Ep 2. The Ink Beads

The Ink Beads is an episode from season 2 of Forensic Files II, a true crime documentary series that delves into criminal investigations and the use of forensic science to solve them. In this episode, viewers follow the investigation into the murder of a popular high school teacher named Casey Jameson in her hometown of Jupiter, Florida.

The case begins when Jameson is reported missing by her sister, who discovers that she has not shown up for work for several days. Investigators immediately become suspicious of Jameson's boyfriend, David Curley, who had a history of violence and had been fighting with Jameson in the days leading up to her disappearance. Curley denies any involvement in Jameson's disappearance, but his behavior raises red flags for investigators, who begin to dig deeper into his past.

The investigation is complicated by the fact that Jameson's body has not been found, leaving investigators without a clear cause of death. However, they make a breakthrough when they discover that Curley had been purchasing large quantities of hydrochloric acid, a powerful chemical that can dissolve human tissue. Using forensic techniques, they are able to trace the purchase of the acid to a hardware store in Jupiter, where surveillance footage shows Curley purchasing the acid just days before Jameson's disappearance.

As the investigation progresses, Curley becomes increasingly desperate to avoid suspicion. He tries to turn the tables on investigators by accusing Jameson's sister of being involved in the murder, but his story quickly falls apart under scrutiny. In the end, forensic evidence provides the smoking gun that leads to Curley's arrest and conviction.

What makes The Ink Beads such a compelling episode is the way it explores the role of forensic science in solving a murder case. From tracing the purchase of hydrochloric acid to analyzing trace amounts of ink on a piece of paper found in Curley's truck, the investigation is a masterclass in using cutting-edge forensics to piece together a case.

But the episode also shows the human side of the investigation. Viewers get to know Casey Jameson through interviews with her family and friends, and learn about the impact her murder had on the tight-knit community of Jupiter. And while Curley is clearly the villain of the story, the episode also raises questions about how his troubled upbringing and history of violence may have contributed to his actions.

Ultimately, The Ink Beads is a gripping and thought-provoking episode that showcases the best of true crime storytelling. It's a reminder of the power of forensic science to bring justice to victims of violent crime, and a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked anger and violence.