Murders without Bodies

Each and every year, thousands of people go missing, over one-third of them are victims of murder, and their bodies are never recovered. These cases are seldom investigated, much less prosecuted due to lack of evidence and lack of resolve by prosecutors. This book takes a deep dive into actual investigations and prosecutions of murders without bodies and is intended for those with interest in criminal investigation and risky prosecutions. The reader will learn the complexities of evidence identification, witness testimony, forensics, legal maneuvering, courtroom tactics, and the psychology of jury selection. Though many books are written about murder investigation, this book is unique as it delves into six actual real-life cases from the initial missing person report through the murder investigation and ultimate prosecution of the killer.



The book chronicles the work of America's top no-body murder prosecutor Cass Castillo. This passionate prosecutor has dedicated his career to taking on the cases other prosecutors shun due to the unwritten rule of "No body, no crime." Castillo has successfully prosecuted more bodiless homicides than any other prosecutor in the United States and has been called the “Man who returns a voice to the voiceless.” Castillo's case files, investigator's reports and interviews provide the foundation for this compelling and suspenseful compilation of Castillo's most significant works.



The book concludes with a very insightful chapter on the psychological issues surrounding what makes a good juror. Jurors are the ultimate decision-makers, and having the ability to assess that person's bias, personality, and demeanor is key to a prosecutor's success. In Castillo's own words, he describes the character and psychological analyses he conducts on each potential juror and what drives his decisions on whether to accept or reject, that prospective juror.