Podcast Title: The Unforgotten
Episode: 13. RIP, E. Ray
Release Date: March 10, 2025
Host/Author: Free Range Productions

Introduction and Context

In this bonus episode of The Unforgotten titled "RIP, E. Ray," hosts Wes Ferguson and Carol Dawson delve deeper into the unresolved murder case of Shelley Salter Watkins from Season 1: The Labor Day Ghost. The episode centers around the recent passing of E. Ray Andrews, the former District Attorney (DA) of Henderson County, Texas, and explores the significant implications his death has on the ongoing investigation into Shelley Watkins' murder.

E. Ray Andrews’ Death and Its Significance

Wes Ferguson opens the discussion by announcing the untimely death of E. Ray Andrews:

[01:15] Wes Ferguson: "Former Henderson County District Attorney E. Ray Andrews has passed away. He died on December 30 of last year, and we got word about his passing very quickly, but there was no obituary, no kind of public announcement."

The hosts highlight the lack of public acknowledgment of Andrews' death and its critical impact on their investigation. With Andrews deceased, the FBI is now able to release his case files, which were previously withheld due to his ongoing legal issues.

Background on E. Ray Andrews

Carol Dawson provides a comprehensive background on E. Ray Andrews:

[02:53] Carol Dawson: "He was the district attorney for Henderson County, Texas... He had a gambling problem. He had a serious drinking problem. He also had a prescription drugs problem... he was a really good, strong, intelligent, convincing attorney."

Despite his professional prowess, Andrews struggled with personal demons, including alcoholism and prescription drug abuse. His misconduct led to corruption charges, particularly his involvement in a bribery scheme meant to dismiss the murder case against Jerry Mack Watkins, Shelley's husband.

The Corruption Case and Its Impact on the Murder Case

Andrews' corruption directly influenced the prosecution of Jerry Mack Watkins:

[04:03] Carol Dawson: "He would get the case dropped."

Andrews exploited his position by accepting bribes to dismiss cases, including Shelley Watkins' murder. This misconduct not only diverted attention from the murder investigation but also tainted the legal proceedings against Jerry Mack.

The Bribery Scheme and Its Consequences

The episode delves into the intricacies of the bribery scheme that Andrews orchestrated:

[10:28] Wes Ferguson: "We’re hoping that we get the case file from the FBI and that will either confirm or deny that suspicion that you’ve always held."

[20:28] Mike Head: "I think E. Ray was susceptible to poor judgment and bad ideas when he was drinking."

Carol Dawson and Mike Head discuss theories surrounding the origin of the bribery scheme, questioning whether Andrews was the mastermind or merely susceptible to external influences due to his personal struggles.

The Involvement of Law Enforcement and the FBI

The hosts critically examine the role of the FBI and law enforcement in the case:

[31:02] Wes Ferguson: "Both the FBI agents we interviewed told us they had to agree not to ask Jerry Mack any questions about his wife’s murder. That was the only way Jerry Mack was willing to participate in their takedown of E. Ray."

This selective cooperation hindered the murder investigation, allowing Andrews’ corruption to overshadow the quest for justice for Shelley Watkins.

Perspectives from Mike Head, Former Assistant DA

Mike Head, Andrews’ former assistant district attorney, shares his personal reflections:

[24:23] Mike Head: "He was a very skilled and talented lawyer. But also the side of him that I saw when he wasn't drinking, he was a very compassionate, caring person who did a lot to help people who were poor or in need."

Mike provides a nuanced view of Andrews, acknowledging his professional skills and compassionate side, while also critiquing his inability to overcome personal issues.

Carol Dawson's Insights and Recent Updates on Jerry Mack Watkins

Carol Dawson updates listeners on recent activities surrounding Jerry Mack Watkins:

[37:57] Carol Dawson: "Jerry Mack Watkins in Watkins Construction is in that back in December, Jerry Mack Watkins made the decision to sell an enormous amount of heavy and light equipment at auction... he is making certain arrangements or changes in the company and perhaps in his own life."

These unusual financial maneuvers, including large-scale auctions of equipment and sudden philanthropic activities, raise suspicions about Watkins' intentions and potential attempts to obscure his involvement in Shelley’s murder.

Conclusion and Future Developments

The episode concludes with hopeful anticipation for the release of E. Ray Andrews' FBI case files, which Brooks and Dawson believe will shed light on the true nature of the bribery scheme and its impact on Shelley Watkins' unresolved murder case.

[32:22] Mike Head: "Hopefully that will shed some light on it."

The hosts emphasize their commitment to uncovering the complete truth and seeking justice for Shelley Watkins, indicating that their investigation is far from over.

Notable Quotes:

• Wes Ferguson [04:03]: "He would get the case dropped."

• Carol Dawson [10:28]: "I'm hoping that we'll get the case file from the FBI and that will either confirm or deny that suspicion that you've always held."

• Mike Head [24:23]: "He was a very skilled and talented lawyer. But also the side of him that I saw when he wasn't drinking, he was a very compassionate, caring person who did a lot to help people who were poor or in need."

Key Takeaways:

• E. Ray Andrews' death opens the door for the release of critical FBI case files that may provide new insights into both his corruption and the unresolved murder of Shelley Watkins.

• The bribery scheme orchestrated by Andrews significantly derailed the pursuit of justice for Shelley Watkins, prioritizing personal gain over legal integrity.

• Recent actions by Jerry Mack Watkins, including large-scale equipment sales and unexpected philanthropic efforts, suggest possible attempts to manipulate public perception or prepare for unforeseen events.

• Perspectives from individuals close to the case, such as Mike Head, offer a more complex view of Andrews, highlighting his professional capabilities and personal struggles.

• The investigation remains ongoing, with hopes that newfound access to case files will illuminate the full scope of corruption and bring closure to Shelley Watkins' tragic story.

Stay Informed:

For listeners interested in following the unfolding investigation, Wes Ferguson and Carol Dawson encourage tuning into their interviews on other podcasts and media outlets, as well as subscribing to their newsletter at unforgottenpod.com.