Sword and Scale Podcast Summary: "We All Have Our Secrets..." (August 12, 2024)

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Introduction to the Episode

In the August 12th, 2024 episode of Sword and Scale, host Ryan Williams delves deep into three harrowing true crime cases that highlight the dark complexities of human nature and the relentless pursuit of justice. From recent violent incidents to decades-old mysteries finally finding resolution, this episode encapsulates the essence of Sword and Scale's commitment to uncovering the most disturbing aspects of crime and its aftermath.

Case 1: The Tragic Shooting of Ramon Nieves in Marshall Town, Iowa

Incident Overview

The episode opens with the chilling account of Ramon Nieves, a 41-year-old man who tragically lost his life in a shooting incident in Marshall Town, Iowa, back in June. The chaos unfolded at the Center Street Station bar, where Ramon and his friend confronted an 18-year-old, Victor Delgadillo, for rudely discarding a cup inside the establishment.

Key Events and Investigation

According to witnesses, "Ramon and one of his friends decided to confront the young man about the cup and simply asked him to pick it up. No big deal" (Ryan Williams, 03:35). However, the situation escalated when Victor shoved Ramon and his friend, brandishing a firearm and firing shots. Unfortunately, Ramon succumbed to his injuries despite immediate medical attention.

The community was left in turmoil as Victor vanished, evading law enforcement for months. "I know that law enforcement, they will get him and I got faith in them. But they could have done the job earlier, they could have caught this guy already" (Ramon's brother, 04:14).

Resolution

Weeks turned into months until Victor was located by the Anaheim Police Department in Southern California during a joint operation with the U.S. Marshals Task Force. An intense gunfight ensued, resulting in Victor's death and injuring an innocent bystander. A witness recounted, "I heard what sounded like a string of firecrackers going off. When I turned, I saw the officers basically firing at the suspect" (Witness, 05:02). The case remains under investigation, serving as a grim reminder that attempts to evade justice are often futile.

Case 2: The Murder of Cameron Choptis and the Arrest of James Winkenwater in Blue Rapids, Kansas

Initial Discovery and Investigation

On the evening of July 4th, 2024, a woman from Blue Rapids, Kansas, discovered the body of her acquaintance, Cameron Choptis, on her front lawn after hearing fireworks. Despite initial confusion at the scene, DNA evidence and additional clues led investigators to James Winkenwater, a 31-year-old man with a spotless record.

Breakthrough in the Case

Investigators uncovered a crucial piece of evidence: a chainsaw with blood spatters found in James's pickup truck (Former Producer, 09:57). Further DNA analysis connected James directly to the crime, leading to his arrest and subsequent murder charge. James's behavior during interrogation was notably suspicious, displaying extreme distress and nervousness when confronted with evidence. "I was eating lunch when I heard... I saw the officers basically firing at the suspect" (Witness, 05:02).

Legal Proceedings and Aftermath

James Winkenwater is currently held in the Marshall County jail with a bond set at $1 million. The revelation that someone with no prior criminal history could commit such a heinous act has left the community grappling with the unsettling truth that "the worst monsters are real."

Case 3: The Cold Case of Danielle Hutchins in Belgrade, Montana

Disappearance and Initial Investigation

The episode takes a poignant turn as it revisits the unresolved case of 15-year-old Danielle Hutchins, who disappeared on September 21, 1996, from Belgrade, Montana. Danielle was last seen heading to Cameron Bridge fishing access before plans to attend the Belgrade Fall Festival.

Decades-Long Pursuit for Justice

Despite extensive searches and initial leads, Danielle's case went cold for decades. However, persistence paid off in 2019 when advancements in DNA technology reignited the investigation. In 2022, DNA evidence from the crime scene was sent to Parabon Nanolabs, leading to the identification of Paul Hutchinson, a 57-year-old man from Dillon, Montana.

Shocking Conclusion

Paul Hutchinson, a family man with no criminal background, was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot shortly after his interview with investigators. Posthumously, DNA confirmed his involvement in Danielle's murder. Paul's wife expressed profound grief, stating, "We are absolutely heartbroken to learn this news, and our hearts go out to the Hutchins family" (Paul's Wife, 15:34).

This revelation underscores the long shadows that secrets can cast, as reflected in the episode's closing thoughts. "Some secrets that just never rise to the surface. But as we all know, nothing stays hidden forever. It all comes out in the end" (Co-Host, 10:54).

Reflections and Closing Thoughts

The episode adeptly intertwines multiple narratives to explore themes of trust, betrayal, and the inexorable march of justice. Through detailed storytelling and emotionally charged testimonies, Sword and Scale not only recounts tragic events but also invites listeners to ponder the darker facets of human nature.

Ryan Williams encapsulates the episode's essence, stating, "Let’s face it, we all have secrets... some we hide far better than others. But nothing stays hidden forever" (Ryan Williams, 10:54). This powerful reflection serves as a reminder that beneath the facade of civilized society lies a spectrum of human behaviors, some monstrous and others still undiscovered.

Notable Quotes:

• Ramon's Brother: "I know that law enforcement, they will get him and I got faith in them. But they could have done the job earlier, they could have caught this guy already." (04:14)

• Witness to Victor's Shooting: "I was eating lunch when I heard what sounded like a string of firecrackers going off. When I turned, I saw the officers basically firing at the suspect." (05:02)

• Paul's Wife: "We are absolutely heartbroken to learn this news, and our hearts go out to the Hutchins family." (15:34)

• Co-Host: "Some secrets that just never rise to the surface. But as we all know, nothing stays hidden forever. It all comes out in the end." (10:54)

Conclusion

Sword and Scale's August 12th episode masterfully navigates through recent and historical crimes, providing listeners with a comprehensive and engaging exploration of each case. By presenting raw and uncensored audio, including interviews and firsthand accounts, the podcast offers a 360-degree perspective on the intricacies of criminal behavior and the pursuit of justice. Whether delving into the immediate aftermath of a violent incident or unraveling decades-old mysteries, Sword and Scale continues to hold a mirror up to society, challenging listeners to confront the unsettling reality that some of the "worst monsters are real."

For those who haven't listened to this episode, it stands as a testament to the podcast's unwavering dedication to true crime storytelling, ensuring that every story is told with the depth and gravity it deserves.

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