#505 - Murder Mansion Mystery - Libertyville, Illinois
Digest
This episode of Small Town Murder delves into the shocking murder of Bruce and Darlene Rouse in Libertyville, Illinois, a town known for its affluence and low crime rate. The episode begins with a description of Libertyville, highlighting its history, demographics, and cost of living. The town's affluent nature is evident in its median household income of $153,674, but the high cost of living, particularly housing, is also a significant factor. The episode then shifts to the murder itself, which occurred in the Rouse family's 13-room mansion on seven and a half acres. The police discovered the bodies of Bruce and Darlene covered in a red, white, and blue sheet, with Bruce's lower jaw completely shot off and the top of Darlene's head missing. The episode explores the Rouse family dynamics, revealing a seemingly perfect family from the outside but with underlying tensions and dysfunction. Bruce, a successful businessman who owned several gas stations and invested in various ventures, was a workaholic who was rarely home. Darlene, on the other hand, had an active social life, playing bridge and bowling regularly. The episode also delves into the personalities of the Rouse children: Kurt, a 20-year-old musician who lived in a guesthouse on the property; Robin, a 16-year-old daughter who discovered the bodies; and Billy, a 15-year-old son who was described as a troublemaker from a young age. The episode concludes with a discussion of the investigation, which initially focused on robbery as a possible motive but later shifted to other possibilities, including family conflicts and potential involvement of the children. The episode leaves the audience with a sense of mystery and intrigue, prompting them to consider the complex dynamics of the Rouse family and the potential motives behind the brutal murders. This chapter focuses on the Rouse children, particularly Billy, who was described as a troublemaker from a young age. The episode details several incidents involving Billy, including setting off a false fire alarm at school, being fake arrested by his father, and setting his own bed on fire. The episode also discusses Billy's learning difficulties and his eventual placement in a correctional school. The chapter then shifts to Kurt, who initially excelled in high school but became unmotivated and lazy after graduation. His parents attempted to encourage him to join the army, but he refused and eventually moved into the guesthouse on the property. The chapter concludes with a discussion of Robin, who was described as the apple of her father's eye. The episode highlights the close relationship between Robin and her father, as well as the tensions between Robin and her brother Kurt. The chapter also mentions rumors of domestic abuse between Bruce and Darlene. The episode then delves into the aftermath of the murders, focusing on the Rouse children's inheritance and the subsequent sale of the mansion. The episode reveals that the mansion was purchased by individuals associated with the Chicago mafia, who transformed it into a gambling casino with cocktail lounges and valet parking. The episode then details a murder that occurred at the mansion, involving a bookmaker named Robert Plummer who was strangled and beaten to death. The episode explores the involvement of mob figures in the casino and their eventual acquittal of the murder charges. The episode also discusses the subsequent sale of the mansion and its reputation as a cursed house. The episode then shifts to the investigation into the murders, highlighting the police's focus on Robin as a potential witness and their attempts to secure her testimony. The episode details Robin's tragic death in a car accident, which further complicates the investigation. The episode then explores the lives of the remaining Rouse children, Kurt and Billy, after the murders. Kurt moves to Northern California and lives a reclusive life on a large plot of land, while Billy becomes a big spender in Key West, Florida. The episode details Billy's arrest for stabbing a man during a chess game and his subsequent conviction for the murders of his parents. The episode concludes with a discussion of Billy's confession and his sentencing to 80 years in prison. The episode also discusses the ongoing debate about Billy's guilt, with some people believing that he is innocent and others believing that he is guilty. The episode ends with a discussion of Billy's projected parole date, which is February 24th, 2027.
