Murder: True Crime Stories – Episode: SOLVED: Olive Durand-Deacon 2

Host: Carter Roy
Release Date: January 28, 2025
Produced by: Crime House, Powered by PAVE Studios

Introduction

In the gripping second installment of the Olive Durand-Deacon case, host Carter Roy delves deeper into the harrowing investigation that ultimately brought the notorious serial killer John George Hay to justice. Building on the foundation laid in Part One, this episode meticulously unravels the events surrounding Olive's disappearance, the ensuing investigation, and the legal proceedings that led to Hay's conviction and execution.

Background of Olive Durand-Deacon and John George Hay

Olive Durand-Deacon, a 69-year-old wealthy widow residing at the prestigious Onslow Court Hotel in London, found herself entwined with the sinister John George Hay, a 40-year-old businessman with a dark secret. As Roy narrates, "John Hay was a vicious serial killer who'd murdered at least five people and forged his way into their bank accounts" (04:51).

Hay's motive was financial desperation fueled by a severe gambling addiction. Despite his outward appearance of success, his dwindling funds pushed him to target affluent individuals like Olive, whom he believed could provide the means to sustain his lavish lifestyle.

The Murder of Olive Durand-Deacon

On February 18, 1949, Olive approached Hay with a business proposal to capitalize on a new acrylic fingernail product. Trusting him as a fellow successful businessman, Olive agreed to discuss the details at Hay's workshop in Crawley. However, this meeting was a facade for Hans's ulterior motives.

As Roy details, "As soon as Olive turned her back to John, he pulled out a .38 caliber revolver and shot her in the head. Olive died instantly" (04:51). Hay proceeded to dispose of Olive's body by placing it in a barrel of sulfuric acid, intending to obliterate any evidence of his heinous act. Additionally, he removed her valuables to fund his gambling habits, planning to later forge her signature to transfer assets into his name.

Investigation and Unraveling

Olive's sudden disappearance did not go unnoticed among the hotel's residents. Her consistent dining schedule and prompt reports of her missing raised immediate suspicions. Constance Lane, Olive's close friend, questioned John Hay's involvement when she discovered Olive's room appeared untouched, contrary to her usual behavior (04:51).

Sergeant Lamborn spearheaded the investigation, becoming increasingly suspicious of Hay due to his financial troubles. Her intuition proved insightful when she discovered Hay's past in fraud, linking it to his current predicament. Roy emphasizes, "If he'd committed fraud before, it was entirely possible he'd do it again. And maybe this time, he took it a step further" (12:11).

As the investigation deepened, evidence began to mount against Hay. Detectives found receipts linking him to the dry cleaner where Olive's coat was left and uncovered a diary detailing his previous murders. However, it was a critical break when a journalist, Harry Proctor, exposed inconsistencies in Hay's alibi, leading to his arrest (21:15).

Arrest and Trial

Hay's arrest was the culmination of meticulous detective work and unforeseen journalistic intervention. During interrogation, despite initial resistance, Hay confessed to Olive's murder and implicated himself in previous killings. Notably, he added a chilling detail: "I drank all of my victim's blood" (21:15). This macabre admission aimed to strengthen his plea of insanity.

The subsequent trial was a dramatic showdown between the prosecution and Hay's defense. On one side, the prosecution argued that Hay was a calculated, sane individual whose crimes were premeditated acts of evil. On the other, Hay's attorney presented a case of insanity, supported by 33 witnesses, including Dr. Henry Yellowlees, a future chief medical officer of the UK.

Despite the defense's efforts, the jury swiftly concluded Hay was both guilty and sane, sentencing him to death without the possibility of appeal. Roy recounts, "The jury took all of 17 minutes to come to a decision" (21:15).

Conclusion and Reflection

John George Hay's execution on August 10, 1949, marked the end of a terrifying reign of murder. Roy reflects on the case, highlighting the pivotal role Olive's friendships played in unraveling the mystery. "While John manipulated his victims into trusting him, it was the true bonds of friendship that finally brought him to justice" (21:15).

This episode not only sheds light on a resolved true crime story but also underscores the profound impact of community and support in combating evil. Olive Durand-Deacon's story serves as a testament to resilience and the relentless pursuit of justice.

Notable Quotes

• Carter Roy: "Olive was a wealthy widow who lived at the same hotel as John. Believing he was a successful businessman, Olive approached him to help her capitalize on a new acrylic fingernails." (04:51)

• Carter Roy: "He had a serious gambling problem and by February 1949, his funds were dwindling. If he wanted to keep living the high life at the Onslow Court, he needed to find a new victim fast." (04:51)

• Carter Roy: "John was quick to repeat his cover story. He had planned on meeting Olive after her shopping outing, but she never showed." (12:11)

• Carter Roy: "The prosecution argued that John's defense simply didn't hold up. He wasn't insane and unable to understand the consequences of his actions. He was evil, and his crimes were premeditated." (21:15)

Conclusion

SOLVED: Olive Durand-Deacon 2 masterfully combines meticulous research with compelling storytelling, offering listeners an in-depth exploration of a chilling true crime case. Carter Roy's narrative not only presents the facts but also delves into the psychological and societal factors that enable such crimes and their eventual resolution. For enthusiasts of true crime, this episode is a must-listen, providing both resolution and profound insights into human behavior and justice.

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