The Cliff’s Edge

Dateline NBC

  • Jul 27, 2021
  • 41:53
  • Full Episode
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In this Dateline classic, a romantic night out goes terribly wrong when Jody Scharf falls from the edge of a cliff. But was it an accident -- or was she pushed? Chris Jansing reports. Originally aired on NBC on August 12, 2011.

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Brief Summary

Stephen Scharf is convicted of murdering his wife Jody after she falls from a cliff, revealing a troubled marriage and potential motives.

Key points

  • A Love Story Turns Tragic. Stephen and Jody's idyllic relationship takes a dark turn when Jody falls from a cliff.
  • The Night of the Accident. A romantic evening ends in tragedy as Jody falls from the cliff, leading to chaos.
  • Suspicion Arises. Detectives begin to doubt Stephen's account of Jody's fall, leading to a deeper investigation.
  • The Case Reopened. Years later, a new prosecutor and forensic pathologist revisit Jody's mysterious death.
  • A Son's Testimony. Jonathan Scharf takes the stand against his father, revealing dark family secrets.
  • A Son's Testimony. Jonathan Scharf testifies against his father, painting him as abusive and violent.

Tension

75/ 100High tension

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