Episode Summary: The Delphi Murders: First Person: Brian Olahi: Part Two

Podcast Information:

• Title: Murder Sheet
• Hosts: Áine Cain (Journalist) and Kevin Greenlee (Attorney)
• Episode: The Delphi Murders: First Person: Brian Olahi: Part Two
• Release Date: February 18, 2025

1. Introduction to the Episode

The episode opens with Áine Cain providing a content warning about the sensitive nature of the discussion—detailing the tragic murder of Liberty German and Abigail Williams in February 2017 in Delphi, Indiana. She introduces Brian Olahi, a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) with the Indiana State Police, who played a pivotal role in the investigation. This episode is the second part of a two-episode series featuring Olahi’s firsthand account.

2. Brian Olahi's Role in the Delphi Murders Case

Brian Olahi delves into his responsibilities during the Delphi murders investigation, elucidating his methodical approach to crime scene processing. He emphasizes the importance of consistency and thoroughness in his reports:

Brian Olahi [05:41]: “You do it within the parameters of what you're trained and what the policies and procedures tell you to do. You know, just being very methodical about things is what you have to be as a crime scene investigator.”

Olahi explains that despite the seemingly straightforward nature of some cases, each crime scene presents unique challenges requiring meticulous documentation and analysis.

3. Crime Scene Investigation Process

Olahi outlines the standardized seven-step process that governs his approach to crime scenes, ensuring no detail is overlooked. He recounts an instance where a minimalistic approach from another investigator led to incomplete documentation, highlighting the necessity of comprehensive scene examination:

Brian Olahi [05:41]: “Just being very methodical about things is what you have to be as a crime scene investigator.”

4. Challenges at the Delphi Crime Scene

The Delphi crime scene posed significant challenges due to its rural and inaccessible location. Olahi describes the physical obstacles, such as steep embankments and dense woodland, which complicated evidence collection:

Brian Olahi [20:34]: “It was not really an area accessible by vehicle or at least by normal vehicle... a lot of leaves, branches, and kind of a gentle rolling wetland.”

He emphasizes the importance of adapting to environmental conditions to effectively gather pertinent evidence.

5. The Absence of DNA Evidence and the CSI Effect

A critical discussion revolves around the lack of DNA evidence at the scene. Olahi attributes this to factors like environmental exposure and the use of gloves by the suspect, challenging the unrealistic expectations set by television portrayals of CSI work:

Brian Olahi [25:00]: “The absence of evidence is not evidence of innocence.”

He criticizes the "CSI effect," where public perception is skewed by media representations, leading to misconceptions about forensic processes and capabilities.

6. Evidence Collection and Handling

Olahi provides an in-depth look at specific evidence, such as the unspent cartridge found at the scene. He defends the preservation techniques used, explaining why certain procedures were followed to maintain the integrity of the evidence:

Brian Olahi [36:46]: “We took a picture of it as it laid where it laid... I wanted to keep it in the manner that I found it.”

He discusses the delicate balance between thorough documentation and avoiding contamination, underscoring the meticulous nature of forensic work.

7. Preparing for Trial and Testifying

The episode delves into Olahi’s experiences during trial preparation and testimony. He praises Deputy Prosecutor James Lutrell for his professionalism and thoroughness, which helped streamline the trial process:

Brian Olahi [40:00]: “I can't say enough good things about Jim Lutrel... he was very thorough and very methodical.”

Olahi also touches on the challenges of conveying complex scientific information to a jury, advocating for clear and accessible communication without overwhelming technical jargon.

8. Reflections on the Case

In concluding his interview, Olahi reflects on the Delphi case with a mix of professional pride and personal regret over the extended time it took to achieve justice for the victims’ families:

Brian Olahi [48:20]: “I'm proud of the work that was done and I'm proud of the result. And I'm sorry that it took as long to get justice for the family.”

He reaffirms his commitment to impartiality and the pursuit of truth, emphasizing that his role was solely to uncover facts without personal bias or preconceived notions.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Methodical Approach:

  Brian Olahi [05:41]: “You do it within the parameters of what you're trained and what the policies and procedures tell you to do.”

• Challenges of Rural Crime Scenes:

  Brian Olahi [20:34]: “It was not really an area accessible by vehicle or at least by normal vehicle... a lot of leaves, branches, and kind of a gentle rolling wetland.”

• Absence of DNA Evidence:

  Brian Olahi [25:00]: “The absence of evidence is not evidence of innocence.”

• Preservation of Evidence:

  Brian Olahi [36:46]: “We took a picture of it as it laid where it laid... I wanted to keep it in the manner that I found it.”

• Professionalism in Trial Preparation:

  Brian Olahi [40:00]: “I can't say enough good things about Jim Lutrel... he was very thorough and very methodical.”

• Reflection on Justice:

  Brian Olahi [48:20]: “I'm proud of the work that was done and I'm proud of the result. And I'm sorry that it took as long to get justice for the family.”

Conclusion

This episode of the Murder Sheet podcast offers a compelling and detailed firsthand account of the Delphi murders investigation from the perspective of Brian Olahi, a seasoned crime scene investigator. Through his meticulous recounting of the challenges, methodologies, and experiences during the case and subsequent trial, listeners gain valuable insights into the realities of forensic work and the impact of media on public perceptions of criminal investigations.