Podcast Summary: Morbid Episode 609 - The DeFeo Family Murder

Released on October 14, 2024, "The DeFeo Family Murder" is episode 609 of the "Morbid" podcast, hosted by Ash and Elena from Morbid Network | Wondery. This episode delves deep into one of America's most tragic and perplexing true crime cases, exploring the brutal murders of the DeFeo family and the subsequent connections to the infamous Amityville Horror hoax.

Introduction

The episode begins with Ash and Elena setting the stage for a detailed exploration of the DeFeo family murders, a case that has both shocked and mystified investigators and the public alike. They introduce the episode as the first part of a two-part series, with the second installment focusing on the Amityville Horror hoax.

Background of the DeFeo Family

The DeFeo family resided at 112 Ocean Avenue in Amityville, a picturesque coastal town often mistakenly associated with eerie legends due to the later Amityville Horror story. The family comprised Ronald DeFeo Sr. and Louise DeFeo, along with their five children: John, Mark, Allison, Dawn, and Ronald Jr.

Elena reflects on the family's standing in the community:

"[...] the DeFeo's were described as a nice, normal family who were always willing to lend a hand when someone else was in need."
[26:55] Elena

The Night of the Murders

On the night of November 13, 1974, Ronald DeFeo Jr. borrowed his friend Bobby Kelsky's car to check on his increasingly unreachable family. Upon arriving at his home, Ronald discovered his parents had been brutally murdered. Moments later, Det. Kenneth Griguski and other officers arrived, finding the horrific scene: Ronald Sr. and Louise lying face down in their bedroom, and their two young sons, John (7) and Mark (12), similarly killed in their beds.

The investigation revealed no signs of forced entry, robbery, or struggle, leading authorities to ponder the motive behind the cold-blooded slaughter.

Elena emphasizes the perplexing nature of the murders:

"[...] the lack of evidence was very confusing and very strange. And the Defeos lived in one of the most expensive houses in Amityville and would have been prime targets for robbery. But whoever killed the six members of this family appeared to have done so just for something other than money."
[24:13] Elena

Investigation and Arrest

Ron DeFeo Jr., the sole surviving member of the family, became the primary suspect. During interviews, Ronald presented a convoluted narrative involving alleged mob ties and claimed that a mafia hitman named Tony Mazio was responsible for the murders. However, inconsistencies in his story, coupled with his history as a "gun buff" and recent heroin use, raised significant suspicions among investigators.

Ash questions the plausibility of Ronald's account:

"The way he says it is almost like you haven't found these other two people. Like, oh, you missed these other two people."
[16:25] Ash

Despite his claims, forensic evidence began to mount against him. A crucial piece was the discovery of a box for a .35 caliber Marlin rifle, the same caliber suspected in the murders, hidden in Ronald's closet.

Trial and Defense

Ronald DeFeo Jr.'s trial commenced on October 6, 1975. Prosecution Attorney Gerard Sullivan painted a picture of a methodical and premeditated act, highlighting Ronald's actions following the murders—such as cleaning his bloodstained clothing and disposing of the rifle—as evidence of his guilt.

The defense, led by William Weber, attempted to argue insanity, claiming that Ronald suffered from hallucinations and was not of sound mind during the murders. However, psychiatric evaluations contradicted these claims, with Dr. Harold Zolon asserting that while Ronald exhibited antisocial personality traits, he was aware of his actions and their consequences.

Elena summarizes the turning point in the trial:

"After considering the evidence and testimony, [Judge Stark] ruled that the confession was given voluntarily. It was going to be admissible in the trial."
[68:16] Elena

The jury, after nearly three days of deliberation, found Ronald DeFeo Jr. guilty on all six counts of second-degree murder. He was subsequently sentenced to six life terms, each with a minimum of 25 years, to be served consecutively.

Conclusion and Impact

The DeFeo family murders not only left an indelible mark on the Amityville community but also set the stage for the creation of the Amityville Horror narrative. The tragic loss of six lives and the subsequent trial captivated the nation, intertwining true crime with paranormal folklore.

Ash and Elena conclude the episode by hinting at the upcoming discussion on the Amityville Horror hoax, teasing listeners with the intertwined nature of these two infamous stories.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Elena [26:55]: "[...] the DeFeo's were described as a nice, normal family who were always willing to lend a hand when someone else was in need."

• Ash [16:25]: "The way he says it is almost like you haven't found these other two people. Like, oh, you missed these other two people."

• Elena [68:16]: "After considering the evidence and testimony, [Judge Stark] ruled that the confession was given voluntarily. It was going to be admissible in the trial."

Final Thoughts

"The DeFeo Family Murder" is a harrowing exploration of a family torn apart by violence, the complexities of criminal investigations, and the fragility of trust within familial bonds. Ash and Elena expertly navigate the grim details while maintaining a respectful tone, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of a case that continues to resonate in the annals of true crime history.

For those intrigued by the unresolved mysteries and the connection to the legendary Amityville Horror, this episode serves as a compelling foundation for the forthcoming discussion in the two-part series.