Podcast Summary: Small Town Murder - Episode #571: "Murder Martini - Pewaukee, Wisconsin"

Release Date: February 20, 2025
Hosts: James Pietragallo & Jimmy Whisman

1. Introduction

In Episode #571, titled "Murder Martini - Pewaukee, Wisconsin," hosts James Pietragallo and Jimmy Whisman delve into a perplexing murder case set in the tranquil town of Pewaukee. Combining in-depth research with their signature comedic flair, the duo unravels the intricate web surrounding the tragic death of Lynn Hernan.

2. Background of Pewaukee, Wisconsin

Pewaukee is portrayed as a serene suburban community outside Milwaukee, known for its picturesque lake and family-friendly atmosphere.

• Historical Context:
  "The city of Pewaukee wasn't actually incorporated until 1999, but there's been people here forever. It was originally a farming community with a significant ice delivery industry." ([08:10])

• Demographics & Lifestyle:
  "Median household income is high at $110,269, and the town is predominantly married with a median age of 44." ([12:35])
  "Residents enjoy lake activities, community events like the Lake Country Fall Fest, and have a low crime rate, one-third of the national average." ([24:13])

3. Profile of Lynn Hernan

Lynn Hernan is introduced as a dedicated hairstylist passionate about vintage aesthetics and the classic film "The Wizard of Oz."

• Personal Background:
  "Born June 26, 1956, Lynn graduated high school in 1974 with aspirations of owning her salon. She remained unmarried, had no children, and was deeply involved in her community." ([25:52])

• Personality Traits:
  "Lynn was described as beautiful inside and out, with a penchant for keeping amicable relationships even after breakups." ([29:02])

4. Relationship with Jesse Kurzewski

Jesse Kurzewski, Lynn's close friend and eventual caretaker, becomes a central figure in the unfolding mystery.

• Initiation of Relationship:
  "They met at a music festival in 1983. Jesse admired Lynn, who despite her own reservations, formed a deep bond with her." ([29:25])

• Caretaking Role:
  "By 2016, as Lynn's health deteriorated due to undiagnosed conditions, Jesse became her full-time caretaker, handling groceries, bills, and daily necessities." ([40:39])
  "In 2018, concerns arose when Anthony Potza, a close family friend, noticed suspicious financial activities and Lynn's dwindling bank account." ([50:21])

5. Health Decline and Financial Issues

Lynn's unexplained health problems and subsequent financial decline set the stage for the mystery.

• Medical Challenges:
  "Lynn suffered from lung disease, high blood pressure, and severe gastrointestinal issues that baffled her doctors." ([42:02])

• Financial Deterioration:
  "Despite her inheritance of $250,000 in 2014, by the time of her death, Lynn's accounts were nearly depleted, raising red flags about unauthorized transactions." ([37:54])

6. Suspicious Activities and Investigation

The investigation reveals a trail of financial misconduct and potential foul play.

• Unauthorized Financial Transactions:
  "Jesse issued 20 out of 22 checks from Lynn's accounts directly to herself between January 2016 and October 2018, totaling over $144,000." ([72:18])

• Attempted Fraud and Fabrication:
  "Jesse attempted to fabricate evidence by creating fraudulent documents and recordings to exonerate herself, as evidenced by a 37-page letter instructing others on creating fake notary stamps and voice recordings." ([125:00])

• Discovery of Over-the-Counter Poison:
  "Lynn's cause of death was determined to be tetrahydrozoline poisoning, an uncommon substance not found in her system, suggesting external administration." ([79:06])
  "Crushed medication was found on her chest, but toxicology reports did not detect these substances, indicating potential staging of the scene." ([54:39])

7. Trial and Charges

The courtroom drama unfolds with mounting evidence against Jesse.

• Prosecution's Case:
  "The prosecution argues that monetary gain was Jesse's sole motive, presenting evidence of significant financial theft and the creation of fraudulent evidence." ([120:03])

• Defense's Argument:
  "The defense contends that Lynn's death was a suicide influenced by her medical and psychiatric conditions, asserting that Jesse was acting out of a desire to help." ([128:00])

• Notable Quotes:

  • James Pietragallo: "If you think true crime and comedy should never ever go together, I don't know, we might not be for you, but we might be for you." ([06:25])
  • Jesse Kurzewski (via recording): "I didn't commit murder. I didn't poison Lynn." ([82:38])

8. Verdict and Aftermath

After prolonged deliberations, the jury finds Jesse guilty.

• Conviction:
  "Jesse Kurzewski is convicted of first-degree murder and two counts of felony theft, resulting in a life sentence with the possibility of parole after 40 years." ([175:09])

• Restitution:
  "Jesse is ordered to pay $380,000 in restitution, alongside an additional $16,000 for court-related expenses." ([177:16])

• Final Statements:

  • Prosecutor: "Believe this is suicide, you would have to believe that the most cosmic intervention in the entire world happened at the exact point Jesse maximized her financial gain."
  • Judge Darrow: "I believe Lynn's death was premeditated... Were you poisoning Lynn Hernan all along?" ([210:...)

9. Conclusion

"Murder Martini - Pewaukee, Wisconsin" presents a compelling narrative of deception, financial manipulation, and tragedy in a seemingly peaceful town. Hosts James and Jimmy skillfully weave the story, highlighting the complexities of human relationships and the dark undercurrents that can exist beneath a community's facade.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• James Pietragallo:

  • "[06:25] 'We don't make fun of the victims or the victims' families...'"
  • "[07:17] 'We are going to Pewaukee, Wisconsin...'"
  • "[175:09] 'That is Pewaukee, Wisconsin. Holy shit. Wow, that is fucking bonkers.'"

• Jimmy Whisman:

  • "[05:51] 'Okay?'"
  • "[29:02] 'She's living a life.'"
  • "[82:38] 'Are you serious?'"

• Jesse Kurzewski (Recorded):

  • "[86:58] 'This is your opportunity to address the court...'"
  • "[89:07] 'I had a gun to my head...'"
  • "[152:03] 'I've never done it...'"

Note: This summary excludes advertisements and non-content sections, focusing solely on the murder case narrative presented in the episode.