The Twisted Case of Pete Coones

Olin "Pete" Coones was having a dispute with the caretaker of his deceased father, see the father had left everything to her not to his son. One fateful phone call followed by a tragedy would lead to Pete's arrest. But was he responsible? He had reason to be. There was also motive to frame him.
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[@nicolpie]

“I don’t hate anybody”. “I’m not mad at anybody”. “A few years down the road, it’s just a speed bump in the rear view mirror”. I am humbled, & in awe of this man’s ability to forgive.

[@jaydabiss9361]

We need more people on this earth like him 😭

[@klientproby]

Oh bollocks!! You get 12 years of your life taken away and you're going to go all noble and forgiving?

[@LotsofLisa]

@@klientproby I’m with you, that’s bull crap… and I’d sue the brakes off of them… As compared to others spending decades incarcerated for crimes they didn’t commit, yes he lucky and reason to be so chipper and forgiving.

[@JosephKulik2016]

They said that he died of cancer ??? The cancer must have gotten to his brain for him to talk that BS !!! I hope that his kids were smarter tan he was after he died and sued the DA and the cops. FORGIVENESS is one thing, but STUPIDITY is something else !!!

[@chelseagirl278]

@@JosephKulik2016 you are the perfect example of why they say not to speak I’ll of the dead. You are bitter

[@francothesucc9701]

“I don’t hate anybody” No worries Pete, I’ll hate them for you.

[@ginaperez8139]

Me friggen too I'm so damn mad just think what a great guy he truly was I'm so damn mad and Sad!

[@dd-em7hh]

So this story is so twisted, just maybe he did get away with murder because I can't see it making any sense in her husband needing to die also, and If that were the case why wouldn't the husband shoot her then him self and she would have faced probably less time than this guy did if she got time for her fraud ,, And she would have had still years to deal with that in Court and then she might have would've wanted to to do this but that still crazy he got away with murder and his karma was not being free long before he died ..

[@dd-em7hh]

@@ginaperez8139 So this story is so twisted, just maybe he did get away with murder because I can't see it making any sense in her husband needing to die also, and If that were the case why wouldn't the husband shoot her then him self and she would have faced probably less time than this guy did if she got time for her fraud ,, And she would have had still years to deal with that in Court and then she might have would've wanted to to do this but that still crazy he got away with murder and his karma was not being free long before he died ..

[@defundhollywood3259]

My thoughts exactly. 😒

[@cainmathewson1857]

I love this comment. If I could, I would frame it

[@chelelee6321]

"I didn't need a miracle, I just needed the truth." What a heart wrenching story this one is. So sad that Pete lost so many years with his family.

[@dixierae6063]

Chele Lee This truly is heartbreaking but at the same time this wonderful man was able to reach a place of forgiveness and peace that we should all be so fortunate to achieve during our time here. I'm guessing that his wife and family in the short amount of time they had together shared equality of love and appreciation for each other that many of us take for granted and don't truly get to experience. I don't think I've ever met anyone in any of these stories that I have so much respect an admiration for and I suspect he did the very best with every minute that he had inside both with his personal growth and helping others.

[@AuditClerk]

@@dixierae6063 Wow ... this was such an eloquent comment on a wonderful perspective. Thank you for sharing this!

[@melissamorgan5133]

I hope his family sues every single person involved. This literally made me cry, how horrible.

[@LifesPeachy321]

they would most certainly win!

[@bucstb1274]

His family only got 800k bull shit

[@thatwasweird954]

She would never even get to see the outcome of her masterplan. But dying with the knowledge that Pete's life was about to be destroyed was enough for her. That is some next level spite.

[@beachbunny7256]

Indeed! And I thought my stepmother was spiteful😂😥

[@NbSkaz]

Yep and doubly sh1tty was the abuse of the poor elderly man. That's on a par with hurting kids imo.

[@pipashmismah7478]

If there is a hell(which I believe there is)she went.

[@argo12]

​@@NbSkaz I feel my rage boiling up to imagine anyone ever abusing my parents. They have both passed now, and they were always in the loving care of their family.

[@iamthatguyfromslipknot1137]

@@NbSkaz yeah thats right only pure scum fucks hurt innocent people that cant defend themselves like children or the elderly..people like that dont deserve to even breath the same air as decent folks..

[@dakotathacker3821]

The "justice" system literally killed Pete.

[@uglyfxxx6981]

Seriously disgusting. We need to charge prosecutors for withholding evidence. Bet that it stops rq.

[@actionjackson4982]

The American Justice System at it's finest.

[@pearlbonnie1369]

The justice system did not literally kill him. Cancer literally killed him.

[@Tracymmo]

@@pearlbonnie1369 Cancer that went undetected and untreated in the inadequate prison healthcare system.

[@Maketoful]

@@Tracymmo who said it was undetected? it was undiagnosed.. and that could very well be because Pete himself didnt notice any symptoms and sought out help for it (Its actually very common)

[@antjobert]

Thank you to the new DA who came into his job wanting to find the truth and actually serve justice. I'm glad Pete was able to have some months with his family before he died. RIP Pete Coones. We know you were innocent and didn't deserve any of this.

[@kelliehand1]

This is so sad! It’s heartbreaking that at the young age of 52 he went to prison for 12 years. We all know if he wasn’t in prison he would’ve gone to the doctor and possibly caught the cancer early enough to overcome it. He died at the young age of 64 after only getting to spend 6 months with his family that he had already been ripped from before and now it was happening again. He should’ve sued the city. He deserved something more than what he got. He deserved his life. Truly a gut wrenching story.

[@keircampbell9374]

None of those ages are truly young, but your point still stands. I only mention this because we often delude ourselves. At 30, our life is essentially half over. The true crime was the final years he had were spent in prison, and dying. He only had 20 left, 30 tops. No time at all. And it was taken away.

