On July 4, 1954, Marilyn Sheppard was tragically killed in her home in Bay Village, Ohio. Her body was found upstairs and the town mayor quickly notified the local police, Dr. Sheppard’s brother (also a doctor), and the neighbors. The local police contacted the coroner and Cleveland Police Department for assistance. The coroner confirmed Marilyn Sheppard’s death at the scene and examined Dr. Sheppard before taking him to his clinic for further evaluation.
Both Dr. Sheppard and the neighbors were thoroughly investigated by Cleveland Police Department authorities.Dr.Sheppard was later questioned while under sedation in a hospital bed without legal representation present.On July 7th during Marilyn Sheppard’s funeral, her family declined immediate questioning but on July 8th Dr.Shepparad received a subpoena and fully cooperated afterwards.The next day (July 9th), he provided detailed information about his wife’s murder to various individuals including the coroner (Dr.Gerber), police officers,and news reporters.This led to extensive media coverage.On July 20th, an editorial expressed concerns about Dr. Shepparad potentially avoiding punishment for murder due to personal connections and hired lawyers. Detective McArthur later revealed on July 26th that evidence at the crime scene had been tampered with. It was also discovered that Dr. Shepparad had engaged in an extramarital affair with Susan Hayes. On July 30th, he was arrested at his father’s home and promptly arraigned, being held for trial by a grand jury.
Dr. Samuel Sheppard, who was indicted for murder on August 17, immediately proclaimed his innocence the following day. The trial took place during the November General Elections and involved both the Chief Prosecutor, who was running as a candidate, and Judge Blythin seeking reelection.
Jury selection began on October 18, and the high-profile trial concluded after just nine weeks. Ultimately, Dr.Sheppard was found guilty of the murder.
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