Lords of Death – “Culpable Returns” (September 2, 2025)

Podcast: Lords of Death
Host: Thrasher Banks (Tenderfoot TV & Audacy)
Episode: Culpable Returns

Episode Overview

In this episode, Thrasher Banks spotlights the return of Tenderfoot TV’s investigative true crime podcast Culpable. While briefly referencing his own ongoing exploration into unsolved 90s murders in Ohio, Thrasher pivots to present the gripping trailer for the new season of Culpable. This season digs into the chilling, unsolved 1998 murder of 17-year-old Danny Violet from Willard, Ohio—a case left cold for over a quarter-century amid community fear, lost evidence, and persistent rumors. The episode immerses listeners into the haunting mood of Ohio in the ‘90s, highlighting the enduring quest for resolution in Danny’s case.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Introduction: Setting the Scene

• Host Thrasher Banks welcomes listeners and draws a connection between the narrative style of Lords of Death and Culpable, teasing an affinity for methodical, in-depth investigation.
• Thrasher references the previous work of Culpable host Dennis Cooper, noting his reputation for digging into unresolved deaths (such as Christian Andreacchio and Brittany Stikes).

Overview of the Danny Violet Case (00:25)

• Case details:
  • 17-year-old Danny Violet disappeared in the fall of 1998 from Willard, Ohio.
  • Eleven days later, his body was found in a local cornfield, marked by a ligature around his neck and an “entire impression across his bare torso.”
  • The murder has never been solved.

Community Response & Atmosphere (00:41)

• The episode’s trailer reconstructs the town’s unease and the urgency of the search. Community members rally in the days after Danny’s disappearance, scouring cornfields and woods.
• Notable quote:
  • "In the fall of 98, a sleepy Ohio town grew restless when one of their own vanished without a trace." (00:48)

Legacy of the Crime (01:08)

• The grisly discovery is recounted, noting rumors among locals and the long-lasting impact of the case. One witness recounts the rumor mill and the “very badly assaulted” nature of the crime scene.

The Push for a Fresh Look (01:23)

• On the 26th anniversary of Danny's disappearance, his family and local authorities spotlight the need for renewed attention, signaling their hope that new leads or forensic techniques could break the case.
• Memorable moment:
  • A voice highlights the stagnation: “We had verification from two or three other people that Danny stopped breathing the night before. ...That’s where it ended.” (01:41)

Investigative Hurdles and Hope (01:50)

• Despite multiple witnesses and suspects, numerous “impediments” have left the case unsolved. A key law enforcement official says:
  • "We have evidence, we have witnesses, we have suspects. So we have a lot of solvability factors here. Unfortunately, there's also some impediments." (01:52)

Emotional Appeal for the Truth (02:04)

• The trailer closes on a compelling plea from an investigator:
  • "Now that you're not the one that killed him, you're not in trouble, that you lied to me. All I want is the truth." (02:05)
• The podcast emphasizes the pivotal role of honesty and the pain felt by those longing for answers.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Thrasher Banks: “I know you love the slow steady burn of a good true crime story.” (00:01)
• Narration: “In the fall of 98, a sleepy Ohio town grew restless when one of their own vanished without a trace.” (00:48)
• Law Enforcement Perspective: “We had verification from two or three other people that Danny stopped breathing the night before. ...That’s where it ended.” (01:41)
• Investigator: “We have evidence, we have witnesses, we have suspects. ...Unfortunately, there's also some impediments.” (01:52)
• Plea for Truth: “All I want is the truth.” (02:05)

Important Segments & Timestamps

• 00:01-00:25 — Thrasher’s intro; background on Culpable and its host, Dennis Cooper
• 00:25-01:08 — Recap of the Danny Violet case and synopsis of town’s response
• 01:08-01:41 — Community reactions and first hints at case evidence and obstacles
• 01:41-02:05 — Investigative stalling, emotional appeals, and the focus on solvability

Style & Tone

The episode maintains a somber, suspenseful tone, reflective of classic true crime storytelling. Thrasher’s narration is earnest and direct, seamlessly blending admiration for investigative rigor with a personal connection to the central mysteries of small-town Ohio.

Summary

This “Culpable Returns” episode serves as an atmospheric preview and endorsement for Culpable’s new season, centered on the haunting, unsolved murder of Danny Violet. Through select audio from the Culpable trailer, listeners are drawn into the tension, heartbreak, and persistent need for answers that define both the case and the genre. The episode sets the stage for deeper investigation, re-examining old evidence amid a community’s decades-old fear and hope for closure.