The Deck: Episode Summary – "Sharon Jones (10 of Spades, Florida)"
Release Date: March 19, 2025
Introduction
In this gripping episode of The Deck, host Ashley Flowers delves into the unsolved murder of Sharon Jones, a young woman whose tragic death on Christmas Eve 1987 in Naples, Florida, remains a haunting mystery. Utilizing an innovative approach inspired by law enforcement's distribution of playing cards featuring missing and murdered individuals, The Deck aims to shed light on cold cases, hoping that listeners might hold the key to justice.
Background of the Case
Sharon Jones was last seen alive during a party around Thanksgiving weekend in 1987. Her disappearance led to the discovery of her decomposed body in a vacant lot on December 4, 1987. Despite the passage of over three decades, the case remains unresolved, leaving her family desperate for answers.
Discovery of the Body
At approximately [00:00], Ashley Flowers sets the stage by recounting her own obsession with true crime cases, leading her to Sharon Jones' story. Lieutenant Robert Young provides a detailed account of the discovery:
"It was a poorly lit industrial area, especially at night... he realizes this is a decomposing body." – Lieutenant Robert Young [03:50]
The body was found bound with pieces of her torn red dress, suggesting a ligature strangulation. The area was remote and rarely visited, which contributed to the delay in discovering her remains.
Investigation Details
The investigation revealed that Sharon had been struggling with drug abuse, a factor that complicated the search for leads. Detectives unearthed minimal evidence from the crime scene, mostly remnants of her dress and the victim's personal belongings.
Lieutenant Young elaborates on the thoroughness of the investigation:
"Detectives go down to the area where all the drug dealers and drug users hang out or reside so they get some information that there was a party." – Lieutenant Robert Young [09:59]
Five to six individuals were present at the party, including Arthur Neesmith and Robert Ruscha. While most attendees provided statements, Neesmith and Ruscha remained uncooperative, shielding themselves from suspicion.
Key Witness Testimonies
Two key witnesses, Maria and Monica, came forward to recount the events of that night. Their testimonies, albeit influenced by substance use, consistently implicated Neesmith and Ruscha in Sharon's assault:
"She was so high, you know, she kept telling, wait, wait, wait, wait. And he was waiting." – Maria [12:27]
Despite their cooperation, the absence of physical evidence made it challenging to secure convictions against the primary suspects.
Family Impact and Ongoing Efforts
Sharon's family has been tirelessly seeking closure for over 37 years. Her daughter, Sharonda, recounts a pivotal encounter with Maria:
"I know you. I was there that night... His name is Nece Smith. He was there. He did it." – Sharonda [21:40]
Despite these revelations, no arrests have been made. Lieutenant Young discusses the potential for future advancements in forensic technology to reignite the investigation:
"With technology for touch DNA like MVAC improves, hope does remain for giving it another shot." – Lieutenant Robert Young [26:04]
Current Status and Call for Assistance
As of the episode's recording, neither Neesmith nor Ruscha have provided meaningful cooperation to the investigation. Arthur Neesmith briefly attempted to communicate:
"I know nothing about the case, can't contribute to finding a suspect, and that my conscience is clear." – Robert Ruscha [25:XX]
The episode concludes with a heartfelt plea from Sharon's family and law enforcement, urging anyone with information to come forward:
"If you know anything about the murder of Sharon Jones in Naples, Florida in 1987, we hope you'll come forward for this family." – Ashley Flowers [26:27]
Conclusion
"The Deck" episode on Sharon Jones offers a comprehensive exploration of a cold case that has profoundly affected a family and a community. Through meticulous investigation and poignant storytelling, Ashley Flowers highlights the enduring quest for justice. This episode serves as both a tribute to Sharon Jones and a call to action for listeners who might hold the missing pieces needed to finally resolve this tragic mystery.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Lieutenant Robert Young [03:50]: "It was a poorly lit industrial area, especially at night... he realizes this is a decomposing body."
- Lieutenant Robert Young [09:59]: "Detectives go down to the area where all the drug dealers and drug users hang out or reside so they get some information that there was a party."
- Maria [12:27]: "She was so high, you know, she kept telling, wait, wait, wait, wait. And he was waiting."
- Sharonda [21:40]: "His name is Nece Smith. He was there. He did it."
- Lieutenant Robert Young [26:04]: "With technology for touch DNA like MVAC improves, hope does remain for giving it another shot."
Call to Action
Listeners who may possess information about Sharon Jones' disappearance are encouraged to contact Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers online or call 1-800-780-8477. Additionally, direct contact with the Naples police can be made through the show notes or the podcast's blog post for this episode.
The Deck is committed to bringing closure to families affected by unsolved crimes by collaborating with investigators and community members. Through compelling narratives and persistent advocacy, the podcast strives to honor the memories of victims like Sharon Jones and seek the justice they deserve.