20/20 Season 36 Episode 34 The Burning Bed

On ABC's 20/20 Season 36, Episode 34, viewers are taken on a harrowing journey through the story of Francine Hughes, a Michigan woman who set fire to her abusive husband's bed while he slept in it. The episode, entitled "The Burning Bed," explores the complicated and tragic events that led to this act of violence and the aftermath that followed.

Through interviews with family members, friends, and those involved in the case, as well as archival footage, "The Burning Bed" provides insight into the relationship between Francine and her husband Mickey Hughes. Although the couple appeared happy when they first met, their marriage quickly turned abusive, with Mickey often physically assaulting Francine.

Despite attempts to leave Mickey and protect herself and her children, Francine found that she had few options. In the 1970s, domestic violence was not yet recognized as a fully recognized crime, and few resources existed to help victims like her escape their situations. And since Mickey was a respected member of the community and a successful businessman, few people believed Francine's stories of abuse.

frustrated and seemingly unable to escape her situation, Francine reached a breaking point on March 9, 1977. After years of violence and abuse, she set fire to the bed where Mickey was sleeping, ultimately killing him. She then fled the scene with her children and turned herself in to police.

The case became a media sensation, with some portraying Francine as a heroic figure who had taken desperate actions to protect herself and her children. Others saw her as a cold-blooded killer who had taken the law into her own hands. The episode examines these differing views of the case and how Francine's story helped raise awareness of domestic violence and the need for better legal protection for survivors.

"The Burning Bed" also explores the legal aftermath of the case. Francine was initially charged with first-degree murder, but her defense argued that she had been driven to the brink by years of abuse and that her actions were a result of temporary insanity. They ultimately succeeded in convincing the jury, and Francine was found guilty of voluntary manslaughter.

The episode delves into the intricacies of the trial, including the arguments made by both sides, and the impact of the verdict on Francine's life. Despite serving time in prison, Francine ultimately became a symbol of the fight against domestic violence, and her story helped lead to changes in the law and a greater understanding of the complex issues surrounding abusive relationships.

Throughout "The Burning Bed," viewers are left to contemplate the difficult choices that Francine faced and the question of whether her actions were justifiable. The episode provides a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle to protect victims of domestic violence and the work that still needs to be done to ensure that all survivors receive the support and resources they need to escape abusive situations.