Podcast Summary: Small Town Murder - Episode #547: The Craigslist Killers - Caldwell, Ohio

Release Date: November 28, 2024

Introduction

In Episode #547 of Small Town Murder, hosts James Pietragallo and Jimmy Wisman delve into the chilling case of the "Craigslist Killers" in Caldwell, Ohio. This episode unpacks the dark narrative of how seemingly ordinary individuals exploited online platforms to execute a series of brutal murders, highlighting the intersection of small-town dynamics and cunning criminal behavior.

Setting the Scene: Caldwell, Ohio

Caldwell, a small town in Noble County, Ohio, serves as the backdrop for this horrifying tale. Founded in 1857 and significantly developed after the arrival of the Pennsylvania Railroad in the 1870s, Caldwell is known for hosting the first North American oil well in 1814. Despite its historical significance, the town grapples with economic challenges, evident from its higher-than-average unemployment rate and lower median household income compared to national figures.

James introduces Caldwell with a mix of factual information and comedic insights:

[06:38] James Pietragallo: "Caldwell, Ohio, is smack dab in the middle, about an hour and a half to Columbus and two hours to Pittsburgh. Perfect for our murderous escapade."

The town's demographics reveal a predominantly white population with a significant median age of 51.3 and a noticeable gender imbalance favoring females. The cost of living is relatively low, with median home prices around $115,500, making it an attractive spot for those seeking affordability despite the economic hardships.

The Criminal Duo: Brogan Rafferty and Richard "Rich" Beasley

At the heart of this case are Brogan Rafferty, a 16-year-old high school junior, and Richard "Rich" Beasley, a 52-year-old man with a tumultuous past. Their relationship, rooted in Brogan's troubled family life, becomes the catalyst for the series of murders that shake Caldwell.

Brogan Rafferty

Brogan's childhood is marred by an abusive father and an addicted mother. Seeking stability and affection, he forms a bond with Rich Beasley at the age of nine. Despite his intimidating size (standing at 6'5" and weighing 65230 pounds—a comedic exaggeration by the hosts), Brogan is portrayed as a quiet and compliant individual, making him an easy target for manipulation.

[21:34] Jimmy Wisman: "Brogan's a big guy, but he's quiet. Perfect for our undercover mission, huh?"

[21:38] James Pietragallo: "Exactly. Lenny without the stupidity here."

Richard "Rich" Beasley

Rich Beasley emerges as a master manipulator—a former convict, biker, and self-proclaimed man of God. He runs a halfway house in Akron, which, unbeknownst to many, serves as a front for a brothel and drug distribution center. Rich's charm and "folksy sociability" allow him to groom vulnerable individuals, including Brogan, into participating in his criminal endeavors.

[24:25] Jimmy Wisman: "He's been to prison full of shit."

[24:28] James Pietragallo: "Is what he is. He's a giant full of shit, liar is all it is."

Rich's ulterior motives become clear as he leverages Craigslist to lure unsuspecting individuals with promises of employment and accommodation, only to brutally murder them, steal their possessions, and assume their identities to cover his tracks.

The Modus Operandi: Craigslist as the Killing Tool

Rich Beasley ingeniously exploits Craigslist to orchestrate his murders. By posting deceptive job ads offering high pay, free lodging, and minimal duties, he attracts individuals at their lowest points—those desperate for employment and stability.

Example of a Craigslist Ad:

[60:00] Jimmy Wisman: "We need someone to watch our farm down in southern Ohio. Live for free in a double-wide trailer. Duties are minimal—just enjoy the countryside and ensure nothing gets stolen."

Once the target arrives, Rich and Brogan swiftly execute the following steps:

1. Travel to Secluded Locations: They drive the victims to remote areas under various guises, often maintaining separate vehicles to avoid suspicion.

2. Immediate Violence: Rich lethally attacks the victim, ensuring lethality with multiple gunshots. Brogan assists by handling the physical burden of burying the bodies.

3. Stealing and Covering Up: All personal belongings are stolen, and the bodies are buried in pre-dug shallow graves, making detection difficult.

4. Assuming Identities: Rich meticulously acquires the victim's personal information to assume their identities, facilitating the continuation of his criminal activities.

