Murder, Mystery and My Family Season 3 Episode 5 Episode 5

Murder, Mystery and My Family is a British television show that explores historical murder cases and re-examines them with the help of modern-day forensic evidence and legal analysis. In season 3 episode 5, the show focuses on a case that took place in the early 20th century.

The episode begins with a recap of the case, which involves the murder of a woman named Ada Chard in 1903. Ada was found dead in her home in the small village of Somerford Keynes, in Gloucestershire. Her husband, Edwin Chard, was the prime suspect in her murder, but he was acquitted after a trial that lasted four days.

The presenters of the show, barristers Sasha Wass and Jeremy Dein, visit the village of Somerford Keynes to investigate the case. They meet with local historians and residents who have knowledge of the case, and they also examine the police reports and court records from the time.

As they delve into the case, Sasha and Jeremy uncover new evidence that was not presented at the trial. They learn that Edwin Chard may have had a motive for killing his wife, as he was having an affair with his housekeeper at the time. They also discover that there were inconsistencies in the statements given by Edwin and his son about their whereabouts on the night of the murder.

To help them analyze the new evidence, Sasha and Jeremy turn to forensic expert Dr. David Holmes. Dr. Holmes examines the police reports and autopsy findings and provides his insights into the case. Based on the evidence, he determines that Ada Chard was likely strangled to death and that Edwin Chard had the means, motive, and opportunity to commit the murder.

Sasha and Jeremy also consult with leading legal experts to determine whether there was a miscarriage of justice in the original trial. The experts examine the courtroom transcripts from the time and weigh the evidence presented against Edwin Chard. They consider whether the legal system at the time may have been influenced by social prejudices and class divisions.

Through their investigation, Sasha and Jeremy try to determine whether Edwin Chard was indeed guilty of murdering his wife, or whether he was wrongly accused and acquitted. They consider the impact that the verdict had on Ada Chard's family and the wider community in Somerford Keynes.

The episode concludes with Sasha and Jeremy presenting their findings to a lawyer who specializes in miscarriages of justice. The lawyer reviews the evidence and determines whether there is a case to be made for Edwin Chard's guilt or innocence. The audience is left to ponder the complexities of the case and the limitations of the legal system at the time.

Overall, season 3 episode 5 of Murder, Mystery and My Family is a compelling exploration of a historical murder case. The show combines forensic analysis with legal expertise to provide a nuanced understanding of the evidence, and it raises important questions about justice and the role of the legal system in society.