[@mycreativeheart4159]

@@keircampbell9374 @Keir Campbell I'd have to disagree... in 2022, the average life expectancy is 81-85 years (Canada).... 76-81 years (USA) In this day and age... both 52 and 64 are considered young. A senior yes, but certainly not an elderly/invalid. I'm turning 60 soon and I'm certainly not going around thinking... "my life is almost over"! The women in my family have been living well into their 90's... and I'm doing everything in my power to make sure I still have 30 years in which to enjoy my life. I do agree .... the true crime was that Pete's final years were taken away from him.... irregardless of how old he was.

[@thecutteralicia]

It’s very sad. He looked way too older for 64 years. Looks like the stress of prison life had caught up to him. Makes you wonder how senior criminals get by day and night in prison.

[@Apocalypse4162]

The hardest part of this was hearing how he lived only 6 months until he passed away from cancer. That brought me to tears. Makes the (final) 12 years that were robbed from him even more tragic.

[@nonna_sof5889]

Cancer that potentially could have been treated had he been receiving proper medical care.

[@B.H.56]

those prosecutors have his blood on their hands.

[@wintercomesearly]

Especially when you consider how hard those remaining days dying of lung cancer are.

[@CR-ce5lf]

I cried my eyes out!!!!!! with the pandemic I'm sure he wasn't able to really go out and live his life, this story really crushed me

[@atlasfontaine5270]

@@nonna_sof5889 the medical treatment in prison is atrocious. If he had those 12 years with his family, he may have been able to get treatment and live. If not he at least would have had 12 years with his family. One of the saddest story Mike's covered

[@slimkt]

Killing yourself to frame a guy is the ultimate form of the expression ‘cut off your nose to spite your face.’ Pete was a better man than I could ever be. I think my outrage at the whole situation would eat me up.

[@ronniewall1481]

MONEY IS EVIL

[@wendigo1919]

@@ronniewall1481 People are evil, not money.

[@vrjanice2]

She didn't want her embezzling activities to come out in a trial that was soon to start. She had to frame the son to ensure that her daughter would inherit the money she stole.

[@Tekape]

did she do it? That was she first I had when I heard the call from her lmao seems easy to troll the police and muricas justice system

[@drebk]

@Shut Ya Mouth it is a crime. It is ridiculous that nobody actually enforces that stuff. Perhaps prosecutors would be less fast and loose if they lost their licenses and went to prison for malicious prosecution and Brady violations

[@paigeharms1991]

This is really sad. This happened 15 minutes away from my house & I never heard a single thing about it. I feel so bad. I'm sorry, Pete. I'm going to find out where he's buried if possible & go pay him a visit. I hope he's resting peacefully.

[@crow9553]

"I hope he's resting peacefully." Do you realize how ignorant and idiotic you sound? The guy is dead. If you visit his grave, six feet under, his corpse is rotting away. That's what happens to your body when you die. Nothing more. "Resting peacefully"??? GROW UP!

[@nekophant0m782]

@@crow9553 calm down

[@reallifeproductions9776]

U lived 15 minutes from where it took place?

[@paigeharms1991]

@@reallifeproductions9776 yes. I live in the greater Kansas City area. On the Kansas side.

[@reallifeproductions9776]

@@paigeharms1991 dang thats crazy!! An only 15 min from there i suprised u didn't hear about it it wasn't publicize in the area?

[@pickford3152]

Truly, truly amazing man..The ability to forgive is so powerful. He died at peace, knowing he was exonerated..and I know a man like that is in heaven where he belongs. RIP Pete..years of punishment to an eternity in paradise brother😢

[@ZombieSazza]

This is heartbreaking honestly, elder abuse, losing 12 years of your life in jail, being blamed for something you never did, and dying of cancer 6 months later? Even seeing him at the end not being mad, I’m teary eyed

[@dd-em7hh]

So this story is so twisted, just maybe he did get away with murder because I can't see it making any sense in her husband needing to die also, and If that were the case why wouldn't the husband shoot her then him self and she would have faced probably less time than this guy did if she got time for her fraud ,, And she would have had still years to deal with that in Court and then she might have would've wanted to to do this but that still crazy he got away with murder and his karma was not being free long before he died ..

[@Karadoxical]

@@dd-em7hh No.

[@rmyoung77494]

Me too. And I never cry!

[@risky7672]

@@dd-em7hh How did he get away with murder??? Have you even done research on this case or watch the video?? There was no DNA from pete, he had a alibi, he denied a PLEA deal because he knew he was innocent. If someone really did it. They would've taken that deal. Not to mention all the black mailing from prosecutors.

[@melodi996]

@@dd-em7hh you sound as stupid as it can be. People kill their spouses so they never find out about their failures, whythe hell her husband should've killed her if he had no idea?

[@mikebender8521]

I have to give my respect to the new DA, Mark Dupree . With out his initiative this case would have been forgotten. Great work Sir !

[@TheJungaloo]

A decent prosecutor is a very rare thing indeed.

[@bktraveling3204]

Exactly, you said it perfectly.

[@charleschurch8379]

He's the real MAN here.

[@nomadsteve5297]

@@TheJungaloo I don’t understand why the prosecutor is immune from prosecution for tampering with a witnesses

[@extragoogleaccount6061]

@@nomadsteve5297 Yes! Heads should be rolling over this case. People need to be liable. So much was missed. It was beyond negligence, it was criminal. I sure hope Pete's family has won some kind of suit to get at least some money to help with the kid's futures and for the wife to have care as she gets older. New DA is a hero, everyone else involved in that trial should be ashamed and disbarred. Cases like these are why I will never support the death penalty.

[@psychobitch61]

One of the saddest stories I've heard! RIP Pete!!

[@intensity.density2208]

This is one of the saddest stories I've ever heard. The poor man didn't get to enjoy his freedom. I'm glad he was found innocent and left this world by people knowing that. I hope his family is doing okay

[@rabbitguts2518]

in some small way at least he got to spend his last months free and die in the comfort of home surrounded by people who love him

[@shrotcake]

He....is a bigger person than I would ever be. Such a forgiving, kind soul..I admire him and am SUPER angry for him. The psychological ramifications of being wrongfully incarcerated are huge and the fact he lost a chunk of his life behind bars is despicable. If people here are as angry as I am, I highly recommend that the Innocence Project is looked into and supported. They provide services and try to help exonerate wrongfully convicted people.

