Ep 2. Murder in Amish Country

In City Confidential season 12 episode 2, entitled "Murder in Amish Country," viewers are taken to the peaceful and tightly knit Amish community in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The episode centers around the murder of a young Amish girl, 18-year-old Barbara Weaver, who went missing on June 21, 2006. Despite the Amish community's strict adherence to their beliefs and customs, a dark and disturbing atmosphere is uncovered as the investigation unfolds.

The episode begins with a reenactment of Barbara Weaver's disappearance. She was last seen leaving home to go to church, but did not show up. Her parents reported her missing, and a search party was organized to comb the area surrounding her home. After a few days of searching, her body was discovered in a shallow grave on the property of an Amish farm. She had been shot multiple times with a shotgun.

As the police begin their investigation, they are met with resistance from the Amish community. The Amish prefer to handle things internally and have their own rules and laws, which can make it difficult for outsiders to gain access to information. In addition, the Amish do not use phones or computers and have a mistrust of modern technology, which can make communication and gathering information challenging.

The police soon uncover a potential suspect in the case, Nicholas Hoffman, who was a member of the Amish community but had been shunned and excommunicated. Hoffman was known to have a violent temper and had previously been arrested for assaulting his wife. The police were able to track him down and arrest him, but they still had to navigate their way through the Amish justice system to get him tried and convicted.

Through interviews with Amish community members, law enforcement officials, and attorneys involved in the case, the episode explores the unique challenges of investigating a crime in a closed-off community and the cultural differences that can complicate the legal process. It also delves into the psychological and societal factors at play in the murder, including the power dynamics within the Amish community and the isolation and pressure that can lead to violent outbursts.

Overall, "Murder in Amish Country" is a gripping and thought-provoking episode that sheds light on a lesser-known corner of American society while also delivering a thrilling true-crime narrative. The episode's mix of reenactments, interviews, and archival footage gives viewers a comprehensive look at the crime and its aftermath, while the expert commentary provides valuable insights and analysis. Whether you're a true-crime aficionado or simply curious about the Amish way of life, this episode is sure to capture your attention from start to finish.