The Murder of Angela Craig: The Case Against James Craig So Far
Episode Release Date: December 5, 2024
Introduction
In this gripping episode of Murder Sheet, hosts Áine Kane, a seasoned journalist, and Kevin Greenlee, an experienced attorney, delve deep into the harrowing case of Angela Craig’s murder and the subsequent arrest of her husband, James Craig. Utilizing a recently obtained probable cause affidavit, the hosts provide an in-depth analysis of the events leading up to Angela's untimely death, the suspicious activities surrounding James Craig, and the evolving legal proceedings that have made this case particularly intriguing.
Case Overview
The episode centers on James Craig, a dentist from Aurora, Colorado, accused of murdering his wife, Angela Craig. The couple, married for 23 years, shared six children and appeared to lead a stable life. However, underlying tensions and mysterious circumstances surrounding Angela’s health raised red flags that ultimately led to criminal charges against James.
Key Details:
- Probable Cause Affidavit: Compiled by Detective Bobby Olsen from the Aurora Police Department’s Major Crime Homicide unit.
- Initial Incident: On March 6, 2023, Angela was hospitalized after feeling faint and dizzy post-workout, suspected to be linked to a protein shake prepared by James.
Timeline of Events
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March 6, 2023 – Initial Hospitalization:
- Angela experiences severe symptoms after consuming a pre-workout shake prepared by James. She is admitted to Parker Adventist Hospital but is discharged due to persistent but unexplained symptoms.
- Notable Quote: Kevin Greenlee remarks at [03:16], “By all accounts, looking stable, looking good. But unfortunately, this case is pretty horrifying when you dig into it.”
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March 9, 2023 – Continued Health Issues:
- Angela is readmitted multiple times, with symptoms worsening, including seizures and increased intracranial pressure.
- She is pronounced brain dead on March 18 at 4:29 PM.
- Notable Quote: Anya Kane reflects at [12:48], “This sounds like something out of a thriller.”
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Investigation Unfolds:
- Colleagues and business partners of James Craig raise suspicions about his behavior, particularly regarding a mysterious package labeled potassium cyanide received at the dental office.
- James Craig’s suspicious online searches for arsenic and other poisons were uncovered, further implicating him in the potential murder plot.
Key Evidence
1. Suspicious Package:
- An office manager noticed James in an exam room at unusual hours and later received a text from him about expecting a personal package, which turned out to contain potassium cyanide.
- Notable Quote: Kevin Greenlee highlights at [08:28], “They found something very weird... it was potassium cyanide. There’s no medical reason for him to have potassium cyanide.”
2. Text Message Communications:
- The hosts examine various text messages between James and Angela, revealing a complex and manipulative relationship.
- Notable Quotes:
- At [31:11], Angela texts James, “Your marriage is more important than my day. You are more important than my day.”
- James responds with concern about his own symptoms yet maintains a facade of normalcy.
3. Online Searches:
- James Craig’s search history revealed queries such as “How to Purchase Arsenic Metal” and “Deadly Undetectable Poisons,” indicating his intent and knowledge about poisons.
- Notable Quote: Anya Kane comments at [47:03], “That’s very concerning.”
4. Affair and Manipulative Behavior:
- Emails uncovered an affair James had with a woman in the dental business, suggesting potential motives tied to deceit and manipulation.
- James’s text to his business partner’s wife demonstrated his attempt to manipulate opinions and shift blame.
- Notable Quote: James Craig's heartfelt yet manipulative message at [20:15], pleading, “Please don’t talk to anyone about what we talked about last night...”
Legal Proceedings
1. Arrest and Charges:
- James Craig was arrested and charged with Angela Craig’s murder based on circumstantial evidence and his suspicious activities.
- Additionally, he faces charges of first-degree solicitation to commit perjury and first-degree solicitation to commit murder, indicating attempts to influence or fabricate testimony.
2. Defense Attorney Withdrawal:
- On the day of jury selection, November 21st, James’s attorney, Harvey Steinberg, withdrew from the case citing client persistence in criminal actions and fundamental disagreements.
- Notable Quote: Kevin Greenlee explains at [53:20], “Steinberg is ready to go jury selection that day, and he asked to withdraw. How unusual is that for that to happen?”
3. New Allegations:
- James is accused of soliciting the murder of a detective involved in his case, severely complicating his legal standing and potential defense strategies.
Analysis of James Craig’s Behavior
Áine and Kevin dissect James Craig’s behavior throughout the investigation, highlighting his manipulative tactics and attempts to control the narrative surrounding his wife’s illness and subsequent death.
Key Observations:
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Manipulation and Control: James uses emotional pleas and manipulative language in his texts to isolate and control those around him.
- Notable Quote: Kevin remarks at [24:05], “He’s using his children with Angela as a tool...”
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Entitlement: James exhibits a sense of entitlement, expecting unwavering support and cooperation from his business partners despite mounting suspicions.
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Desperation and Arrogance: His attempts to solicit murder and influence witnesses reflect a deep level of desperation coupled with arrogance, believing he can manipulate outcomes even from incarceration.
Recent Developments
The case against James Craig has intensified with the addition of new charges and allegations:
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Solicitation of Murder:
- James is accused of attempting to have a detective involved in the case murdered, showcasing his willingness to go to extreme lengths to obstruct justice.
- Notable Quote: Kevin at [57:02], “He was attempting to have somebody killed. That’s not going to make the case go away.”
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Prosecutorial Changes:
- The 18th Judicial District Attorney, John Kellner, is being replaced by Amy Patton following the latest charges, potentially impacting the prosecution's approach.
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Court Proceedings Delayed:
- Due to the unforeseen legal complications, including the withdrawal of his defense attorney, the trial has faced significant delays.
Conclusion
The episode paints a chilling picture of James Craig’s calculated actions leading up to and following Angela’s death. From suspicious behavior and manipulative communications to alarming online searches and attempted obstructions of justice, the evidence mounts against him. As the legal battle continues with new charges and prosecutorial shifts, Áine Kane and Kevin Greenlee leave listeners eagerly anticipating further developments in this complex and tragic case.
“It's very concerning,” Anya Kane summarizes at [47:03], encapsulating the gravity of the situation as new layers of deceit and criminal intent emerge against James Craig.
Notable Quotes
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“[James Craig] was like, 'I didn’t think she would actually take it. It was supposed to be just a game of chicken.'” – Kevin Greenlee [16:32]
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“He’s using his children with Angela as a tool...” – Kevin Greenlee [24:05]
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“That’s very concerning.” – Anya Kane [50:58]
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“She has been poisoning her slowly.” – Anya Kane [31:12]
Final Thoughts
Murder Sheet continues to provide a meticulously researched and thoughtfully presented exploration of true crime cases. This episode not only sheds light on the tragic murder of Angela Craig but also underscores the intricate web of deceit and manipulation that often surrounds such heinous acts. For those fascinated by true crime, the detailed analysis and compelling narrative offer a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in uncovering the truth behind the murder.
Stay Connected
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