Patrick Bradford, a police officer, was controversially convicted of murder based largely on circumstantial evidence despite his claims of innocence.
Deborah Nolan's commitment to studying law demonstrates the lengths to which friends and family will go to advocate for the wrongfully accused.
Deep dives
The Life of Patrick Bradford
Patrick Bradford aspired to be a hero, dreaming of a career as a police officer. Initially celebrated for his dedication, he found himself in a tragic situation when his girlfriend, Tammy Lohr, was murdered. Accused of her murder shortly after her death, Bradford maintained his innocence, claiming that he was not involved in the crime. His childhood friend, Deborah Nolan, who has steadfastly supported him, decided to pursue a legal career in hopes of helping him clear his name.
The Crime and Investigation
Tammy Lohr was brutally murdered, suffering 21 stab wounds before her body was set on fire, a crime that shocked the community of Evansville, Indiana. The investigation quickly led police to suspect Bradford, partially due to circumstantial evidence and the nature of their relationship. Despite the lack of hard evidence linking him to the scene, the police focused their efforts on prosecuting Bradford, which raised questions about the investigation’s integrity. A neighbor's observation of Bradford pacing and visibly upset following the fire further complicated the narrative as it fueled suspicion against him.
Trial and Conviction
The trial of Patrick Bradford was fraught with emotion and controversy, as friends and family struggled with feelings of betrayal. Testimonies presented by the prosecution relied heavily on circumstantial evidence, bolstering the argument that he had the motive and opportunity to commit the crime. Although his wife testified to his calm demeanor, the jury eventually convicted him, leading to an 80-year prison sentence. This decision devastatedBradford's family and supporters, who felt he was wrongfully accused and believe that evidence against him was insufficient.
The Fight for Justice
Years after Bradford's conviction, his friends and family continued to seek justice as they believed he was innocent. Deborah Nolan, now a lawyer, remains committed to gathering new evidence to support his claim. They argue that the initial investigation was flawed and that crucial leads were overlooked, particularly concerning an individual with a known grudge against Tammy. With ongoing efforts to reopen the case and present new testimony that challenges the original findings, supporters hope to prove Bradford's innocence and secure a new trial.
Patrick Bradford, a married police officer in Evansville, Indiana, was convicted and sentenced to 80 years in prison for stabbing Tammy Lohr, his 24-year-old mistress, to death and then setting her body on fire. Determined to win his acquittal, Deborah Nolan, a close friend and staunch supporter of Bradford’s, quit her teaching job and went to law school in order to be able to take on his defense. This classic "48 Hours" episode last aired on 4/19/2002. Watch all-new episodes of “48 Hours” on Saturdays, and stream on demand on Paramount+.
