Small Town Murder: Episode #591 - Best Friends Murder - Hudson, Ohio
Release Date: May 1, 2025
Hosts: James Pietragallo & Jimmie Whisman
Introduction
In Episode #591 of Small Town Murder, hosts James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman delve into the dark and twisted case of the Best Friends Murder in Hudson, Ohio. This episode unravels the intricate details of a homicide that shook a seemingly quiet and affluent community, blending thorough investigative research with the hosts' signature comedic flair.
Background of Hudson, Ohio
Hudson is portrayed as a tight-knit, affluent suburb located roughly 20 minutes outside Akron and 40 minutes from Cleveland. With a population of approximately 23,001, the town boasts a high median household income of $143,143, making it one of the wealthiest areas featured on the show. The community is characterized by low crime rates, excellent schools, and a vibrant downtown area, although some critics note a lack of activities beyond shopping and dining.
James provides a historical context, mentioning that Hudson was founded in 1799 by David Hudson from Goshen, Connecticut. The town experienced significant growth through various industries but faced challenges like multiple devastating fires in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Despite these setbacks, Hudson developed into a prosperous and family-friendly suburb.
Notable Quote:
[08:32] James Pietragallo: "They got two area codes for this place."
Key Individuals Involved
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Butch Pratt (Roger Pratt):
Born in 1966, Butch overcame early childhood challenges, including a bone disease that caused him to limp for two years. He became a star athlete at Steel Valley High School, excelling in football and wrestling. Known for his strength and flexibility, Butch was perceived as a kind and dependable individual with a promising future. -
Eddie Swiger:
Born in 1966, Eddie is portrayed as a charismatic and manipulative figure. A fellow student at Thiel College and fraternity brother to Butch, Eddie held leadership positions within their fraternity, Delta Sigma Phi. Despite his outward appearance as a respectful and studious individual, Eddie exhibited tendencies of overachievement and manipulation. -
Linda Carlin:
Born in December 1952, Linda was the personal secretary and manager for Dr. John F. Steele, overseeing multiple businesses under his empire. She lived a life of luxury with expensive cars, jewelry, and numerous pets, including a 38-foot Burmese python. Linda's relationship with Eddie became increasingly enmeshed, leading her to play a pivotal role in the unfolding events.
Notable Quote:
[26:28] Jimmy Wisman: "38."
[26:34] James Pietragallo: "38 foot long. Imagine what that eats."
The Crime Unfolds
In March 1987, Eddie and Butch were implicated in a series of burglaries targeting their fraternity houses, stealing approximately $3,500 worth of electronics. Although both denied involvement initially, Butch later confessed to these crimes, implicating Eddie and their younger brother, Mike Swiger, who sold the stolen items at Case Western Reserve University.
The situation escalated when Butch began contemplating turning against Eddie and testifying against him. Fearing the repercussions, Eddie masterminded a plan to silence Butch permanently. On June 17, 1988, Butch rode a Greyhound bus to Akron to meet Theresa Walker, whom he was interested in. Unbeknownst to Butch, Linda had orchestrated an ambush involving Eddie and Mike.
Upon reaching a secluded area near Hudson, Ohio, Butch was confronted by Eddie and Mike. Eddie aggressively assaulted Butch, beating him beyond recognition before both brothers handcuffed him and placed him in the trunk of Mike's car. They then transported Butch to Linda's farmhouse, where they buried his body on her property.
Notable Quote:
[97:22] James Pietragallo: "Jesus Christ, man. So they say that she was the one who invaded the place and killed him."
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Linda Carlin became the case's focal point following a separate arson incident at her property in Pennsylvania, which was suspected to be a cover-up for embezzlement activities related to the furniture store owned by Dr. Steele. Her involvement raised suspicions about her role in Butch's disappearance and subsequent murder.
Eddie and Mike Swiger were arrested in October 1989, facing charges including aggravated murder, kidnapping, and arson. During their trials, testimonies painted Eddie as the primary aggressor and orchestrator of the crimes, while Mike maintained a more subdued role, claiming limited involvement.
Linda's trial in January 1990 resulted in her conviction for conspiracy to commit kidnapping and firearms violations. Prosecutors depicted her as a manipulative sociopath who played a crucial role in planning and executing the murder to protect the embezzling operations. Her defense centered on coercion and fear of Eddie, but the jury found her culpable, sentencing her to seven to fifteen years in prison for kidnapping and additional years for arson.
Eddie Swiger received a life sentence without parole after being found guilty of aggravated murder and kidnapping. Mike Swiger was sentenced to 28 to 53 years for his involvement.
Notable Quote:
[146:22] Jimmy Wisman: "So you did all this to him and then what?"
[146:27] James Pietragallo: "He’s gonna be an impact person."
Aftermath and Continuing Impact
Despite serving time, the trials left lingering tensions within the community. Michael Pratt, Butch's brother, remained vocal against Linda and the Swiger brothers, campaigning against Linda's parole in 1999 and continuing to seek justice for his brother's untimely death.
In 1997, a TV movie titled "What Happened to Bobby Earl?" dramatized the case, closely mirroring the real events but with altered names for legal reasons. The Pratt family appreciated the portrayal, finding solace in seeing their story depicted, albeit with minor discrepancies.
By 2006, Linda was set to begin her sentence in Pennsylvania for arson after appealing her initial charges. Eddie remains incarcerated, facing the full extent of his crimes, while Mike is also serving his lengthy sentence.
Conclusion
The Best Friends Murder case in Hudson, Ohio, showcases a tragic narrative of betrayal, manipulation, and the dark underbelly of seemingly perfect suburban life. Hosts James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman effectively peel back the layers of this complex case, presenting listeners with a comprehensive exploration of the events that led to Butch Pratt's murder and the subsequent legal battles that ensued. The episode underscores the fragility of trust and the devastating consequences that can arise from its betrayal within close-knit communities.
Notable Quote:
[183:51] Jimmy Wisman: "Keep living right. We love you too much."
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