Ep 6. Kris Maharaj: Murder in Miami

Kris Maharaj: Murder in Miami is the sixth episode of the first season of the gripping true-crime series, Death Row Stories. This particular episode delves into the story of Kris Maharaj, a British-Indian businessman who was convicted of the brutal murders of Derrick and Duane Moo Young in a Miami hotel room in 1986.

Through extensive interviews with those involved in the case, including Maharaj himself, and reenactments of key events, the episode unravels a tangled web of corruption, deceit and violence.

Maharaj, a wealthy businessman who had experienced significant success in the pharmaceutical industry, was at his wits' end when his investments in South Florida went bad and he was plunged into debt. In a bid to turn his fortunes around, he became involved in a cocaine trafficking operation, which ultimately led to the murders of the Moo Young brothers.

The prosecution's case against Maharaj, built largely on the testimony of two witnesses with criminal records, was fraught with inconsistencies. However, despite these contradictions, Maharaj was found guilty and sentenced to death.

The episode explores the events leading up to, during, and after Maharaj's trial, shedding light on the various ways in which the system failed him. It highlights the glaring misconduct of the judge who presided over the case, including his refusal to grant the defense's request for a delay in order to gather crucial evidence, as well as his history of imposing strict and often unjust sentences on defendants.

Also at issue is the behavior of the prosecution, which withheld potentially exonerating evidence from the defense team, and coerced witnesses into providing testimony that was riddled with inconsistencies and contradictions.

As Maharaj's case languished in the appeals process, his supporters began to mount a campaign to have his sentence commuted. The episode profiles some of these advocates, including renowned human rights lawyer Clive Stafford Smith, who became convinced of Maharaj's innocence after reviewing the case.

Maharaj himself is a compelling figure, as he describes in detail the horrific conditions he experienced while on death row, including being held in isolation for more than 20 years. He also recounts the events that led to his arrest, trial, and conviction, providing a window into the psyche of a man who was pushed to the brink by circumstances beyond his control.

Overall, Kris Maharaj: Murder in Miami is a haunting and thought-provoking episode that provides a fascinating look into the complexities of the American justice system, and the many ways in which it can fail those who find themselves caught up in it. This episode, like the others in the series, offers a rare glimpse into the lives of those on death row, highlighting the humanity of individuals who have been marked for death. It is a powerful and moving testament to the importance of seeking truth and justice, even in the face of overwhelming odds.