Lords of Death: Episode 2 – The Downward Spiral

Host: Thrasher Banks
Release Date: November 18, 2024
Production: Tenderfoot TV & Audacy

Introduction

In the second installment of "Lords of Death," titled "The Downward Spiral," host Thrasher Banks delves deeper into the enigmatic 1995 murder of Cindy Cozad in Dayton, Ohio. Accompanied by his mother, Carrie McWhorter, Thrasher explores the intricate web of evidence unearthed from an old memory box, uncovering connections that suggest the murder may be part of a series of unsolved cases during Ohio's tumultuous satanic panic era.

Unearthing the Past

The episode commences with Thrasher and Carrie sifting through a collection of photographs, court documents, and personal memorabilia found in a long-forgotten memory box. Carrie explains, “I collected all these things, newspaper clippings and court documents. Everything, all those memories, all those photos, and put them in the back of a closet and just left it” ([01:25]). Thrasher reflects on the persistent questions surrounding the case, admitting, “But the unanswered questions about what happened have always stuck with me” ([01:37]).

Revisiting the 1995 Murder

A crucial revelation emerges as Carrie points out a 1995 photograph of the family at Triangle Park. “But if you look closely in the background, you can see the shelter where Mick and Tim would leave Cindy's lifeless body just weeks later” ([02:14]). This juxtaposition highlights the stark transformation of Mick from a loving family member to a suspect in a brutal murder, leaving Thrasher grappling with disbelief: “I've always struggled to understand how this fun loving, carefree guy could go from playing with me and my sister on a jungle gym to murdering an innocent woman” ([02:14]).

The Arrest of Mick and Tim

Following the tragic murder of Cindy Cozad on June 6, 1995, Mick and Tim find themselves at the center of a police investigation. Carrie recounts the immediate aftermath, “The next day early in the morning, Tim agreed to let me call my sister... And my children were never inside that house again after that day” ([03:45]). The investigation uncovers incriminating evidence, including Cindy's shorts and Tim's bloodstained clothing. In a bid to eliminate this evidence, Mick takes decisive action: “Mick took the shorts outside and put them in the grill and use charcoal lighter fluid and set them on fire” ([05:38]).

Carrie's Struggle and Decision

As tensions rise, Carrie describes feeling trapped under Tim's oppressive control: “During that time. It was like I was being held hostage. I couldn't do anything without Tim being right there, really” ([05:56]). Determined to protect her family, Murphy collaborates with Mick to devise a plan aimed at removing Tim from their lives. This leads to a confrontation with a neighbor, Jamie Phipps, marking a turning point in their desperate attempts to regain control.

The Confrontation and Police Intervention

The situation escalates when Jamie Phipps relentlessly pursues them, prompting a violent confrontation. Carrie vividly recalls, “When Jamie stepped out the door, Mick was standing up against the wall and hit him in the back of the head with a tire iron” ([07:58]). The ensuing chaos attracts police attention, culminating in the discovery of Tim's loaded Taurus .357 Magnum—the very weapon used in Cindy's murder ([11:08]). Carrie reflects on the emotional toll, “Imagine the guilt... Scars that will never heal” ([22:32]).

Unveiling Hidden Evidence

In the wake of their arrest, Carrie uncovers disturbing items among Tim's possessions, including a metal box with unknown contents and a Social Security card bearing her information. “Tokens of victims... It just only made sense to me that he was one of these killers that, like, kept something from their victim” ([15:46]). Additionally, letters from Tim's incarcerated friend Jim hint at premeditated criminal intent, suggesting a broader, more sinister pattern of behavior.

Contradictory Testimonies: The VHS Tape

A pivotal discovery is a deteriorating VHS tape containing interviews with both Mick and Tim, revealing conflicting narratives of the night's events. Carrie confesses her internal conflict, “I didn't want to believe that Mick was capable of murdering someone in cold blood” ([36:16]). Mick portrays himself as an unwilling participant, coerced by Tim, while Tim expresses remorse yet vehemently denies full culpability, stating, “I did shoot her. I can't. I couldn't say I shot her” ([30:36]).

These conflicting accounts deepen the mystery, leaving Thrasher and listeners questioning the true sequence of events and the extent of each brother's involvement. The tape highlights significant discrepancies, such as Mick’s alleged confession versus his repeated denials, and Tim’s admission of shooting Cindy while denying sole responsibility.

Personal Reflections and Continued Uncertainty

Throughout the episode, Thrasher grapples with his mother's unwavering belief in Mick's innocence. Carrie states, “I do not believe that Mick had anything to do with Cindy Cozad's death till the day I die” ([37:55]). Thrasher acknowledges the difficulty in reconciling this belief with the mounting evidence, underscoring the complex interplay between familial loyalty, memory, and the pursuit of truth in the aftermath of tragedy.

Expanding the Scope: Potential Serial Connections

Further investigation reveals possible links to other unsolved murders in Guernsey County, suggesting that Mick and Tim might be part of a larger network or a series of serial killings. Detective Arnold Van Horn’s search for additional evidence in their home hints at broader criminal activities, potentially expanding the "Lords of Death" phenomenon beyond a single incident ([38:44]).

Conclusion

"The Downward Spiral" intricately weaves personal trauma with a haunting criminal investigation, offering a poignant exploration of the lasting impact of unresolved violence. Through Thrasher and Carrie's emotional recounting, the episode underscores the enduring quest for answers amid conflicting testimonies and buried truths. As new evidence and perspectives emerge, the true nature of Mick and Tim's actions remains shrouded in mystery, leaving listeners yearning for resolution in the shadows of Dayton's darkest secrets.

This summary captures the essence and key elements of Episode 2, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened, while integrating notable quotes with proper attribution and timestamps.