The true crime genre has always been a fascinating and chilling look into the minds of killers and the intricate investigations that follow. A new six-part series commissioned by A+E Networks EMEA, entitled Faces of Evil, takes a deep dive into flawed investigations surrounding notorious killers from both the U.S. and the UK. The series produced by Woodcut Media for Crime + Investigation sheds light on the twists and turns of cases such as the ‘Death House Landlady’ Dorothea Puente and ‘Kansas City Butcher’ Robert Berdella Jr.
One of the most shocking cases explored in the series is that of Dorothea Puente, who managed to deceive everyone around her into thinking she was a harmless old lady for over a decade. Puente was eventually charged with nine counts of murder in California, highlighting the flaws in the investigation that allowed her to evade capture for so long. Similarly, Robert Berdella Jr., known as the ‘Kansas City Butcher,’ kidnapped, raped, and murdered at least six young men in the 1980s before facing consequences for his horrendous crimes.
From the UK, the series delves into cases like those of Billy Dunlop and Russell Bishop, both of whom managed to escape conviction for murders with compelling evidence against them. Julie Hogg and Nicola Fellows, along with Karen Hadaway, were victims of these flawed investigations that failed to bring the perpetrators to justice. Despite the missteps and flawed procedures in these cases, the series emphasizes the persistence and courage of those who refused to accept defeat in their pursuit of justice.
Woodcut International is handling the worldwide sales of the series, aiming to present it to international buyers at the upcoming MIPCOM market. The executive producers, Matthew Gordon and Koulla Anastasi, along with series producer Tracey Moore, have worked tirelessly to bring these important stories to light. The collaboration between A+E Networks EMEA and Woodcut Media showcases the significance of exploring how killers, despite their heinous acts, managed to slip through the cracks in law enforcement systems on both sides of the Atlantic.
In the words of Dan Korn, VP of Programming at A+E Networks EMEA, Faces of Evil serves as a reminder of the efforts made by the families of victims to ensure that these crimes do not go unpunished. Koulla Anastasi, Commercial Director of Woodcut Media, underscores the importance of highlighting the advancements in forensics that have drastically improved the speed at which crimes are being resolved. Each episode of the series focuses on the quest for justice, showcasing the evolution of law enforcement and the resilience of those affected by these tragic events.
As the series prepares to debut on the Crime + Investigation platform, viewers can expect a gripping and thought-provoking journey into the world of flawed investigations and the pursuit of justice. The true crime industry, as highlighted by the series, continues to evolve with a focus on ensuring that justice is served for all victims. With the tragic loss of producer John Balson earlier this year, the industry has also taken steps to prioritize the well-being of its members, ensuring that their important work is supported and recognized. Woodcut founder Kate Beal’s efforts in establishing the UK’s Association of True Crime Producers further demonstrate a commitment to the safety and well-being of those involved in producing content that shines a light on these dark and troubling cases.
Leave a Reply