60 Minutes Season 39 Episode 8 The Mother of All Heists, Two Heartbeats Away, Searching for Jacob
- October 22, 2006
In season 39 episode 8 of 60 Minutes titled "The Mother of All Heists, Two Heartbeats Away, Searching for Jacob," the show explores three separate news stories.
The first story investigates what has been dubbed as "The Mother of All Heists." Correspondent Bill Whitaker reports on the theft of over $1 billion worth of jewels from the Green Vault in Dresden, Germany. This episode goes behind the scenes to explore how the thieves pulled off the heist as well as the investigation into the theft. With interviews and footage not seen before, 60 Minutes seeks to uncover why the Green Vault was targeted and how the investigation is progressing.
The second story titled "Two Heartbeats Away" examines the line of succession in the United States government and the potential risks involved. Leslie Stahl reports on the dangers of having a government where the presidency is so close to catastrophic change. The episode looks at the flaws within the current system and how the United States could improve it. With some of the most prominent figures in politics weighing in, the episode offers a unique insight into the safety and security of the highest office in the land.
The final story is called "Searching for Jacob." The episode is an intimate look at a family's journey to find their son, Jacob Wetterling. This story is told through interviews with the Wetterling family as well as those who were involved in the case. This episode provides an emotional and rare view into the tragedy that occurred more than two decades ago and how the Wetterling family has coped since then. With unprecedented access to the family’s home videos, photographs, and private documents, "Searching for Jacob" is an unflinching look at a family’s search for the truth.
In conclusion, season 39 episode 8 of 60 Minutes explores three different stories: the heist of over $1 billion worth of jewels from the Green Vault in Dresden, Germany; the risks involved with the line of succession of the United States government; and the emotional journey of the Wetterling family to search for their son. The episode promises a unique view into each of these stories through interviews, documentation, and exclusive footage.