Ep 7. A Promise Kept

On The Case With Paula Zahn is a true-crime program that takes viewers through the investigation and subsequent solving of various criminal cases. In season 13, episode 7, entitled "A Promise Kept," the program delves into a case of a young woman who was brutally murdered in her own home.

The episode opens with Paula Zahn introducing the case of 26-year-old Laura Dickinson, who was found dead in her dorm room at Eastern Michigan University on December 15, 2006. Her body was found by a fellow student, who became concerned when she hadn't seen Laura in a few days and noticed a strange smell coming from her room.

Laura's death was initially ruled as accidental, with the cause of death listed as asphyxiation due to a plastic bag being placed over her head. However, Laura's mother, Deborah, was convinced that her daughter's death was not an accident and that foul play was involved. Determined to find out the truth about her daughter's death, Deborah hired a private investigator to look into the case.

The episode then follows Paula Zahn as she interviews Deborah, who recounts the events leading up to her daughter's death, as well as the investigation that followed. Through interviews with family members, friends of Laura, and law enforcement officials, the program examines the evidence that was gathered and the theories that were developed during the investigation.

One theory that emerged early on involved a suspect named Orange Taylor III, who had been doing maintenance work in the residence halls at the time of Laura's death. Taylor had a criminal record and had been convicted of sexual assault in the past. He was questioned by police, but a lack of evidence meant that he was never charged in connection with Laura's death.

Another theory involved a serial killer who was active in the area at the time. The program features interviews with experts in criminal psychology, who explain the characteristics of a serial killer and examine the evidence to determine whether or not this theory is plausible.

As the investigation progresses, new evidence emerges, including a condom wrapper found in Laura's room that was not tested for DNA at the time of her death. The program follows the efforts of law enforcement officials to retest the DNA found on the wrapper and determine whether it belonged to a suspect in the case.

Ultimately, after years of investigation, a suspect is identified and charged in connection with Laura's death. The program features interviews with the family and friends of Laura, who express relief and closure at the resolution of the case.

Throughout the episode, Paula Zahn presents a detailed and emotional account of the investigation into Laura's death. With a focus on the evidence and the people involved, the program provides viewers with a deep understanding of the case and the toll it took on those affected by it.

Overall, "A Promise Kept" is a gripping and emotional episode of On The Case With Paula Zahn that explores the investigation and resolution of a tragic case of murder. With its focus on the people involved and the evidence gathered, the program provides a compelling and nuanced account of the case that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.