Ozarks True Crime - Episode: "Introducing...Say Their Name"

Release Date: April 25, 2024
Host/Author: editaudio, Anne Roderique-Jones
Description:
“Ozarks True Crime” is an editaudio Original investigative podcast delving into true crime within the enigmatic Ozarks region. Hosted by Anne Roderique-Jones, the series intertwines personal narratives with in-depth examinations of overlooked and intricate untold stories.

Introduction to "Say Their Name"

In this introductory episode, Anne Roderique-Jones presents a comprehensive overview of the podcast "Say Their Name," produced by DCP Entertainment. The episode focuses on the tragic story of Miriam Carey, a 34-year-old dental hygienist who was fatally shot by Capitol Police in Washington D.C. while driving with her 13-month-old daughter.

Miriam Carey's Tragic Incident

Miriam Carey's Background and Death

Miriam Carey, a registered dental hygienist from Stamford, Connecticut, was traveling to Washington D.C. with her young daughter when she inadvertently made an incorrect turn into a White House security checkpoint. This mistake led to a harrowing encounter with law enforcement officers.

Val Carey (04:21):
"I have no idea why she was there that day. But she was there with her daughter, who was only 13 months."

The Encounter with Police

A plainclothes officer attempted to impede Miriam's vehicle by dragging a gate in front of her car. Despite Miriam’s efforts to avoid confrontation, Secret Service officers and Supreme Court police pursued her, culminating in a fatal shooting where Miriam was struck five times.

Val Carey (04:37):
"They knew that my niece was in the backseat of the car and they still felt the need to shoot at my sister's moving vehicle over 26 times, hitting her five times in the back and nearly hitting my niece."

Family's Immediate Reaction and Challenges

Delayed Notification and Initial Reactions

Val Carey, Miriam’s sister and a former NYPD sergeant, along with her family, were in New York City when they learned of Miriam's death through the news. The lack of proper notification from authorities forced Val to take immediate action.

Val Carey (08:51):
"At the time I had a TV in the office and my husband was in the office. And so when I turned on the TV downstairs, I saw what I saw and then I came upstairs to tell him and he turns on the TV."

Confronting Inconsistencies and Media Narratives

The family faced conflicting reports and narratives from the media and authorities, leading to confusion and frustration. Val expressed distrust towards the initial media coverage, criticizing journalists for being "sloppy and lazy."

Val Carey (35:14):
"Journalists were sloppy and lazy and not being journalists and just grabbing certain stories off of the wire."

Activism and Seeking Justice

Petition for Case Reopening

Val Carey has been tirelessly advocating for the reopening of Miriam’s case, highlighting the lack of accountability and transparency from law enforcement. Despite minimal initial support, their petition has garnered significant attention over the years.

Val Carey (53:27):
"And when the media reaches out, it's like, yeah, I've had a petition for the past seven years. Only had 7,000 signatures. We now have about 85,000."

Commemorating Miriam

Val organized annual silent protests and butterfly releases to honor her sister’s memory, ensuring that Miriam is remembered not just for her tragic death but for her vibrant life.

Val Carey (55:47):
"We release Butterflies and say her name for each time she was shot."

Comparative Analysis with Other Incidents

Highlighting Disparities in Police Responses

Val draws attention to other breaches at government buildings where individuals were either apprehended without harm or received significantly different treatment compared to Miriam's case. This comparison underscores potential racial biases and inconsistencies in law enforcement practices.

Val Carey (48:30):
"Each time an incident occurs... My sister was not committing a crime, and yet she was pursued as if she had committed a crime."

Statistics and Notable Cases

The episode references at least 22 arrests for breaching security at the White House or U.S. Capitol between 2014 and 2017, noting that most did not result in fatal outcomes.

Chris Colbert (49:48):
"Nearly all of the 22 men or women arrested since 2014 are now free from prison, no longer in custody."

Personal Toll on Val Carey

Health and Well-being

Val discusses the immense physical and emotional strain caused by her activism and the ongoing trauma from Miriam’s death. Diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, Val experiences flare-ups exacerbated by stress.

Val Carey (65:00):
"I have been diagnosed supposedly with rheumatoid arthritis. And the flare-ups that I feel are, I can't even really describe it."

Balancing Activism and Personal Life

Despite the challenges, Val remains committed to her cause while attempting to maintain her personal well-being. She engages in activities like meditation, coloring, and knitting to manage stress.

Future Endeavors and Community Support

Establishing Support Structures

Val is considering creating a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing wellness and support services for families impacted by police violence, emphasizing the need for comprehensive emotional and legal assistance.

Val Carey (68:36):
"Perhaps perhaps I could create some sort of non for profit organization that encompasses wellness and support services to individuals who are impacted by police violence."

Ongoing Efforts for Justice

Val continues to petition for justice, advocating for the accountability of law enforcement officers involved in Miriam’s death and pushing for the removal of qualified immunity to ensure transparency and responsibility.

Val Carey (68:36):
"There should be accountability and there should be transparency where those officers are named and publicly disclose to the families."

Community and Media Interaction

Engagement with Media Outlets

Val and Melody Fox, a close friend and supporter, have interacted with various media outlets to amplify Miriam’s story. They faced challenges in ensuring accurate and respectful representation amidst sensationalist reporting.

Melody Fox (36:52):
"Families have to navigate all of this press. A lot of misinformation."

Support from Community Leaders

Val received support from local politicians and community activists, including Councilmen Charles Barron and Robert Carnegie, who have stood by her in commemorative events.

Val Carey (55:47):
"Councilman Charles Barron has been so supportive of my family. He came on a bus ride with us down there and stood with us."

Conclusion and Continuing the Fight for Justice

Val Carey remains a steadfast advocate for her sister, Miriam Carey, and others who have fallen victim to police violence. Her journey is marked by unwavering resilience, personal sacrifice, and a relentless pursuit of justice.

Val Carey (71:37):
"The loss of Miriam has impacted not just me, but her friends, family... It's something like this should never happen. But it has happened. And it can happen to anyone."

Key Takeaways and Notable Quotes

• Val Carey's Commitment:
  "You're trying to criminalize my sister when she's the victim." ([04:25])

• Critique of Media Practices:
  "Journalists were sloppy and lazy and not being journalists." ([35:14])

• Advocacy for Transparency:
  "There should be accountability and there should be transparency where those officers are named." ([68:36])

• Personal Impact:
  "The stress of just driving it... I really couldn't see." ([24:20])

Supporting the Carey Family

Listeners are encouraged to support Val Carey’s efforts by signing the petition to reopen Miriam Carey’s case and advocating for transparency and accountability in law enforcement. Additional resources and support mechanisms are available in the show notes.

Final Thoughts:
This episode of "Ozarks True Crime" not only sheds light on the tragic story of Miriam Carey but also highlights the broader issues of police accountability and the personal toll on families seeking justice. Through Val Carey’s unwavering dedication, the podcast invites listeners to engage critically with these pressing societal issues.