Ep 3. Dirty Laundry

In season 14, episode 3 of Forensic Files, titled "Dirty Laundry," viewers are taken on a journey to uncover the tragic murder of a young woman named Lisa Rene.

The episode begins with a night out for Lisa and her friends at a local bar in Memphis, Tennessee. Lisa, who was only 24 years old at the time, had just started a new job and was excited to begin this new chapter in her life. However, her excitement was cut short when she was found brutally murdered in her apartment the very next morning.

Police quickly began their investigation, examining the crime scene for any evidence that could lead them to the killer. It was apparent that Lisa had been sexually assaulted and strangled, and the apartment appeared to have been ransacked. Although there were no signs of forced entry, it was clear that someone had broken into Lisa's apartment to commit the heinous crime.

With no immediate suspects, police looked to Lisa's acquaintances to gather information that could lead them to the killer. One friend mentioned that Lisa had briefly dated a co-worker named Mark Davila, who had become increasingly possessive and jealous. Another friend revealed that Lisa had recently ended a relationship with a man named Anwar Shakur, who had also become increasingly volatile.

As investigators delved deeper into Lisa's life, they discovered that she had a secret gambling addiction and had accumulated a significant amount of debt. It seemed that Lisa had kept this hidden from her friends and family, as she had always been known as responsible and level-headed. This revelation opened up a new line of inquiry, as police began considering the possibility that someone from the gambling underworld could be responsible for Lisa's murder.

Through forensic evidence and witness testimony, police eventually narrowed down their list of suspects to just one: Anwar Shakur. Shakur had a history of violent behavior and had even been arrested on a previous occasion for assaulting Lisa. However, there was not enough evidence to charge him with Lisa's murder, and he was released from custody.

It wasn't until several years later that a break in the case occurred. DNA evidence discovered at the crime scene was run through a national database, which led police to Paul Blackman. Blackman was a man with a lengthy criminal history, including burglary and attempted murder. He had also been linked to several other sexual assaults and murders in the Memphis area.

After being identified as a suspect, Blackman was arrested and charged with Lisa's murder. Although he initially denied any involvement, DNA evidence found on Lisa's clothing proved otherwise. Blackman was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison.

"Dirty Laundry" is a gripping episode of Forensic Files that highlights the intricate investigative work that goes into solving a complex murder case. From examining forensic evidence to following leads and conducting thorough interviews with witnesses, the police and forensic scientists involved in this case showcase the painstaking work it takes to bring justice to victims like Lisa Rene.