Episode Summary: "The Delphi Murders: First Person: Major Pat Cicero: Part One"
Podcast Title: Murder Sheet
Hosts: Áine Cain and Kevin Greenlee
Release Date: January 7, 2025
Introduction to the Episode
In this compelling episode of Murder Sheet, hosts Áine Cain and Kevin Greenlee delve deep into the chilling Delphi murders case by interviewing Major Pat Cicero, a seasoned forensic expert. This episode marks the first part of a two-episode series featuring Major Cicero, providing listeners with an insider's perspective on one of the most haunting true crime cases in recent memory.
Major Pat Cicero’s Background and Career
Major Pat Cicero brings over two decades of extensive experience in law enforcement and forensic analysis to the table. Originally hailing from the Chicago area, Cicero's journey in law enforcement began after his honorable discharge from the U.S. Army in 1994. He pursued an associate's degree in law enforcement from Vincennes University before advancing his education at Indiana University in Bloomington, where he also met his wife, Jennifer, a fellow police officer.
Notable Quote:
"Port County has been wonderful. That's my, that's basically my background leading into my tenure with the Port County Sheriff's Office."
— Major Pat Cicero [06:21]
Cicero's dedication led him to the LaPorte County Sheriff's Office in 2000, where he swiftly transitioned from patrol duties to becoming a detective. His mentorship under Sergeant Larry Biggs and contributions to crime scene investigations have been pivotal in his career development. Cicero's commitment extends beyond his immediate duties, as he also serves as an adjunct instructor at the University of Tennessee's National Forensic Academy, sharing his expertise with the next generation of crime scene investigators.
Bloodstain Pattern Analysis and Crime Scene Reconstruction
A significant portion of Major Cicero's work revolves around bloodstain pattern analysis (BPA) and crime scene reconstruction. His methodical approach has been instrumental in shedding light on the tragic events of the Delphi murders, where two young girls, Liberty German (14) and Abigail Williams (13), were brutally killed by Richard Allen on February 13, 2017.
Notable Quote:
"Bloodstained pattern analysis is, if not, is probably the most utilized discipline in the crime scene reconstruction realm."
— Major Pat Cicero [20:28]
BPA involves examining the bloodstains at a crime scene to determine the sequence of events, the type of weapon used, and the movements of both victim and perpetrator. Despite some controversies surrounding BPA since the 2009 National Academy of Sciences report, Cicero emphasizes the importance of objective, factual analysis. He notes that in the Delphi case, despite the defense presenting conflicting theories, Major Cicero's evidence stood strong due to its meticulous methodology.
Notable Quote:
"We do in a very objective, factual way... applying the how blood reacts or the physics of things when it could have happened in the sequence, it does provide you with the more objective, best explanation how things had occurred."
— Major Pat Cicero [20:28]
Forensic Entomology and the Body Farm
Beyond BPA, Major Cicero is deeply involved in forensic entomology, the study of insects in relation to criminal investigations. His work at the University of Tennessee's Body Farm—a research facility dedicated to understanding decomposition—has been crucial in advancing this field.
Notable Quote:
"Forensic entomology is to lecture. We have one day of lecture and then there's two days of field work just in forensic entomology."
— Major Pat Cicero [25:28]
The Body Farm allows researchers to study human decomposition under various environmental conditions, aiding in more accurate estimations of time since death. Cicero highlights the collaborative nature of this work, assisting federal and local law enforcement agencies with case-specific research to better understand decomposition processes.
Challenges and Misconceptions in Forensic Analysis
Major Cicero addresses several challenges faced in forensic analysis, particularly the misconceptions perpetuated by popular media. The "CSI effect," where jurors expect forensic evidence to be as definitive and instantaneous as portrayed on television, often complicates real-life investigations.
Notable Quote:
"There's that concern about the CSI effect... when you talk about crime scene reconstruction, if you think of a pie, blood stains are a good portion of that pie."
— Major Pat Cicero [22:00]
He emphasizes that real-life forensic work is painstaking and methodical, far removed from the dramatized versions seen on TV. Accurate BPA requires comprehensive data collection, rigorous testing, and an unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth, regardless of whether it supports the prosecution or the defense.
Insights from the Delphi Murders Case
In discussing the Delphi case, Major Cicero underscores the critical role of BPA in establishing the sequence of events and validating the evidence against Richard Allen. His expertise helped counteract the defense's attempts to cast doubt on the evidence by demonstrating the reliability and accuracy of the bloodstain patterns found at the crime scene.
Notable Quote:
"It was all about putting it together as far as bloodstain pattern analysis and crime scene reconstruction."
— Major Pat Cicero [37:07]
Cicero also touches on specific instances where his analysis led to significant breakthroughs, such as determining the absence of back spatter on the perpetrator in certain cases, thereby reinforcing the prosecution's claims.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Major Pat Cicero's contributions to the Delphi murders case and the broader field of forensic science are invaluable. His dedication to meticulous analysis and education ensures that forensic methodologies continue to evolve and improve, providing clearer insights into complex criminal cases.
Notable Quote:
"The ultimate goal is to tell the truth, no matter if it helps prosecution or helps the defense or vice versa."
— Major Pat Cicero [44:03]
This episode offers a profound look into the intricate world of forensic analysis, highlighting the importance of expertise, objectivity, and relentless pursuit of truth in solving some of the most perplexing crimes.
Key Takeaways:
- Expertise and Training: Major Cicero’s extensive background and continuous training underscore the importance of specialized knowledge in forensic investigations.
- Objective Analysis: Emphasizing a factual and unbiased approach ensures the integrity of forensic evidence.
- Education and Mentorship: Cicero’s role as an instructor helps foster the next generation of forensic experts.
- Misconceptions: Real-life forensic work is methodical and less glamorous than portrayed in media, requiring patience and precision.
This episode serves as an enlightening resource for true crime enthusiasts, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the forensic processes that bring justice to light.