Episode 338
- Feb 6, 2026
- 1:07:57
- Full Episode
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In East Cleveland, Ohio, Diane Madison - a mother and grandmother - was also a woman remembered fondly by her neighbors. In 2019, she woke to a knife at her throat, and the assailant was her very own grandson, Jalen Plummer. Years earlier, another tragedy had unfolded just steps from her home involving a man who killed three women, ranging in age from 18 to 38.<br /><br />Get instant access to all episodes, including premium unreleased episodes, commercial-free at swordandscale.com
Brief Summary
Two young girls survive a stabbing by their cousin, leading to a tragic family history of violence in East Cleveland.
Key points
- A Night of Horror. On June 21, 2019, two 10-year-old girls escape a stabbing incident in Cleveland.
- The Killer Revealed. The assailant is revealed to be their cousin, Jalen Plummer, just 18 years old.
- A Tragic Legacy. The story unfolds a legacy of violence tied to the family, revealing deeper issues.
- The Call to Police. A cable company worker's call about a foul smell leads to a shocking discovery.
- Michael Madison's Dark Transformation. From a troubled boy to a cold killer, Michael's life takes a sinister turn.
- The Gruesome Crime Scene. Officers uncover a horrific scene in a garage, revealing the extent of the crimes.
Episode highlights
- A Night of HorrorOn June 21, 2019, two 10-year-old girls escape a stabbing incident in Cleveland.“They were making their way to a neighbor's house, but all the time struggling just to stay alive.”7:02Feb 6, 2026
- The Killer RevealedThe assailant is revealed to be their cousin, Jalen Plummer, just 18 years old.“It was 18-year-old Jalen Plummer, their cousin, who was supposed to be staying with an aunt.”13:47Feb 6, 2026
- A Tragic LegacyThe story unfolds a legacy of violence tied to the family, revealing deeper issues.“This wasn't just one terrible night. It was the unveiling of a legacy that had been building long before.”21:12Feb 6, 2026
- The Call to PoliceA cable company worker's call about a foul smell leads to a shocking discovery.“It was the past catching up.”27:20Feb 6, 2026
- Michael Madison's Dark TransformationFrom a troubled boy to a cold killer, Michael's life takes a sinister turn.“He had turned cold.”28:15Feb 6, 2026
- The Gruesome Crime SceneOfficers uncover a horrific scene in a garage, revealing the extent of the crimes.“It was one of the most gruesome crime scenes they'd ever laid their eyes on.”32:07Feb 6, 2026
- The Legacy of AbuseThe defense painted a picture of Michael's traumatic upbringing and its impact on his actions.“Diane's abuse left scars so deep that they helped shape the monster he would later become.”59:03Feb 6, 2026
- Michael Madison's TrialMichael Madison was convicted on multiple counts including aggravated murder and kidnapping.“No mitigating circumstances were going to stand in the way of justice.”1:00:11Feb 6, 2026
Tension
75/ 100High tension
