True Crime Garage: Stolen – The Angie Housman Story (Part 3) Summary

Release Date: July 9, 2025

In the gripping third installment of "The Angie Housman Story," hosts Nic and the Captain delve deep into the complexities of one of True Crime Garage’s most challenging cases. This episode, "Stolen: The Angie Housman Story /// Part 3 ///," offers an exhaustive exploration of the investigation that spanned over two decades, highlighting the relentless pursuit of justice by dedicated law enforcement officers.

Case Overview

Angie Housman, a young girl from St. Anne, was abducted and brutally murdered, leaving her family and community in profound distress. Her case remained unsolved for years, becoming a focal point for both local and national true crime enthusiasts. This episode chronicles the meticulous efforts of detectives who refused to let Angie's memory fade, showcasing their unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth.

Investigation Challenges

The hosts discuss the myriad obstacles faced by investigators, including:

• Multiple Suspects: Unlike cases with a single perpetrator, Angie's murder involved several potential suspects, complicating the investigation. Detectives had to sift through various leads, each tied to different individuals with varying degrees of relevance.

• Conflicting Evidence: Early theories suggested that Angie might have been handcuffed over a pipe in the basement, but forensic analysis revealed inconsistencies. Detective Ed Copeland emphasized, "[...] the pressure that would be put on her wrists would not do what that, what the cuts on her wrist. We try to duplicate the injuries to her wrist as the... 02:15."

Key Suspects Explored

1. John Wayne Parsons

Parsons, arrested in Florida for molesting two nine-year-old girls, became a person of interest due to his affinity for following the Angie case, as evidenced by newspaper clippings found in his possession. Despite initial enthusiasm from law enforcement, forensic evidence eventually ruled him out as the perpetrator.

2. Bryant Squires

Squires, a dying man in a retirement home, confessed to Angie’s murder and other crimes. His detailed recounts raised suspicions, especially when names of other victims were mentioned. However, further investigation revealed that his alleged accomplice, Nathan Williams, was incarcerated at the time of Angie's murder, casting doubt on the validity of his confessions.

3. Corey Lynn Fox

Fox, serving life in an Illinois state prison, claimed responsibility for multiple murders, including Angie’s. Unlike Squires, Fox provided specific details about the case, making his confession seem credible to the public. However, his history of manipulating law enforcement raised questions about the authenticity of his claims. As Nic pointed out, "He likes the attention. He's got nothing to do all day, all week long. This guy got nothing going on, right? 16:15."

4. Earl Cox

Ultimately, Earl Cox emerged as the confirmed perpetrator. A long-time sex offender with a history of abusing young girls, Cox's DNA and fingerprint matched evidence found at the crime scene. His arrest in a sting operation, coupled with overwhelming forensic evidence, sealed his fate. Despite pleas for a detailed confession, Cox's health declined, leading to his death in December 2024 from natural causes.

Forensic Breakthroughs

A turning point in the investigation came from advancements in forensic technology. Captain John Lankford attended a seminar at Bode Technologies, gaining insights that prompted a reevaluation of existing evidence. Detective Ed Copeland's strategic approach to testing small sections of Angie’s torn underwear yielded critical DNA matches. "Let's test right here. Let's test right here. 30:44," Nic recounted, highlighting the precision that led to Cox’s identification.

Impact on the Community and Law Enforcement

The resolution of Angie Housman's case brought a mix of emotions to the community and the detectives involved. Detective Mickey Morris shared her sentiments:

"It was so important. Important for us, I guess, for us to show Angie that we never stopped, never stopped fearing that she deserved someone to be held accountable for the horrific way that she died. 43:12."

The case reinforced the importance of persistence in cold cases and underscored the emotional toll such investigations take on those involved.

Behind the Scenes and Final Reflections

As the episode concluded, Nic and the Captain reflected on the intricate nature of true crime investigations. They acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various law enforcement agencies and the role of private labs in providing the technological edge needed to solve complex cases. The hosts also paid tribute to the detectives who dedicated over two decades to Angie’s case, emphasizing the profound sense of closure their work provided.

Notable Quotes:

• Detective Ed Copeland: "No doubt she was there. [...] those handcuffs just did not cut the wrist the way they were cut. 01:16."

• Nic: "This is one of the more difficult cases that we've had to cover here in the garage. 03:16."

• Detective Mickey Morris: "That was probably one of the most gratifying experiences of my entire career that to retire right after that happened was just beyond perfect timing. 43:12."

Conclusion

"Stolen: The Angie Housman Story /// Part 3 ///" serves as a testament to the relentless pursuit of justice by dedicated individuals. Through meticulous research, forensic advancements, and unwavering determination, True Crime Garage brings to light the intricate details of a case that once seemed insurmountable. Angie’s story not only honors her memory but also highlights the critical role of perseverance in solving true crime mysteries.

For listeners seeking further engagement with this case or others, True Crime Garage continues to offer in-depth analyses and updates, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in the quest for truth and justice.

Recommended Reading: For those looking to delve deeper into true crime narratives, Nic recommends "In Light of All Darkness: Inside the Polyclass Kidnapping and the Search for America's Child" by New York Times bestseller Kim Cross. Available in multiple formats, this book is praised for its thorough research and compelling storytelling.

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