Eric Plunkett and Benjamin Varner
Summary
This episode covers the 2000-2001 murders of Gallaudet University students Eric Plunkett and Benjamin Varner, who were killed by fellow student Joseph Mesa. The hosts discuss how Mesa exploited the deaf community’s lack of auditory awareness to commit the crimes, which were motivated by robbery. They analyze the police’s initial failure to investigate Mesa despite his connections to both victims and his suspicious financial activities, such as cashing a victim’s check. The episode concludes with Mesa’s confession and trial, where he claimed insanity due to visual hallucinations, though pros…
Topics discussed
Intro and BKFC 94 fight card preview
Patreon shoutouts and weekly schedule
Clara Rector case recap and confession
Eric Plunkett's background and deafness
Eric's childhood dreams and personality
Gallaudet University culture and community
Eric's death and initial investigation
Dorm life realities and decomposition smells
Sponsor: Ollie dog food
Hate crime angle and Thomas Mensch arrest
Benjamin's death and Joseph Mesa connection
Investigation leads and forensic evidence
Sponsor: Chime banking
Joseph Mesa's confession and motive
Joseph's background and prior incidents
Police failures and robbery motive debate
Sponsor: SmartBuddy insurance
Detailed account of the murders
Insanity defense and black hands claim
Verdict, sentencing, and serial killer profile
Listener mail and outro
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