Ep 1. Dessert Served Cold

Forensic Files is a true crime series that analyzes the intricacies of forensic science to solve complex criminal cases. The season 8 opener, Dessert Served Cold, transports viewers into the world of a gruesome and chilling murder case in rural Pennsylvania.

The episode starts with the discovery of a dead body in an abandoned car by a young hunter. The victim, Lorraine Hendricks, was a 49-year-old mother of three who had worked in a local asbestos factory before her life was taken away. The initial investigation led the authorities to Lorraine's estranged husband, Walter, who had a history of domestic violence and abusive behavior towards his wife and children. Walter had created a distressing diversion and fled to Las Vegas when the police initially tried to reach him.

As detectives continued their investigation, they discovered that Lorraine had been poisoned. The murderer had used an unusual poison – thallium, a heavy metal that is nearly impossible to detect in autopsy tests. The authorities began to suspect that Walter had some connection to the poison, considering he had access to the asbestos plant where thallium was used. In addition to this, Lorraine's autopsy revealed that she had eaten a tuna sandwich that contained traces of thallium. This discovery helped authorities in their investigation of the poisoning.

The episode explores the science behind how thallium attacks the body's nervous system, causing immense pain, vomiting, and even hair loss. It was revealed that the poison in the victim's body was around 500 times the lethal dose required to kill someone.

Forensic experts use their knowledge to retrace Lorraine's last few days, beginning with the tuna sandwich that she had eaten at a sub shop. The shop's staff recounted how a woman had come in and purchased the sandwich, claiming that it was for her husband. Footage from the store reveals a glimpse of the woman's face, but her identity remained unknown.

The detectives continued their inquiries, and it gradually transpired that not just Walter but his mother, Helen, was also connected to Lorraine’s murder. Helen had long-standing animosity towards her son’s wife and is supposed to have persuaded her daughter to carry out the killing of Lorraine, leaving Walter’s own role unclear.

The episode highlights the vital role that forensics played in cracking this case. After much investigation and use of laboratory tests, the detectives found traces of thallium in a cupcake at a church event that Walter's mother had attended. The cupcake was traced back to the home of Walter's sister, who had apparently bought it at a bake sale. Helen, Walter, and Walter's sister were all arrested and charged with Lorraine's murder.

This episode of Forensic Files is a classic example of how forensic scientists play a critical and oftentimes overlooked role in solving crimes. Without the scientific knowledge to detect the poison and run tests on the different items, this case's murderer might have gone scot-free. The show serves as a testament to the dedication and hard work of the forensic experts behind the scenes – people who work tirelessly to solve complex and disturbing criminal cases, bringing peace to grieving families and justice to those who have been wronged.

Overall, Dessert Served Cold is a must-watch for crime-thriller enthusiasts, bringing together a chilling and intricate murder case with the latest forensic science techniques to solve a complex crime. The episode showcases the fantastic work of the law enforcement officials and forensic scientists and their tireless efforts to bring criminals to justice.