The Unforgotten: Season 2, Episode 2 - "The Caregivers"
Release Date: October 21, 2024
Host/Author: Free Range Productions
Podcast Description:
Season 2 of The Unforgotten, titled Unnatural Causes, delves into the harrowing tale of Dallas' most notorious serial killer. This episode, "The Caregivers," uncovers the systemic failures that allowed the killer to continue his spree until a vigilant security guard intervened.
1. Introduction to the Case
The episode opens with host Charlie Scudder narrating his journey to Quinlan, Texas, where he reconnects with Dan Probst, the uncle of Kathryn Probst Sinclair—the first known victim residing at Edgemere, an independent living community in Dallas.
Notable Quote:
"I wanted to hear more about his aunt Kathy and how he first realized that she was murdered."
— Charlie Scudder [01:00]
2. Kathy Probst Sinclair: A Life and a Mystery
Kathy Probst Sinclair, a respected geriatrician, moved to Edgemere in Texas after retiring in 2002. Her meticulous nature was evident in her extensive collection of coins, jewelry, stamps, and other collectibles, transforming her residence into a miniature museum.
Key Details:
- Background: Raised near St. Louis, moved to Louisiana in 1962, and later to Texas in 1969.
- Residence: Paid approximately $3,000 monthly for a one-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment at Edgemere.
- Mysterious Circumstances: Upon her death in April 2016, Kathy's safe was found missing, raising immediate suspicions.
Notable Quote:
"She collected all kinds of shit. Oh, my God. Coins, jewelry, just anything, collectible, stamps. Her house was like a museum."
— Dan Probst [04:07]
3. Meeting Josh Alleman: The Security Guard
Charlie travels to Scurry, Texas, to interview Josh Alleman, a former security guard at Edgemere who previously refused to share information publicly. Josh's initial reluctance stems from personal guilt and the emotional toll of the case.
Notable Quote:
"I always worried they would hate me."
— Josh Alleman [07:21]
Background on Josh:
- Grew up in Mesquite, Texas; his father was the mayor.
- Played football at John Horn High School with a partial scholarship.
- Worked various jobs before joining the security team at Edgemere.
4. Life at Edgemere: A Picturesque Yet Vulnerable Community
Edgemere is depicted as a sprawling, beautiful community with numerous amenities. Residents enjoy independence but depend on caregivers for essential services.
Notable Quote:
"I loved getting to know the residents there, and they treated you so kindly."
— Josh Alleman [09:00]
5. The Emergence of Suspicious Activities
Josh recounts early signs of irregularities, including strange maintenance imposters and high turnover among caregivers, particularly with a retired school teacher who frequently dismissed her caregivers.
Key Events:
- Suspicious Maintenance Impostors: Multiple reports of individuals claiming to be maintenance workers without verification.
- Caregiver Turnover: Persistent issues with a particular resident rotating through caregivers until Benjamin Coitiba was hired.
Notable Quote:
"Everything's going great. Everything's fine, and no issues."
— Benjamin Coitiba [11:57]
6. Uncovering Shamir Mir: The Suspect
After several unexplained deaths and reported thefts, Josh identifies Benjamin Coitiba—later revealed as Shamir Mir—as a recurring presence at Edgemere. His investigation uncovers a pattern of trespassing and potential theft linked to Shamir.
Notable Quote:
"I've been obsessed. I just knew something was wrong with that guy."
— Charlie Scudder [35:01]
Key Findings:
- Shamir Mir entered Edgemere multiple times without authorization.
- Correlation between his visits and the deaths of residents.
- Despite evidence, authorities delayed taking action until concrete evidence emerged.
7. The Confrontation: Catching the Killer
Determined to stop Shamir Mir, Josh and his team orchestrate a sting operation. They successfully apprehend Shamir as he attempts another unauthorized entry, leading to his eventual arrest.
Notable Quote:
"We were happy. We protected our facility."
— Charlie Scudder [31:09]
Details of the Arrest:
- Appearance: Green polo with an in-home care company logo, manila envelope in hand.
- Actions: Entered from a known side entrance, attempted to deceive security.
- Outcome: Shamir was handcuffed and charged with failure to identify and trespassing.
8. Systemic Failures and Aftermath
Despite Josh's suspicions and evidence, Shamir Mir was released after a short jail term due to legal technicalities. This negligence allowed him to continue his malevolent activities unchecked, leading to more victims.
Notable Quote:
"Edgemere declared bankruptcy... they didn't mention that at least three murders had been committed on the property."
— Narration [24:31]
9. Understanding Independent Living Communities
The episode provides an in-depth analysis of independent living communities, highlighting their structure, vulnerabilities, and the lack of stringent regulations compared to assisted living or nursing homes.
Expert Insight:
Dr. Michael Wasserman, a geriatrician, explains the spectrum of senior care and the specific needs of independent living residents.
Notable Quote:
"Independent living communities operate as glorified apartment complexes... but with more specialized needs."
— Dr. Michael Wasserman [20:15]
Key Points:
- Definition: Communities that allow seniors to live independently while offering certain amenities.
- Regulation: Less regulated, leading to potential security and safety lapses.
- Financial Pressures: High costs do not always translate to better security or care, as evidenced by Edgemere's bankruptcy.
10. Conclusion and Future Implications
As the episode concludes, the repercussions of systemic negligence come to light. Shamir Mir's continued freedom raises pressing questions about regulatory oversights and the protection of vulnerable populations in senior communities.
Teaser for Next Episode:
"Next time on The Unforgotten: Unnatural Causes," where the depth of systemic failures and the hunt for justice continue to unfold.
Final Thoughts
"The Caregivers" masterfully intertwines personal narratives with broader systemic analyses, shedding light on the dark underbelly of senior living communities. Through meticulous storytelling and poignant interviews, the episode underscores the dire need for enhanced security and accountability to protect the most vulnerable among us.
Credits:
Created, written, and hosted by Charlie Scudder. Producer: Wes Ferguson. Associate Producer: Monika Watkins. Audio engineering by Austin Sisler at Eastside Studios, Austin, Texas. Special thanks to the Dallas Morning News and the Division of Journalism at Southern Methodist University's Meadows School of the Arts.