Sword and Scale - Episode 283 Summary
Case Overview: The Disappearance and Murder of Adam Chase
Release Date: March 3, 2025
Host: Adam J. Chase
1. Introduction
Episode 283 of Sword and Scale delves into the harrowing true crime case of Adam Chase, a 31-year-old father who mysteriously disappeared in Stanley, New York, in June 2012. The episode meticulously chronicles the events leading up to his disappearance, the subsequent investigation, and the eventual revelation of his wife's involvement in his murder.
2. Background of Adam Chase
Adam J. Chase, born in October 1980 in Gorham, New York, led a relatively ordinary life. An introverted individual with a passion for computer games and Renaissance fairs, Adam married Rose Chase shortly after high school. The couple moved from low-paying jobs into a modest trailer in Bristol, New York, eventually purchasing a farmhouse in Stanley. Adam became a stay-at-home dad after their son, Tristan, was born in 2007.
3. The Disappearance
On the evening of June 14, 2012, after a heated argument with Rose about infidelity and the paternity of their son, Tristan, Adam left the family home around 11 AM. Rose reported his disappearance to Adam's mother, Sylvia, citing that Adam had stormed out during their fight and hadn't returned despite leaving his cell phone behind.
Notable Quote:
Rodney G. Miller (08:41): "The Sheriff's department called her on Friday night and wanted to ask her questions instead of going to the house and asking if they could walk around and make sure that he wasn't hiding her in someplace in the house."
4. Initial Investigation by Law Enforcement
The Ontario County Sheriff's Department treated Adam's disappearance as a missing persons case. Rose provided inconsistent information, mentioning marital issues and potential infidelity. Search efforts included canine units scouring the property, but no substantial evidence was found. However, two suspicious text messages were sent from Adam's phone to his parents on June 19, claiming he was "staying with a friend in Kenya, Canandaigua" and needed "time to think."
5. Rodney Miller’s Involvement
Rodney G. Miller, a 73-year-old former Ontario County deputy turned private investigator, learned of Adam's disappearance through local publicity. Knowing Adam personally and recognizing him as someone unlikely to vanish without reason, Miller took a proactive role in the investigation.
Notable Quote:
Rodney G. Miller (15:04): "Well, my name is Rodney G. Miller. I'm 73 years old. But years ago, in 1980, I got hired by Ontario county as a deputy."
6. Confrontation and Confession
Determined to uncover the truth, Miller approached Rose Chase multiple times. His persistent questioning and psychological tactics eventually led Rose to confess to Adam's murder. On December 13, 2012, with the assistance of Rose's babysitter, Sandy, Miller orchestrated a situation that prompted Rose to admit to pushing Adam down the stairs, leading to his death. Rose further confessed to dismembering and disposing of Adam's remains in a burn barrel at her mother's house.
Notable Quote:
Rodney G. Miller (37:15): "I said, Rose, I've had enough. You gotta give them up. You're never gonna be at peace till you tell me what you did with him and I wanna know where you buried him."
7. Aftermath and Trial
Following Rose's confession, authorities located Adam's remains scattered across multiple sites, including a burn barrel containing skeletal bones and burned materials. Rose was charged with second-degree murder, evidence tampering, and endangering the welfare of a child. During the trial, Rodney Miller testified, providing crucial evidence that led to Rose's conviction.
Notable Quote:
District Attorney Michael Tantillo (68:37): "Figuring it out though, the jury actually deliberated a total of only just about four hours or a little bit more than four hours. So that suggests to us that they felt the case was pretty strong and probably moved toward a verdict."
8. Continued Developments
Rose Chase was sentenced to 24 and a half years to life in prison in January 2014. Despite the conviction, questions lingered regarding the effectiveness of the initial investigation, particularly concerning the use of non-cadaver canine units that failed to detect Adam's remains in the basement. Additionally, Rose's statements hinted at possible complicity from her mother, Patty Mooney, although no charges were filed against her.
Notable Quote:
Rodney G. Miller (76:51): "I think two reasons. The dogs weren't worth what they paid for them and the trainers weren't worth a."
9. Reflection and Impact
The episode highlights Rodney Miller's unwavering dedication to solving the case, emphasizing the significant role of independent investigators in complementing official law enforcement efforts. Miller's actions not only brought closure to the Chase family but also underscored systemic shortcomings within the Sheriff's Department.
Notable Quote:
Rodney G. Miller (74:41): "Anybody that has love for law enforcement, your dream is to always solve a major case. And to me, this was a major case."
10. Conclusion
Episode 283 of Sword and Scale provides a comprehensive and gripping account of Adam Chase's tragic disappearance and murder. Through meticulous storytelling, the podcast sheds light on the complexities of criminal investigations, the impact of personal relationships on criminal behavior, and the relentless pursuit of justice by individuals like Rodney Miller.
End of Summary