Murder: True Crime Stories

Episode: SOLVED: The Co-ed Murder 2
Host: Carter Roy
Release Date: March 11, 2025

Overview

In this gripping second installment of "SOLVED: The Co-ed Murder," host Carter Roy delves deeper into the tragic and complex case of Theora Hicks, a promising 24-year-old medical student whose life was brutally cut short in 1929. This episode meticulously unpacks the investigation, trial, and lasting impact of Theora's murder, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of the events that led to the conviction of her professor and lover, Dr. James Snook.

Background: Theora Hicks and Dr. James Snook

Theora Hicks, a dedicated medical student at Ohio State University, was found dead at a rifle range in Columbus, Ohio, on June 14, 1929. The case quickly gained national attention due to Theora's promising career and the scandalous affair she maintained with her much older professor, Dr. James Snook. Despite substantial evidence pointing towards Snook, uncertainties lingered, making the case far from straightforward.

Discovery and Initial Investigation [05:00]

On the day Theora Hicks was discovered dead, detectives embarked on a thorough investigation to uncover the perpetrator. A pivotal lead emerged when Margaret Smalley, a local landlady, identified Theora and her supposed husband, James Howard, as residents of her boarding house. Strangely, James had vacated the room the same day Theora was found dead, raising eyebrows and suspicion.

Detectives soon unmasked James Howard as Dr. James Snook, a 49-year-old Olympian and respected professor of veterinary medicine. His connection to Theora was undeniable, especially after Mrs. Smalley's accurate identification. This revelation led to Snook's detainment on June 15, 1929.

Interrogation and Confession [05:00 - 13:45]

During his initial questioning, Snook feigned ignorance about Theora, claiming minimal acquaintance. However, under Mrs. Smalley's insistence, he admitted to a three-year affair with her. This confession allowed detectives to detain him without an arrest warrant—a procedure sanctioned by the legal standards of the time, lacking safeguards like Miranda rights.

Subsequent retracings of Snook's steps on the day of the murder uncovered a series of suspicious activities:

• Rifle Range Visit: Snook led detectives to the very location where Theora's body was found. His reluctance to provide details only heightened suspicions.
• Scioto Country Club: Snook disclosed retrieving his shooting glasses, a seemingly innocuous detail that did little to clear his name.
• Boarding House Room: The discovery of a stained hat belonging to Theora in the room he had rented underscored the circumstantial evidence against him.

Further evidence surfaced at Snook's residence and vehicle:

• Stained clothing, a knife with unidentified smudges, bloodstained gloves, and additional weapons like a hammer and pocket knife were found.
• Laboratory analyses confirmed these items as the murder weapons, solidifying the circumstantial case against Snook.

Under intense interrogation lasting up to 24 hours, Snook eventually confessed to the murder, citing self-defense as his motive.

Notable Quote:

Snook (Timestamp [08:45]): "I only hurt her because I was terrified she was going to shoot me with her pistol."

The Trial Begins [13:45 - 22:16]

Public Interest and Media Frenzy [07:00]

The trial of James Snook captivated the nation, with sensational headlines from prominent newspapers like The New York Times detailing the affair and the horrific murder. The courthouse became a hub of public intrigue, with hundreds flocking daily to witness the proceedings.

Defense Strategy: Character Assassination and Self-Defense Claim [09:30]

Initially, Snook's legal team attempted to claim temporary insanity. However, a subsequent mental health evaluation proved he was of sound mind, forcing the defense to pivot. They restructured their strategy to bolster Snook's self-defense narrative by meticulously deconstructing Theora's character:

• Drug Use Allegations: Snook's attorneys introduced evidence of Theora's drug use, attempting to portray her as unstable and violent. While tests confirmed the presence of cannabis and cantharidin in her system, these substances paradoxically acted as sedatives, undermining the defense's portrayal.

  Notable Quote:

  Snook (Timestamp [10:15]): "She threatened to kill my wife and daughter."

• Character Witnesses: The prosecution presented multiple character witnesses, including colleagues and university officials, revealing Snook's pattern of deceit and misconduct:

  • Affair Disclosure: It was uncovered that Snook was involved in multiple affairs, not solely with Theora.
  • Narcotics Misuse: Snook had been reprimanded for dispensing narcotics illicitly, and quantities of these drugs were found missing from his office.

