The Deck: Carole Clement (Ace of Hearts, Florida) - Episode Summary
Introduction
In this gripping episode of The Deck, host audiochuck delves into the tragic and unresolved case of Carole Clement, known as the Ace of Hearts, whose brutal murder in Florida remains a cold case decades later. Through detailed discussions with investigators, family members, and examination of evidence, the episode seeks to shed light on the mysterious circumstances surrounding Carole’s death and to reignite hope for justice.
Discovery of the Crime
The episode begins with Lieutenant Robert Young recounting the morning Carole Clement was found murdered.
"It was late Sunday morning, March 8, 1992, when a woman named Wilma stopped by her 51-year-old daughter's place in Naples, Florida." [00:01]
Wilma discovered her daughter Carol’s condo door had been forced open with pamphlets shoved into the wedge. Upon entering, she found the living room in disarray and Carol lying mortally wounded with multiple stab wounds.
"Carol was found with between 13 to 15 stab wounds, blood everywhere, laying on the floor partially in the kitchen and living room." [03:21]
Initial Investigation
Detectives quickly suspected Carol’s soon-to-be ex-husband, James Clement, given their tumultuous divorce battle. However, James provided an alibi that initially seemed credible, prompting investigators to explore other avenues.
"If it's Jim, he can get people from anywhere or he can be anywhere." [13:08]
The investigation revealed that Carol was highly security-conscious, making the open sliding glass door an unusual detail that raised further suspicions about how the assailant gained entry.
Alternative Suspects and Witness Accounts
As detectives canvassed the neighborhood, multiple witnesses reported sightings of a suspicious man described as tall with dark hair behaving erratically around the time of the murder.
"They kept following him like, what is this guy doing in our driveway? Looked like he clearly didn't belong there." [07:25]
Additionally, a man named William, known for his inappropriate behavior toward women and frequenting the complex uninvited, became a person of interest, though no concrete evidence linked him to the crime.
Family Members' Statements and Suspicions
The investigation extended to Carol’s daughter, Virginia, and her husband, Carlos. Virginia provided a timeline of her evening on the night of the murder, which detectives found suspicious despite some verifiable elements.
"There was a long line like, how's there a long line at 11:30? Then they said the computer was down." [26:08]
Carlos recounted the intense scrutiny he and Virginia faced during polygraph tests, which resulted in inconclusive or deceptive readings, further complicating the investigation.
"When they tell you something over and over and over, you say yes or whatever." [35:02]
DNA Evidence and Reinvestigation
Years later, advancements in DNA technology provided new hope. By 2007, DNA profiles from Carol’s fingernail clippings offered a male profile, though it did not match any primary suspects at the time. In December 2023, Lieutenant Young revisited the case, focusing on two unidentified hairs found on Carol’s arms. Despite initial technological limitations, retesting efforts in 2021 aimed to create a more comprehensive DNA profile, which was entered into CODIS but yielded no matches.
"The killer would have likely left their own blood behind. This revived effort in Carol's case gives her younger sister Linda a renewed sense of hope." [41:21]
Recent Developments and Renewed Hope
With persistent efforts to retest evidence and explore new investigative techniques, the case remains open. Carol’s sister, Linda, expresses unwavering determination for justice.
"We're never gonna give up. We're always going to have our ear to the ground. We're gonna keep asking the question over and over until we get an answer or until we die." [44:46]
Conclusion
The episode concludes by urging anyone with information about Carol Clement’s murder to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in solving cold cases. Linda’s heartfelt reflections underscore the lasting impact of the tragedy on her family and their relentless pursuit of truth and justice.
"Nothing's going to bring Carol back or bring the joy that she would have brought to us back." [44:52]
Call to Action
Listeners are encouraged to submit anonymous tips through Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers or contact the Naples police directly to aid in resolving this long-standing mystery.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- "Carol was found with between 13 to 15 stab wounds..." [03:21]
- "If it's Jim, he can get people from anywhere or he can be anywhere." [13:08]
- "They kept following him like, what is this guy doing in our driveway?" [07:25]
- "There was a long line like, how's there a long line at 11:30?" [26:08]
- "When they tell you something over and over and over, you say yes or whatever." [35:02]
- "We're never gonna give up. We're always going to have our ear to the ground..." [44:46]
- "Nothing's going to bring Carol back or bring the joy that she would have brought to us back." [44:52]
Final Thoughts
The Deck episode on Carole Clement masterfully intertwines investigative details with personal testimonies, painting a comprehensive picture of a case that still seeks resolution. Through meticulous analysis and heartfelt narratives, the episode not only honors Carol’s memory but also highlights the enduring quest for justice in cold cases.