Forensic Files

A dentist on trial for poisoning his wife. And detectives' doubts about the case of a Virginia dad accused of conspiring with his au pair.

Dateline NBC

  • Jul 17, 2025
  • 27:42
  • Full Episode
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<p>In Colorado, security video takes center stage at the murder trial of dentist James Craig. In the D.C. suburbs, a dramatic pre-trial hearing in the case of Brendan Banfield, accused of plotting to kill his wife and a stranger with the help of the family au pair. And verdicts for both former MLB player Dan Serafini and Iowa farmer's widow Karina Cooper. Plus, a former secret service agent on a scam involving fake cops.<br /><br />Find out more about the cases covered each week here: <a href="http://www.datelinetruecrimeweekly.com/" target="_blank">www.datelinetruecrimeweekly.com</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>

Brief Summary

Dr. James Craig's trial for his wife's murder and Brendan Banfield's alleged conspiracy are discussed, along with verdicts in two other murder cases.

Key points

  • Family Dentist on Trial for Poisoning. A dentist is accused of poisoning his wife's protein shakes with cyanide. The trial reveals shocking evidence.
  • Dramatic Turn in Murder Case. A husband and au pair are accused of a twisted murder plot involving catfishing.
  • Verdict in Major League Baseball Murder Case. Former MLB pitcher Dan Serafini is found guilty of first-degree murder in a shocking case.
  • Scam Alert: Warrant Calls. If someone calls claiming there's a warrant for your arrest, it's likely a scam.
  • Urgency is a Red Flag. A sense of urgency in requests is a major indicator of a scam.
  • Upcoming Mystery on Dateline. A private investigator goes missing, leading detectives on a suspenseful chase.

Tension

75/ 100High tension

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