Episode Summary: "Murder, Mistrust, and the SFPD" - The Doodler

Podcast: The Binge Crimes: The Doodler
Host/Author: Sony Music Entertainment
Release Date: July 8, 2025

Introduction to Spreckels Lake and the Second Victim

The episode opens at Spreckels Lake in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, where Detective Dan Cunningham and host Mike Taylor unfold the grim discovery of the second murder victim attributed to the elusive serial killer known as "The Doodler." On the morning of June 25, 1974, a man in his mid to late 20s was found brutally stabbed beneath a large tree, mirroring the methods used in the earlier murder of Gerald Kavanaugh.

Detective Dan Cunningham (02:16):
"See that opening there? That would probably be up here. That's a little trail, so it's probably one of these."

Introducing Joseph "Jay" Stevens: The Rising Star

The narrative shifts focus to Joseph Stevens, affectionately known as Jay, a prominent drag queen in San Francisco's vibrant gay community of the 1970s. Jay was a beloved figure, admired for his talent and charisma, performing regularly at venues like the PS Lounge and Finocchio's. His rise in the drag scene was cut tragically short by his untimely death, positioning him as a significant victim of The Doodler.

Charles Pierce (06:18):
"Jay Stevens was this bright, young, I would guess, in his early 20s, Pretty Boy who would lip sync Julie Andrews songs... The real clever ones, the ones that can do stand up comedy as well, are the ones that survive. And that's what Jay was, a really good stand up comic in a dress."

The Social Climate: Queer Community and Police Relations

The episode delves into the oppressive environment faced by the LGBTQ+ community in San Francisco during the 1970s. Police harassment was rampant, with laws criminalizing homosexual behavior and extreme distrust between the community and law enforcement. This hostile atmosphere created a backdrop where crimes against queer individuals, such as those committed by The Doodler, were often overlooked or inadequately investigated.

Jim Van Buskirk (14:48):
"The pervasive element, I think, would be fear. Just fear that you might say the wrong thing to the wrong person at the wrong time and and really be in a lot of trouble."

Jay Stevens' Life and Tragic Death

Jay's personal journey is explored through conversations with his sister, Melissa Stevens. Jay had embraced his gender identity from a young age, finding solace and expression in San Francisco's drag scene after being ostracized by his family. His performances were a blend of talent and authenticity, making him a beloved figure until his murder in 1974.

Melissa Stevens (25:51):
"He was as beautiful as any woman could be, except for that he was 6 foot 2. I mean, he would do a Julie Andrews that was just remarkable."

On the night of his murder, Jay was performing at Finocchio's, a renowned drag venue. The following morning, his body was discovered, brutally beaten and stabbed. The police investigation was swift but superficial, offering few leads and little closure for Jay's family and community.

Melissa Stevens (29:37):
"But other than that, police hardly ever called us back."

Investigative Efforts and Unsolved Mysteries

Despite initial investigations, the case quickly went cold due to limited evidence and the prevailing societal biases against the victims. It wasn't until decades later that renewed interest in The Doodler emerged, prompting investigative journalists like Kevin Fagan and Mike Taylor to revisit the case in hopes of uncovering new leads.

Mike Taylor (34:23):
"For 43 years, Melissa didn't even know that Jay was murdered by a serial killer. The police never told her about him. She didn't see it in the papers."

Through persistent research and outreach, the team attempts to connect with Jay's remaining family members and friends, seeking to piece together the circumstances surrounding his death and the broader pattern of The Doodler's crimes.

The Legacy and Ongoing Hunt for The Doodler

The episode concludes by reflecting on the impact of Jay Stevens' murder on the queer community and the challenges of solving crimes within marginalized populations. The lingering fear and mistrust towards the police contributed to The Doodler remaining at large for decades, highlighting the need for more inclusive and thorough investigative practices.

Mike Taylor (36:50):
"The Doodler is created by the San Francisco Chronicle and Ugly Duckling Films and produced in association with Neon Hum Media and Sony Music Entertainment."

As the hunt for The Doodler continues, the episode sets the stage for future installments that promise to reveal new information and possibly bring justice to one of San Francisco's forgotten serial killers.

Notable Quotes

• Detective Dan Cunningham (02:16):
  "See that opening there? That would probably be up here. That's a little trail, so it's probably one of these."

• Charles Pierce (06:18):
  "Jay Stevens was this bright, young, I would guess, in his early 20s, Pretty Boy who would lip sync Julie Andrews songs... The real clever ones, the ones that can do stand up comedy as well, are the ones that survive. And that's what Jay was, a really good stand up comic in a dress."

• Jim Van Buskirk (14:48):
  "The pervasive element, I think, would be fear. Just fear that you might say the wrong thing to the wrong person at the wrong time and and really be in a lot of trouble."

• Melissa Stevens (25:51):
  "He was as beautiful as any woman could be, except for that he was 6 foot 2. I mean, he would do a Julie Andrews that was just remarkable."

• Melissa Stevens (29:37):
  "But other than that, police hardly ever called us back."

Conclusion

"Murder, Mistrust, and the SFPD" offers a poignant exploration of Joseph "Jay" Stevens' life and tragic death within the broader context of San Francisco's 1970s gay community. By intertwining personal testimonies with historical analysis, the episode sheds light on the systemic challenges faced by marginalized groups and the lasting impacts of unsolved crimes. As the search for The Doodler persists, the episode underscores the importance of revisiting cold cases with fresh perspectives and a commitment to justice.