[@mickeyt9190]

Wtf are you talking about??¿?

[@LydiaMatthews5]

@@mickeyt9190 Pete WAS innocent, didn't you watch it?

[@Palangga2022]

@@LydiaMatthews5 they probably fell asleep

[@atlasfontaine5270]

The innocence project do great work. This poor guy, made me really sad. Probably one of the saddest stories I've seen here on That Chapter

[@TheSherryKazmi]

@@mickeyt9190 Wtf are YOU talking about??¿? The guy was innocent and the Innocence Project is a wonderful foundation that helps innocent people wrongfully convicted right the wrongs of our justice system. Do a little research.

[@HorseheadNebula85]

"I'm not mad at anybody" I just wanna give him a big hug. Really sucks that he passed away so soon after release.

[@kathykelleyskillercontent1795]

I know 🥲

[@BurchMike1]

Those words and the look in his eyes made me sad af.

[@maryw3052]

So sad😭

[@jaydabiss9361]

So sad he’s gone ❤️

[@DavidWilliams-so2dy]

That was 17 year old Damien Echols reasoning in 94 when he found himself on trial for triple murder in Arkansas. Dude spent 18 years in prison before Arkansas realized that they fucked up and offered him and his codefendants the Alford plea.

[@NikkiTinAZ]

First time I actually got chills watching these videos is when Mike said Pete had undiagnosed cancer while in prison and then died soon after. So sad. RIP Pete.

[@WinteryMix84]

Saddest case I’ve seen on this channel. Thanks, Mike, for telling this story. Every DA in the country needs to follow that DA’s lead and open conviction integrity task forces.

[@chronic_payne5669]

I can’t imagine losing that many years of my life to a wrongful conviction, finally being released, only to die of Cancer 6 months later. What an absolutely tragic case for Pete, his dad and everyone else she was able to scam, because I’d be willing to bet there were more victims.

[@LiquidShivaz]

Yeah, this one left me teary eyed. What a waste of life 🙁

[@joeennis2571]

the only good thing is he was able to die a free man and his family can be proud of him , and say he was a honourable decent man

[@Sarah.Riedel]

He was so magnanimous about it in that phone interview too. What a tragedy.

[@4bibimimi]

This is a twisted tragic gut punch delivered with a velvet glove. Well done as always.

[@Meilk27]

He wasn't even alive for his $800,000 settlement. 108 days is all he had after his release. But he got the last laugh.

[@caitanya2547]

This one really tugged on my heart strings. Elder abuse is real, this poor man was just trying to protect his father. Rest In Peace Pete 🤍

[@tinydream]

This one made me cry, poor guy. Can't imagine going through that.

[@MrAlcline]

I'm a pretty hard none emotional person an this one really got me. Going home you an your family thinking we have 12 yrs to make up for. Then to be permanently taken from them 6 months later. SMH!!

[@MrAlcline]

M,?,

[@debodatta7398]

A Shawnee County district judge on Wednesday approved compensation of $826,301 to the estate of Olin L. “Pete” Coones, who spent 12 years in prison After all that 12 years of his life, ruining his reputation, his family getting ridiculed in the court of public opinion and dying of an undiagnosed lung cancer just 180 days after finally getting his freedom his family only gets $826,301 for all that... Kansas should be ashamed.

[@frankmarano1118]

@@MrAlcline Yeah the cancer part really got me because of how unfair that was. No happily ever after for him.. he should've lived another 30 years after his release..

[@Daeja123]

Oh man, how incredibly sad, and cruel... Poor Pete, this brought tears to my eyes.

[@Tittiesatthetop]

“I didn’t need a miracle I just needed the truth” that cut me so deep

[@dalejay]

"I don't need a miracle, i just need the truth" what a guy.

[@tunneltime8885]

what a guy indeed

[@synque7296]

Truth prevailing when needed most is a miracle

[@pryncesslove88]

Such a great guy indeed! May he Rest In Peace! I really hope his family got taken care of by the city

[@youthofyesterdayrecords]

We all need a lot of truth.

[@JupiterJamie]

Pete may not have been mad at anyone, but this makes my blood boil!

[@remedy9648]

Honestly, impossible not to hope she’s paying dearly in the next life.

[@noemisharma3143]

I agree!

[@cree878]

Me 2

[@robertauld1334]

Definitely...

[@lordomacron3719]

Alas as long as human are involved no system can be perfect as we humans are not perfect. I was glad to see at least Mr Coombs did not leave this world with hate in his heart. I don’t think I could have been that way. He was a better man than me.

[@alonnahcasey8556]

Gotta love it when somebody says I'm innocent,and by God he was,but I'm so sorry 😔😔 he's gone now, and feel so sorry for his family, Thank you Mike, for giving him the credit he was due

[@beagoodhuman473]

I was still giggling inside from the closed captioning translating “third case” to “turd case” when the devastating news of Pete’s death was revealed. Wiped that internal smile right away. What a depressing story. Made even more so knowing that he wasn’t angry and raging about those lost years in prison. What a kindhearted man. Such a damn shame he didn’t get more time with his family.

[@zarasbazaar]

They threatened and bribed a felon to provide false testimony against him. That's more than just sloppy police work.

[@Scorch428]

says who? the felon who already lied?

[@FLOSSYTREADWELL]

@@Scorch428 He knew a lot of the finer details & reiterated them in such a way it seemed rehearsed & highly unlikely from Coones' own mouth . That could be the jailhouse so called witness being extremely smart. However, if that was the case he probably wouldn't be where he was.

[@elmariekotze5379]

Pete made his peace and thereby released himself from a prison of hate and resentment. The 12 years of imprisonment was a grave injustice towards a good human being. May his legacy live on for his family. Thank you Mike for paying tribute to Pete in such a respectful way.

[@cf4165]

That first sentence doesn’t make any sense

[@mwambak1438]

@@cf4165 it does make sense.

