Gone South S4|E4: Interview With A Serial Killer
Oct 23, 2024
Diane Fanning, a true-crime author known for her exploration of serial killer Tommy Lynn Sells, shares her gripping journey into the case of Julie Rea, wrongfully convicted of her son's murder. She discusses the shocking flaws in the prosecution's arguments and the emotional toll of interviewing a notorious killer. Fanning reveals her quest for justice as new evidence emerges, intertwining a story of manipulation and survival. Her experiences highlight the psychological complexities of crime, innocence, and the search for truth.
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Fanning's Discovery
- Author Diane Fanning watched a 20/20 episode about Julie Rea, convicted of murdering her son.
- Fanning noticed flaws in the prosecution's argument, recalling her work on serial killer Tommy Lynn Sells.
Prosecutor's Flawed Logic
- The prosecutor's claims about typical criminal behavior, like never using a victim's weapon, seemed inaccurate to Fanning.
- Her experience with Sells contradicted these claims, suggesting other potential suspects.
Sells's Eerie Knowledge
- Fanning wrote to Sells, omitting key details of the case, to gauge his reaction.
- Sells's reply eerily asked if the crime occurred two days before one he committed, matching Joel's murder date.