ABC News Studios and the popular true-crime docuseries “20/20” have announced a new special edition called “The Interrogation Tapes.” This series will examine some of the most fascinating criminal cases in recent history by focusing on the tactics used during interrogations. The show aims to uncover the methods and strategies employed by detectives to elicit confessions from suspects.
Each episode will feature experts in interrogation techniques, as well as ABC News legal correspondents Ryan Smith, Brian Buckmire, and Jami Floyd. Together, they will analyze the science and tactics behind interrogations, providing viewers with unique insights into this high-pressure environment.
The first episode, titled “With Friends Like These,” revolves around the case of Sarah Stern, a young aspiring artist who went missing. Investigators zeroed in on her childhood friend after noticing troubling statements made during police interviews. However, an undercover filmmaker helps crack the case by obtaining a chilling confession.
In “The Clique,” viewers are taken through the shocking Clear Lake Massacre in Texas. After years of dead ends, law enforcement receives a tip that leads them to a former beauty queen who had been bullied by two of the victims. The question arises: is she a pawn or a mastermind?
“The Devil in Disguise” focuses on the murders of Shanann Watts and her children. Shanann’s husband Chris Watts pleads for their safe return but raises suspicions with his behavior. As detectives interrogate him, an unexpected guest enters the room to aid in revealing the truth.
“Sins of the Father” uncovers Karl Karlsen’s dark secret after his wife and son die under mysterious circumstances that were initially deemed accidents. Suspicious insurance plans and a secret recording land Karlsen at the center of an intense hours-long interrogation.
“Mystery on the Hudson” investigates Vincent Viafore’s drowning death that was initially believed to be an accident until investigators began speaking with his fiancée. Lead detective Donald DeQuarto sheds light on the interrogation and how it led him to uncover a more sinister truth.
Finally, “Stranger Than Fiction: The Murder of Angie Dodge” delves into the false confession of Chris Tapp, who was initially considered a suspect in Angie Dodge’s murder. Dodge’s mother becomes convinced of Tapp’s innocence after watching recordings of his interrogation, sparking a quest for the real killer.
“The Interrogation Tapes: A Special Edition of 20/20” is produced by ABC News Studios and will premiere on April 1st at 10:00 PM EDT on ABC. It will also be available for streaming on Hulu the following day. Additional episodes will air every Monday until May 6th.
