Detailed Summary of "The Execution of Bonny Lee Bakley: The Trial Begins" – Episode 6, Season 7 of Hollywood & Crime by Wondery

Introduction and Bonnie Lee Bakley's Funeral

The episode opens with a somber depiction of the funeral of Bonnie Lee Bakley, the wife of Hollywood actor Robert Blake. Traci Patton narrates the scene set on a cool, clear Los Angeles morning on May 25, 2001, exactly 21 days after Bonnie's tragic murder. Despite Bonnie's family's wish to bury her in New Jersey, Blake insists on a burial in Los Angeles, allowing their daughter, Rosie, to visit her mother's grave as she grows up.

Notable Quote:

Robert Blake: "It's because of Bonnie that Rosie was born. It was her will, her conviction, not mine, her dedication, that brought Rosie into this world. And for that I thank God and I thank Bonnie."
(00:02:05)

At the cemetery, Blake is the first to arrive, accompanied by his children, friends, lawyers, and a priest under a modest green canopy. The funeral is understated, with minimal attendees and a serene backdrop of the Hollywood Hills and the Warner Brothers lot, where notable figures like Lucille Ball and Buster Keaton are buried.

The Arrest of Robert Blake

Detective Ron Ito spearheads the operation to arrest Robert Blake, marking a significant moment in LAPD history. On April 18, 2002, over 350 days after Bonnie's murder, Ito leads a convoy of unmarked cars to Blake's mansion in Hidden Hills. The meticulously planned takedown is synchronized to capture live media coverage, reflecting the high-profile nature of the case.

Upon arrival, Blake is found wearing a baggy sweatshirt and a green Snoopy hat, a stark contrast to his public persona. His demeanor is calm as Ito cuff him and escort him to the police cruiser. The arrest is a pivotal moment, covered extensively by the media, symbolizing a win for Detective Ito and the LAPD.

Notable Quote:

Robert Blake: "I've been waiting for this for a year."
(00:05:55)

Blake's Isolation and Media Presence

Following his arrest, Blake endures ten months of isolation in the Los Angeles County Jail, sharing a concrete cell with high-profile inmates like O.J. Simpson. The psychological toll is evident as Blake grapples with the loss of his freedom, reputation, and future prospects. His physical appearance deteriorates, and he becomes increasingly desperate to reshape public perception.

Defying his new attorney's advice, Blake participates in a primetime interview with Barbara Walters. The interview serves as his attempt to elicit public sympathy and assert his innocence ahead of the preliminary hearing.

Notable Quotes:

Robert Blake: "I'm in this place. It's real simple. It's not how you're doing. You're alive or you're dead. All the stuff in the middle doesn't really exist."
(00:11:18)

Barbara Walters: "Are you innocent?"
(00:12:18)

Robert Blake: "Of course. Of course I'm innocent. Of course I'm innocent."
(00:12:20)

Pre-Trial Developments and Witness Testimonies

As the trial looms, the prosecution, led by Deputy District Attorney Shelly Samuels, builds a case centered on circumstantial evidence. During the preliminary hearing on February 17, 2003, Samuels presents testimonies from stuntmen Gary McLarty and Duffy Hamilton, who allege that Blake attempted to hire them to murder Bonnie. However, the defense challenges these claims by pointing out the lack of direct evidence and the questionable credibility of the witnesses, who have histories of drug use.

Amid these proceedings, Diane Mattson emerges as a potential bombshell witness for the defense. Mattson, Christian Brando's caretaker, reveals overheard conversations implicating Blake in the murder plot. Despite the defense's efforts to have her testify via videotape for safety, the judge denies the motion, mandating her presence in open court. Mattson's reluctance stems from fear of retaliation from Brando and his associates.

Notable Quote:

Diane Mattson (paraphrased): "Someone ought to put a bullet in that bitch's head."

The prosecution argues that Blake's motive stems from his desire to gain sole custody of his baby, away from Bonnie and her family. They paint a picture of a man who despises Bonnie and is willing to commit murder to achieve his goals.

Defense Strategies and Challenges

Defense attorney Gerald Schwartzbach mounts a robust defense, challenging the prosecution's reliance on circumstantial evidence. Schwartzbach highlights the lack of direct evidence linking Blake to the murder weapon and questions the thoroughness of the LAPD's investigation. He introduces alternative suspects, including Christian Brando, whose connections and suspicious behavior raise doubts about Blake's sole culpability.

However, the defense faces setbacks as key witnesses like Diane Mattson have their testimonies dismissed, weakening the defense's position. Furthermore, Schwartzbach's resignation due to irreconcilable differences with Blake leaves the defense without representation just weeks before the trial.

Prosecution's Charges and Motive Evidence

Deputy District Attorney Shelly Samuels presents a compelling narrative to the jury, asserting that Blake's actions were driven by greed and a desire to control his child's future. She introduces evidence of Blake's erratic behavior on the night of the murder, including nervousness and an apparent lack of sincere grief, which the prosecution interprets as calculated performance rather than genuine emotion.

Notable Quote:

Shelly Samuels: "The prosecution will prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Robert Blake is guilty of killing Bonnie Lee Bakley."
(00:45:22)

Samuels aims to establish Blake's capacity for murder by showcasing his willingness to go to extreme lengths to remove Bonnie from their lives. She emphasizes the absence of Bonnie's presence in the aftermath and Blake's contradictory emotional responses as indicators of his guilt.

Conclusion

Episode 6 of The Execution of Bonny Lee Bakley meticulously chronicles the intricate dance between prosecution and defense in one of Hollywood's most sensational murder trials. From the initial funeral to the high-stakes courtroom maneuvers, the episode captures the relentless pursuit of justice and the complexities of building a case based solely on circumstantial evidence. As the trial approaches, the tension escalates, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown that will determine Robert Blake's fate.

This summary encapsulates the key events and discussions from Episode 6 of Hollywood & Crime's seventh season, providing an in-depth look into the trial proceedings of Robert Blake without referencing promotional segments or non-content sections.