5. A Case for Forensics

Beyond Recognition: The First Modern Murder

John Milligan, a reporter from the UK's biggest tabloid, News of the World, finds himself in the home of Dr. Buck Ruxton, now the prime suspect in the disappearance—and likely murder—of his wife Isabella and their nanny Mary Rogerson. Since the women vanished nearly a month ago, Ruxton has spun a web of lies, claiming they ran away to Scotland - or was it Blackpool? But with the discovery of the mutilated body parts found in Moffatt, suspicion has focused squarely on Ruxton. Milligan notes the doctor's panic as he clings to his fabricated stories, unaware that the police are closing in.

As the investigation intensifies, Ruxton's arrest becomes inevitable. The authorities have identified the bodies and they are now racing to build a solid case against the doctor. From fingerprinting mutilated fingertips to using advanced photography and even maggots to tell the time of death, this case marks the birth of modern forensics. But how will all this newfangled science go down in a courtroom in 1935 England?

"Beyond Recognition" hosted by Yeardley Smith, delves into one of the most shocking murder cases of the early 20th century. With insights from experts like Tom Wood, Paul Holes, and Professor Sue Black, this episode not only recounts the gruesome details but also examines the psychological and forensic aspects of the case. To support the series go to smalltowndicks.com/superfam

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