kitchenette just as Jonathan hung up the phone. Jonathan looked up at Roy, his every thought visible on his face. Roy thought, yeah, I look like shit. This is what a three day coke binge looks like. When are you going to get used to it? Roy asked. Who was on the phone. Jonathan sighed. That was Laney. What does that bitch want? She wants to meet tonight at the club Touch. She didn't say why, just that it was urgent and she wouldn't take no for an answer. Roy let out a big laugh, which progressed into a dry cough. He shook his head Laney Jacobs had some nerve for sure. Who did she think she was? Demanding meetings. Roy told Jonathan to call her back and tell her no. No more meetings. Not now. Not ever. But after a shower and a change of clothes, all of his anxiety from the previous days lifted. He could feel the juices flowing again. Laney's sudden demand for a meeting signaled desperation. This put Roy back in the driver's seat. But when Roy told Jonathan about his new plan, Jonathan's face paled. He said Laney needed to be kept as far away as possible. And what about that warning they got the other night? The threatening voice had been clear. Stay away from the Cotton Club. But Roy dug in his heels. He instructed Jonathan to call Laney back. Dinner, he declared, would be on his terms tomorrow night. For Detective Bill Stoner, the Raiden cold case investigation is moving at a glacial pace. It's December 1987, and Stoner and his partner, Charlie Guenther. Still haven't been able to nail Bill Menser or Alex Marty. The closest they got was Bill Ryder. He confirmed the spot where Roy Raiden was killed. He also implicated Menser in Marty and Roy's murder. But he refused to wear a wire out of fear for his family. That was six long months ago. Since then, Roy Raiden's mother, Renee, had died. She never got to see any justice for her son's murder. Without a direct line to Menser or Marty, they try to follow other leads, scarce as they are. First, Stoner goes back to a letter they had obtained from drug courier Tally Rogers. He had written to himself when he fled to South Carolina in early April of 1983. The letter claimed that if Rogers were to end up dead, all roads led to drug lord Milan Belichausis. Stoner figures Belachas could be connected to Roy's murder. Or at least know something about it. He was Laney's business partner. Stoner eventually tracks down Bellechass. He's in prison in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Arrested on a cocaine conspiracy case. But then his lawyers scuttle the plan. They won't let him talk. For now, Belichas is another dead end. Then Stoner and Gunther get a foothold with someone else. Anna Montenegro. Lainey Jacobs, former assistant Ana's lawyer, has agreed to let her talk to them. Around 2pm on December 14, 1987, Stoner walks into her lawyer's office and sits down with her. He gets one question out of the way first. Does she think Milan Belachas had anything to do with Roy Raiden's murder? But Ana is skeptical of his involvement. While Belichasis was furious about the stolen cocaine, she doubted he would risk murder charges. Stoner then brings the interview around to May 13, 1983, the day Roy Raiden died. He asks Anna what she remembers about Roy's dinner plans with Laney that night. A look of sadness washes over Anna's face. She admits to caring deeply for Roy. She looks Stoner in the eye and says she tried to warn him. She begged him not to go. He just wouldn't listen.

[Robert Evans]

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[Josh Lucas]

Sheriff's Department headquarters downtown Detective Bill Stoner walks towards his desk. He grabs the phone just in time. This is Stoner. Detective, it's Bill Rider. Stoner's eyes widened. Ten long months ago, Stoner and his partner, Charlie Gunther asked Ryder to wear a wire to talk to their suspects in the Raiden murder. Ryder had refused, and Stoner hadn't heard a word since. Until now. Ryder's life had taken a sharp turn. He'd become a witness in a federal cocaine conspiracy trial involving his own brother in law, Hustler magazine publisher Larry Flynt. Ryder started hearing rumors that Flynt had put a contract out on his life. He needs witness protection, but investigators on the Flint case couldn't offer him any. So Ryder proposes a deal to Stoner. He'll help on the Radin case in exchange for protection. It means he's also willing to wear a wire and speak to Bill Menser and Alex Marty as well as Bob Lowe. Stoner doesn't hesitate. He assures Ryder he and his family will be protected. This is a game changer. Stoner hangs up after working through some next steps with Ryder. He's anxious to share the news with his partner. But it's not Detective Charlie Gunther anymore. Gunther had retired just one week ago. Stoner's new partner is Carlos Avila, the original detective on the Raiden case. Avila had returned to work the case after a stint at the FBI Academy and the Bureau. Avila's thrilled when he finds out he'd been the one to find those damning photos of menser back in 1983. But he was stymied by the lack of leads. Stoner tells them that they need to arrange 24 hour protection for Ryder. Avila suggests moving the family to California so they can keep a better eye on them. Now they just need to set the trap. The details are crucial. One misstep could potentially blow up the entire case and cost Ryder his life.

[Tracy Patton]

Thursday, May 12, 1983 Late afternoon Jonathan opened the door of the suite and let in actor Damon Wilson. Daman was a good friend of Roy's. He had done appearances on Roy's variety show tours. The two were heading out to visit an old pal who was in the hospital. Roy mentioned grabbing dinner later, but Damond said he needed to get home that night. Roy didn't answer. Jonathan saw a sly grin spread across his face. Roy suggested Daman join him for dinner tomorrow night. He explained that he was putting together the biggest deal of his life and this meeting was going to be the linchpin. Jonathan couldn't figure out what Roy was up to. Why was Demond so essential for Roy's dinner plans? Demond agreed to meet. He suggested someplace classy like La Scala in Beverly Hills. Roy thought that sounded perfect.

[Josh Lucas]

Jonathan, call Laney and tell her we're on for tomorrow. 9:30 at La Scala.

