Retired Colonel George Maracek was a distinguished veteran and former green beret who served in Korea and Vietnam. But when he was accused of murdering his wife in 1991, he maintained his innocence. He believed the police used him as a scapegoat to cover up a botched investigation. “48 Hours" Correspondent Susan Spencer reports. This classic "48 Hours" episode last aired on 1/3/2003. Watch all-new episodes of “48 Hours” on Saturdays, and stream on demand on Paramount+. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Chapter 1: Who is Colonel George Marachek?
The first trial ended in a hung jury. The second jury convicted Marachek, but he won a new trial on appeal. He has contended from the start that the state is trying to use his military career against him, trying to portray him as a trained killer. The police, he charges, have used him as a scapegoat to cover up a botched investigation.
They didn't preserve anything.
He says they ignored crucial evidence at the crime scene, including a pair of shoes, beer cans, and a footprint in the sand.
They destroyed it.
This time, he thinks the jury will see things his way.
If anybody treasures life, it would be a guy like me who'd been on battlefields.
George was extremely brave.
Retired General Sidney Shacknow has known Marachek for 30 years.
If I was to go back into combat, I would want George Marachek with me. He led by example. He commanded respect because of what he has accomplished. George Marachek is the American story of success.
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Chapter 2: What happened on June 3rd, 1991?
That might show some of his motive for trying to testify against the Colonel.
Whether or not they can undermine Preston, the defense has one more card to play.
She walked in as I was walking out.
A new witness. Do you appreciate the fact that this is, in the defense's eyes, an absolute bombshell information?
I do appreciate it greatly. but I know what I saw.
Will his testimony save the Colonel? Next, on 48 Hours Investigates.
Good morning.
After just 90 days preparing their case, Colonel Marachek and his team of attorneys have their backs against the wall.
We are scrambling, trying to do the best we can at this point with what we've got.
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