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This conversation delves into the tragic story of Laura, a mother who went missing under suspicious circumstances, and the subsequent investigation that led to the confession of her murderer, Gerald Guy Riley II. The discussion highlights the emotional impact on Laura's family and community, the challenges faced by investigators, and the legal proceedings that followed. Additionally, the conversation transitions to the ongoing case of Emily Pike, a young girl whose remains were found under horrific circumstances, emphasizing the need for awareness and justice for missing and murdered Indigenous persons.

takeaways

• Laura was a beloved mother and friend.
• Her disappearance raised immediate concerns among family and friends.
• The investigation faced significant challenges due to lack of information.
• Investigator Jim McCann played a crucial role in solving the case.
• Riley's confession revealed the brutal nature of Laura's murder.
• The legal proceedings highlighted issues of justice and accountability.
• Riley's plea of no contest raised questions about remorse and guilt.
• Laura's story is a reminder of the impact of violence on families.
• Emily Pike's case underscores the ongoing issue of missing Indigenous persons.
• Community awareness is vital in seeking justice for victims.

Sources

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Troopers investigate woman’s disappearance 8/1/90

McAnn: Longtime Investigator for Alaska State Troopers Retires 8/2/99

Marine faces murder charge 8/5/90

Obituaries 8/8/90

Two plead innocent in killings 8/12/90

All Alaska Weekly:

Missing Woman 8/3/90

Stop-over arrest 8/10/90

History & Culture | SAN CARLOS APACHE TRIBE - OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Mother of Arizona teen Emily Pike tears up after missing daughter found dismembered

Former roommate describes what happened before Emily Pike’s Mesa disappearance

Body found off US 60 northeast of Globe identified as missing Mesa girl

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In this episode of Frozen Trail, host Erica Meckel delves into the tragic case of Sophie Sergi, a Yup'ik woman from Alaska whose murder remains a haunting reminder of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) crisis. The episode explores Sophie's life, her aspirations, the events leading up to her murder, the challenges faced by investigators, and the eventual identification of her killer, Stephen Downs. Through a detailed recounting of the investigation and trial, Erica highlights the systemic issues surrounding MMIP cases and reflects on the impact of Sophie's story on her community and beyond.

takeaways

• Sophie Sergi was a promising student with dreams of serving her community.
• The investigation faced numerous challenges, including a lack of tips and resources.
• DNA evidence played a crucial role in identifying the suspect years later.
• Stephen Downs was found guilty after a long and complicated trial.
• The case highlights the systemic issues surrounding MMIP cases in Alaska.
• Sophie's murder remains a significant case in the context of Alaskan MMIP victims.
• The lack of security in university dorms contributed to the tragedy.
• Community support and awareness are vital in addressing MMIP cases.
• The impact of Sophie's story continues to resonate within her community.
• Justice for Sophie is seen as incomplete by many, despite the conviction.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to the Podcast and Trigger Warning

00:52
The Life and Aspirations of Sophie Sergi

03:23
Sophie’s Last Days and Disappearance

06:58
Discovery of Sophie’s Body and Initial Investigation

10:15
Challenges in the Investigation

12:51
DNA Evidence and Breakthroughs

15:42
Legal Proceedings and Trial of Stephen Downs

20:20
Witness Accounts and Initial Reactions

24:56
Investigative Insights and Sound Analysis

26:26
Trial Testimonies and Key Evidence

31:09
Defense Strategies and Doubts Raised

35:58
Verdict and Ongoing Controversies

39:06
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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner sources:

Man convicted of Sophie Sergie’s murder appeals case 6/24/24

Judge rejects new trial in Sophie Sergie case 3/28/22

Attorneys seek new trial in Sophie Sergie case 2/22/22

Jurors begin deliberations in Downs murder trial 2/8/22

Jury hears audio from Steven Downs in 2019 interrogation 2/3/22

DNA evidence remains at center of Steven Downs murder trial 2/1/22

Man suspected in Sergie slaying fights extradition 3/8/19

In their Honor family, friends remember loved ones lost in unsolved Interior homicides 4/27/13

No answers a decade after Sergie’s death 4/27/03

Mom marks anniversary of daughters murder 4/26/02

Prolific investigator retires 8/2/99

Trooper investigator reassigned to patrol 2/23/99

Sergie Murder still a mystery 6/1/97

Sergie lawsuit hampered by troopers 6/4/96

Mom sues UAF over daughter’s murder 10/27/95

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Summary

This conversation delves into the investigation of Alice's murder in Alaska, exploring the complexities of serial murder, the profile of the suspected killer Art Post, and the community's response to the crime. Experts share their experiences and insights gained throughout their careers in law enforcement, highlighting the challenges faced in solving such cases and the importance of effective interrogation techniques.

