The Reverend

In 1977, a man named Robert Burns went to a funeral and shot someone, in the head, in front of 300 people. He didn’t deny it, and his lawyer didn’t deny it. Burns told a police officer: “I had to do it. And if I had to do it over, I’d do it again.”

Casey Cep's book is The Furious Hours: Murder, Fraud, and the Last Trial of Harper Lee.

Criminal is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX.

If you haven't already, please review us on iTunes! It's an important way to help new listeners discover the show: iTunes.com/CriminalShow.

Say hello on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Sign up for The Accomplice.

If you'd like to introduce friends or family members to podcasts, we created a How to Listen guide based on frequently asked questions.

Artwork by Julienne Alexander.

Sponsors:

Article Get $50 off your first purchase of $100 or more at article.com/criminal.

Away For $20 off a suitcase, visit awaytravel.com/criminal and use promo code CRIMINAL during checkout.

Betabrand Go to betabrand.com/criminal for 20% off a pair of dress pants.

Betterhelp Get 10% off your first month with discount code CRIMINAL when you fill out a questionnaire at betterhelp.com/criminal

Casper Get $100 toward select mattresses by visiting Casper.com/criminal and using criminal at checkout. Terms and conditions apply.

Everlane Get free shipping on your first order at everlane.com/criminal

The Real Real Shop in-store, online, or download the app, and get 20% off select items with the promo code REAL.

Simplisafe Protect your home today and get free shipping at SimpliSafe.com/CRIMINAL

Squarespace Try Squarespace.com/criminal for a free trial and when you’re ready to launch, use the offer code CRIMINAL to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

ZipRecruiter Try ZipRecruiter for free at ZipRecruiter.com/criminal.