Ep 30. In the Care of a Killer; Deadly Lies

In the Care of a Killer; Deadly Lies is the 30th episode of the first season of Cold Case Files. This show highlights real-life crime cases that were previously unsolved and were reopened after a long time. This specific episode revolves around the case of Dennis Rabbitt, a foster child who was killed while he was in the care of his foster mother, Shirley Littles. The murder took place in 1992, and the case was reopened in the year 2004.

The episode begins with the introduction of Dennis Rabbitt, who was given up for adoption by his biological mother soon after his birth. He was then taken to the foster care of Shirley Littles, who was known to have fostered a large number of kids. The show highlights how Littles was viewed as a savior by the community, as she provided shelter and care to children who were not fortunate enough to have a family. However, no one knew what horrors were happening behind the closed doors of her house.

Dennis was just a toddler when he was taken in by Littles. His foster mother promised to take care of him and provide him with love and support. However, that was far from the truth. Dennis was subjected to abuse, both physical and emotional, by Littles. She would lock him up in a closet, withhold food from him, and beat him, leaving him with bruises all over his body. The show documents some of the testimonies given by the other foster children who were under the care of Littles, and they all spoke about the abuse they faced at her hands.

On January 22, 1992, Littles called the paramedics to her home, stating that Dennis was unresponsive. When the paramedics arrived, they found Dennis lying on the floor with blood oozing from his mouth. He was immediately taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The autopsy report revealed that he had died due to trauma to his head, and the death was ruled a homicide.

The case went cold for a long time, as there were no substantial leads that could help identify the killer. However, in the year 2004, the case was reopened, and the investigators started looking for new evidence. The show highlights how the investigation team garnered evidence that eventually led to the indictment of Shirley Littles. The episode showcases some of the interviews of the investigators who worked on the case and explains how they used forensic evidence to build the case against Littles.

In the second half of the episode, the show focuses on the trial of Shirley Littles. The prosecution presents evidence that establishes the abusive behavior of Littles and her motive for killing Dennis. The defense argues that there is no substantial evidence that can link Littles to the murder. However, after a long trial, the jury finds Shirley Littles guilty of manslaughter and gives her a sentence of 20 years in prison. The show ends with a description of how the other foster children who were under the care of Littles reunited and found solace in each other's company.

In the Care of a Killer; Deadly Lies is a gripping tale of abuse, cruelty, and the quest for justice. It portrays how the investigators and the prosecutors work tirelessly to solve cases that have gone unsolved for years. The episode also highlights the importance of forensic evidence and how it can help bring the culprits to justice. Overall, it is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in true crime stories and wants to see how justice prevails in the end.