Podcast Summary: THREE Season 2: Murder in Vacationland Episode: Hiding in Plain Sight | Chapter 7 Release Date: April 17, 2025

Introduction

In Chapter 7: "Hiding in Plain Sight" of THREE Season 2, hosted by Amanda Knox, listeners delve deeper into the haunting 30-year-old mystery surrounding the murder of Dana Ireland on the island of Hawai‘i. This episode uncovers the intricate web of suspicion and betrayal that ensnared three families and introduces a shocking discovery that challenges the previously closed case.

Background of the Dana Ireland Case

Dana Ireland, a 23-year-old woman, was brutally murdered, leaving the island community in turmoil. Over three decades, three men were convicted for her murder, leading authorities to believe justice had been served. However, unanswered questions and lingering doubts suggested the case was far from resolved.

Introducing Steve Kramer and Genetic Genealogy

The Hawaii Innocence Project sought new avenues to re-examine Dana Ireland's case following the exoneration of Ian Schweitzer in January 2023. In February 2024, they enlisted the expertise of Steve Kramer, a former FBI attorney and co-founder of Ndago Solutions, specializing in genetic genealogy.

Steve Kramer explains his background:

"I'm a former FBI attorney... I retired from the FBI in 2021 to start this company, Ndago Solutions, applying genetic genealogy to solve homicide cases."
[01:11]

Kramer's notable achievement includes his pivotal role in identifying the Golden State Killer in 2018, showcasing the power of genetic genealogy in solving long-unsolved crimes.

Collaboration Between Hawaii Innocence Project and Ndago Solutions

Amanda Knox highlights the swift progress made after hiring Kramer:

"Steve Kramer provided results 19 days later. In a case that has ruined so much and taken decades of life and freedom away from so many, it took only weeks for everything to change."
[07:23]

Ken Lawson, co-director of the Hawaii Innocence Project, discusses the decision to bring Kramer on board:

"We go get Kramer, and then they don't know that we have Kramer... we have to do more genetic genealogy to seek the truth to get justice for victims."
[03:55]

Breakthrough: Identification of Albert Laurel Jr.

Using advanced genetic genealogy techniques, Kramer and his team analyzed DNA evidence, leading to the identification of a new suspect: Albert Laurel Jr., a 57-year-old man with no prior connections to the case.

Kramer details the investigative process:

"We were able to come up with several matches that lined up with families that moved from the mainland United States to Hawaii and married into Filipino families."
[08:24]

Through meticulous research, including social media analysis and cross-referencing public records, they zeroed in on Laurel Jr., who lived merely 1.7 miles from the crime scene and matched the genetic profile.

Police Investigation and Confirmation

Following the identification, the Hawaii Police Department acted on Kramer's findings by collecting DNA evidence from Laurel Jr.'s possession, specifically a fork used by him.

Kramer explains the DNA confirmation process:

"We were 100% sure. Got right guy. This is him."
[19:41]

On July 1, 2024, DNA testing confirmed that the DNA found at Dana Ireland's crime scene matched Laurel Jr.'s.

Emerging Concerns and Current Status

Despite the confirmation, the Hawaii Innocence Project and Lawson faced challenges in communicating with law enforcement about Laurel Jr.'s whereabouts. Initial delays and lack of transparency raised suspicions about potential cover-ups linked to the wrongful convictions of Ian and Sean Schweitzer.

Lawson expresses frustration over the lack of action:

"They haven't done jack before then. They didn't go out and get Kramer like we're talking about February of 2024."
[04:55]

Further complications arose when attempts to contact law enforcement about Laurel Jr.'s custody led to evasive responses, fueling fears that the same injustices that affected the Schweitzer brothers were at play again.

Conclusion and Teaser for Next Chapter

As the episode concludes, the Hawaii Innocence Project team remains determined to uncover the truth behind Dana Ireland's murder, grappling with institutional obstacles and the possibility of systemic failures in delivering justice. Amanda Knox leaves listeners anticipating the next chapter, promising continued revelations in this gripping investigation.

Notable Quotes:

• Steve Kramer [01:11]: "I'm a former FBI attorney... I retired from the FBI in 2021 to start this company, Ndago Solutions, applying genetic genealogy to solve homicide cases."

• Amanda Knox [07:23]: "Steve Kramer provided results 19 days later. In a case that has ruined so much and taken decades of life and freedom away from so many, it took only weeks for everything to change."

• Ken Lawson [03:55]: "We go get Kramer, and then they don't know that we have Kramer... we have to do more genetic genealogy to seek the truth to get justice for victims."

• Steve Kramer [08:24]: "We were able to come up with several matches that lined up with families that moved from the mainland United States to Hawaii and married into Filipino families."

• Steve Kramer [19:41]: "We were 100% sure. Got right guy. This is him."

• Ken Lawson [04:55]: "They haven't done jack before then. They didn't go out and get Kramer like we're talking about February of 2024."

This episode of THREE offers a compelling exploration of how modern technology and unwavering determination can challenge longstanding injustices, keeping listeners engaged as the quest for truth and closure continues.