Forensic Files

Episode 5

Sword and Scale

  • Jan 29, 2014
  • 54:27
  • Full Episode
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Imagine a criminal conspiracy and cover-up so so massive in scale, involving the highest levels of government and industry, that it threatens the very fabric of the American system. Now imagine that the crimes of this criminal syndicate are so horrible, so horrendous, that the mere mention of them would be frowned upon in polite society, and the very idea of such a conspiracy being possible would be laughable and downright absurd. Yet, in September of 1982, the unexplained disappearance of a 12-year-old boy named Johnny Gosch, set a series of events into motion that would have earth-shattering ramifications to this day. In this episode of Sword and Scale, we'll delve into Part 1 of a series titled The Massive Cover-Up one of the strangest and most outrageous criminal conspiracy theories ever told, including audio from many of those who witnessed the story unfolding firsthand. We're also delve into all the bizarre side-stories that spin off like fractals into their own mysterious endings. The show concludes with a viral video that made headlines last week. In keeping with the theme, it is that of a sexual abuse victim named Jamie that decided that if the law wasn't going to help her, perhaps YouTube and the outrage of millions could. You won't want to miss this clip.<br /><br />Get instant access to all episodes, including premium unreleased episodes, commercial-free at swordandscale.com

Brief Summary

Key points

  • The Day Everything Changed. On September 5th, a mother’s life is shattered when her son is kidnapped.
  • A Disturbing Discovery. The police chief's shocking behavior raises red flags in the investigation.
  • The FBI's Dismissal. The FBI refuses to take the case, leaving the family feeling helpless.
  • A Break in the Case. A new lead surfaces linking Johnny's kidnapping to a larger scandal.
  • The Franklin Cover-Up. A former senator reveals a conspiracy involving child prostitution and powerful figures.
  • Troy Bonner's Testimony. Troy Bonner shares his harrowing experiences of abuse at the hands of Larry King.

Episode highlights

Tension

76/ 100High tension

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