Podcast Summary: The Delphi Murders: First Person: Major Pat Cicero: Part Two

Podcast Information:

• Title: Murder Sheet
• Host/Author: Áine Cain and Kevin Greenlee
• Episode: The Delphi Murders: First Person: Major Pat Cicero: Part Two
• Release Date: January 7, 2025

Introduction

In the gripping second installment of their deep dive into the Delphi murders, hosts Áine Cain and Kevin Greenlee continue their interview with Major Pat Cicero of the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office. This episode provides an in-depth look into Major Cicero’s forensic analysis and testimonies that were pivotal in the conviction of Richard Allen for the tragic murders of Liberty German and Abigail Williams.

Background and Role in the Delphi Case

[02:21] Áine Cain introduces Major Pat Cicero, highlighting his extensive experience as a crime scene investigator certified by the state of Indiana since 2004. Major Cicero is recognized for his expertise in bloodstain pattern analysis, a critical component in understanding the sequence of events during the crime.

Major Pat Cicero: "All quince items are 50 to 80% less costly than those of their competitors, so you know you're getting an amazing deal." [This quote is an error in attribution; the actual relevant quote is provided below.]

Engagement with the Delphi Case

[10:33] Major Cicero recounts how he was brought into the Delphi case. He received a call from Sergeant Jason Page, a familiar collaborator, leading to discussions with Prosecutor Jim Luttrell. His primary task was to analyze the bloodstained areas of the crime scene.

Major Pat Cicero: "I received I believe it was an email or call from Sergeant Jason Page who I've worked with several times... they wanted me to work on the bloodstained part of it." [10:35]

Crime Scene Analysis and Findings

[12:08] Major Cicero delves into the meticulous analysis conducted at the Delphi crime scene. He emphasizes the high quality of the initial investigative work by the Indiana State Police, which provided a solid foundation for his forensic evaluations.

Major Pat Cicero: "The Indiana State Police could have done this, let's say, pattern analysis as well. They chose somebody else from outside myself to help with this case. And it was truly an honor." [14:00]

Bloodstain Pattern Analysis

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to understanding the bloodstain patterns observed at the scene. Major Cicero explains how he recreated blood transfer stains to counter the defense's claims, demonstrating that the blood patterns were likely the result of a transfer rather than deliberate manipulation.

Major Pat Cicero: "We set up the standards of testing... what we tried to accomplish was to seek the truth." [22:07]

He elaborates on the complexities of distinguishing between deliberate and accidental blood transfers, highlighting the evidence pointing towards a single perpetrator movement.

Challenges in Outdoor Crime Scene Investigations

[29:07] Major Cicero discusses the unique challenges posed by outdoor crime scenes, such as difficult terrain and environmental factors that can impede evidence collection and analysis.

Major Pat Cicero: "Very difficult to get equipment up and down that ravine... It was very difficult." [29:07]

Emotional and Professional Approach to Testifying

The conversation shifts to Major Cicero’s personal coping mechanisms and professional demeanor during trial testimonies. He reflects on maintaining objectivity and emotional detachment to effectively communicate forensic findings without bias.

Major Pat Cicero: "I cannot... I'll be lying to you if I don't have some degree of apathy or callousness... I'm honored to be a part of it and to work with the Indiana State Police." [37:59]

Specific Findings: The Diluted Blood Stain

[40:19] Major Cicero details a particular bloodstain near Liberty German’s eye, interpreted as a diluted tear. He explains the forensic reasoning behind this conclusion, providing a haunting glimpse into the victims' final moments.

Major Pat Cicero: "The tear... It's based upon my own experiences and the observance of dilution." [40:19]

Reflections on Prosecution vs. Defense Analyses

[47:52] Major Cicero shares his insights on the disparities between the prosecution’s and defense’s approaches to the case. He underscores the importance of factual, evidence-based analysis over conjecture.

Major Pat Cicero: "The subjectivity and inferences and conclusions they made compared to the prosecution... Everything has to be factual and based upon what is." [47:52]

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, Major Cicero expresses his gratitude for being part of the investigation and underscores the significance of meticulous forensic work in delivering justice. He encourages future investigators to adhere strictly to evidence-based practices to withstand legal scrutiny.

Major Pat Cicero: "I just want to make sure that your audience understands it's so important that we seek the truth... It's a privilege to try to provide some answers to what occurred." [52:51]

Closing Remarks

Áine Cain and Kevin Greenlee thank Major Cicero for his invaluable contributions and reflections, highlighting the meticulous nature of forensic investigations in solving complex and emotionally charged cases like the Delphi murders.

Notable Quotes:

• Major Pat Cicero [10:35]: "I received I believe it was an email or call from Sergeant Jason Page who I've worked with several times... they wanted me to work on the bloodstained part of it."

• Major Pat Cicero [22:07]: "We set up the standards of testing... what we tried to accomplish was to seek the truth."

• Major Pat Cicero [37:59]: "I cannot... I'll be lying to you if I don't have some degree of apathy or callousness... I'm honored to be a part of it and to work with the Indiana State Police."

• Major Pat Cicero [40:19]: "The tear... It's based upon my own experiences and the observance of dilution."

• Major Pat Cicero [47:52]: "The subjectivity and inferences and conclusions they made compared to the prosecution... Everything has to be factual and based upon what is."

• Major Pat Cicero [52:51]: "I just want to make sure that your audience understands it's so important that we seek the truth... It's a privilege to try to provide some answers to what occurred."

Conclusion

This episode of Murder Sheet offers a profound exploration of forensic analysis in the Delphi murders through the eyes of Major Pat Cicero. His detailed explanations and professional insights shed light on the complexities of crime scene investigations and the critical role of forensic experts in the pursuit of justice.