[@TeddyBullard]

@@cf4165 bruh given your profile name , I'm baffled that you don't understand the comment. Is English your second language? If so, understandable, and apologies. If not, please read more

[@journeysalkebulan]

@@cf4165 reading and reading comprehension is fundamental! 🙄

[@journeysalkebulan]

@@TeddyBullard lol! That's not his name he is pretending to be a Greek Philosopher yet can't understand a basic sentence. English isn't my first language however I can understand the basics.

[@dawndacquisto]

Wow. What a heartbreaker. Thanks for telling this story. There are so many injustices in this system.

[@coreybell1402]

Mike, the love we hold for you in the states is real. I by far think, THAT CHAPTER is hands down the best channel on KZbin

[@ChoiSeung1987]

This is the first case in a long, long time to make me cry. The way Pete talks about not being mad at anyone, that it was just bad police work… I’m so sorry for him and his family. What a cruel world we live in.

[@jodylarson5317]

same ... i've watched all of these, but THIS one was a heartbreaker

[@VioletJoy]

It wasn't just bad police work. It went to trial and some of that information wasn't brought forward. There were a lot of mistakes made here between the attorneys, jury and police, among others.

[@kaycee5129]

And then to get out of jail abs be cleared only to pass away 6 months later. Heartbreaking on every level… 😢

[@thismomwantstoliveinflorid6750]

This is the comment I wast going to write

[@twizz420]

Guess you haven't seen the Ryan Waller case, then. That is probably the most infuriating and sad case I've ever heard of. It just goes from bad to worse to more worse, etc and then right when you think it couldn't get any worse again, it does. This Is Monsters did a really good video on the Ryan Waller case, where he had an interview with Ryan's dad and even clears up a bunch of misreported facts from the media and other youtubers.

[@bigbubbarampageplays1313]

Rest in peace Pete. You lived an honorable humble life and spread peace rather than hate. I applaud you and know that you're getting your second chance at life above the stars.

[@jessicamilestone4026]

Oh my god! What a wonderful man. He is so gentle and genuine. I've actually got tears running down my face. This is so unfair! 😢😩😫

[@UncleBuZ]

"if you've done nothing wrong you have nothing to worry about" riight

[@seanthe100]

Right as I age I learn more and more innocent people can be railroaded easily by our criminal justice system. The people that would tell you to just follow the law and you'll be alright just need to look at Pete an innocent man that suffered needlessly.

[@thehuntressdanni2972]

That is the most unsafe sentence (pun intended and not intended) you can say to someone in that country.

[@jumpinjohnnyruss]

And then when you show people cases like this as an example, it's "Oh, you watch too many stories. And how dare you use that man's pain to your advantage!?!"

[@keithh3725]

Riiiiiirght....exactly. I'm a testament to how that statement is BS....very similar to this....12years..and NO ONE listened or believed me.

[@rastaoneeye]

Hope they, “the state”, gave his family money owed and also the inheritance.

[@leemac1561]

Oh they gave them the inheritance, after they tax it to death first

[@derekmackay3555]

I'm wondering about not just the state but how about all the assets he was owed that went to the daughter? What about at least recovering that?

[@BunnySlippers82]

@@derekmackay3555 I think his estate would have to sue hers and that would be incredibly expensive. Chances are there's not much money left, if any at all. What a shame.

[@hannahortiz9380]

Likely not based on what the DA said. They’re no longer pursuing charges does not mean the case was overturned which is the only time they are required to pay.

[@crimetimeAU]

@@hannahortiz9380 When the DA spoke at 18:31 The caption on the screen reads "Judge overturns murder conviction" I hope he sought compensation for the suffering he and his family went through.

[@GutRot1113]

5:29 That is like the most chill conversation with emergency services I've ever heard. I'd be screaming down the phone telling them to get the 5-0 over to that house as quick as physically possible! Pete really got screwed over in every way possible. It's heart breaking to know he died just 6 months after he got out. I hope his family sued the ass off of everyone responsible for robbing this poor guy of his life.

[@alanemocab3465]

R.I.P. Pete. You were a good man to the end. You didn't deserve this.😭

[@elizabethbauer4497]

What a fucking horrible person this woman took this guy away from his family for 12 years then to die 182 days later, it makes me so sad/mad for the family. What a beautiful man he was, RIP Pete.

[@peace4598]

I wonder if the legal system bothered to retrieve the money meant for Pete’s family from Kathleen’s daughter.

[@rabbitguts2518]

@@peace4598 considering some of it came from her job at the union I'd have assumed so since they have more push. if it had just been his dad she stole from they likely wouldn't have done anything tho.

[@therealdachshunddjangosmom]

@@rabbitguts2518 that's what i thought, too! Hi from Austria 🇦🇹 Happy Easter to you

[@michpratt1]

We should be able to prosecute the prosecutors on this case, especially whoever threatened the informant with more jail time if he didn’t lie about Pete. This poor guy and his family. First his dad is stolen from him, then his dad’s estate, then HIS life. Scary thing is This could happen to anyone

[@abuzaine3956]

It is extremely rare that prosecutorial misconduct is ever prosecuted....

[@HandleTakenlol]

The first people God will speak to on Judgement Day will be judges and lawyers

[@seanthe100]

Right that's maximum level botched. If the evidence isn't there it just isn't.

[@Darkstar-se6wc]

Yeah, qualified immunity has got to go.

[@luciuscornelius7177]

Not sure why you'd believe anyone threatened the informant with anything, given that he's an out and out liar. He was chancing his luck that he's get something out of it. I can't understand why 'jailhouse snitches' are considered legit witnesses, seems to devalue any legal system that'd use them.

[@tallgirl55]

Let's talk about the other victim, the elderly, sick man who got bamboozled by that lady! Keep our seniors safe!!! Glad Pete was set free!

[@susangutierrez-chadwick2220]

This really broke my heart. I just sat for a bit after the case and cried. Such a loss to the whole family. More so, I am truly in awe of this sweet gentleman for his courage and forgiveness. God Bless his family.

[@holocaust_2.0]

This story has filled me with so much anger and sadness at the same time.

