Lords of Death: Episode 8 | Time Casts a Spell on You

Host: Thrasher Banks
Production: Tenderfoot TV & Audacy
Release Date: December 30, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 8, titled "Time Casts a Spell on You," host Thrasher Banks delves deeper into the mysterious 1995 murder of Cindy Kozad in Dayton, Ohio. As Thrasher continues to sift through the contents of the old memory box—now a repository of forgotten VHS tapes, police reports, and faded letters—the narrative unfolds to reveal intricate connections between Mick McWhorter’s conviction and the enigmatic figure, Tim, whose influence permeates the lives of those involved.

Mick McWhorter's Conviction and Appeal

The episode begins with the aftermath of Mick McWhorter’s guilty verdict for the murder of Cindy Kozad. Carrie, Mick’s mother, reflects on the impact of Mick’s conviction on their family:

Carrie [02:30]: "His murder conviction was overturned. And I don't know if it's true or not, but Chuck Smiley told me it was the first time in Dayton history that a murder conviction was overturned."

Mick’s legal team appealed the verdict, citing ineffective counsel during the initial trial. Three key claims were presented:

1. Chain of Custody Issue: Prevented a forensic expert from testifying that no blood was found on Mick’s clothing or in his car, contradicting Mick’s account that Cindy was shot while she was in the vehicle.

2. Psychological Assessment: A prison psychologist testified that Mick exhibited signs of antisocial disorder, which could indicate a disregard for human life.

3. Failure to Cross-Examine Carrie: The defense did not challenge Carrie’s testimony, which could have established her fear of Tim.

The appellate court found sufficient grounds to overturn the murder conviction, stating:

Appellate Court [04:45]: "While this evidence would yet permit the jury to find that McWhorter shot Kozad while her body lay on the ground, even that version raises doubts concerning his criminal liability for murder."

Plea Deal and Sentencing

Despite Carrie’s urging to go to trial, Mick opted for a plea deal to reduce his sentence from life imprisonment to 10 to 25 years for involuntary manslaughter, believing it offered a chance for earlier release:

Mick [07:15]: "I took the deal."

Carrie expresses regret over this decision, feeling that Mick could have pursued a more favorable outcome by going to trial:

Carrie [08:26]: "Regrettably, I begged him to go to trial again... But he was so afraid he would be found guilty that he refused."

Tim's Influence and Manipulation

Tim emerges as a central figure whose manipulative actions had profound effects on both Mick and Carrie. A pivotal letter from Tim reveals his ulterior motives and emotional manipulation:

Tim's Letter [10:35]: "I know you'll be glad to hear that stuff that Wade and Tom Lawson got Mick to say was the same thing they tried to get me to say. So don't believe it, because it's a lie."

Carrie and Mick uncover that Tim may have coerced Mick into participating in Cindy’s murder to protect himself, fearing for his family's safety:

Carrie [23:32]: "When you told me what he said about loving you so much that he would kill for you, do you remember that?"

Mick [26:04]: "Carrie, please understand that I was forced to shoot at the girl... Tim made it clear as to what would have happened if I did not cooperate with him."

Emotional Toll and Family Dynamics

The episode poignantly explores the emotional devastation experienced by Carrie and Mick’s family. Carrie grapples with immense guilt over her role in the events leading to Cindy’s death:

Carrie [30:16]: "I struggle with the guilt I feel over Cindy's death... This will haunt me forever."

Mick, reflecting on his actions, seeks understanding and resolution:

Mick [37:53]: "If I could go back and redo those days, I definitely would. It would not involve Tim living with us..."

The strained relationship between Carrie and Mick highlights the long-term psychological impact of the crime and the ensuing legal battles.

Reconnecting After Years

Years after the trials, Carrie reconnects with Mick, who is nearing the end of his sentence. Their reunion is bittersweet, marked by lingering fears and unresolved emotions:

Carrie [33:36]: "I want to have a conversation with him. Face to face."

Mick receives Carrie’s heartfelt letters, revealing his continued remorse and hope for redemption:

Mick's Letter [10:35]: "Stay Cool as always, Mick."

Their attempts to rebuild their relationship underscore the complexities of forgiveness and healing after traumatic events.

Community and Lingering Threats

The narrative extends to the broader community affected by Tim’s actions. Cindy’s family, Tim's stepchildren, and others bear the scars of the tragedy:

Carrie [35:54]: "So many people."

The presence of memorials, like the dog park and shelter, serve as constant reminders of the lives lost and altered.

Final Reflections and Unanswered Questions

As Mick's parole approaches in 2026, unanswered questions linger about the true extent of Tim’s influence and the possibility of uncovering further connections to other unsolved cases:

Mick [31:39]: "Tim's next parole board hearing is in November of 2025. I doubt he'll be released, but I plan on doing everything in my power to make sure he stays behind bars for the rest of his life."

Carrie’s enduring sense of loss and responsibility underscores the enduring impact of the crime on their lives.

Conclusion

"Time Casts a Spell on You" is a deeply emotional exploration of guilt, fear, and the quest for truth. Through intimate conversations and the uncovering of long-buried secrets, Carrie and Mick navigate the complexities of their past, seeking closure and understanding in the shadow of tragedy. The episode poignantly illustrates how time can both heal and haunt, leaving indelible marks on those left behind.

Notable Quotes

• Carrie [02:30]: "His murder conviction was overturned... the first time in Dayton history that a murder conviction was overturned."

• Mick [07:15]: "I took the deal."

• Tim's Letter [10:35]: "Don't believe it, because it's a lie."

• Carrie [23:32]: "When you told me what he said about loving you so much that he would kill for you, do you remember that?"

• Carrie [30:16]: "I've lived with so much guilt over her dying for so long."

• Carrie [37:53]: "I put him behind bars, but a lot of fear came with that, and it's still there."

Note: This summary excludes non-content sections such as advertisements, promotional messages, and outro segments to focus solely on the narrative and key discussions of the episode.