The Unfolding Tragedies: A Look at Individuals Linked to the Franklin Cover-Up

The Franklin Cover-Up has long captivated both public interest and concern, primarily due to its dark associations with child prostitution allegations. Various accounts, including insights from DeCamp’s influential book, The Franklin Cover-Up, reveal a troubling pattern of untimely deaths among those connected to the scandal. Below, we delve into the stories of several individuals whose lives ended under mysterious circumstances tied to this controversial case.

Gary Caradori: The Investigative Trailblazer

Gary Caradori served as the lead investigator for the Nebraska Legislature’s Franklin Committee, tasked with uncovering the chilling allegations surrounding the child prostitution ring. Tragically, Caradori’s life ended in a plane crash near Ashton, Illinois, alongside his 8-year-old son, Andrew. While the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) attributed the incident to mechanical failure, many, including State Senator Loran Schmit, suspected foul play. Just a day prior, Caradori had confided to Schmit that they were on the brink of a breakthrough, claiming they had the suspects “by the short hairs.” To compound the mystery, Caradori’s briefcase filled with crucial evidence disappeared after the crash.

Bill Baker: A Friend in the Shadows

Bill Baker, a friend and ally of Caradori, played a role in the investigation into the Franklin allegations. His life was cut short in a car accident surrounded by ambiguous circumstances. Although the exact date of his death remains vague, DeCamp cites it as another suspicious event linked to the ongoing investigation.

Newt Copple: The Informant Who Knew Too Much

Serving as a confidential informant with crucial insights about the Franklin case, Newt Copple passed away from a heart attack. However, suspicions were raised as his death coincided closely with the time he provided key information to investigators. The lacking clarity surrounding the circumstances of his passing has left many questioning the nature of these events.

Clare Howard: The Silent Witness

Clare Howard, serving as the secretary to Alan Baer—an Omaha businessman embroiled in the Franklin allegations—was found dead in her home. Although her death was ruled a suicide by carbon monoxide poisoning, the timing of her passing, shortly before critical inquiries escalated, has generated speculation regarding the possibility of foul play.

Mike Lewis: The Corrupt Cop

A former Omaha police officer, Mike Lewis