True Crime Obsessed Podcast Episode 429: Staten Island Secrets – New York Homicide (S1 E4)
Release Date: May 15, 2025

Introduction to "Staten Island Secrets"

In Episode 429 of True Crime Obsessed, hosts Julian Penzavalli and Patrick Hines delve into the harrowing case featured in "Staten Island Secrets," the fourth episode of Season 1 in the "New York Homicide" series. This bonus episode meticulously uncovers the mysterious murder of 18-year-old Eliza Parzi in the tight-knit, Orthodox Jewish community of Willowbrook, Staten Island.

The Crime Scene: A Disturbing Discovery

Timestamp: [04:00] - [09:27]

On August 10th, 2005, Seema Parse returned home from work to a nightmare. Expecting a warm dinner with her daughter Eliza, she instead found her house in disarray. Eliza was discovered beneath a mattress, a pillow covering her head with her feet sticking out, and her body showing signs of manual strangulation. The scene was both puzzling and terrifying, as there were no obvious signs of a struggle or sexual assault.

Julian Penzavalli: "Pillow over her head, under the mattress, her feet are sticking out and she's dead." [08:38]

Community and Background

Timestamp: [09:27] - [15:58]

Willowbrook is characterized by its close-knit community where everyone knows each other. Eliza was adored by her peers, known for her vivacious personality and unwavering dedication. She worked at a local moving company, aspiring to become a fashion designer in Manhattan. Her half-brother, Raviv Gabay, also plays a pivotal role in the unfolding mystery.

The community's insularity became a significant factor in the investigation, raising concerns about safety and trust within such a tight-knit environment.

Patrick Hines: "We have to solve this. All the watching eyes, all the neighbors and all the people saying, is my kid safe?" [02:20]

Initial Investigation and Suspicion

Timestamp: [15:58] - [28:03]

The NYPD began canvassing the neighborhood, interviewing residents to piece together Eliza's last moments. Early suspicion fell on Eliza's ex-boyfriend, who apparently knew her well enough to enter her home without raising alarms. The back door was found unlocked, a major red flag that suggested the possibility of a break-in.

Detective Teresa, part of the Brooklyn South NYPD unit, highlighted the community's fear and the challenge of examining each potential suspect within such an interconnected neighborhood.

Patrick Hines: "If you were like five minutes late, you could tell if she's in the mood for chatting. If she's not, then, like, no one's chatting." [15:39]

Media Portrayal and Public Perception

Timestamp: [38:46] - [41:13]

As the investigation progressed, media outlets like the New York Post began sensationalizing Eliza's personal life, leading to unwarranted slut-shaming. This portrayal not only tarnished Eliza's character but also added layers of complexity to the investigation by introducing public bias.

Julian Penzavalli: "The media kind of painted her as a bad girl." [38:55]

Breakthrough in the Case: DNA Evidence

Timestamp: [42:01] - [47:21]

A significant breakthrough came when DNA analysis revealed that the blood found on Eliza's towel matched her half-brother, Raviv Gabay. This revelation shifted the investigation's focus squarely on Raviv, who had previously been seen as a supportive family member.

Despite Raviv's attempts to present an alibi, discrepancies in his story and the DNA evidence made it impossible to ignore his involvement. The hosts discuss how Raviv's motive stemmed from financial strain and familial pressure, leading to a confrontation with his sister that tragically ended in her death.

Patrick Hines: "He's 27 years old. He's Eliza's half brother... Now we have him as a suspect." [11:33]

Conclusion: Justice and Reflection

Timestamp: [47:21] - [50:04]

Raviv was ultimately arrested and convicted of manslaughter, receiving an 18-year sentence. The case highlights the destructive power of familial discord and the impact of community dynamics on personal relationships. The hosts express their frustration with the lenient sentencing, emphasizing Raviv's potential danger to society upon release.

Patrick Hines: "He pleads guilty to first-degree manslaughter and gets 18 years. But Shaol says, 'I hope he never gets out. If he can do that to Lizzie, what can he do to somebody else?'" [49:15]

Final Thoughts

"Staten Island Secrets" serves as a poignant reminder of the hidden tensions that can exist within seemingly harmonious communities. The episode not only sheds light on Eliza's tragic fate but also encourages listeners to reflect on the importance of communication and safety within tight-knit environments.

Notable Quotes:

• Julian Penzavalli: "Manual strangulation also tells you something else. It's typically a crime of passion." [28:50]

• Patrick Hines: "The biggest red flag was that the door was unlocked." [14:11]

• Julian Penzavalli: "Be precise, she says. Be on time and be precise." [11:24]

Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the True Crime Obsessed podcast, this episode offers a comprehensive exploration of a chilling true crime story, enriched with humor and heartfelt analysis.