Takeaways

Alice's murder remains an unsolved enigma.
The term 'serial murder' was new at the time.
Art Post was suspected of multiple murders.
Community involvement was crucial in the investigation.
Investigative techniques evolved over time.
Profiling killers can provide insights into their behavior.
Interrogation skills are essential for law enforcement.
Media coverage played a role in public awareness.
The importance of thorough research in investigations.
Lessons learned from past cases inform future practices.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning
00:55 The Discovery of Alice Ann Baldwin
03:29 Investigation Begins: Identifying the Victim
06:47 Community Response and Media Involvement
11:07 The Search for Leads and Witnesses
14:11 Details of the Crime and Autopsy Findings
17:11 The Investigation Deepens: New Evidence Emerges
24:58 Theories and Speculations Surrounding the Murder
25:15 The Murder Trial of Walter Galuska
27:24 The Disappearance of Lou Jean Jimmy
28:27 The Mysterious Deaths of Alaska Native Women
32:32 The Kidnapping and Assault of a Young Girl
36:06 The Arrest and Trial of Arthur Post
01:00:19 The Legacy of Alice Baldwin's Case
01:01:27 Outtro music.wav

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In this episode of the Frozen Trail podcast, I delve into the tragic case of Cassandra Boskofsky, a missing Indigenous woman from Alaska. The conversation explores Cassandra's background, the investigation into her disappearance, and the subsequent trial of the suspect, who is believed to have been involved in multiple murders. The episode highlights the challenges faced by Indigenous communities in seeking justice, the impact of alcohol on crime and memory, and the importance of community activism in addressing these issues. Through family testimonies and expert insights, the episode aims to shed light on the need for greater awareness and support for missing and Murdered Indigenous People.

Chapters

03:08
Uncovering the Third Victim

06:01
The Sentencing of Brian Steven Smith

09:02
The Investigation and Forensic Evidence

10:52
Identifying Kassandra Boskovsky

11:21
Cassandra's Background and Community

13:56
The Struggles of Cassandra's Life

16:12
The Investigation and Identification Process

18:28
The Presumptive Death Trial

20:20
Cassandra's Last Known Interactions

21:57
New Chapter

41:46
The Disappearance of Cassandra Boscovsky

42:46
Seeking Closure for Families of the Missing

43:11
Outtro music.wav

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This conversation delves into the tragic stories of Veronica and Kathleen, two women whose lives were cut short by violence. It explores the circumstances surrounding their disappearances, the discovery of their remains, and the subsequent investigation that led to the arrest of Brian Smith. The discussion highlights the chilling details of the evidence found, including a memory card containing videos of the crimes, and the trial that ultimately resulted in Smith's conviction. The conversation also touches on the ethical considerations of presenting such graphic evidence in court and the impact on the victims' dignity.

takeaways

• Veronica was reported missing in 2019 after struggles with homelessness.
• Kathleen Henry's remains were discovered in a fetal position.
• A memory card with videos of the crimes was found.
• Brian Smith was identified as the suspect in the murders.
• Smith admitted to the murders during police interviews.
• The trial lasted three and a half weeks.
• The court had to balance evidence presentation with victim dignity.
• Judge Saxby shielded graphic evidence from public view.
• Smith was sentenced to 226 years for his crimes.
• The investigation revealed chilling details about Smith's actions.

News Sources:
How a stolen memory card with gruesome footage led to an Alaska murder trial | AP News

‘I have something to show you’: Smith texted Anchorage man in hours after hotel room killing, met him at Hillside park - Anchorage Daily News (adn.com)

After Brian Smith's Anchorage murder conviction, MMIP advocates hope for change - Alaska Public Media

How a stolen memory card with gruesome footage led to an Alaska murder trial | AP News

https://www.anchoragepolice.com/news/homicide-milepost-108-seward-highway

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The conversation delves into the mysterious disappearance of Doran, an Indigenous man in Alaska, exploring the community's response, the ongoing investigation, and personal reflections from family members. It highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement, the importance of community involvement, and the emotional toll on families of missing persons.

Sources:

TCC Missing people page

DOREN SANFORD – Tanana Chiefs Conference

Family seeking answers on Alaska man Doren Sanford months after he vanished while searching for his missing dog (nbcnews.com) March 23, 2021, 2:31 PM AKDT

By Andrea Cavallier NBC News

Volunteers sought to help look for three people missing in Fairbanks area | Local News | newsminer.com October 2, 2020 updated November 13, 2020 By Dorothy Chomicz Fairbanks Daily News Miner

The Fairbanks missing: Doren Sanford, the man with a heart | Alaska News | newsminer.com

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner Diana Campbell August 17, 2023

Doren Sanford: A Detail Man with a Heart shared by Fairbanks Native Association on March 13, 2024.

Resolution 2021-09 – Tanana Chiefs Conference

DPS and APD Release Missing Indigenous Persons Report - Press Releases - PIO - Alaska Department of Public Safety

People First Initiative Launches Addressing Safety and Prevention - Mike Dunleavy (alaska.gov)

Dec. 15, 2021

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