Trained to Kill: The Dog Trainer, the Heiress, and the Bodyguard

Episode: Time Will Tell
Host: Peter Van Sant
Release Date: May 14, 2025

Introduction to the Case

In the gripping sixth episode of CBS News' Trained to Kill: The Dog Trainer, the Heiress, and the Bodyguard, 48 Hours correspondent Peter Van Sant delves deep into the mysterious and tumultuous events surrounding the disappearance and presumed murder of Mark Stover, a renowned dog trainer from the Pacific Northwest. This episode, titled "Time Will Tell," unpacks the intricate web of relationships and suspicions that culminated in a high-profile courtroom drama.

The Disappearance of Mark Stover

The narrative begins in June 2010, with Chief Deputy Dave Rodriguez taking Van Sant out on patrol near Linda Opdyke's residence in Winthrop, Washington. Rodriguez, who had previously collaborated with Linda in training an attack dog and was involved in the arrest of Michael Oakes, searched the nearby waters for Mark Stover’s body, which remained missing months after his reported murder. As Rodriguez explains, the vastness of the lake made the search challenging:

"The lake is too big for two, three or four or even six divers to adequately search. That's why they turn to sonar to scour the lake bed." [12:45]

Despite extensive efforts using sonar and divers, no remains were found, prolonging the mystery and heightening tensions among those involved.

Michael Oakes’ Accusation and Legal Battle

Michael Oakes, the bodyguard and new romantic interest of Linda Opdyke, stood accused of Mark Stover’s murder. Without a body, the case against Oakes was primarily circumstantial. His defense attorney, John Henry Brown, a seasoned advocate known for representing notorious defendants, challenged the prosecution's evidence. Brown argued:

"We have blood. We have shell casings. We have a dog that was shot. But we don't have a body." [25:30]

Brown emphasized the lack of direct evidence, positioning the case as one reliant on circumstantial factors rather than concrete proof.

Courtroom Testimonies and Reenactments

During the trial, Michael Oakes took the stand to recount the events leading to Mark Stover's disappearance. His testimony included a detailed account of disposing of Stover’s body, which he claimed was done to protect his family. A notable moment occurred when Oakes reenacted the struggle, attempting to demonstrate the plausibility of his self-defense claim:

"I lunged and he shot. We tangled and I got shot," Oakes testified [42:10].

However, inconsistencies emerged during cross-examination. Prosecutor Rich Weirich highlighted discrepancies in Oakes' story, questioning the feasibility of his actions and the absence of physical evidence like Mark's body or the gun used in the altercation.

Linda Opdyke’s Involvement and Testimony

Linda Opdyke, the heiress at the center of this triangle, provided her perspective during the trial. She portrayed herself as a victim of relentless stalking by Mark Stover, which she claimed justified Michael Oakes' protective actions. Her testimony revealed the complex dynamics between her, Mark, and Michael:

"This is going to be a dramatic week. It has been a dramatic year," Van Sant narrates [33:00].

Linda's support for Michael, both emotionally and financially, was scrutinized by the prosecution, suggesting potential motives to protect herself rather than advocate solely for Oakes.

The Verdict and Sentencing

After presenting over 50 witnesses and more than 700 exhibits, the jury deliberated for four days before delivering a verdict. Despite lingering doubts, the jury found Michael Oakes guilty of first-degree, premeditated murder. The sentencing reflected the judge's disdain for the inconsistencies in Oakes’ narrative:

"The absurdity of the actions that you took on that day are beyond belief. And I've got to tell you, there's large parts of your story I just flat do not believe and never will." – Judge Mike Rickert [60:20]

Oakes was sentenced to 26 and a half years in prison, a decision met with anguish from both his family and Mark Stover’s relatives.

Aftermath and Lingering Questions

The conclusion of the trial did little to quell the controversies surrounding the case. Questions remain about the true sequence of events on October 28, 2009, and the whereabouts of Mark Stover's body. Efforts by Stover’s niece, Julia Simmons, and the Ochs family to locate the remains continue, with theories suggesting possible oversight during the initial investigation.

Oakes maintains his innocence, attributing his conviction to procedural errors and advocating for the recovery of Stover’s body to substantiate his claims. Supporters have established a website, freeoaks.com, to campaign for his release, while continued scrutiny of the case keeps public interest alive.

Personal Impacts and Reflections

The case had deep personal ramifications for all involved. Michael Oakes’ imprisonment affected his family dynamics, with his daughter April Oakes revealing the strain it placed on familial relationships:

"I know that's his biggest concern is for all of us, and our biggest concern is him. So we're all supporting each other and just sticking by one another," April shared [72:35].

Linda Opdyke's life was similarly transformed, navigating the complexities of public perception and her ongoing association with Michael Oakes.

Conclusion

Time Will Tell encapsulates a harrowing tale of love, betrayal, and the pursuit of justice. As Peter Van Sant unravels the tangled relationships and elusive truths, the episode leaves listeners pondering the murky waters of legal proceedings and the enduring quest for closure in the face of unanswered questions.

Notable Quotes:

• Chief Deputy Dave Rodriguez:
  "The lake is too big for two, three or four or even six divers to adequately search. That's why they turn to sonar to scour the lake bed." [12:45]

• John Henry Brown (Defense Attorney):
  "We have blood. We have shell casings. We have a dog that was shot. But we don't have a body." [25:30]

• Judge Mike Rickert:
  "The absurdity of the actions that you took on that day are beyond belief. And I've got to tell you, there's large parts of your story I just flat do not believe and never will." [60:20]

• April Oakes (Michael’s Daughter):
  "I know that's his biggest concern is for all of us, and our biggest concern is him. So we're all supporting each other and just sticking by one another." [72:35]

This episode of Trained to Kill masterfully blends investigative journalism with narrative storytelling, providing a comprehensive overview of a case that continues to evoke debate and reflection. For those seeking an in-depth understanding of the complexities surrounding Mark Stover's disappearance and the subsequent legal battles, "Time Will Tell" offers a compelling and thought-provoking exploration.