Detective Sergeant and historian James Calaski presents an extended examination of the disappearance, ransom negotiations, investigation, and Hauptmann trial. The New Jersey State Library presentation also considers the influence of celebrity and media attention on the case and its legal legacy.
Jim Axelrod and Joe Nocera discuss the ransom contacts, Hauptmann’s prosecution and later challenges to the evidence. Video edition of the 48 Hours podcast discussion.
Laurence Fishburne introduces a documentary account of the kidnapping and the investigation that led to Hauptmann’s arrest and conviction.
NIST scientist John Butler and historian Kristen Frederick-Frost trace forensic examiner Wilmer Souder’s career, including his work on the Lindbergh ransom documents.
A Catching Killers segment examining the wood comparisons used to connect the nursery ladder with Hauptmann’s attic.
British Pathé’s contemporary courtroom newsreel showing Hauptmann under questioning by prosecutor David Wilentz.