The podcast begins with a poetic introduction that sets a somber and reflective mood, highlighting the serious nature of journalism and the search for truth in the darkness. The host, Tripping Raul, takes the listener through an example of her commitment to journalistic diligence by recounting her most impactful story—a story she was not able to showcase during a job interview that she ultimately did not secure.

Tripping Raul reminisces about the story of a developmentally disabled young man falsely accused of rape, which she investigated while working at a small newspaper. The young man, who had moved from Southeast Colorado to Florida with his family, was extradited back to Colorado where Raul had taken a position as editor after leaving the New Mexico daily. Despite local sentiment against the man, Raul was not convinced of his guilt after receiving a desperate call from the man’s father.

The story delves into the investigation process, during which Raul discovered a lack of evidence, thin accusations, and a crucial piece of information—confirmation that the young man was not even in town when the crime occurred. She also mentions a request from his attorney to temporarily withhold this information to prevent potential manipulation of charges by the district attorney.

Tripping Raul comments on the limitations of recalling events from 30 years ago and acknowledges the imperfection of her memory. She categorizes the story as “historical fiction” but maintains that it is based on fact. Despite the article not having a visible impact initially, Raul continues her investigation, even facing resistance from a mental institution to which the young man was transferred.

Raul’s persistence leads to a cascade of inquiries within the legal system, which eventually results in the family being offered a deal for the young man’s release. The family, eager to bring their son home, accepts the deal, although it leaves a permanent stain on his record. Raul honors the family’s request to deliver newspaper copies with the published article to the young man at the bus station before his departure to Florida, providing a poignant moment as they meet in person for the first time.

The episode concludes with the host comparing this story’s significance to her coverage of a wide range of harrowing events throughout her career, reaffirming that despite the grim facets of the profession and her eventual transition to a more family-friendly role in communications, it remains the story that makes her proudest. Looking back, she regrets the lack of digital archives to revisit these old articles, and she invites listeners to the next episode, where she will unearth another story from her past, promising it to be equally intriguing and disturbing.

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