Summary of "Small Town Murder" Episode #590 - "Murdering As A Family - Jonesboro, Arkansas"

Released April 25, 2025

In episode #590 of "Small Town Murder," hosts James Pietragallo and Jimmy Whisman explore a harrowing family-involved murder case set in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Blending meticulous research with their trademark comedic flair, the hosts unravel the complexities surrounding the tragic death of Mark Despain, delving into family conflicts, financial struggles, and deceit that ultimately led to his untimely demise.

Introduction to Jonesboro, Arkansas

James Pietragallo begins by painting a picture of Jonesboro, a town with a population of approximately 77,520. He highlights its economic challenges, noting a median household income of $48,901, significantly lower than the national average. The town's history is marred by repeated disasters, including devastating fires and tornadoes, which James humorously refers to as "Old Timey Fires."

"[03:33] James Petregallo: ...a real weird case. As usual today. 10 pounds of murder in a two-pound bag like Express is."

Meet the Despain Family

The focus shifts to the Despain family, particularly Mark Despain and his wife, Michelle Kelly.

• Mark Despain: Born on April 16, 1977, Mark grew up in Jonesboro, graduating from Nettleton High School in 1995. A former football star, he worked alongside his parents in the family real estate business before branching out independently.

• Michelle Kelly: At 18, Michelle entered Mark's life, bringing along her daughter from a previous relationship. Their whirlwind romance led to a shotgun wedding in 1996, supported by Mark's parents, Jack and Tana Despain.

Rise and Fall of the Despain Family Business

Initially thriving, Mark's independent real estate venture flourished, allowing the family to upgrade from a trailer to a spacious four-bedroom home complete with a swimming pool. They enjoyed affluent lifestyles, including multiple international vacations. However, by 2010, the real estate market downturn plunged the family into over $2 million in debt. Mark's aggressive eviction tactics for non-paying tenants earned him numerous enemies, straining his relationships within the community.

"[19:20] Jimmy Whisman: He's right."

The Murder: Discovery and Immediate Aftermath

On August 24, 2011, Michelle returned home from work to find the house in disarray—drawers pulled open, broken glass scattered, and belongings strewn across the floor. In the kitchen, she discovered Mark lying dead with two gunshot wounds: one to the chest and a fatal shot to the head.

"[22:25] Jimmy Whisman: You're sharing circles in your. With your."

Michelle's immediate reaction was shock and fear. She called 911, expressing concern for her safety and the strange state of her home. The scene suggested a violent, intimate confrontation rather than a random burglary gone wrong.

Investigation: Uncovering Motives and Suspects

Detective Vic Brooks led the investigation, initially considering burglary but soon determining the murder was likely premeditated. Key areas of inquiry included:

1. Financial Motive: The family's substantial debts and life insurance policies totaling $1 million raised suspicions about financial gain.

2. Family Conflicts: Tensions between Mark and his father, Jack Despain, over business matters complicated the motive, suggesting possible internal family strife.

3. Affair and Embezzlement: It was revealed that Michelle had an ongoing affair with a 24-year-old bank colleague, providing him with financial support, including paying his rent and expenses. Additionally, Michelle was suspected of embezzling funds from the family business to sustain her lifestyle and support the affair.

"[33:29] Jimmy Whisman: That's supposed to Ben, but I ain't done it."

Key Evidence and Testimonies

• Surveillance Footage: Confirmed Michelle's alibi, showing her at the bank during the time of the murder.

• Text Messages: Deleted messages between Michelle and her father, Carl Kelly, indicated possible collusion. Michelle had been in constant contact with Carl on the day of the murder, planning the deceitful act.

• Witness Testimonies: Neighbors reported seeing a black man, Terence Odell Barker (Quelo), and a blue Mercedes circling the neighborhood on the day of the murder. Barker later confessed to shooting Mark for a promised payment he never received.

"[53:29] Jimmy Whisman: You got me."

• Johnny Hubbard: A tenant of Mark's who testified that Carl Kelly coerced him into involving Barker in the murder plot under the threat of eviction.

Arrests and Sentencing

The investigation culminated in the arrest and sentencing of several key players:

1. Terence Odell Barker (Quelo):

   • Charge: First-degree murder.
   • Sentence: 35 years in prison.
   • Notable Quote:

     "[53:28] James Petregallo: Yeah, I shot a motherfucker."

2. Johnny Hubbard:

   • Charges: Hindering apprehension and violation of probation from a prior drug charge.
   • Sentence: 38 years in prison.

3. Carl Dwayne Kelly (Michelle's Father):

   • Charge: First-degree murder.
   • Sentence: 30 years in prison.
   • Notable Interactions:

     "[66:35] Jimmy Whisman: You're a shit turd is what you are." "[66:36] James Petregallo: Yes, they helped put him in a house."

4. Michelle Kelly:

   • Charge: Hindering apprehension and prosecution of capital murder (plea deal to avoid capital charges).
   • Sentence: Initially 30 years, but released after five years due to COVID-19.
   • Controversy: Despite orchestrating her husband's murder, Michelle received a significantly reduced sentence and early release, raising questions about the legal system's handling of her case.

Case Reflections and Insights

Hosts James and Jimmy critique the outcome, expressing disbelief and frustration over Michelle's lenient sentencing and early release. They emphasize the gravity of her crimes—manipulating her father and orchestrating her husband's murder for financial gain—and question the justice system's efficacy in delivering appropriate punishment.

"[73:56] Jimmy Whisman: She clearly lied..."

"[74:22] Jimmy Whisman: Somebody. Where somebody's in danger right now."

James and Jimmy also touch upon the role of internal family dynamics and financial desperation in driving individuals to commit heinous acts, highlighting the broader societal and psychological factors at play.

"[67:43] Jimmy Whisman: I'm just giving you exact names and..."

"[73:37] James Petregallo: She pleads guilty to a lesser charge..."

Conclusion

The episode underscores the tragic consequences of familial discord, financial strain, and moral corruption. While the perpetrators face lengthy prison sentences, the release of Michelle Kelly after a mere five years leaves many questioning the adequacy of justice served. James and Jimmy wrap up by warning listeners about the dangers lurking in seemingly stable families and small-town dynamics, all while maintaining their engaging and humorous narrative style.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "[19:42] Jimmy Whisman: What the fuck?"
  – Highlighting a moment of disbelief over sudden suspicions.

• "[24:08] Jimmy Whisman: She probably just deleted the messages and didn't even think about..."
  – Discussing possible oversight by Michelle in covering her tracks.

• "[33:29] Jimmy Whisman: That's supposed to Ben, but I ain't done it."
  – A playful jab reflecting the hosts' humorous take on serious content.

• "[53:29] Jimmy Whisman: You got me."
  – Reacting to Barker's confession.

• "[66:35] Jimmy Whisman: You're a shit turd is what you are."
  – Demonstrating the hosts' candid and unfiltered commentary on the defendant.

These quotes exemplify the hosts' dynamic interaction, blending serious analysis with comedic elements to engage listeners.

Final Thoughts

Episode #590 of "Small Town Murder" offers a gripping exploration of a multifaceted murder case, intertwining personal relationships, financial deceit, and legal intricacies. Through detailed storytelling and candid discussions, James Pietragallo and Jimmy Whisman provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the factors that led to Mark Despain's tragic death, while also critiquing the broader implications of the case's resolution.

For those intrigued by the darker aspects of small-town life and familial betrayals, this episode delivers both depth and entertainment, staying true to the podcast's mission of unveiling the secrets that make small towns tick.