Episode Details

In 1990, 17-year-old Samuel Manzie pled guilty to the brutal murder of 11-year-old Eddie Werner, avoiding trial through a controversial plea deal. Originally, his defense planned an insanity plea, but the court rejected it, opting instead for a "mental disease or defect" argument. However, as his trial date neared, Sam admitted to strangling Eddie, stuffing his body in a suitcase, and dumping him in the woods—but the sexual assault charge was dropped as part of the deal. This decision outraged Eddie’s family but spared them a painful trial. Sam’s parents, devastated by his actions, believed he needed psychological help, but the prosecution argued he was a remorseless sociopath. The judge sentenced him to 70 years in prison, with a minimum of 59.5 years before parole eligibility. However, a later appeal cut this to just 30 years, meaning Sam will be eligible for parole in 2027—shocking Eddie’s parents, who fear he will kill again. This case shares eerie similarities with the 1973 murder of Joan D'Alessandro, whose death led to Joan’s Law, ensuring life without parole for those who sexually assault and murder a child. However, because Sam’s plea removed the assault charge, this law didn’t apply. Eddie’s family was assured he’d serve at least 85% of his sentence under the No Early Release Act, but a legal loophole overturned that, allowing Sam an early parole hearing. His mother believes he deserves a second chance, but Eddie’s parents say justice has failed them. As 2027 approaches, many wonder: Will a child killer be released back into society?