48 Hours “Death by Eye Drops” April 20 2024 Recap & Preview
In a gripping episode of 48 HOURS titled “Death by Eye Drops,” airing Saturday, April 20, 2024, on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+, viewers will be taken inside the compelling trial of Jessy Kurczewski, accused of the intentional homicide of her friend Lynn Hernan.
The story unfolds in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, where Kurczewski faced trial for the alleged poisoning of Hernan with eye drops, along with charges of felony theft. Kurczewski, who had been caring for Hernan as she battled health issues, maintained her innocence, claiming investigators had made a grave mistake.
According to Stephanie Rodriguez, who covered the trial for the CBS affiliate in Milwaukee, Kurczewski was deeply connected to Hernan, often described as an adopted daughter. Anthony Pozza, a friend of Hernan’s, revealed that her health struggles had been a source of frustration.
During the trial, a first responder testified about finding suspicious substances near Hernan’s body, leading to toxicology reports that uncovered tetrahydrozoline, a potentially fatal ingredient in eye drops, in her system. Prosecutors alleged that Kurczewski not only stole from Hernan but also poisoned her for financial gain.
However, the defense argued a different narrative, suggesting that Hernan wanted to end her suffering and that Kurczewski was innocent of any wrongdoing. Despite the prosecution’s claims, the defense maintained that Kurczewski’s love for Hernan was genuine and unwavering.
As the case unfolds on 48 HOURS, viewers will delve into the complexities of this haunting tale, grappling with questions of guilt, innocence, and the lengths one might go to in the name of compassion.
What Happened to Lynn Hernan?
Jessy Kurczewski, a Wisconsin woman, was convicted of first-degree intentional homicide and theft in connection with the death of her friend Lynn Hernan. Kurczewski was found guilty of spiking Hernan’s water bottle with a lethal dose of eye drops, leading to Hernan’s death in 2018. Additionally, Kurczewski defrauded Hernan of nearly $300,000 in the two years prior to her death. Despite pleading not guilty, Kurczewski was convicted on all counts after a jury deliberated for two days.
During the trial, prosecutors argued that Kurczewski stood to gain financially from Hernan’s death, as she was one of the beneficiaries of Hernan’s will. They presented evidence suggesting Kurczewski’s motive was greed, highlighting the substantial amount of money she had taken from Hernan. On the other hand, the defense claimed that Hernan wasn’t poisoned by Kurczewski and suggested that Hernan may have willingly consumed the eye drops.
Following the guilty verdict, Kurczewski was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of extended supervision after 30 years. The judge emphasized the severity of Kurczewski’s offenses and the need to protect the public from her actions. Victims’ friends spoke during sentencing, describing Kurczewski as “pure evil” and expressing their desire for her to receive life in prison without parole.
Despite Kurczewski’s emotional testimony during sentencing, where she maintained her innocence and doubled down on her claims that Hernan willingly consumed the eye drops, the judge handed down the maximum sentences for the theft charges. Kurczewski’s actions were characterized as premeditated and calculated, with the judge expressing concern about her potential threat to society if released.
Jessy Kurczewski’s conviction and sentencing shed light on a tragic case of betrayal and greed, where a friendship ended in a fatal act of poisoning and significant financial exploitation. The outcome of the trial brought a measure of justice for Lynn Hernan and her loved ones, while also serving as a reminder of the importance of accountability for such heinous crimes.
