Small Town Murder: Episode #598 - Cookies Solve Murders - Stowe, Vermont

Release Date: May 23, 2025
Hosts: James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman
Description: Two comedians delve into the intricacies of small-town life, uncovering the dynamics that make these communities tick, and exploring a murder that shook them. Combining in-depth research with comedic insights, the hosts dissect tragic events with their unique spin.

1. Introduction to Stowe, Vermont

The episode opens with the hosts introducing Stowe, Vermont—a picturesque small town known as the "Ski Capital of the East." They paint a vivid picture of the town's serene landscape, bustling ski resorts, and tight-knit community.

James Pietragallo [05:49]:
"We're going to Vermont this week. A nice place with mountains and rolling hills."

Jimmie Whisman [06:03]:
"Stowe is a famous ski area. Rich people from NYC or Boston go there for the weekend skiing."

2. Overview of Patricia Ann Scoville’s Life

Patricia Ann Scoville, known as Patty, is introduced as a bright, independent woman with a promising future. Her background includes a Cornell University education, exchange programs in Denmark, and a career in human resources.

Jimmie Whisman [14:26]:
"She graduated in '86 from Cornell University and traveled to Denmark twice."

James Pietragallo [15:04]:
"Patty is very independent, fun, and straight-laced. She enjoys hiking, biking, and playing the piano."

3. Patty’s Move to Stowe and the Events Leading to Her Disappearance

In October 1991, Patty moves to Stowe to escape the corporate life in Boston and embrace a more outdoors-oriented lifestyle. Shortly after settling in, she attends the annual Stowe Rescue Squad benefit barn dance, marking a turning point where she begins to integrate into the community.

James Pietragallo [20:31]:
"Patty decided to attend the barn dance on her own and had a great time, even meeting a guy."

However, within two days of her newfound social engagement, Patty goes missing after a bike ride to Moss Glen Falls—a scenic location she frequented.

Jimmie Whisman [23:31]:
"She biked to Moss Glen Falls, sat on a rock, took off her gloves, and was seen looking at the falls. No one saw her after that."

4. Investigation and Discovery of Evidence

The local community springs into action, deploying search teams and utilizing all available resources to locate Patty. Despite extensive efforts, including the use of police dogs, divers, and aerial searches, Patty remains missing until October 29th, five days after her disappearance.

Leon Nayfak [28:33]:
"They searched a three-mile area with everything possible but couldn't find her until days later."

Upon discovery, evidence suggests foul play:

• Autopsy Findings:

  • James Pietragallo [34:07]:
    "Patty died of asphyxia caused by manual strangulation."
  • Presence of theobromine indicated chocolate consumption before death, pinpointing the time of murder before 4 PM.

• Physical Evidence:

  • Jimmie Whisman [28:15]:
    "A bicycle, black gloves, and a yellow water bottle were found near the falls."

5. Suspect Identification and DNA Evidence

The investigation initially targets Ronald Gabaree due to his criminal history and proximity to the crime scene. However, DNA testing reveals that his profile does not match the semen samples found on Patty, leading to a dead end.

James Pietragallo [35:48]:
"His DNA doesn't match. So they ruled him out."

As the case grows cold, rumors and fear spread through Stowe, with residents becoming increasingly anxious about their safety.

6. Breakthrough with DNA Database and Arrest

In 2005, a significant breakthrough occurs when Howard Godfrey, known as Skip, who had a history of violent behavior, enters the federal DNA database upon his release from prison. His DNA matches the semen found at the crime scene.

Jimmie Whisman [63:56]:
"The DNA match was 1 in 235 quadrillion, leading to Skip’s arrest."

Despite initial resistance and Skip's pleas of innocence, the overwhelming DNA evidence leads to his conviction.

James Pietragallo [73:26]:
"The jury found him guilty of aggravated murder after only two hours of deliberation."

7. Court Proceedings and Aftermath

During the sentencing, Patty’s father confronts Skip with the devastating impact of his actions.

Patty’s Father [73:35]:
"Why could someone do this to my little girl?"

Despite attempts by Skip's defense to discredit the DNA evidence and introduce alternative theories, the conviction stands firm due to the strength of the forensic evidence.

Leon Nayfak [75:01]:
"It's not circumstantial. The DNA evidence is solid."

8. Reflection and Community Impact

The podcast concludes by reflecting on the long-term impact of the case on the Stowe community. The establishment of the Patricia Scoville Memorial CODIS Laboratory symbolizes the town's commitment to justice and the lasting memory of Patty.

James Pietragallo [74:07]:
"The CODIS lab was renamed in Patty's honor, a tribute to her and a step towards solving her case."

Notable Quotes:

• James Pietragallo [05:49]:
  "We're going to Vermont this week. A nice place with mountains and rolling hills."

• Jimmie Whisman [14:26]:
  "She graduated in '86 from Cornell University and traveled to Denmark twice."

• James Pietragallo [34:07]:
  "Patty died of asphyxia caused by manual strangulation."

• Jimmie Whisman [35:48]:
  "His DNA doesn't match. So they ruled him out."

• Patty’s Father [73:35]:
  "Why could someone do this to my little girl?"

• Leon Nayfak [75:01]:
  "It's not circumstantial. The DNA evidence is solid."

Conclusion

In this episode of Small Town Murder, James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman explore the tragic murder of Patricia Ann Scoville in Stowe, Vermont. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, they illuminate how relentless investigation and advancements in DNA technology ultimately brought justice to a once-peaceful community. The narrative underscores the profound impact of crime on small towns and the enduring quest for closure by families and law enforcement alike.

For more detailed insights and future episodes, listeners are encouraged to follow the hosts on social media and support them through their Patreon platform.

Support and Further Engagement

• Merchandise & Live Shows: shutupandgivemerder.com
• Patreon: patreon.com/CrimeInSports
• Social Media:
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  • Facebook: Small Town Pod

This summary captures the essence of Episode #598, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the key events, investigative breakthroughs, and the community's response to the tragic loss of Patricia Scoville.