Outlines
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Introduction
This Chapter introduces the podcast Small Town Murder and its hosts, James Petrigallo and Jimmy Wissman. They also mention Wondery Plus, a subscription service that allows listeners to access exclusive content.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Murder Mansion in Libertyville
This Chapter introduces the case of the Rouse family murder in Libertyville, Illinois. The town is described as a seemingly perfect and affluent community with a low crime rate. The episode highlights the family's wealth and their large mansion on seven and a half acres.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Rouse Family
This Chapter delves into the background of the Rouse family, focusing on Bruce, a successful businessman who owned several gas stations and invested in various ventures. Darlene, Bruce's wife, is described as a social butterfly who enjoyed playing bridge and bowling. The episode also introduces the Rouse children: Kurt, a 20-year-old musician; Robin, a 16-year-old daughter; and Billy, a 15-year-old son.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Discovery of the Bodies
This Chapter details the discovery of Bruce and Darlene's bodies by their daughter, Robin. The scene is described as horrific, with blood everywhere and the bodies covered in a red, white, and blue sheet. The episode highlights the gruesome nature of the murders, with Bruce's lower jaw completely shot off and the top of Darlene's head missing.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Bruce Rouse's Background
This Chapter provides a detailed account of Bruce Rouse's life and career. He is described as a hardworking and successful businessman who built his fortune through gas stations, real estate, and investments in cable television companies. The episode highlights his dedication to work and his hands-on approach to his businesses.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Darlene Rouse's Background
This Chapter focuses on Darlene Rouse, Bruce's wife. The episode describes her active social life, her involvement in bridge clubs, and her daily bowling routine. It also mentions the family's seemingly perfect image from the outside, despite underlying tensions and dysfunction.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Rouse Children
This Chapter explores the personalities and backgrounds of the Rouse children. Billy, the youngest son, is described as a troublemaker from a young age. Robin, the daughter, is portrayed as a typical teenager who was close to her brother Kurt, a 20-year-old musician who lived in a guesthouse on the property.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Investigation
This Chapter discusses the initial investigation into the murders. The police initially considered robbery as a possible motive but later explored other possibilities, including family conflicts and potential involvement of the children. The episode leaves the audience with a sense of mystery and intrigue, prompting them to consider the complex dynamics of the Rouse family and the potential motives behind the brutal murders.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Billy's Troubled Past
This Chapter delves into the troubled past of Billy Rouse, the youngest son of the Rouse family. The episode details several incidents involving Billy, including setting off a false fire alarm at school, being fake arrested by his father, and setting his own bed on fire. The episode also discusses Billy's learning difficulties and his eventual placement in a correctional school.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Kurt's Lack of Ambition
This Chapter focuses on Kurt Rouse, the eldest son of the Rouse family. The episode details Kurt's initial success in high school, where he excelled in sports and academics. However, after graduation, Kurt became unmotivated and lazy, refusing to pursue higher education or a career. His parents attempted to encourage him to join the army, but he refused and eventually moved into the guesthouse on the property.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Robin's Relationship with Her Family
This Chapter explores the relationship between Robin Rouse, the daughter of the Rouse family, and her family members. The episode highlights the close relationship between Robin and her father, as well as the tensions between Robin and her brother Kurt. The chapter also mentions rumors of domestic abuse between Bruce and Darlene.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Mansion's Aftermath
This Chapter discusses the aftermath of the murders, focusing on the Rouse children's inheritance and the subsequent sale of the mansion. The episode reveals that the mansion was purchased by individuals associated with the Chicago mafia, who transformed it into a gambling casino with cocktail lounges and valet parking. The episode then details a murder that occurred at the mansion, involving a bookmaker named Robert Plummer who was strangled and beaten to death. The episode explores the involvement of mob figures in the casino and their eventual acquittal of the murder charges. The episode also discusses the subsequent sale of the mansion and its reputation as a cursed house.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Investigation Continues
This Chapter highlights the police's focus on Robin as a potential witness and their attempts to secure her testimony. The episode details Robin's tragic death in a car accident, which further complicates the investigation.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Rouse Children's Lives After the Murders
This Chapter explores the lives of the remaining Rouse children, Kurt and Billy, after the murders. Kurt moves to Northern California and lives a reclusive life on a large plot of land, while Billy becomes a big spender in Key West, Florida.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Billy's Arrest and Conviction
This Chapter details Billy's arrest for stabbing a man during a chess game and his subsequent conviction for the murders of his parents.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
Billy's Confession and Sentencing
This Chapter concludes with a discussion of Billy's confession and his sentencing to 80 years in prison.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Aftermath of the Murders
This Chapter discusses the aftermath of the murders, focusing on the Rouse children's inheritance and the subsequent sale of the mansion. The episode reveals that the mansion was purchased by individuals associated with the Chicago mafia, who transformed it into a gambling casino with cocktail lounges and valet parking. The episode then details a murder that occurred at the mansion, involving a bookmaker named Robert Plummer who was strangled and beaten to death. The episode explores the involvement of mob figures in the casino and their eventual acquittal of the murder charges. The episode also discusses the subsequent sale of the mansion and its reputation as a cursed house.
![](https://s3.castbox.fm/webstatic/images/book.5d108c35.png)
The Ongoing Debate About Billy's Guilt
This Chapter discusses the ongoing debate about Billy's guilt, with some people believing that he is innocent and others believing that he is guilty. The episode ends with a discussion of Billy's projected parole date, which is February 24th, 2027.
Keywords
Small Town Murder
Small Town Murder is a true crime podcast that explores murders and other crimes that have occurred in small towns across the United States. The podcast is hosted by James Petrigallo and Jimmy Wissman, who provide a comedic and insightful look at these cases.
Libertyville, Illinois
Libertyville is a town located in Lake County, Illinois, about an hour north of Chicago. It is known for its affluent population, low crime rate, and high cost of living. The town has a rich history, dating back to the 1830s, and is home to a variety of businesses, restaurants, and attractions.
