Digest

This episode of Natural Selection delves into the chilling murder of Benji Novak, a multi-millionaire businessman from a prominent Miami family. The investigation uncovers a tangled web of relationships, fueled by greed and ambition. Benji's wife, Narcy, emerges as the central figure, her motive driven by a desire to secure his fortune. The episode reveals a history of infidelity and a strained relationship between Benji and Narcy, culminating in a shocking revelation: Narcy orchestrated the murder of her husband and his mother, Bernice. The episode explores the intricate details of the investigation, including the discovery of a hitman, the role of Narcy's brother, Cristobal, and the shocking truth behind Bernice's death. The episode concludes with the conviction of Narcy and Cristobal for both murders, highlighting the dark side of human nature and the lengths to which people will go for power and wealth.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction

This Chapter introduces the podcast, Natural Selection, and its host, Candice D'Long. It also mentions that Wondry Plus subscribers can listen to the podcast ad-free.

00:00:06

The Victim: Benji Novak

This Chapter introduces the victim, Benji Novak, a wealthy businessman from a prominent Miami family. It details his background, including his family's ownership of the famous Fountain Blue Hotel, his own successful convention business, and his eccentric personality. It also mentions his complicated relationships with his wife, Narcy, and his mother, Bernice.

00:01:11

The Murder Investigation

This Chapter focuses on the investigation into Benji's murder. It details the gruesome crime scene, the initial suspicions surrounding Narcy, and the discovery of inconsistencies in her story. The chapter also explores the timeline of events leading up to the murder, including Benji's last known movements and Narcy's actions in the hours after his death.

00:20:15

Expanding the Investigation

This Chapter details the expansion of the investigation beyond the initial focus on Narcy. It explores the complex relationships within Benji's family, including the strained relationship between Narcy and Bernice, and the close bond between Benji and his mother. The chapter also introduces May Abad, Narcy's daughter, and her suspicions about her mother's involvement in Benji's death.

00:30:38

Bernice's Death: A Second Look

This Chapter revisits the death of Bernice Novak, Benji's mother. It raises questions about the circumstances surrounding her death, which was initially ruled an accident. The chapter explores the inconsistencies in the official narrative, including the amount of blood found at the scene and the suspicious behavior of Narcy. It also introduces the Offerdals, Bernice's neighbors, who witnessed a suspicious incident at her house shortly before her death.

00:35:59

The Truth Unravels

This Chapter reveals the shocking truth behind Bernice's death. It details the confession of Alejandro Garcia, one of the hitmen hired by Narcy, who admits to killing both Benji and Bernice. The chapter also explores the motive behind Narcy's actions, which was driven by greed and a desire to secure Benji's fortune.

00:37:07

Trial and Conviction

This Chapter details the trial of Narcy Novak and Cristobal Vellice for the murders of Benji and Bernice. It highlights the overwhelming evidence presented by the prosecution, including the testimony of the hitmen, the discovery of Narcy's secret cell phone, and the inconsistencies in her alibi. The chapter concludes with the conviction of both Narcy and Cristobal, bringing an end to a complex and shocking case.

Keywords

Q&A

• What was the motive behind Narcy Novak's murder of Benji and Bernice?

  Narcy's motive was driven by greed and a desire to secure Benji's fortune. She was afraid that he was going to leave her in a divorce, which would have left her with only a small amount of money under their prenuptial agreement.

• How did investigators uncover the truth behind Bernice Novak's death?

  Investigators initially ruled Bernice's death an accident, but reporter Julie Brown uncovered inconsistencies in the official narrative. She discovered evidence of blood spatter at the scene, which suggested that Bernice had been struck multiple times in the head. This led to a re-investigation, which revealed that Bernice had been murdered by Alejandro Garcia, one of the hitmen hired by Narcy.

• What role did Cristobal Vellice play in the murders?

  Cristobal Vellice, Narcy's brother, was involved in hiring the hitmen and providing them with financial support. He was convicted of assisting his sister in the murders of Benji and Bernice Novak.

• What was the significance of Narcy's secret cell phone?

  Narcy used a secret cell phone to call the hitmen as they waited at a gas station down the street from the hotel where Benji was murdered. This phone call provided crucial evidence linking Narcy to the crime.

• What was the outcome of the trial?

  Narcy Novak and Cristobal Vellice were convicted of orchestrating the murders of Benji and Bernice Novak. They were sentenced to life in prison without parole.

• What was the most surprising aspect of the case?

  The most surprising aspect of the case was the revelation that Narcy Novak was not only involved in planning the murders, but she was also present during the brutal assault on Benji. She even directed the hitmen to gouge out his eyes.

• What was the impact of the murders on the Novak family?

  The murders had a devastating impact on the Novak family. Benji's legacy was tarnished, and his fortune was quickly depleted by legal fees and family disputes. The once-prominent family was left in ruins.

• What lessons can be learned from this case?

  This case highlights the dark side of human nature and the lengths to which people will go for power and wealth. It also underscores the importance of thorough investigations and the need to question official narratives, even when they seem convincing.

• What was the role of the media in this case?

  The media played a significant role in uncovering the truth behind the murders. Reporter Julie Brown's relentless investigation and her willingness to question official narratives were crucial in exposing the truth about Bernice's death. The media also helped to bring attention to the case and ensure that justice was served.

• What was the impact of the case on the community?

  The case shocked the community and raised questions about the safety and security of wealthy individuals. It also highlighted the dangers of greed and the importance of family relationships.

Show Notes