[Tracy Patton]

Jonathan grimaced. The last thing he wanted to do was call Laney, but with a look of resignation, he picked up the phone and dialed her number. She answered right away and agreed to the new plans. Roy ushered Daman out the door and told Jonathan they'd return in a few hours. That afternoon, as Jonathan was sifting through Roy's paperwork, Ana Montenegro appeared at the door. Her usual easy smile was gone, replaced by a tense frown. Jonathan settled her in the living room and mixed her a drink. She clutched her glass, saying she needed to talk to Roy. It wasn't long before Roy arrived and Ana practically fell into his arms. Her voice trembled as she spoke. Ana said she had just come from Laney's house. There were several men there. They looked menacing and wouldn't even let her in. These men are up to no good. I'm scared. They're after you, Roy. Jonathan held his breath, willing Roy to listen. This wasn't the first time Ana had tried to warn him about Laney.

[Josh Lucas]

Whatever's going on, I can handle it. I'm having dinner with Laney tomorrow. We're gonna hash things out and it'll all be over with.

[Tracy Patton]

Ana's composure started to crumble. She begged him not to go. Roy's expression darkened. A mean edge crept into his voice. He told Ana she was just afraid Lainey would say something bad about her. Ana said she didn't care what Lainey said. She thought Roy was crazy for wanting to go. Jonathan felt like a helpless bystander. He had seen Roy like this many times. The more you tried to change his mind, the deeper he dug his heels in.

[Josh Lucas]

It's May 11, 1988, two days until the five year anniversary of Roy Radin murder. Detective Bill Stoner pulls his windowless surveillance van over to the curb not far from the Scoreboard Cafe in Frederick, Maryland. He kills the engine, then grabs some recording gear from the passenger seat. Stoner holds a tiny microphone and says, Testing 1, 2. On playback. He hears his own voice, clear as a bell. Everything's set. Stoner turns to the men sitting behind him in the van. One is Detective Avila. The other is a nervous looking Bill Ryder. Are you ready? Bill? As ready as I'll ever be. Stoner gets in the back and wires Ryder up. He watches him take a deep breath. Then Ryder hops out of the van and casually strides to the Scoreboard Cafe where Bob Lowe works. They're starting the undercover operation with Lowe, who is the limo driver. Ryder already contacted him under the pretense of needing surveillance work today. They're hoping Ryder can get low to talk about Roy's murder. Stoner hands Avila a set of headphones and then puts his on. He hears Ryder greet Low at the bar. Avila gives him a thumbs up. They can hear both men clearly. Stoner listens through some friendly chitchat. Ryder used to be a cop. He knows how to ease into this kind of thing. More than an hour goes by with mundane banter as they watch a game inside the bar. Finally, Stoner hears the conversation shift after some prodding from Ryder. I'm gonna tell you something and I'll tell you the honest truth. Ryder says he wants him to be honest. Have you been with Bill on a homicide? Stoner tightens up. He knows Bill must meet Menser. The guy gets drunk. Stoner nods at Avila and mutters, he's almost there. I'm just saying. He gears himself up to get the balls to do it Stoner adjusts his headphones, straining to catch every word. Ryder starts pushing Lowe's buttons, trying to get a reaction. Well, let me tell you what he told me. He was talking about Raiden. Said you were really afraid on that one. Real afraid. Lode denies being afraid. He says he didn't do anything. All I know is Friday the 13th they shot him 13 times. Stoner pumps his fist in the air. This is what they need. Ryder instinctively keeps pushing the conversation. Well, you were there. The tension inside the van is heavy with anticipation. They need Low to take the bait. And then Low says exactly what they need him to say. I was there. Stoner throws Avila a satisfied look. The wait is over. They have Low. Now they need the bigger fish. Bill Mener.

[Tracy Patton]

Follow Hollywood in Crime the Cotton Club Murder on the Wondery App, Amazon Music, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can binge all episodes early and ad free right now by joining Wondery plus in the Wondery app or on Apple Podcasts. Before you go, tell us about yourself by completing a short [e-mail] survey this is episode 4 of 6 of the Cotton Club Murder. This podcast is based on historical reasons, but in some cases we can't know exactly what was said, so certain dialogue is dramatized. We used many sources when researching this story, but ones we found exceptionally helpful are Bad Company, Drugs, Hollywood and the Cotton Club Murder by Steve Wick and the Los Angeles Court Archives Our show was produced by Tracy Patton, Rebecca Reynolds, and Jim Carpenter for Hollywood and Crime. Our writer is Dana Rossi, our managing producer is Sophia Martins, and our coordinating producer is Taylor Sniffin. Our story editor is Mikayla Bly. Research by Adam Melian. Sound design is by Kyle Randall. Our audio engineers are Sergio Enriquez and Augustine Lim. Audio assembly by Daniel Gonzalez Additional audio assistance from Adrian Tapia Fact Checking by Will Tavlin For Wondery, our producer is Yasmin Ward and senior producer is Laura Donna Palavoda. Executive producers are Erin O'Flaherty, Marshall Louie and Jen Sargent.

[Roy Raiden]

In a quiet suburb, a community is shattered by the death of a beloved wife and mother. But this tragic loss of life quickly turns into something even darker. Her husband had tried to hire a hitman on the dark web to kill her, and she wasn't the only target, because buried in the depths of the Internet is the Kill List, a cache of chilling documents containing names, photos, addresses and specific instructions for people's murders. This podcast is the true story of how I ended up in a race against time to warn those who lives were in danger and it turns out convincing a total stranger someone wants them dead is not easy. Follow Kill List on the Wandri app or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to Kill List and more. Exhibit C True crime shows like Morbid, early and Ad free right now by joining Wondrous. Plus check out Exhibit C in the Wondery app for all your true crime listening.