[@hoze1235]

the prosecuting team will never be held responsible for malpractice

[@atlasfontaine5270]

@@hoze1235 that's so infuriating. They should spend at least 12 years in prison. They're criminals who took a good man from his family. Makes me really sad and really angry. It's disgusting

[@julielevinge266]

Me to, this particular police force needs to be heavily investigated( not by them) perhaps if they’d done a little investigating, might have found out the woman was a thieving, manipulative, liar! That’s the persons word they took to lock a man up for what turned out to be the rest of his life! His defence should have quite a bit to answer for? How did they not investigate the person accusing their client????

[@julielevinge266]

@@hoze1235 So should his “defence” team? They didn’t investigate the one person who was accusing their client??? Seems like a massive paper trail of theft was just left untouched. Very sad story, also for all defence teams that actually do their job? What kinda DA gives go ahead on word of one person he was fighting ( cuts both ways)what a sicko she was!!!

[@picklep9812]

I’m beginning to see that millions of people are being influenced emotionally by millions of KZbin videos every moment. It’s part of a larger problem. Thank you for sharing your feelings. I appreciate

[@zan8289]

Imagine being a juror and helping to put someone away for 12 years, only to find out information was held back by prosecution and the man was innocent, and then he dies half a year later when he finally gets out. The guilt would be awful.

[@unclebuzzyschurchofgroove6190]

I can't imagine what the jury was thinking to begin with! There was clearly a reasonable doubt from the beginning - i.e., a complete lack of physical evidence!

[@jeanforest8060]

Our judicial system has its limits, doesn't it? If only we were aware of it... I so often watch and listen to prosecutors and lawyers alike and tell myself this has got to be Hollywood, not real life, it can't be..

[@Danny-mg1hu]

Those people are not losing any sleep trust me. They basically were lied to yes but it made no sense to convict Pete for one murder and not the other. At the same time there were no evidence no blood from him no fingerprints no nothing. This is why I don't like the jury system. You can easily manipulate them as well and some of those people don't like being there to begin with and they just want to go home.

[@annanderson7]

Well, the prosecutorial misconduct didn’t help at all. The prosecutor is who you should be mad at. They screwed this man on purpose! RIP Pete, may you find joy in the afterlife 🙏💕you were such a sweet soul!

[@ChA0s_AgeNt]

That's (unfortunately) what they're paid to do; it's the lions share of their job description, at least. Cops, judges, prosecutors, etc. are more likely to be dirty than not, & accountability is nearly nonexistant.

[@mckid2683]

Geez! This was the saddest story. I didn't expect the bit at the end where you said he had lung cancer n died 180 days after he got out. Another sad story. Your delivery is great as always. Loved watching your channel grow deservedly. Keep it up bud

[@SalsaConMesquite]

I've been rewatching your aul ones and this one has probably got to be the saddest one I've heard in a minute. I'm genuinely in tears right now for this man.

[@shannonjackson9778]

That was just heartbreaking. I'm glad he got to pass away with the world knowing he was an innocent man but it's just devastating he had his life stolen by a spiteful woman and shitty policework.

[@stephenalex4345]

it's such a sad story. The police threatening the informant with more time if he didn't lie about Pete, make me sick to my stomach.

[@Darkstar-se6wc]

@@stephenalex4345 - Not the police, the prosecutor.

[@bleukreuz]

Sad thing is, if he were to die in prison in the 12 years he spent there, they will probably not reopen the case and find the truth, so he would have died falsely accused as murderer

[@stephenalex4345]

@@Darkstar-se6wc Here in the UK it's the police who interview jail informants. Then they pass the evidence to the prosecution. I didn't know it was the prosecution who go straight to the jail in America to get evidence. Sorry for the misunderstanding.

[@CocoAvalon]

1.Jail/prison witnesses should NEVER be used or trusted, UNLESS there is recorded evidence to prove it! 2. Our elders are always in danger of people like Cathlene, so check on your elderly neighbors and family to make sure they're okay!

[@agcons]

Agreed. Friends of my family had a great aunt who was the financial victim of a louse like Whatsername. No beatings, etc., but a slow steady draining of assets. The family got it back before their aunt died by confronting the "caregiver" and promising not to press charges. That didn't stop them from telling everybody, though: they had the receipts. The "caregiver" moved to another town.

[@mikaelafox6106]

@@agcons One can only hope a “caregiver” like that lives to an age where they likewise need a caregiver. And I hope karma repays them and that the “caregiver” is cognizant enough to know what’s going on.

[@Gos1234567]

Check out John Grishams book "an innocent man".The same jailhouse snitches were basically used for various cases to put away innocent men.Its ridiculous as almost 100% of the time they just say what the police tell them to say to get a reduced sentence.Dont know why judges or juries put any stock in their testimony

[@AKKK1182]

That's why ex-prisoners will tell you to keep your mouth shut and never talk about your case. You give these rats one unpublished detail on the case and their story will be seen as valid, because they had insider information.

[@83gemm]

I have a hard time trusting ANY eye witness. Memory is so easily influenced and some people are just assholes. Video footage? Ok. Becky and Steve relating what they saw? Nah.

[@cjinpa5713]

I have just been down a few weeks rabbit hole here on Mike’s channel when going through to see which ones I’ve missed and noticed this one. I’m swearing about how rotten that woman was and how the justice system bit the big one a couple times and mad and happy he got those 180 days with his family. This one kicked me right in the heart. Feeling all kinds of ways.

[@macklinillustration]

First case in a long time that has made me shed tears. You were a strong person Pete, stronger than most being able to forgive. I hope you are at peace.

[@SoYxProductionsx]

Holly shit.. The end of this gave me chills. That's the most heartwarming, straight to devastating end to a story I've ever seen.

[@easley421]

Absolutely shocking

[@NbSkaz]

Yes 100%. A positive was that he was free and proven innocent in his lifetime. Seems like such a big hearted, dignified and forgiving man too. There should be more like him in the world. RIP Pete and love to you.

