Episode 534: The Story of Laurie Bembenek and the Tragic Murder of Christine Schultz (With Special Guest Holly Madison)
Feb 1, 2024
auto_awesome
Former Playboy Playmate Holly Madison joins the show to discuss the tragic murder of Christine Schultz and the trial and escape of Laurie Bembenek. They also explore police misconduct and corruption, the toxic friendship of Laurie and Judy, and the scrutiny of women on trial. The chapter delves into conflicting testimonies and controversies surrounding the case, emphasizing the importance of finding the truth.
Laurie Bembenek faced unfair treatment and sexism within the Milwaukee Police Department.
Laurie Bembenek was wrongfully convicted of murder based on circumstantial evidence and biased perceptions.
Despite facing difficulties in prison, Laurie Bembenek managed to escape with a detailed plan and formed a relationship with a detective on the Milwaukee Police Department.
Deep dives
Lori Ben-Benwick's Unfair Dismissal from the Police Force
Lori Ben-Benwick, a former Playboy bunny, started a career in the Milwaukee Police Department but was dismissed unfairly due to a minor incident involving a friend. She noticed a double standard within the department, with male officers getting away with misconduct while women and people of color faced greater scrutiny. Feeling frustrated, Lori filed a lawsuit against the police department. However, her lawsuit hindered her plans to join the military. She turned to working as a Playboy bunny but longed for a more meaningful challenge.
Lori Ben-Benwick's Wrongful Conviction
Lori Ben-Benwick found herself at the center of a murder case when her husband's ex-wife, Christine Schultz, was killed. Despite circumstantial evidence, including witness testimony from a friend named Judy Zess, Lori was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison. The evidence presented at the trial primarily focused on her reputation as a Playboy bunny, her appearance, and the alleged possession of a green tracksuit. The jury ignored the eyewitness account of Christine's own son, who insisted the killer was a man.
Life in Prison and Escape Attempt
While serving her sentence, Lori Ben-Benwick worked tirelessly to appeal her conviction and actively participated in activities within the prison, such as starting a newspaper and advocating for better conditions. She received little support, only receiving two letters from her husband, in which he informed her of his intention to divorce her. Lori eventually married another man she met during prison visits, and they devised a detailed plan to escape by obtaining fake identities through the use of birth certificates from deceased infants. Their plan included driving across the border to Canada.
Lori's Connection to Fred Schultz and the Police Department
Despite Lori's grudge against the police department, she formed a relationship with Fred Schultz, a detective on the Milwaukee Police Department. They fell in love, despite threats Lori received for pursuing her case against the police. The connection with someone on the police force may have provided a sense of safety and protection.
Christine Schultz's Murder and the Investigation
Christine, Fred's ex-wife, was tragically murdered in her home. Her eldest son witnessed the attack and described the perpetrator as a man in a green tracksuit with a long red ponytail. Despite multiple sightings of a similar-looking individual in the neighborhood, no arrests were made. The investigation uncovered conflicting evidence, mishandled case details, and questions about the murder weapon, raising doubts about Lori's involvement.
Holly Madison joins us to give us a sneak peak at one of the cases they are covering on Season Two of the Playboy Murders. We talk about the tragic murder of Christine Schultz and the trial, conviction, and escape of Laurie Bembenek. It's a tragic story that is light on justice for anyone!
She also chats with us about the second season overall of the Playboy Murders which premiers on January 22nd! You can find it on Investigation ID and stream it on MAX!