Of the 2018 audiobook release, I wrote:
Did Steven Avery murder photographer Teresa Halbach in 2005? You might have a different perspective after reading this gripping work by true crime writer John Ferak. “Wrecking Crew” is a pin point summary of Kathleen Zellner’s investigation, a Chicago attorney, that has been fighting for justice for Avery since 2016. Avery was exonerated by DNA testing and released in 2003, after being falsely convicted and imprisoned for a sexual assault he didn’t commit. After finishing this well researched book, I am convinced Avery was falsely convicted twice.
The “Updated 5th Anniversary Edition” provides the latest updates on the case, and the fight for justice, with hopes of a new trial for Steven Avery. Ferak interviews Avery’s attorney, and she outlines the legal maneuvers taken since the first edition of “Wrecking Crew.” While Zellner remains optimistic, Ferak writes of the state of Wisconsin’s “win at all cost” strategy to keep this high profile case permanently closed.
The updated edition also examines the evidence that was not introduced in Avery’s original trial, including incrimination computer activity that seems to implicate Avery’s nephew Bobby Dassey as the one responsible for Halback’s death. Brendan Dassey, another nephew of Avery’s and Bobby’s brother, was also convicted of the crime. Brendan was only sixteen at the time of the murder, and was deemed highly suggestible, with many feeling he was coerced during the interrogation.
As noted on Wikipedia, the 2015 Netflix series Making a Murderer, which chronicles the trials of Dassey and Avery, has generated global dialogue centered around wrongful convictions, coerced confessions, interrogation of minors, and criminal justice reform. Ferak analyzes the impact the series has had on the case.
Additionally, in this updated edition, Ferak explores the most recent evidence and witnesses that have come to light.
By: John Ferak
Narrated by: Kevin Pierce
Length: 11 hrs and 40 mins
Release date: 12-08-23