[@kentbetts]

This is maybe the weirdest case yet on That Chapter. The lady was evil. Her face looks like a bad person. She took the job because she wanted to take money from old people. And the jailhouse witness .... I really feel that jailhouse informants should be banned from the legal system.

[@sunshine3914]

@@kentbetts Yeah, but had the police detective(s) had actually done their job, they could have easily discredited his tell about when the Jeep was sold, making him less credible. Instead, they’re huge slackers, with a success rate of less than 20%... even less, whenever you consider how many times they get it wrong.

[@florcitabs]

I'm literally crying by the end of the video

[@davidmayberry3190]

Round of applause for that district attorney 👏👏👏👏 most DA's will never let it go or help someone get out of jail no matter what evidence is put in front of them.

[@tinbender28086]

This was tragic and i bet her daughter didn't do anywhere near the right thing. i hope his family got well paid for the time he lost. my best to them.

[@shaunna6673]

Thank you for covering this case. I shed tears for Pete and every other wrongfully convicted person. I'm so thankful the justice was finally served.

[@BazookaTooth707]

"I didn't need a miracle, I needed the truth" that poor man

[@mariwuilleumier3026]

Wow, the ending actually brought tears to my eyes. So damn unfair. Sucks that Kathleen will never receive the karma that she deserves.

[@roseaduke8835]

Oh she very much is. Trust.

[@houstonrogers9964]

Real talk

[@haarshanhaarshan7553]

My eyes are wet too...it really breaks my heart to learn that he lived only 6 months as freeman...he deserves to live longer and happier..RIP

[@rhaq101]

she will in Jahannum

[@tecumsehcristero]

Karma only happens in the next life. I'm sick of you westerns misusing a hindu concept

[@gypsysoul0543]

I just looked up your biography Mike and you were born on the same day as my oldest son who passed away 3 years ago. I enjoyed finding out a little about you. You are absolutely the best true crime story teller on KZbin for sure. Mr.Ballan running very close behind you

[@raoulkurvitz6305]

The same thoughts. And what I like in both Mike and MrBallen most, is that they different in their styles. Sorry for your son, GypsySoul... R.

[@lesliemartin3]

It's people similar to Pete that give me hope that there are real angels walking among us. He seemed like such a genuine guy who was happy he was able to spend the short amount of time he had left with his family. If I could honor someone who remained positive and hopeful while being under the worst circumstances I would have loved to give Pete an award of some kind 💗

[@davidwalter2002]

I'm so glad there are people who fight for the innocent ones who are unfairly imprisoned. Pete's story is only one of many.

[@solothkaroftrinsic3852]

I would just like some consequences for the prosecution who forced the poor inmate to falsely rat.

[@ashnicole6096]

As much as those who are truly innocent deserve to be released and false imprisonment happens more often than you'd be aware. But I've heard that the innocence project has some wishy washy situations where they've gotten people out who weren't innocent. And that's scary. I wish there were really a way to tell. But this story is crazy. He deserved the help.

[@ashnicole6096]

Another thing, I had a friend who someone else used his identity and told the police he was my friend and caught like 3 felonies, and they went and arrested my friend in his place and luckily they caught the person on camera so he was able to prove it, but I couldn't imagine if he didn't have video proof. I have another friend who is in jail awaiting trial for a murder charge of his baby son, which everyone firmly believes even scientists have proven on his behalf that he wasn't who did it, that it was likely his sons mother. Yet he's sat in jail for 3 years fighting the case right now. Its so sad. Luckily he will probably be out soon, but it's so sad to see people arrested wrongfully and no way to really prove their innocence.

[@emke9326]

Sad beyond words. Happy to know he left this world a free man. RIP, Pete.

[@jamesbennett9620]

@eM Ke - Yes, a free and INNOCENT man.

[@ummglick]

A majority of one.., a rare man of integrity and compassion

[@absolutelyheretical7132]

Prosecution and informant should get life without parole tbh. Pete should have been awarded all her assets and millions in compensation from the state...

[@Nahobino777]

Rest in peace Mr.Pete. Glad he got to be with his family during his last days.

[@wendymathews1030]

You’re a stand up guy, Pete. Rest In Peace.

[@lordmysticlaw1991]

She killed herself to frame someone else? That's a pretty special kind of nuts.

[@Whatisthis195]

Seriously. Like you’re already dead, why the hell are you trying to save your image.

[@azzythehero]

And murdered her husband first. All out of greed and wanting to conceal her abusing an elderly man.

[@Riaharmony]

That is a special kind of evil in my opinion. I really don't believe she was mentally deranged, just a real nasty piece of work.

[@keircampbell9374]

Pete is one of the most beautiful men I’ve ever seen. His peace with what has been, his ability to move past grudges and to bare this incredible injustice with such grace If I die half the man Pete was I’ll be truly happy.

[@AuditClerk]

Beautifully said ... and I think - on some level - we all feel that way; it's why the majority of us are so affected by Pete's story.

[@chrischriskidnicky6088]

Coombs is crazy to be all “aw shucks let bygones be bygones” instead of suing the hell out of the cops.

[@beeirving783]

How about a round of applause for Mark Dupree? He was the new prosecutor who didn’t have to, but chose to take a look at old cases to ensure there wasn’t any convictions of innocent people. Pete had used a few of his appeals and he was still incarcerated. He had to be at the point where his appeals were exhausted or almost exhausted. I’m actually surprised Pete’s attorney never looked at the civil case to look into the lady’s history to see if there were things that could help Pete. Subpoenaing those files could’ve shown her history of fraud, embezzlement, etc… either way, Mark Dupree found the missing pieces and got Pete acquitted. Crazy thing is, he didn’t have to look at old cases, he could’ve just focused on the date he started and everything beyond that. When a wrongful conviction by a prior prosecutor came up, he could’ve looked at either that particular case or then chose to review all of the cases.

[@nicolenotizieeamici]

Totally !!!

[@jumpinjohnnyruss]

I'm betting that this kind of review is much less likely when the present and former prosecutors go to the same country club.

[@lilitheden748]

What a genuinely good man Pete Coones is . He lost so many years of his life and isn’t mad at anyone. Unbelievable in these times. Sad he had to go. I wish you the best Pete wherever you are.

