S2, Ep. 2 | The Pursuit
Summary
This episode of Bear Brook explores the 1988 murder of Sharon Johnson and the investigation led by New Hampshire State Police Detective Roland Lammy, whose intimidating, Kojak-like persona shaped the case’s narrative. The story details the initial suspicion of Sharon’s husband, Ken Johnson, and the pivotal role of 19-year-old Tony Puff, who claimed to have moved Sharon’s car at Ken’s request. After a failed sting operation in Rhode Island, Lammy became convinced that Puff had tipped off Ken, leading to a controversial theory of conspiracy that would ultimately result in a wrongful conviction.
Topics discussed
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Previously on Bear Brook: The power of conviction
Detective Roland Lammy and the Kojak comparison
Lammy's reputation and the 1985 barrel case
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Introduction: The story of Sharon Johnson's murder
Discovery of the body and Sharon's last known movements
Mysteries: The suspect 'Bob' and the missing Subaru
Ken Johnson: The prime suspect and family suspicions
Gambling debts, the fake 'Bob', and lack of evidence
Investigation stalls and Detective Lammy takes over
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Tony Puff's confession about moving the car
The road trip to Rhode Island and Tony Puff's background
The sting operation and Ken's denial
Lammy's suspicion of a tip-off and the Oedipus Rex quote
Interviews with Lammy and his continued pursuit of Ken
Teaser for next episode and production credits
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