Podcast Summary: Uncover: Calls From a Killer Episode: S33 E3: The Mounties Always Get Their Man
Release Date: June 2, 2025
Host/Author: CBC
Duration: Approximately 39 minutes

Introduction

In the gripping third episode of CBC’s Uncover series titled Calls From a Killer, host Arlene Bynon alongside Nathaniel Frum delves deep into the harrowing case of Clifford Olson, one of Canada's most notorious serial killers. The episode meticulously unpacks the failures and controversies surrounding the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) during the investigation of Olson’s heinous crimes in the 1980s.

Background on Clifford Olson and the RCMP

Clifford Olson was responsible for the abduction and murder of at least eleven children between the late 1970s and early 1980s. Despite his long criminal history, characterized by over 90 convictions for various petty crimes, Olson managed to evade the authorities for years, highlighting significant shortcomings within the RCMP’s investigative processes.

Notable Quote:
Nathaniel Frum explains, “Before working on this story with Arlene, I thought they'd done a pretty good job. They'd caught a serial killer in a matter of months. Surely that's a sign of solid police work. But as I learned how many times Olson slipped through the RCMP's fingers...” (07:02)

Initial Investigations and Systemic Failures

The episode outlines how the RCMP lacked a cohesive system to link similar crimes across different jurisdictions, a critical oversight given British Columbia's vast and varied landscape. This fragmentation allowed Olson to continue his spree with minimal interference.

Key Points:

• Lack of Inter-Jurisdictional Communication: The RCMP struggled to connect cases from different areas, delaying the recognition of Olson as a primary suspect.
• Underestimation of Olson’s Threat: Despite Olson’s extensive criminal background, the RCMP underestimated his potential for escalating violence.

Notable Quote:
Glenn Woods, a former RCMP investigator, reflects, “They had a good working relationship. He cultivated reliable sources in the Mounties...” (05:02)

The Disappearances and Mounties’ Pursuit

The disappearance of Simon Partington, a nine-year-old boy, intensified the investigation. Olson emerged as a significant suspect, but systemic inefficiencies hindered swift action.

Key Events:

• Simon Partington’s Disappearance: Triggered an all-hands-on-deck response but was marred by investigative delays.
• Lack of Surveillance: The RCMP’s inability to maintain consistent surveillance on Olson allowed him to continue his crimes unabated.

Notable Quote:
Ian Mulgrew discusses the investigative challenges: “There was no way. There was no system to link similar crimes...” (05:27)

The Infamous "Cash for Bodies" Deal

In a controversial move, the RCMP negotiated a deal with Clifford Olson, offering substantial financial incentives in exchange for information about his victims. This deal became a focal point of the investigation, raising ethical and procedural questions.

Deal Details:

• Initial Offer: $30,000 for information on four bodies.
• Additional Incentives: $10,000 for each further murder scene identified.

Controversies:

• Lack of Initial Commitment: The RCMP initially viewed the deal skeptically, considering it a potential scam.
• Involvement of Former Prosecutor: Bob Schantz, formerly pivotal in convicting Olson’s co-conspirator, acted as Olson’s defense lawyer, complicating the negotiations.

Notable Quotes:
Glenn Woods reveals, “He put together a deal for a hundred thousand dollars… Absolutely, nothing. They didn't know nothing.” (31:56)
Nathaniel Frum adds, “Those lawyers included Bob Shantz… They were making promises they wouldn't keep.” (32:35)

Impact on Families and Public Trust

The episode poignantly portrays the anguish of the victims' families, particularly focusing on Judy Cosma and her sister Bridget. The "cash for bodies" deal not only delayed justice but also deepened the trauma for the bereaved.

Family Perspectives:

• Bridget Cosma’s Grief: Expresses profound sorrow and frustration over the loss and the police’s handling of the case.
  “Sometimes I look back, I wish nothing. I wish she was still here...” (17:10)

Public Outrage:

• The revelation of the deal sparked widespread anger and distrust towards the RCMP, questioning their commitment to protecting the most vulnerable.

Notable Quote:
Bridget Cosma condemns the deal: “He paid death off. It's sickening...” (37:20)

Media’s Role and Investigative Journalism

John Daly, a reporter for BCTV, played a crucial role in holding the RCMP accountable. His persistent questioning and demand for transparency pressured the authorities to address the mounting crisis.

Key Points:

• Confrontational Reporting: Daly’s aggressive interrogation of Superintendent Bruce Northorp highlighted the media’s watchdog role.
• Collaboration with Police: Ironically, Daly was consulted by criminal justice officials regarding the feasibility and public reception of the cash deal, exemplifying a complex interplay between media and law enforcement.

Notable Quote:
John Daly recounts, “I think it's worth it [the deal].” (34:16)

Clifford Olson’s Arrest and Aftermath

Despite ongoing surveillance, Olson managed to abduct his final victim shortly before his eventual capture. The discovery of Judy Cosma’s body linked Olson definitively to the murders, leading to his arrest.

Final Crimes:

• Last Victim: Louise Chartran, an 17-year-old, was abducted shortly before Olson’s arrest, marking the culmination of his deadly spree.

Legal and Ethical Repercussions:

• The RCMP’s methods were scrutinized, with many perceiving the cash deal as a necessary evil to save lives, while others viewed it as a gross miscarriage of justice.

Notable Quote:
Glenn Woods reflects on the deal’s fallout: “Now the whole thing is this. People are overlooking the fact that the families were in distress...” (37:36)

Conclusion: Lingering Scars and Lessons Learned

Calls From a Killer not only recounts the tragic tale of Clifford Olson and the RCMP’s controversial strategies but also emphasizes the enduring pain experienced by the victims' families. The episode serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and moral dilemmas inherent in criminal investigations, especially those involving serial offenses.

Final Thoughts:

• Enduring Impact: The "cash for bodies" deal remains a contentious topic, symbolizing both a desperate attempt to bring closure and a failure of standard investigative protocols.
• Lessons for Law Enforcement: The case underscores the necessity for robust inter-jurisdictional communication and the ethical considerations in negotiating with known criminals.

Notable Quote:
Glenn Woods poignantly concludes, “What kind of explanation explosion was? Hiroshima or Nagasaki?” (37:55)

Additional Information

Calls From a Killer is part of CBC’s esteemed Uncover series, renowned for its in-depth exploration of true crime stories. Hosted by individuals intimately connected to the narratives, the series offers unparalleled insights into some of the most perplexing and tragic cases.

For More Episodes: Subscribe to CBC’s Uncover on Apple Podcasts or visit apple.co/cbctruecrime for early access and ad-free listening.

Disclaimer: This summary is based on a provided transcript and podcast information. Listener discretion is advised due to the explicit content involving violence and sexual assault.