Two Unsolved Lee County Murders: Amy Fleming & Gary Dawson

The Unsolved Murder of Amy Fleming (1996)

• 🍎 Amy Todd Fleming, a dedicated teacher and coach, was found strangled in her Lee County, Illinois home on January 11, 1996.
• 💔 Her death was out of character, as she was known for her strong work ethic and commitment.
• 🔍 Investigators suspect the scene was staged to look like a robbery, indicating the killer likely knew Amy.
• ⏳ Despite extensive investigation, including over 25,000 hours and new leads in 2016, her case remains open.
• 🙏 A reward of $25,000 was offered, and a memorial fund was established in her name to benefit special needs children.

The 1983 Murder of Gary Dawson

• 🐷 Gary Dawson was found murdered, naked and bound, in a Lee County hog pen on August 28, 1983.
• 🔪 Autopsy revealed severe blunt force trauma and stab wounds, with indications of multiple assailants.
• 🕵️‍♂️ The location of the body was kept secret for over 30 years, highlighting the investigative effort.
• ⛓️ Suspects Terry Bobel, Kent Bobel, and Steven Watts were investigated; Kent was arrested but charges were dropped, while Steven pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice.
• ⚖️ In 2013, Steven Watts was re-arrested and charged with first-degree murder, cooperating with investigators to implicate the Bobel brothers.
• 🚗 Watts claimed Gary was kidnapped, beaten, and then dumped in the hog pen, with a friend suggesting the hogs would dispose of the body.

Ongoing Investigations and Dedication

• 💡 Both the Amy Fleming and Gary Dawson cases highlight the doggedness of Lee County investigators.
• ⏳ Despite the passage of time, authorities continue to pursue leads and utilize advancements like DNA technology.
• 🤝 The cases demonstrate the importance of perseverance in seeking justice for victims and their families.
• 🌟 The podcast hosts express hope that both cases will eventually be solved due to the ongoing efforts of law enforcement.