The Ruse
- Dec 9, 2025
- 28:37
- Full Episode
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When Tom Perez Sr. fails to return home after a trip to check the mail, Tom Jr. calls police — only to find himself the focus of their investigation until a stunning revelation upends the case. Lester Holt reports.
Keith Morrison and Lester Holt go behind the scenes of the making of this episode in ‘Talking Dateline’
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Brief Summary
Tom Perez Jr. is wrongfully suspected of murdering his father, leading to intense police interrogation tactics and shocking revelations about the case.
Key points
- A Shocking Discovery. Detectives find overwhelming evidence of blood in Tom Jr.'s home, suggesting foul play.
- The Moment of Truth. Tom Jr. learns that his father is dead, but his reaction raises suspicions.
- The Ruse Unveiled. Police reveal they lied about finding Tom Sr.'s body, leading to a shocking twist.
- Virginia Bars Police Deception. Virginia becomes the 11th state to prohibit police from lying during interrogations, but only for juveniles.
- Emotional Response to Interrogation. Mr. Perez's emotional reaction during the interrogation raises concerns about police practices.
- Apology from Fontana. Fontana police apologize to Tom Perez, surprising many as they previously claimed no wrongdoing.
Episode highlights
- The Moment of TruthTom Jr. learns that his father is dead, but his reaction raises suspicions.“You don't even care if we find your dad. And he's dead.”18:55Dec 9, 2025
- The Ruse UnveiledPolice reveal they lied about finding Tom Sr.'s body, leading to a shocking twist.“Police had lied about finding his dad's body.”18:59Dec 9, 2025
- Virginia Bars Police DeceptionVirginia becomes the 11th state to prohibit police from lying during interrogations, but only for juveniles.25:55Dec 9, 2025
- Emotional Response to InterrogationMr. Perez's emotional reaction during the interrogation raises concerns about police practices.“It's uncomfortable to watch Mr. Perez as he has an emotional response.”26:58Dec 9, 2025
- Apology from FontanaFontana police apologize to Tom Perez, surprising many as they previously claimed no wrongdoing.“Yes. Yeah, that would surprise me.”27:39Dec 9, 2025
Episode quotes
Tension
85/ 100High tension
