cover of episode #539 - Human Snakes - New Florence, Missouri

#539 - Human Snakes - New Florence, Missouri

2024/10/31
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Small Town Murder

Key Insights

Why did the initial investigation focus on a snake as the cause of Ben Rennick's death?

Ben's brother, Sam, suggested it due to Ben's occupation as a reptile breeder.

What evidence quickly ruled out a snake as the cause of Ben's death?

Shell casings were found under Ben's body, indicating a gunshot.

Why did Lindley Rennick become a suspect in her husband's murder?

She had financial troubles, affairs, and tried to cash a life insurance policy shortly after his death.

How did Lindley Rennick's relationship with Michael Humphrey play a role in the investigation?

Humphrey was involved in the murder plot and provided the gun used to kill Ben.

What was the outcome of Lindley Rennick's trial?

She was found guilty of second-degree murder and sentenced to 16 years in prison.

Why did Lindley Rennick sue Brandon Blackwell after her conviction?

She accused him of defamation for statements he made to law enforcement implicating her in the murder.

How did the reptile community react to Ben Rennick's death?

They raised tens of thousands of dollars for Lindley and the kids and created a new snake breed named after Ben.

Chapters

Ben Rennick, an exotic reptile dealer, is found dead in his snake breeding barn, initially thought to be killed by one of his snakes. The investigation reveals a more sinister plot involving human betrayal.
  • Ben Rennick found dead in his snake breeding barn
  • Initial assumption of death by snake is quickly disproven
  • Investigation uncovers a complex web of deceit and betrayal

Shownotes Transcript

This week, in New Florence, Missouri, an exotic reptile dealer, who breeds enormous snakes, is found dead in his snake breeding barn, and it's thought that one of his scaly friends has killed him. But after some investigation, detectives figure out that they're actually dealing with a much slimier, and less trustworthy group of people, as they uncover a twisted, wild murder plot!!

Along the way, we find out that BYOG (Bring Your Own Goat) events sound a little strange, that when you're surrounded by snakes, you still need to watch out for bad people, and that snakes can't pull a trigger!!

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