Ep 6. The Ghosts of Greenwich

In season 27, episode 6 of '48 Hours Mystery', titled 'The Ghosts of Greenwich', the show examines the gruesome murder of 15-year-old Martha Moxley. The episode delves into the events that led up to her death, the investigation that followed, and the subsequent trial of Michael Skakel, a wealthy family friend who was convicted of the crime more than two decades later.

The story takes place in the affluent town of Greenwich, Connecticut in 1975. Martha Moxley, a popular and well-liked student, is found brutally beaten to death in her own backyard. The investigation into her death is complicated by the social dynamics of the town. The Moxleys are a prominent family, and the Skakels, who live across the street and are related to the Kennedys, are equally well-known. The two families have been close for years, and Michael Skakel was a friend of Martha's.

Despite the high-profile nature of the case, it takes the police over two decades to bring charges against Skakel. The episode explores the reasons behind this delay and the political landscape of the time. Skakel, who was 15 at the time of the murder, was initially not considered a suspect. However, as more information about his possible involvement came to light, he became the focus of the investigation.

The trial that followed was equally contentious. Skakel's defense team argued that he was innocent and that the prosecution's case was circumstantial. However, the prosecution had a compelling argument – Skakel had been heard making incriminating statements about the murder, and his alibi for the night in question was weak. In the end, the jury decided that Skakel was guilty of murder, and he was sentenced to 20 years to life in prison.

The episode also examines the aftermath of the trial. Skakel continued to maintain his innocence, and many of his family members and supporters believed that he had been wrongly convicted. Others, including the Moxley family, felt that justice had finally been served. The case has continued to generate interest and controversy over the years, with some believing that Skakel was a victim of a rush to judgment and others feeling that he got what he deserved.

Overall, 'The Ghosts of Greenwich' offers a fascinating and nuanced look at a high-profile murder case and the complex dynamics that surrounded it. The show does an excellent job of presenting all sides of the story while keeping the focus on the victim and her family. Whether you're interested in true crime or just curious about the inner workings of the criminal justice system, this episode is sure to be a must-watch.