“Night Terror”: ’20/20′ Reports on Brandon Woodruff Case August 9 2024

On Friday, August 9, 2024, from 9:00 to 11:00 p.m. EDT, “20/20” on ABC will present a special report titled “Night Terror,” focusing on the controversial and emotional case of Brandon Woodruff. Woodruff has been serving a life sentence for the murders of his parents, Dennis and Norma Woodruff, in their Texas home. This episode promises a comprehensive look at the case, featuring Brandon’s first television interview since his 2009 conviction, where he maintains his innocence.

The Initial Investigation and Arrest

Brandon Woodruff’s life took a dramatic turn in 2005 when his parents were found brutally murdered in their new home in Royse City, Texas. Dennis Woodruff was discovered shot once and stabbed nine times, while Norma Woodruff suffered multiple gunshot wounds and had her neck slashed. The last known person to see them alive was their son, Brandon, who had visited them the night they were killed. The investigation quickly focused on Brandon due to inconsistencies in his timeline and evidence suggesting his involvement.

The police found a bullet at the crime scene that matched a bullet from Michelle Lee’s home, where Brandon had been the weekend before the murders. Despite the murder weapon never being recovered, the authorities believed Brandon had stolen a gun from Lee’s home. Additionally, a dagger with Dennis Woodruff’s blood was found in a barn at the family’s old house, further implicating Brandon. These pieces of evidence led to his arrest and charge for capital murder.

The Trial and Conviction

Brandon Woodruff’s trial began in June 2008, and it quickly became apparent that his sexuality might have influenced the proceedings. During jury selection, eight out of twelve jurors admitted to believing homosexuality was morally wrong, yet they were still allowed to serve. Despite assurances that they could be impartial, questions arose about whether anti-gay bias affected their judgment.

The prosecution’s case heavily relied on a timeline of Brandon’s activities and the belief that he had the opportunity to commit the murders. However, supporters and the Innocence Project of Texas argue that the timeline was too compressed for Brandon to have committed the crime. They point to phone records and other evidence suggesting that Brandon was elsewhere at the time of the murders. Despite these doubts, Brandon was convicted and sentenced to life in prison.

Ongoing Efforts for Exoneration

Since his conviction, Brandon Woodruff has maintained his innocence and continues to fight for his freedom. The Innocence Project of Texas has taken up his case, highlighting several red flags in the investigation and trial. One of the most significant pieces of evidence is a clump of blonde hair found in Norma Woodruff’s hand, which has never been tested for DNA. Advocates believe this could potentially exonerate Brandon if it were proven not to belong to him.

Additionally, the prosecution’s timeline is being challenged, with arguments that it was impossible for Brandon to commit the murders within the given timeframe. Allison Clayton from the Innocence Project emphasizes that the case against Brandon relied too heavily on circumstantial evidence and untested assumptions. Efforts are ongoing to find new evidence and witnesses who might shed light on the case.

Family Support and Public Opinion

Throughout this ordeal, Brandon’s grandmother, Bonnie Woodruff, has remained a steadfast supporter, believing in her grandson’s innocence. She contends that Brandon was wrongfully judged and that someone else is responsible for the murders. This episode of “20/20” will feature interviews with Bonnie, other family members, and key figures from the trial, providing a multifaceted view of the case.

Public opinion on Brandon’s guilt or innocence remains divided, with some convinced of his involvement and others advocating for a retrial or exoneration. The “Night Terror” episode aims to bring more attention to these contentious issues and encourage viewers to consider the possibility of a wrongful conviction.

Conclusion

“20/20″’s “Night Terror” will delve deep into the complex and emotionally charged case of Brandon Woodruff, exploring the investigation, trial, and ongoing efforts to overturn his conviction. With exclusive interviews and new insights, this episode seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the case and raise important questions about justice and bias in the legal system. Tune in on August 9, 2024, to witness this gripping report and form your own opinion on Brandon Woodruff’s fight for freedom.

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