Victim: Jeffrey Curley, a 10-year-old boy from East Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Incident Date: October 1, 1997.
Crime: Lured with a promise of a bike and $50, Jeffrey was suffocated, allegedly sexually abused post-mortem, and his body was dumped in a river.
Accused: Salvatore Sicari and Charles Jaynes.
Bob Curley's Public Advocacy
Father's Role: Bob Curley, Jeffrey’s father, became a public advocate for the death penalty as a result of his son's murder.
Initial Support: Initially supported by public and media attention; he advocated for capital punishment as a means to find meaning in Jeffrey's death.
Public Perception: Over time, Bob faced criticism for his public stance and received hate mail.
Withdrawal: Eventually regretted his involvement in the death-penalty debate, feeling used and exploited.
Community and Neighborhood
East Cambridge: Described as a tough, close-knit community where everyone looks out for each other.
Jeffrey's Routine: Frequent visits to Sarchioni's Variety Store; known and liked by many in the neighborhood.
Details of the Crime
Last Seen: By his grandmother on September 30, 1997.
Confession Details: Sicari confessed to the crime, detailing how they picked Jeffrey up, and the subsequent murder and disposal of his body.
Discovery: Jeffrey's body was found in a Rubbermaid container in a river on October 7.
Legal and Political Aftermath
Death Penalty Debate: Triggered a renewed debate in Massachusetts, bringing the issue to the forefront with Bob Curley's advocacy.
Legislative Actions: The death penalty bill passed the Senate but failed narrowly in the House.
Personal Impact: Bob Curley and family faced intense public scrutiny and political pressure.
Family's Struggle
Emotional Toll: The Curley family struggled with grief and guilt, especially Jeffrey’s siblings, who blamed themselves for not preventing the tragedy.
Courtroom Tensions: Displayed emotional outbursts during court proceedings.
Bob Curley's New Crusade
Shift in Focus: Transitioned from death penalty advocacy to fighting against child abuse and pornography.
Community Engagement: Supports the state’s sex-offender registry and organizes an annual charity run in Jeffrey’s memory.
Reflections and Consolations
Personal Reflections: Bob Curley reflects on the ugliness of the world and grapples with guilt and rage.
Legacy of Courage: Finds solace in his son’s resistance to his attackers.