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The Story of Sam Sheppard. Sam and Marilyn Sheppard. Sheppard Doctors. The Crime. July 3 1954 Marilyn was brutally beaten to death on her own bed Sam was attacked by the “intruder” Chip was asleep in his room just down the hall
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The Crime • July 3 1954 • Marilyn was brutally beaten to death on her own bed • Sam was attacked by the “intruder” • Chip was asleep in his room just down the hall • Neighbors and friends Mayor Houk and Ester were first to arrive at scene.
First trial- Sam convicted • The “forensic expert” Dr. Gerber testified about the blood stained pillow • Mostly character witnesses claiming infidelity • Susan Hayes testified of affair • Evidence ignored- cigarette in toilet, blood stain on floor, • Sam was convicted Dec 17, 1954 of murder in the second degree and sentenced to life in prison • His mother shot herself on Jan 7 and father died of a bleeding ulcer 11 days later.
Sam spent the next 10 years in prison while his lawyer filed for a new trial
Court of Appeal’s Decision • Sam’s lawyer petitioned the supreme court for 10 years for a new trial stating the first trial was a “trial by media” • July 16, 1964 supreme court said he could have a new trial!
New wife Ariane • Started writing Sam in prison • Wealthy divorce’ • Married in 1964 • Divorced in 1968 citing violence. Sam was throwing liquor bottles at her
New trial • Began Nov 10 1966 • Paul Kirk- Forensic scientist testified • New evidence was introduced • Nov 16 1966 Sam was found NOT GUILTY
Doctor turned Pro Wrestler • Sam married 20 year old Colleen Strickland • Began a professional wrestling career with a special “nerve hold” • Died April 6 1970 of failed liver- he was drinking up to 2 Fifths of liquor a day.