Maria Spencer’s Vow to Kill | Full Episode

48 Hours・2 minutes read

Frank Spencer, a go-kart racer, was murdered at his home in 2012, with suspicion falling on his ex-wife Maria and her father Rocco, both linked to the crime scene. Despite controversial decisions by law enforcement, Maria was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison while Rocco received a similar conviction, leaving behind a legacy of unanswered questions and unresolved justice.

Insights

  • Maria Spencer and her father Rocco Franklin were implicated in the murder of Frank Spencer, with evidence linking them to the crime scene, including matching footwear impressions and DNA on a cleaning glove, indicating a premeditated ambush.
  • Despite suspicions and escalating threats towards Frank, Maria faced no criminal charges until her arrest for Frank's murder, leading to a controversial trial that resulted in her conviction and a life sentence, while Rocco Franklin also received a lengthy prison term, raising questions about law enforcement's handling of the case and justice in the aftermath of the tragedy.

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Recent questions

  • Who was suspected in Frank Spencer's murder?

    Maria Spencer

  • What evidence linked Maria and Rocco to the murder scene?

    Footwear impressions, DNA on a glove

  • What was Rocco Franklin's alibi on the day of the murder?

    Questionable travel near Frank's house

  • Where was Frank Spencer's missing truck found?

    Sunbury, Pennsylvania

  • What was Maria Spencer's sentence for Frank's murder?

    Life without parole plus 50 years

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Summary

00:00

"Fatal Divorce: Murder Suspect's Deadly Threats"

  • Frank Spencer, a competitive go-kart racer, was described as a real competitor and a kind-hearted person by his friends.
  • Frank's murder took place at his residence, which remained unchanged since 2012.
  • Maria Spencer, Frank's ex-wife, was suspected in his murder due to their contentious divorce proceedings.
  • Maria was described as a Femme Fatale and a terrorist by those who knew her.
  • Rocco Franklin, Maria's father, was known as a hitman with mob associations.
  • Frank had reported Maria's threats to local police for years, fearing for his life.
  • Maria's escalating threats led to a break-in at Frank's junkyard and a subsequent fire at his mother's home.
  • Despite suspicions, no criminal charges were brought against Maria for the break-in or the fire.
  • Maria's threats continued, culminating in a firebomb attempt at Julie's home, leading to the realization of arson.
  • Frank and Julie believed Maria was involved in the arson attempts but no charges were filed, and Frank was found dead the day after their divorce was finalized.

20:02

Unchanged house reveals murder mystery and betrayal.

  • Frank's house has remained unchanged since his murder in 2012, with blood evidence found in various locations.
  • Footwear impressions in blood were discovered, identified as Dr. Scholl's model Escape brand size 11 sneakers, matching Maria's father Rocco's known shoe brand and size.
  • A yellow cleaning glove was found in an unusual position in the kitchen, with Maria's DNA detected on it despite her not living in the house for over a year.
  • Investigators found evidence linking Maria and Rocco to the murder scene, including two different guns used to shoot Frank.
  • Frank was shot outside his front door with a rifle, then dragged inside and shot again with a handgun, indicating a premeditated ambush.
  • Frank's missing truck was found in Sunbury, Pennsylvania, near where Maria was living, leading police to Rocco's involvement.
  • Muttley, Frank's dog, was found at a wedding venue 72 miles away, suggesting someone had driven him there from Frank's house.
  • Rocco's alibi was questioned as he was found to have traveled near Frank's house on the day of the murder, contradicting his claims.
  • Maria was arrested for Frank's murder and multiple other charges, while Rocco fled to Argentina but was eventually arrested and brought back.
  • Maria was found guilty on all counts, sentenced to life without parole plus 50 years, while Rocco maintained his innocence despite evidence linking him to the crime.

39:09

Controversial conviction sparks criticism and defense

  • Rocco Franklin was convicted in 2018 for Frank's murder, burglary, and arson, receiving a life sentence plus 45 years, sparking criticism for law enforcement's handling of the case and lack of arrests in the situation. Former D.A. Gary Norton defends the decision not to prosecute, while Frank's dedication to his children remains a poignant memory amidst the ongoing turmoil.
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