Murder: True Crime Stories — Episode SPECIAL: Nicole Brown Simpson 2 with Dr. Tristan Engels
Host: Carter Roy
Guest: Dr. Tristan Engels, Licensed Clinical and Forensic Psychologist
Release Date: June 24, 2025
1. Introduction to the Case
The episode delves into the infamous murder case of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman, focusing on the events leading up to O.J. Simpson's arrest, the high-profile trial, and the enduring impact on the families involved. Hosted by Carter Roy and featuring psychological insights from Dr. Tristan Engels, this special episode provides a comprehensive exploration of one of America's most notorious true crime stories.
2. The Night of the Murders and the Bronco Chase
On June 12, 1994, Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman were brutally stabbed outside Nicole's Brentwood condominium. Suspicions quickly fell on her ex-husband, O.J. Simpson, a beloved NFL star and actor. As the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) gathered evidence, Simpson opted to avoid the frenzy of paparazzi by staying with his friend, Robert Kardashian.
However, on June 17, 1994, five days after the murders, O.J. was formally charged. His lead attorney, Robert Shapiro, sought to manage the high-profile situation by having Simpson surrender himself rather than be arrested publicly. This decision led to the infamous low-speed chase in a white Ford Bronco, an event that captivated millions nationwide.
Carter Roy [06:05]: "Just like in part one of this story, I'll be joined by a special guest, Dr. Tristan Engels..."
Dr. Tristan Engels [03:08]: "While Carter takes you through the story, I'll be providing psychological analysis of the story's key figures."
The chase, which lasted nearly two hours and was broadcast live, ended with Simpson's surrender. This public spectacle set the stage for a trial that would become a media frenzy.
3. The Legal Team and Initial Developments
Following the chase, Simpson was held without bail until his arraignment on July 22, 1994. His legal team, later famously known as the "Dream Team," included Robert Shapiro, Robert Kardashian, F. Lee Bailey, Alan Dershowitz, and Johnnie Cochran. The prosecution, led by Marcia Clark and Christopher Darden, faced significant challenges despite seemingly strong evidence against Simpson.
Carter Roy [08:30]: "By July 22nd, Simpson was in police custody for the double murder..."
Dr. Tristan Engels [09:37]: "What OJ did was emotional blackmail... placing the emotional burden on AC for his own actions."
4. The Trial: Strategies and Pivotal Moments
a. Prosecution’s Case
The prosecution aimed to establish Simpson's guilt by presenting a clear timeline and evidence linking him to the murders. They highlighted Simpson's history of domestic abuse as motive and opportunity.
Dr. Tristan Engels [24:44]: "The flood of competing Narratives from the press, from friends, attorneys, and even the suspects themselves can profoundly shape how victims and suspects are perceived..."
b. Defense’s Strategy
Johnnie Cochran and the Dream Team employed various tactics to undermine the prosecution's case, including attacking the credibility of key witnesses and highlighting procedural errors in evidence collection.
c. The Gloves Incident
A turning point in the trial came when the prosecution presented a pair of blood-soaked gloves allegedly worn by Simpson during the murders. Simpson's inability to fit into the gloves during the trial became a symbol of his alleged innocence.
Johnnie Cochran [Closing Arguments]: "If it doesn't fit, you must acquit."
Dr. Tristan Engels [34:58]: "Emotions are processed in the amygdala... if emotions are overwhelming, the rational side is overridden."
The visual of Simpson struggling with the gloves created an anchoring bias among jurors, casting doubt on the prosecution's case.
5. Verdict and Immediate Reactions
After a highly publicized trial lasting over nine months, the jury reached a decision on October 3, 1995. In a shocking and swift declaration, Simpson was found not guilty. The verdict elicited intense reactions: the victims' families were devastated, while Simpson was visibly relieved.
Carter Roy [45:08]: "And still, OJ Was visibly relieved... but there were still many who thought O.J. had gotten away with murder."
6. Psychological Insights with Dr. Tristan Engels
a. Emotional Manipulation and Crisis Behavior
Dr. Engels explains Simpson's actions during the chase as manipulative, viewing his behavior as emotional blackmail aimed at controlling his friend and the situation.
Dr. Tristan Engels [09:29]: "Friendships are often built on shared history, trust, and protectiveness... But with everything, there are limits."
b. Implicit Bias in the Jury
The diverse jury faced challenges due to implicit biases, influencing their perceptions and decisions. Despite efforts to create an unbiased jury pool, underlying prejudices potentially affected the trial's outcome.
Dr. Tristan Engels [29:04]: "Implicit bias refers to the unconscious attitudes... we're often unaware that they're influencing our thoughts."
c. Impact of Media Narratives
Competing narratives from the media and those involved in the case shaped public and juror perceptions, often overshadowing factual evidence.
Dr. Tristan Engels [24:36]: "These narratives can distort truth... especially when fame, trauma, and emotional manipulation are involved."
d. Families' Psychological Impact
The ambiguous grief experienced by the victims' families, lacking closure due to the not guilty verdict, led to prolonged grief and trauma.
Dr. Tristan Engels [40:53]: "Families... experienced traumatic grief... leaving them in ambiguous grief."
e. Reintegration into Society
Post-trial, Simpson faced immense public scrutiny and struggled to rebuild his life, highlighting the difficulties of reintegration after a polarizing acquittal.
Dr. Tristan Engels [45:15]: "Reintegrating into society after being acquitted... is a return to a world with a permanently altered identity."
7. Aftermath: Civil Trial and Later Legal Issues
In February 1997, a civil trial resulted in Simpson being found liable for the wrongful deaths, ordering him to pay $33.5 million in damages. However, financial hardships and legal protections eventually led Simpson to avoid paying these damages, contributing to his later legal troubles, including a 2008 armed robbery conviction.
Carter Roy [44:22]: "But in the end, 14-year-old Sydney and 12-year-old Justin asked to live with their dad."
8. Legacy and Advocacy Against Domestic Abuse
Nicole Brown Simpson's family has continued to advocate against domestic violence, striving to honor her memory and prevent similar tragedies. Their efforts have led to strengthened laws and increased awareness, ensuring Nicole's story remains a poignant reminder of the dangers of domestic abuse.
Dr. Tristan Engels [42:08]: "From a forensic psychology perspective... everyone involved... likely experience some kind of long-term psychological consequences."
Conclusion
This special episode of Murder: True Crime Stories offers an in-depth examination of the Nicole Brown Simpson case, highlighting not only the legal battle but also the profound psychological impacts on all parties involved. Through compelling storytelling and expert analysis, Carter Roy and Dr. Tristan Engels shed light on the complexities of justice, media influence, and human behavior in one of America's most enduring true crime stories.
Notable Quotes:
- Dr. Tristan Engels [09:37]: "What OJ did was emotional blackmail... putting AC at risk."
- Johnnie Cochran: "If it doesn't fit, you must acquit." ([34:58])
- Dr. Tristan Engels [24:44]: "These narratives can distort truth... especially when fame, trauma, and emotional manipulation are involved."
For those interested in further exploring the psychological aspects of high-profile trials and true crime stories, follow Crime House on Instagram @crimehouse and listen to more episodes wherever you get your podcasts.