Ep 8. Nathan Dunlap: Eye for an Eye

Death Row Stories season 1, episode 8, titled "Nathan Dunlap: Eye for an Eye," explores a case that sparked a debate on the death penalty in the United States. Nathan Dunlap stands accused of shooting and killing four employees at a Chuck E. Cheese's restaurant in Aurora, Colorado in 1993. Following his capture, Dunlap was given the death penalty, which he has been fighting to reverse ever since.

The episode delves into the strong emotions surrounding the death penalty, with both sides of the argument providing their insight and opinions on the matter. Supporters of the death penalty argue that it's a reasonable form of justice for those who've taken the lives of innocent people. However, anti-death penalty advocates argue that nothing can justify the taking of a human life, regardless of the crime committed.

Through interviews with Dunlap's family and supporters, as well as law enforcement officials and the families of the victims, viewers are given a firsthand account of the events that took place on December 14, 1993, and their aftermath. Additionally, experts on the subject also provide their opinions and insights on the implications of the case.

The episode also explores the challenges in obtaining a fair and unbiased trial, particularly in a high-profile case like this one. Dunlap's defense team argued that racial bias influenced the jury's decision, but the prosecution argued that there were numerous eyewitnesses to the crime, and that evidence showed Dunlap's culpability beyond any doubt.

As the episode continues, the viewer gradually gains a deeper understanding of Dunlap's character, his troubled background, and high school-valedictorian-turned-cold-blooded-killer persona portrayed during the trial. Viewers also gain insight into the emotional toll the case has had on those closely associated with it.

Overall, "Nathan Dunlap: Eye for an Eye" raises the question of whether the death penalty can serve as a just form of punishment for heinous crimes or if it's an outdated and flawed system that often leads to injustice. This episode provides an in-depth look at a highly controversial case and the impact it has had on those involved.