Murder: True Crime Stories – Episode: SOLVED: America's Deadliest Serial Killer 1
Host: Carter Roy
Release Date: June 3, 2025
Introduction and Overview
In the premiere episode of "SOLVED: America's Deadliest Serial Killer," host Carter Roy delves into the chilling case of Samuel Little, recognized as the most prolific serial killer in U.S. history. This episode sets the stage for understanding how technological advancements and dedicated detective work culminated in bringing Little to justice after decades of evading law enforcement.
Detective Mitzi Roberts and the Breakthrough
[00:00] Carter Roy:
Carter introduces the daunting nature of cold cases, emphasizing the emotional toll on victims' families and the challenges detectives face in uncovering the truth. The episode highlights the transformative impact of time and technology in solving seemingly unsolvable cases.
[04:29] Carter Roy:
The narrative shifts to 2012, when advancements in DNA technology provided new leads for the Los Angeles Police Department's cold cases unit. Detective Mitzi Roberts, a seasoned investigator in the Robbery Homicide Division, becomes the central figure tasked with utilizing these technologies to crack the case of Samuel Little.
Key Quote:
"Sometimes all it takes is time. Time for technology to develop and for a fresh set of eyes to come along and take another look at the case." — Carter Roy [00:00]
Samuel Little’s Troubled Beginnings and Descent into Crime
Early Life in Georgia and Ohio
Samuel Little was born in Reynolds, Georgia, in 1940, under uncertain circumstances regarding his exact birthdate. His early childhood was marred by familial instability, with his mother reportedly abandoning him as an infant and his father being largely absent. By age 13, Little had moved to Lorain, Ohio, living with his grandmother, Fannie Mae McDowell.
[04:19] Carter Roy:
By 1954, at just 13, Little committed his first known crime—stealing a bicycle—which led to his placement in the Boys Industrial School in Lancaster, Ohio. His behavior remained problematic, accruing numerous disciplinary violations and setting the stage for a life of escalating criminal activity.
Escalation to Violence
After multiple stints in detention facilities for petty crimes, Little transitioned to more severe offenses in his mid-20s. In 1966, he was arrested for assaulting a woman in Cleveland but avoided significant jail time, likely reinforcing his belief in outsmarting the justice system.
Relocation to Florida and First Murder
[04:29] Carter Roy:
In the late 1960s, seeking a fresh start, Little moved to Florida to live near his mother. This period marked the beginning of his descent into serial murder. On December 31, 1970, Little murdered his first known victim, Mary Brosley, a 33-year-old woman struggling with alcoholism and health issues. He strangled her and buried her in a shallow grave outside Miami.
Key Quote:
"People's lives are like stories with a beginning, a middle, and an end. But sometimes the final chapter comes far too soon." — Carter Roy [00:00]
Pattern of Victims and Modus Operandi
Little targeted vulnerable women, often involved in sex work or struggling with substance abuse, believing their disappearances would go unnoticed. Over the years, he claimed responsibility for 93 murders, operating across multiple states with a consistent pattern:
- Selection of Vulnerable Victims: Women with precarious lifestyles, making them less likely to be searched for rigorously.
- Method of Killing: Predominantly strangulation, aligning with his obsession with women's necks.
- Minimal Covering Tracks: Little often left bodies in accessible areas, leading to eventual discovery through natural decomposition.
[12:53] Carter Roy:
The episode recounts Little's continued killing spree, detailing specific cases such as Mary Jo Peyton in Cleveland and Carol Alford in Los Angeles. Despite his frequency of murders, Little's crimes often went undetected due to the victims' marginalized statuses and the era's limited forensic capabilities.
Investigative Challenges and Legal Proceedings
[27:45] Carter Roy:
As Little's spree continued into the 1980s, law enforcement began to piece together connections between disparate cases. However, securing convictions proved difficult due to:
- Lack of Physical Evidence: Many cases lacked substantial forensic proof, especially before DNA technology was widely implemented.
- Questionable Testimonies: Victims often had questionable backgrounds, leading juries to doubt their credibility.
- Legal Limitations: Instances like double jeopardy laws prevented retrials, allowing Little to evade conviction despite mounting evidence.
Key Quote:
"As long as he targeted vulnerable women with questionable histories, he would continue to get away with murder." — Carter Roy [13:21]
Conclusion and Tease for Part Two
The episode concludes with Little's continued evasion of justice into the late 1980s, highlighting his arrest after the attempted murder of Laurie Barros in San Diego. Despite evidence and surviving victims ready to testify, Little managed to secure a plea deal, resulting in a relatively lenient sentence that allowed him to resume his killing spree upon release.
[38:13] Carter Roy:
Carter Roy teases the next episode, which will cover how Samuel Little was ultimately apprehended, bringing closure to his extensive list of victims.
Final Quote:
"Now, it's clear that technology and relentless detective work were essential in finally bringing Samuel Little to justice." — Carter Roy [Closing Remarks]
Additional Resources and Call to Action
Listeners are encouraged to assist the FBI in identifying Samuel Little's victims by submitting tips through the provided channels. The podcast emphasizes the importance of community involvement in solving cold cases and honoring the memories of the victims.
Credits:
This episode was produced by the Murder True Crime Stories team, including Max Cutler, Ron Shapiro, Alex Benedon, Natalie Pertofsky, Lori Marinelli, Sarah Camp, Yellen Awar, Beth Johnson, and Russell Nash.
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Note: The above summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and narratives presented in the episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened to the podcast.