Ep 1. Terror In The Roaring Twenties

In Murder Maps season 2 episode 1, titled "Terror In The Roaring Twenties," viewers are taken back in time to New York City during the 1920s. The United States was a hub of cultural and economic activity, but it was also a time of great change and uncertainty. The clash between old traditions and new ideas had brought about a period of social unrest, which only added to the growing sense of fear and paranoia.

In the episode, viewers learn about a particularly grisly murder that took place during this tumultuous period. A young woman named Ruth Snyder was strangled to death by her husband, Albert Snyder, with the help of his mistress, Judd Gray. The murder was brutal and premeditated, as they had carefully planned to make it look like a burglary gone wrong. The killing sent shockwaves through the city, making headlines and captivating the public's attention.

As the investigation into Ruth's murder began, detectives quickly realized that something wasn't quite right. The crime scene seemed staged, and the evidence didn't add up. Their suspicions were confirmed when they discovered that Albert and Judd had been having an affair for months, and that they had conspired to kill Ruth so that they could be together.

The trial that followed was a media sensation, with reporters flocking to the courthouse to cover every detail of the proceedings. The defense argued that Ruth's murder was a crime of passion, while the prosecution maintained that it was a premeditated killing done for financial gain. The emotional testimony from both sides tugged at the heartstrings of the jury, while the presiding judge tried to remain impartial in the face of the circus-like atmosphere surrounding the trial.

With each passing day, it became increasingly clear that Albert and Judd were guilty of Ruth's murder. The evidence against them was overwhelming, and the fact that they had attempted to cover up the crime only made things worse. In the end, the jury returned a guilty verdict, and Albert and Judd were sent to the electric chair.

The episode offers a fascinating look at the social and cultural dynamics of the 1920s, as well as the intricacies of the American criminal justice system at the time. It shows how a high-profile murder could capture the public's attention and become the focus of a sensationalized trial. It also highlights some of the societal problems that were prevalent during this era, such as the double standard that existed for men and women in relationships, and the difficulty women faced in breaking free from abusive or controlling partners.

Overall, "Terror In The Roaring Twenties" is a gripping and informative episode of Murder Maps that is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. With its blend of historical context, true crime drama, and compelling storytelling, it is a must-watch for fans of the series and anyone interested in the darker side of American history.