These revelations dismantled the defense's attempt to paint Snook as a victim, instead showcasing him as manipulative and morally corrupt.

Prosecution’s Case: Forensic Evidence and Expert Testimonies [15:20]

The prosecution capitalized on the forensic evidence and expert testimonies to counter Snook's claims:

• Jugular Vein Wound: Expert witnesses highlighted the precision required to sever Theora's jugular vein, an expertise Snook possessed as a medical professional.
• Weapon Analysis: The thoroughness of weapon cleaning was insufficient to obscure Snook's involvement, reinforcing the prosecution's narrative.

Final Arguments and Verdict [20:00]

After two intense weeks of courtroom drama, the jury deliberated for a mere 28 minutes before delivering a unanimous guilty verdict on August 14, 1929. Snook was sentenced to death by electric chair, a punishment ultimately carried out on February 28, 1930.

Notable Quote:

Prosecutor Jack Chester Jr. (Timestamp [17:40]): "The evidence unequivocally proves that Dr. Snook acted with malice and premeditation."

Aftermath and Legacy

Impact on Ohio State University [18:30]

The scandal extended beyond the courtroom, affecting institutional reputations:

• Dean David White's Resignation: Dean White, who had been subpoenaed during the trial, resigned after it was revealed he had been aware of Snook's inappropriate behavior but failed to take action.
• Public Apology: Ohio State University issued a public apology to Theora's family, though it fell short of addressing the deeper issues of institutional negligence.

Consequences for Snook’s Family [19:10]

Snook's wife, Helen, steadfastly maintained his innocence throughout and after the trial. Following Snook's execution, Helen and their daughter adopted her maiden name to shield themselves from public scrutiny, striving to rebuild their lives amidst the tarnished legacy.

Reputation of Theora Hicks [20:00]

While Theora achieved posthumous justice, Snook's manipulative testimonies cast a long shadow over her true character. Initial reports painted her as a volatile and sexually promiscuous individual, a narrative that obscured her genuine brilliance and potential. Decades later, archival documents revealed the distortion of her image, allowing for a re-evaluation of her legacy as a talented young woman unjustly maligned by her murderer.

Notable Quote:

Carter Roy (Timestamp [21:00]): "With everything we know about her true character, it's clear Theora was a brilliant young woman with a bright future ahead of her."

Conclusion

This episode of "Murder: True Crime Stories" meticulously reconstructs the harrowing tale of Theora Hicks and the subsequent downfall of Dr. James Snook. Through detailed examination of investigative procedures, courtroom strategies, and the societal implications of the trial, Carter Roy provides listeners with a profound understanding of the complexities inherent in true crime cases. Theora's story serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of justice and the enduring impact of murder on all facets of life.

Key Takeaways

• Investigative Challenges: Even with substantial evidence, proving guilt beyond reasonable doubt remains a formidable task, especially in an era lacking modern forensic technologies.
• Legal Evolution: The case underscores the importance of legal safeguards, such as Miranda rights, highlighting potential miscarriages of justice in historical contexts.
• Character Assassination: The defense's attempt to deconstruct Theora's character illustrates the powerful role of personal narratives in shaping public perception and jury opinion.
• Institutional Responsibility: Ohio State University's initial negligence reflects broader issues of accountability within academic institutions.
• Legacy and Memory: The distortion of Theora's character over time emphasizes the importance of preserving accurate historical records to honor victims appropriately.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dr. James Snook:

  • "I only hurt her because I was terrified she was going to shoot me with her pistol." ([08:45])

• Prosecutor Jack Chester Jr.:

  • "The evidence unequivocally proves that Dr. Snook acted with malice and premeditation." ([17:40])

• Carter Roy:

  • "With everything we know about her true character, it's clear Theora was a brilliant young woman with a bright future ahead of her." ([21:00])

Final Thoughts

Theora Hicks' murder case is a profound exploration of love, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Carter Roy's thorough narration not only brings clarity to the events of 1929 but also invites listeners to reflect on the broader implications of such crimes on individuals and society. As we remember Theora's brilliance and mourn her untimely death, this episode serves as a testament to the enduring quest to uncover the truth in the face of darkness.

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