48 Hours “Shootout at the Shaughnessys” January 13 2024 Recap & Preview
In a chilling and complex tale of betrayal and murder, CBS’s “48 HOURS” investigates the shocking case surrounding the murder of wealthy jewelers Ted and Corey Shaughnessy in Austin, Texas. Tune in on Saturday, January 13, at 10:00 PM ET/PT on the CBS Television Network, or stream it on Paramount+ for an exclusive look into “Shootout at the Shaughnessys’.”
At first glance, the crime scene at the Shaughnessy residence on March 2, 2018, appeared to be a random and tragic event. But something didn’t add up, leaving investigators puzzled. As Amy Meredith, a former assistant district attorney, put it, “This was not a stranger killing.”
As detectives delved deeper into the case, their suspicions were confirmed: this was no random attack. Instead, it unraveled into a sinister plot involving the Shaughnessys’ own son, Nicolas, and his wife, Jaclyn Edison, conspiring to have his parents murdered. Text messages exchanged between the couple, seemingly discussing payment for a hit, provided damning evidence. Soon after, Nick Shaughnessy and two alleged hitmen were charged with capital murder.
In a gripping interview, correspondent Jim Axelrod confronts Nick Shaughnessy about his involvement, to which he shockingly admits: “Yes, I did.”
In a surprising turn of events in the spring of 2021, the district attorney’s office offered Nick Shaughnessy and the two alleged hitmen a plea deal to avoid the death penalty. All three agreed to plead guilty to a reduced murder charge, resulting in 35 years of imprisonment with a possibility of parole. Jaclyn Edison, on the other hand, received a 120-day jail sentence and 10 years’ probation for pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit capital murder by terror threat or other felony. As part of her parole conditions, Edison must spend the anniversary of Ted Shaughnessy’s murder in jail for the next 10 years.
As Jaclyn Edison completed her four-month sentence, “48 HOURS” producer Jenna Jackson approached her with a question that’s been on many minds: “Are you getting away with murder?”
Edison’s response is both intriguing and controversial: “No, I think that it’s fair. I think it accurately reflects the level of involvement.”
However, the plot thickens when Corey and Nick Shaughnessy claim that Edison was a partner in the murder plot. Edison dismisses these allegations, asserting that Nick is attempting to clear his name and Corey is in denial.
The Shaughnessy murder plot is a web of deception, lies, and accusations that continues to haunt those involved. Join “48 HOURS” as they untangle this dark web of secrets and motives, bringing you closer to the truth behind this chilling crime. Don’t miss this gripping episode that raises questions about justice, involvement, and the blurred lines of guilt.
What Happened to Ted Shaughnessy?
In 2018, in the heart of Austin, Nicolas Shaughnessy, the son of successful jeweler Ted Shaughnessy, devised a sinister plan. Collaborating with his then-wife, Jaclyn Edison, their motivation was a mix of financial gain and a desire to bask in the glow of his parents’ jewelry business success. This plot involved enlisting the help of Johnny Leon, an acquaintance, to carry out a heinous act.
Under the cover of darkness, the assailants entered the Shaughnessy residence, disabling the security system via Nicolas’ phone. Tragically, Ted Shaughnessy was fatally shot during the encounter, while his wife Corey Shaughnessy displayed incredible bravery and survived.
The ensuing investigation uncovered the shocking truth behind the murder plot. Nicolas eventually confessed to his involvement, outlining the initial stages of the plan and his decision to bring in Johnny Leon. Jaclyn Edison, cooperating with authorities, was also implicated.
In terms of legal consequences, Nicolas Shaughnessy, Johnny Leon, and Arieon Smith were each sentenced to 35 years in prison. Jaclyn Edison’s plea deal, which resulted in 10 years of probation, raised questions and sparked discussions about the justice system’s handling of such cases.
Corey Shaughnessy, in a heartfelt courtroom statement, expressed her profound sense of betrayal and grief. Her anguish was compounded by the knowledge that her son and former daughter-in-law, who had lived with her post-murder, had taken advantage of her kindness and trust.
Nicolas Shaughnessy later provided an interview in which he candidly discussed his actions, expressing regret and a desire to mend his relationship with his mother. This glimpse into the psychological dynamics behind such a heinous crime shed light on the complexities of the case.
The murder of Ted Shaughnessy and the subsequent revelations sent shockwaves through the Austin community. As the owner of Gallerie Jewelers, Ted was a well-known and respected figure, amplifying the horror surrounding his tragic death.