[@MrRyan-wu4jx]

Maybe, we really only have the interview to go off of. He might’ve spent all his other time resentful as hell and was just trying not to sound like a whiner.

[@ACiDiCAnGeL]

@@MrRyan-wu4jx Everyone betrays you to the farthest extent including your own father and the American justice system; you have the right to "whine" and be a little resentful if you want to be.

[@MrRyan-wu4jx]

@@ACiDiCAnGeL agree 100%, I’m just not crazy about how often people on here make definitive conclusions about someone over a brief news interview or how they dress or act in court. I love Mike but he has a habit of making every victim out to be a loving, caring, saint as well.

[@santosdr2]

inspiring, and makes me think what it means to be a good man. I can learn from him.

[@santosdr2]

@@MrRyan-wu4jx Well. the thing about being a saint, no one ever said you never were a sinner. You can do things that are admirable even after having done some major transgressions, after all isn't that what redemption is about. He even said he thought he would be angry, but sometimes you can't help but feel what you feel. Forgiveness truly is an emotion. It sweeps over you unexpectedly, just like most emotions. When the conditions are set and met, and there is room for its presence. then it becomes known. and or experienced.

[@dheider9109]

This breaks my heart. My thoughts go out to Pete and his family.

[@davidboatwright-td9bq]

I live in KCK... wrongful convictions and pressure to take false pleas plagues the community I live in and haunts many of our lives to this day. Brings me hope to see justice finally taken in the city I call home

[@kv1648]

Was the former prosecutor ever held accountable for this absolute railroad job? And I mean prison time, not a civil penalty. Did they get him/her or are they still out there in some official capacity, still bringing misery to others?

[@DocterWaffles]

nope. in fact, ed brancart is now in a higher position as the deputy attorney general of kansas, so it's even less likely (not that it was likely to begin with) that he'll face justice.

[@debodatta7398]

A Shawnee County district judge on Wednesday approved compensation of $826,301 to the estate of Olin L. “Pete” Coones, who spent 12 years in prison After all that 12 years of his life, ruining his reputation, his family getting ridiculed in the court of public opinion and dying of an undiagnosed lung cancer just 180 days after finally getting his freedom his family only gets $826,301 for all that... Kansas should be ashamed.

[@kv1648]

@@DocterWaffles That's awful! Power without accountability is a dangerous thing. There's a lesson here those in power failed to heed.

[@DodgeMeitschi]

off topic but holy smokes, your eye looks so similar to mine it‘s a little spooky!

[@Barabel22]

They’re NEVER held accountable in these kind of cases, nor corrupt cops or judges. It’s maddening.😖

[@sarahwatterson5706]

19:36 That they offered him a 5-year plea deal says a fucking lot. That right there tells you that they knew their case was shit and that there were things they didn’t want to come out at trial. Speaking of things not coming out at trial; did anyone ever get in trouble for the evidence that was withheld? Or what about those who had pressured the jailhouse snitch? Was there any accountability? Because certain city employees didn’t just act with inadequacy but they full-on acted with, at best, negligence and, at worst, a criminal mindset. It’s absolutely infuriating. To see the strength and grace Pete has after what he went through is truly inspiring.

[@MDCxThePG]

It does't sound like evidence was witheld. It sounds like the defense just didn't use it in court at the time. They thought their case was winnable on just the fact of his alibi being so strong.

[@user-bj3jn1sq7y]

And what about the guy that said Pete had admitted to him that he'd done it?

[@yelenas2495]

Both cases were shit but luckily for them 12 clowns had no problem convicting a man based of it. Just like 12 clowns set Casey Antony free.

[@Gos1234567]

@@yelenas2495 The jury system is so fcked up.Average people are not that intelligent,you could basically get a guilty vercidt against you because they dont like the way you dress or look.

[@demartin975]

@@Gos1234567 “the *justice* system is”. There. FIFY

[@siasama8473]

Such a sweetheart "I don't hate anybody " 😔RIP

[@LaceyTripp95]

How can anyone been this vindictive?! Blows my mind. Like you’re gonna be dead, why continue to punish an innocent family for the wrongs YOUVE done in life to them? Wow.

[@phyllisholt5005]

The polar opposites to the end...one a vindictive vile excuse for humanity, the other a compassionate loving caring man to the end!

[@auburnanger6679]

Wow, I didn't see that coming. My heart breaks for him. Dealing with a parent with dementia as well as finding out he's getting abused. It only got worse and worse. Yet, he was so calm and not full of anger after it all. A true gem of a man

[@braetonwilson4296]

Forgiveness is reserved for the strong. A weak person can never forgive.

[@Prawnsacrifice]

@@braetonwilson4296 sure they can I do it all the time 👍

[@braetonwilson4296]

@@Prawnsacrifice then you're not weak my friend :)

[@jordanhoward2364]

" I didn't need a miracle, I just needed truth, and I got the miracle of truth"....that's powerful...

[@redbaboonass4416]

Why doesn't the DA go to prison for forcing the inmate to make a false statement? They should have to serve as much time as Pete had to.

[@shazcon71]

Hope this lovely man sleeps peacefully. Well told and so sympathetic at the end. Thanks Mike. You’re a star ❤️

[@ericminter445]

"Truth is stranger than fiction, but is because fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities; truth isn't." Mark Twain

[@superwildside4585]

earth is flat

[@youngcracker9517]

@@superwildside4585 how did you find out?

[@basketcase297]

That’s so sad he died shortly after being released. But at least he knew people knew the truth before he died. RIP Pete

[@LandofOzOfficial]

This is 1 of the saddest stories you've ever told. In my home state & still had never heard about this one. Thanks Mike!

[@Mjg503]

Pete seems like he was so at peace with the situation once he was released. No resentments towards anyone. What a beautiful soul.

[@shreemoyee_art]

This sounds so unreal, how can someone kill themselves and their spouse just to ruin someone's whole life? The levels of evil people can go to just boggles my mind.