[78:45] James Pietragallo: "So basically, Rich had been interviewing countless candidates, looking for someone whose life had hit rock bottom—perfect for his next victim."

The Victims

1. Timothy Kern (47): An unemployed man from Akron who responded to a Craigslist ad. Tim's tragic fate marked the beginning of this serial killing spree. He was brutally murdered and buried in a shallow grave near Hollow Ridge.

2. David LeBlanc: Another victim lured by Rich's deceptive job offering. David was similarly killed and buried in the secluded areas Rich frequented.

3. Ralph Geiger: The most recent victim, whose murder was intended to allow Rich to assume his identity fully. Rich succeeded in this deceitful tactic, showcasing his meticulous planning.

Investigation and Unraveling the Truth

The breakthrough in the case came when multiple abductions and murders pointed towards a pattern tied to Craigslist job postings. Law enforcement agencies, including local police and the FBI, coordinated efforts to trace the malicious intent behind these ads.

Key Findings:

• Surveillance Footage: Cameras at local establishments like Shoney's captured Brogan and Rich's suspicious activities, linking them to the Craigslist postings.

• Recovered Evidence: Items such as laptops, driver's licenses, and prescription bottles belonging to victims were found at Rich's residence, confirming his modus operandi.

• Witness Testimonies: Survivors like Scott Davis provided firsthand accounts of the shootings and Rich's ruthless behavior.

[141:04] Jimmy Wisman: "Listen to this letter from Brogan—'This is triple murder. And I'm just trying to cop a plea deal.'"

The Trial

In a dramatic courtroom showdown, both Brogan Rafferty and Rich Beasley stood trial for their involvement in the murders.

Brogan Rafferty's Defense

Brogan's defense centered around the concept of duress, arguing that he was coerced into committing these heinous acts by Rich Beasley. Given his age (16 at the time of the crimes), the court treated him as a juvenile but still held him accountable under the law.

[156:55] James Pietragallo: "Duress isn't always that simple, especially when you're dealing with a heavyweight like Brogan under Rich's thumb."

Rich Beasley's Prosecution

Rich Beasley's defense attempted to paint him as a benevolent figure who operated the halfway house out of genuine concern for the homeless and addicted. However, the overwhelming evidence of his criminal activities and manipulation tactics overshadowed his defense.

Verdict and Sentencing

After extensive deliberations, the jury found:

• Brogan Rafferty: Guilty on 24 of 25 counts, including aggravated murder and attempted murder. Given his age, he was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after serving 26 years.

• Rich Beasley: Convicted of multiple murder charges, he faced the death penalty, reflecting the severity of his crimes and his role as the mastermind behind the killings.

[168:08] Jimmy Wisman: "So, ladies and gentlemen, in Caldwell, Ohio, you have not one, but two evil masterminds sentenced for their crimes."

Conclusion

The episode of Small Town Murder masterfully unravels the sinister relationship between Brogan Rafferty and Rich Beasley, showcasing how vulnerability and manipulation can culminate in a series of gruesome murders. Caldwell, Ohio, serves as a stark reminder that evil can lurk in the most unsuspecting places, often camouflaged by ordinary facades.

Through detailed research, insightful discussions, and moments of levity, James and Jimmy present a comprehensive narrative that not only educates but also engages listeners, leaving them pondering the complexities of human behavior and the dark paths it can lead down.

Notable Quotes:

• Brogan Rafferty on Duress:

  [157:23] James Pietragallo: "I had to go with it or die. I didn't have a choice."

• Rich Beasley on His Ministry:

  [149:35] James Pietragallo: "I sacrifice for others, not a con man."

• Jury’s Perspective:

  [166:37] Jimmy Wisman: "He was a willing participant of the grooming."

Final Thoughts:

For those intrigued by the intricate dance between perpetrators and their victims in small-town settings, this episode of Small Town Murder is a must-listen. James and Jimmy's unique blend of comedic insights and deep investigative storytelling brings to life the harrowing tale of the Craigslist Killers, offering both chills and thoughtful reflections on the nature of evil and manipulation.

Disclaimer: This summary is based on the provided transcript and podcast information. Actual episode content may vary.