Cold Case Files Classic Season 3 Episode 18 Blood Money/Operation Jambalaya

In season 3 episode 18 of Cold Case Files Classic, titled "Blood Money/Operation Jambalaya," investigators take on two separate cases involving murder and corruption.

In the first case, the murder of escort service owner Mary Lou Barnes had gone unsolved for over a decade until new DNA technology became available. Barnes was shot and killed execution-style at her business, and despite the obvious signs of a hit, police were never able to identify the killer. The case remained cold until a friend of Barnes' came forward with a letter written by the killer, which revealed his identity. Investigators were finally able to arrest the suspect, who denied any involvement in the crime. However, DNA evidence later found on the victim's clothes proved otherwise, leading to his conviction.

In the second case, known as Operation Jambalaya, investigators look into a corrupt police officer who was selling information to drug dealers. This officer, Ronald Matthews, had been on the force for over a decade and was trusted by many in the department. However, he was secretly working with a group of drug traffickers to provide them with information on police operations and investigations. Matthews was finally caught when his fellow officers became suspicious of his behavior and launched an internal investigation. They discovered that Matthews had a long history of drug use and had been working with a group of dealers led by a man named Charlie Jones. Matthews provided Jones' group with information on police raids and even offered to "take out" a fellow officer who was getting too close to their operations. Matthews was eventually arrested and charged with multiple counts of corruption.

As the investigation into Matthews unfolded, police also discovered that Jones' group was responsible for the deaths of several people, including a police informant. With Matthews' help, they were able to locate the drug traffickers and bring them to justice.

"Blood Money/Operation Jambalaya" sheds light on the complex nature of investigating and solving cold cases, as well as the devastating impact that corruption can have on law enforcement and the communities they serve. The episode is a gripping look at the determination and perseverance of investigators who work tirelessly to bring justice to those affected by crime.