The University of Maryland’s Forensic Accounting Club played an unlikely role in the conviction of a grisly murder. In the Spring 2025 issue of Terp magazine, writer John Tucker unspools how students who expected to be working on minor financial fraud cases helped uncover the killer’s scheme to drain her 71-year-old mother’s bank account—even recruiting her young daughters as accomplices—then to fatally suffocate her and dismember her body. Their report was key in the defendant’s conviction after a jury trial. The cover story of Terp magazine, which was mailed to 108,000 alumni and promoted on the university’s news site and social media channels, showed the university’s role in serving the community. The faculty adviser’s expertise and persistence in establishing this crime-solving partnership with the local police department made this a unique experiential learning opportunity.
From the Judges
A gripping and well-told story, spotlighting students, university impact on community, and faculty talent. The story combines a financial investigation, murder mystery, and research in a surprising and unique way. Bravo!
