Ep 18. Without a Prayer

In the Forensic Files season 17 episode Without a Prayer, a horrifying murder rocks the small town of Nelson County, Kentucky. Tommy Ballard is a beloved father, husband, and hunting guide in the community. He is known for his kindhearted demeanor and love for the outdoors. On November 19th, 2016, his son wakes up to find that Tommy has gone missing. A search party is quickly organized, and Tommy's body is discovered in the woods near his home. He has been shot in the chest.

Detectives begin an investigation into Tommy's murder, and they quickly realize that his killer is someone he knew. The circumstances surrounding his death are perplexing, and the motive for the murder is unclear. Tommy's wife suggests to detectives that her husband's death may be related to a feud he had with a neighbor over access to a hunting ground. However, detectives soon realize that this theory is unlikely.

The investigation takes a dramatic turn when detectives receive a tip from an unexpected source. A local pastor contacts the police and suggests that Tommy's murder may be related to a mysterious drug operation in the area. The pastor tells police that an anonymous source has been reporting suspicious activity at a nearby property. The property is owned by a man named Danny Singleton, who has a criminal record and is well-known in the community for his reputation as a drug dealer.

Detectives begin to investigate the property owned by Danny Singleton, and they discover that it is well-hidden and difficult to access. The property has a large pond, which is surrounded by woods and is hidden from view by a fence. Detectives realize that if Danny is involved in drugs, he is likely storing them on the property near the pond. They set up surveillance around the property and begin to watch for any suspicious activity.

After several days of surveillance, detectives see a car pull up to the property in the middle of the night. They watch as the driver of the car pulls out a bag and walks towards the pond. Suddenly, they hear gunshots and see the driver run back to the car. Detectives move in quickly and arrest the driver. The driver turns out to be Danny Singleton's brother, who tells detectives that he was paid to dispose of a gun that had been used in a murder.

Detectives begin to investigate further and find evidence that suggests that the gun used in Tommy's murder was purchased by Danny Singleton. They arrest him, and he confesses to the murder. He tells detectives that he killed Tommy after he discovered that Tommy had been talking to police about his drug operation. Danny Singleton is convicted of the murder and is sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Without a Prayer is a gripping episode of Forensic Files that highlights the complex nature of murder investigations. The episode showcases the importance of tips from the public in solving crimes and the critical role that surveillance and forensic analysis play in identifying suspects. The episode also underscores the tragic consequences of drug operations and the lengths that people will go to protect them.