Ep 4. Snitch Work

In season 3 episode 4 of Death Row Stories, titled "Snitch Work," viewers are taken on a journey through the case of inmate Jeffery Havard. Havard was convicted and sentenced to death for allegedly killing his girlfriend's six-month-old daughter, Chloe. However, as the episode unfolds, it becomes apparent that there may have been serious flaws in Havard's trial and conviction.

One of the main points of contention in Havard's case is the testimony of Dr. Steven Hayne, the state's medical examiner. Hayne claimed that Chloe's death was due to a violent sexual assault, but other medical experts have since disputed his findings. Some have even gone so far as to say that Chloe may have died of accidental causes, not at the hands of Havard.

But what makes this episode particularly fascinating is the role played by jailhouse informants in Havard's case. Two men who were incarcerated with Havard claimed that he had confessed to them about killing Chloe. However, both informants had a history of aiding the prosecution in exchange for lighter sentences or other perks. Defense attorneys argued that the informants were unreliable and had a clear motive to lie, but their testimony was still used against Havard at trial.

As the episode delves deeper into the case, viewers are also introduced to Havard's family and supporters. They describe him as a kind and gentle person who would never harm a child. They also highlight the flaws and biases inherent in the criminal justice system, particularly when it comes to cases involving the death penalty.

Overall, "Snitch Work" is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged episode that raises important questions about our justice system and the reliability of witness testimony. Viewers are left to decide for themselves whether Havard truly deserves to be on death row, and whether the criminal justice system is capable of rendering fair and just verdicts in cases like his.