Digest

Marlene Warren, a loving mother and businesswoman, was shot and killed in 1990 by a person dressed as a clown. The case remained unsolved for 27 years, despite the identification of two suspects: Sheila Keane, the mistress of Marlene's husband, Michael Warren, and Michael himself. While Michael had an alibi, Sheila's alibi was shaky, and she was unable to provide any addresses she visited while supposedly looking for repossession vehicles. Investigators found a white Chrysler LaBaron, matching the description of the getaway car, containing orange fibers similar to the clown wig and a brown hair consistent with Sheila's. Sheila's apartment also contained orange fibers similar to those found in the car. Although DNA technology was still in its infancy in 1990, investigators were able to connect Sheila to the car. However, the gun used to kill Marlene and the actual costume the killer clown wore were never found. Despite the circumstantial evidence, Sheila was not arrested. Years later, after Michael Warren was convicted of fraud and sent to prison, the case went cold. In 2017, a cold case unit made a breakthrough using DNA technology to connect Sheila to the car. Sheila had married Michael Warren after he was released from prison, and they had moved to Tennessee. Sheila had changed her name to Debbie and dyed her hair blonde. In 2017, Sheila was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. Her defense attorney argued that she was not the shooter and that the evidence against her was unreliable. In 2023, after years of delays, Sheila pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced to 12 years in prison. She is expected to be released in 2025. While Sheila admitted to the crime, her attorney maintains her innocence. Joe Arons, Marlene's son, approved the plea deal, feeling it was not worth the gamble of going to trial. He is still haunted by the murder of his mother, but he is trying to focus on the good memories he has of her.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction

This Chapter introduces the podcast and its host, Lindsey Graham, and provides a brief overview of the podcast's content, which focuses on American scandals and controversies.

00:00:36

The Clown Murder

This Chapter details the murder of Marlene Warren, a loving mother and businesswoman, who was shot and killed in 1990 by a person dressed as a clown. The chapter describes the events of the day, including the clown's arrival at Marlene's home, the shooting, and the aftermath. It also introduces Joe Arons, Marlene's son, who witnessed the murder and provides a first-hand account of the events.

00:23:23

The Investigation

This Chapter focuses on the investigation into Marlene Warren's murder, which spanned over 27 years. It details the evidence gathered, including the discovery of the getaway car, the clown costume, and the hair and fibers found inside the car. The chapter also discusses the challenges faced by investigators, such as the lack of DNA technology in 1990 and the difficulty of identifying the killer clown due to the disguise.

00:37:30

The Trial

This Chapter covers the trial of Sheila Keen Warren, who was arrested in 2017 and charged with Marlene Warren's murder. It details the delays and challenges faced by both the prosecution and the defense, including the disappearance of crucial evidence and the death of key witnesses. The chapter also discusses the plea deal reached in 2023, which resulted in Sheila pleading guilty to second-degree murder and being sentenced to 12 years in prison.

00:44:18

Conclusion

This Chapter concludes the podcast by reflecting on the impact of Marlene Warren's murder on her son, Joe Arons, and the closure he has found after Sheila Keen Warren's conviction. It also highlights the importance of justice and the enduring memory of Marlene Warren.

Keywords

Q&A

• What was the motive for Marlene Warren's murder?

  The motive for Marlene Warren's murder was likely a combination of factors, including Sheila Keen Warren's desire to be with Michael Warren and the financial benefits that Michael would receive from Marlene's death. Marlene had several businesses, including apartment complexes, and the couple ran Bargain Motors, specializing in used cars and rentals. By her predeceasing him, Michael was able to obtain 100% of the assets.

• What evidence was used to convict Sheila Keen Warren?

  The evidence used to convict Sheila Keen Warren included orange fibers found in the getaway car that were similar to the fibers in the clown wig, a brown hair found in the car that was consistent with Sheila's hair, and the testimony of witnesses who saw Sheila purchase a clown costume and flowers shortly before the murder. While DNA technology was still in its infancy in 1990, investigators were able to connect Sheila to the car using DNA evidence in 2017.

• Why did the trial of Sheila Keen Warren take so long?

  The trial of Sheila Keen Warren was delayed for several reasons, including the disappearance of crucial evidence, the death of key witnesses, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The defense also argued that the evidence against Sheila was unreliable and that the investigation was poorly conducted. These delays made it difficult for the prosecution to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt.

• What was the outcome of the trial?

  Sheila Keen Warren pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced to 12 years in prison. She is expected to be released in 2025. While Sheila admitted to the crime, her attorney maintains her innocence. Joe Arons, Marlene's son, approved the plea deal, feeling it was not worth the gamble of going to trial.

• What impact did Marlene Warren's murder have on her son, Joe Arons?

  Marlene Warren's murder had a devastating impact on her son, Joe Arons. He witnessed the murder and was left to deal with the trauma of the event. He struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction in the years following his mother's death. However, he eventually emerged from the fog of drugs and despair and became increasingly certain of who murdered his mother. He is still haunted by the murder of his mother, but he is trying to focus on the good memories he has of her.

Show Notes