[@kme]

I don't understand that mindset either. To be so... vindictive and nasty to someone... I just can't even comprehend it. (I mean over and beyond the 'usual' every day vindictive and nasty stuff ppl do. This is next level...)

[@anngreen3495]

She was one twisted mess of a human being. Every single thing she did hits me like ice water. And to top off what appears to be years of depravity, how did she manage to shoot herself in the back of her own head?

[@flyesthuman]

She’s a witch

[@beno1129]

@@anngreen3495 She most likely held the gun upside down. It's so annoying that the evidence against her (gun residue, blood spatter) was ignored on the basis of a phone call and a dodgy informant.

[@j.j1999]

She knew she was fucked anyways from frauding so many older people but it’s still mind boggling how she went to that length

[@yayaminah7908]

My heart breaks for this man and family who endured so much turmoil. This is one of THATCHAPTER’s stories that hurt.

[@rachyface618]

“He would’ve had better luck running through the wall like the Kool Aid man.” 😂🤣 Thanks Mike, I just spit my wine out laughing. 🤣 Man I love this guy!! 💕

[@yvaincallipso84]

Perfect example of how the police can get tunnel vision and ruin perfectly good and innocent people's lives. It's honestly tragic.

[@elizabethflickinger4369]

I started watching you while I was in active addiction. Today I’m 6 months sober and still watching. ♥️

[@KellyBurnett138]

Congratulations!! 🤗

[@CristyB66]

Congrats!! Great job 💪🏻

[@normacook8325]

Way to go Elizabeth! Congrats!

[@margemayberry4636]

Wooohoooo, congrats..a day at a time!

[@sandrawagner6504]

stay strong

[@michelle.pearl.]

Christ, that poor poor man. This story breaks my heart 😔

[@david6532]

blame the cops they and the solicitor's were totally unprofessional.

[@thetwitchywitchy]

Pete Coones was too good for this world. Being so forgiving, empathetic and compassionate even after having so many years stolen from him was incredible, he seemed like a truly good person.

[@timgreen2426]

“ he’d have better luck running through the wall like the Kool-Aid man”. 🤣🤣🤣🤣Mike’s talent of bringing relatable wit with such charm to the darkest of stories respectfully is brilliant.

[@Miralee01]

Thank God for the new DA who thought to start checking for case integrity. How heartbreaking this family was wrecked by this evil woman. May Pete rest in peace, I am so sorry for his family.

[@andrewgoatley9057]

I'd like to know what happened to the DA and prosecution team, that allowed this miscarriage to take place.

[@mosesyang4222]

If God were real God would've kept him out of jail for being innocent

[@gordonaliasme1104]

What a terrible miscarriage of justice. Who won? The woman who killed herself and framed the poor old guy ? No one. Sometimes I despair of the human race. Time to watch cartoons ... 🙃

[@sweetnothingsirobot3032]

Imagine the person who physically/mentally/financially , beat the hell out of your father ,stole your inheritance by taking advantage of your deteriorating dad and then sending you to prison and ruining your name BUT you are such a good person your willing to brush it off as working to much and making mistake . This guy was a Saint

[@sbkelly]

He is an example of choosing peace in unfair circumstances. How difficult that would be for most us! Bless his soul.

[@RebelRoseJade]

If you tell someone a lie they will believe it all day long. But if tell someone the truth they will call you a liar all day long.

[@333SarahBeth]

As soon as you said the caregiver of a dementia patient was the beneficiary of the latter's estate, alarm bells went off. That's almost always the result of elder abuse. I worked as a temp of the estate section of a large U.S. nonprofit, and I know we had to follow really strict rules around wills. We had to reject anything from an estate that had been changed when: the person had cognitive issues, including dementia and alzheimers; within a certain period of their death; and/or when directed by a paid non-family caregiver. These scammers would often make some donations to some nonprofits to make it seem more legit. It's natural for a vulnerable person to grow attached to the person who they see keep them alive on a daily basis, and it is unethical for someone paid to take care of them to take advantage of that bond. Anyways, great video!

[@CovidConQuitTheCensorship]

Yep alarm bells went off here too. No-one in a trusted position like that, with a very vulnerable patient should be allowed to take their money

[@Tracymmo]

Yes, instant alarm bells. But as a fundraiser, I never considered how donations could be misused that way. I don't think I've run across anything fishy, but it's good to know.

[@Embersmummy]

This is truly one of the most heartbreaking cases I have seen in some time. This poor man spent the last years of his life falsely accused and imprisoned for a crime he never committed simply because the system is lazy and flawed. I bet the truth of how many other innocents who are facing this same fate would be shocking. Bless him, I hope he is at peace. And if Hell does exist, I hope there is a special circle specifically for this lady.

[@Sara.Rose.]

This was truly a sad sad case with such a tragic end. Pete sounded like such a great, honest guy. I’m sure his dad was a lovely person too and sadly nice people are always taken advantage of, by horrible individuals like Kathleen. Rest in peace Pete 💛

[@shaunmm2k]

That had quite the twist, and darker than I ever could have imagined. I hope the Coone family got the house back

[@margaretadami6358]

God bless the judge,,,, Pete is now an Angel . He did not become bitter, resentful, or spiteful when ever there would be such a reason to be just that. God bless his family.

[@dtp_golf]

It's as if he lived just long enough to make sure his name was cleared for his family's sake, and held on for 6* months after his release to give his loved ones the time, wisdom, and love they would need to go on without him. What an incredibly empathetic, pure human being this man was to be free of all anger and regret. I pray I'm as content and understanding someday... mainly to show my kiddos and family how peaceful and free life is when you forgive and let go. 🙏

[@Felibar311]

180 days is almost 6 months. But otherwise, spot on.

[@chandrabrown1622]

Absolutely agree. I was done crying and then your comment started me up again! I also pray I can a great a human as Pete was...💜💯

[@dtp_golf]

@@Felibar311 thanks for that!

[@dtp_golf]

@@chandrabrown1622 Absolutely. You'll achieve it, mainly because you want to 🙂

[@chandrabrown1622]

@@dtp_golf Thank you. As will you!!💜💯