Multiple Reports
Source Into the Weeds Podcast
This File Includes:
Preliminary Hearing Reports: The January 1987 hearing where a judge determined there was enough "probable cause" to bind Templeton over for trial. These reports include early forensic testimony and cross-examinations regarding other potential suspects like Robert Taylor.
Initial Crime News: These articles date back to October 1986, reporting on the disappearance of Athena Hogan, the discovery of her body, and the initial police investigation into her route while selling candy
Legal News and Lawsuit Filings: Several reports focus on Robert A. Taylor, the initial suspect. These track his legal actions against the City of Lawton, including his initial $1 million claim and his subsequent lawsuit for false arrest and slander after charges against him were dismissed.
Administrative and Policy Reports: These documents cover City Council meetings regarding the denial of Taylor's claims and School Board meetings where new fundraising policies were approved to prevent elementary students from selling items door-to-door unaccompanied.
Medical News Updates: Brief reports from early 1986 track the medical condition of Cindy Hogan (Athena's mother) after she was severely beaten, detailing her time in a coma and her eventual recovery.
Year-End Retrospectives: One document is a retrospective summary from December 31, 1987, which looks back at the Templeton acquittal as one of the year's top criminal cases and its impact on the Lawton community.
Post-Trial Status Updates: Published after the Templeton acquittal, these reports feature the Police Chief confirming that the murder investigation remains open and that all leads are being re-explored.