Bruce Rouse
Bruce Rouse was a successful businessman who owned several gas stations and invested in various ventures, including cable television companies and real estate. He was known for his hardworking nature and his hands-on approach to his businesses. He was murdered in his home in Libertyville, Illinois, in 1980.
Darlene Rouse
Darlene Rouse was the wife of Bruce Rouse. She was a social butterfly who enjoyed playing bridge and bowling. She was also murdered in her home in Libertyville, Illinois, in 1980.
Rouse Family
The Rouse family consisted of Bruce and Darlene Rouse, their three children: Kurt, Robin, and Billy. The family lived in a large mansion on seven and a half acres in Libertyville, Illinois. The family was seemingly perfect from the outside, but there were underlying tensions and dysfunction.
True Crime
True crime is a genre of media that focuses on real-life crimes and their investigations. True crime podcasts, documentaries, and books are popular forms of entertainment and often explore the psychology of criminals, the victims, and the justice system.
Murder Mystery
A murder mystery is a genre of fiction that involves the investigation of a murder. Murder mysteries often feature detectives, suspects, and clues that lead to the solution of the crime. The genre is known for its suspense, intrigue, and twists.
Affluent
Affluent refers to having a lot of wealth and money. Affluent communities are often characterized by high property values, expensive homes, and a high standard of living.
Suburb
A suburb is a residential area located outside of a city. Suburbs are often characterized by single-family homes, lower population density, and a more relaxed atmosphere than cities.
Workaholic
A workaholic is a person who is addicted to work and spends an excessive amount of time working. Workaholics often neglect their personal lives and relationships in favor of their careers.
Chicago Mafia
The Chicago Outfit, also known as the Chicago Mafia, is a powerful organized crime syndicate that has been active in Chicago and surrounding areas since the early 20th century. The Outfit is known for its involvement in various criminal activities, including gambling, racketeering, and murder.
Pontiac Correctional Center
The Pontiac Correctional Center is a maximum-security prison located in Pontiac, Illinois. It is one of the oldest and largest prisons in the state, and has a long history of violence and unrest.
Forensic Psychology
Forensic psychology is a branch of psychology that applies psychological principles to legal issues. Forensic psychologists often work with law enforcement, courts, and correctional facilities to assess and treat offenders, provide expert testimony, and conduct research on criminal behavior.
Q&A
What was the name of the town where the murder took place?
The murder took place in Libertyville, Illinois.
What was the name of the family that was murdered?
The family that was murdered was the Rouse family.
What was Bruce Rouse's occupation?
Bruce Rouse was a successful businessman who owned several gas stations and invested in various ventures.
What was Darlene Rouse's social life like?
Darlene Rouse had an active social life, playing bridge and bowling regularly.
What were the names of the Rouse children?
The Rouse children were Kurt, Robin, and Billy.
What was the initial motive considered by the police in the Rouse murder investigation?
The police initially considered robbery as a possible motive.
What were some of the other possibilities explored by the police in the Rouse murder investigation?
The police also explored other possibilities, including family conflicts and potential involvement of the children.
What was the name of the podcast that covered the Rouse murder?
The podcast that covered the Rouse murder was Small Town Murder.
What was the name of the podcast host who discussed the Rouse murder?
The podcast host who discussed the Rouse murder was James Petrigallo.
What was the name of the podcast co-host who discussed the Rouse murder?
The podcast co-host who discussed the Rouse murder was Jimmy Wissman.
What is Billy Rouse's projected parole date?
Billy Rouse's projected parole date is February 24th, 2027.
What is Billy Rouse's projected discharge date?
Billy Rouse's projected discharge date is February 24th, 2030.
Show Notes
This week, in Libertyville, Illinois, the perfect family has the perfect house, in the perfect neighborhood. This all comes crashing down, one stormy night, when two horrific murders take place. It becomes a huge mystery, because family members won't let the teenage children talk to police. Was it the stoner son, who wouldn't join the army, like his dad wanted him to? The seemingly perfect, horse riding daughter? The youngest son, who has been in trouble his whole life?
Along the way, we find out that Burlington Coat Factory is an awful place, and we all go there, that seeing someone toss something off a bridge during a night time thunderstorm might be the creepiest thing, ever, and that once in a while, time will loosen a murderer's defenses!!
Hosted by James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman
New episodes every Thursday!
Donate at: patreon.com/crimeinsports or go to paypal.com and use our email: crimeinsports@gmail.com
Go to shutupandgivememurder.com for all things Small Town Murder & Crime In Sports!
Follow us on...
twitter.com/@murdersmall
facebook.com/smalltownpod
instagram.com/smalltownmurder
Also, check out James & Jimmie's other show, Crime In Sports! On Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Wondery, Wondery+, Stitcher, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.