Dateline NBC “Point Blank” August 17 2024 Recap & Preview
On August 17, 2024, NBC’s “Dateline” presents the gripping episode titled “Point Blank,” airing at 9/8c. Keith Morrison will delve into the murder of Todd Chance, a case that took years to unravel despite a trail of crucial surveillance footage. The episode explores the chilling reality that Todd’s wife, Leslie Jenea Chance, may have meticulously planned his murder.
In the summer of 2013, Todd and Leslie Chance, along with their children, embarked on a trip to Las Vegas. Their vacation included a visit to a CSI-themed crime exhibit, a seemingly innocent outing that would later take on a sinister significance. Todd, a beloved father and husband, was discovered dead on August 25, 2013, in an almond grove near Bakersfield, California. His murder involved multiple gunshots, and his missing car was initially suspected to be a case of carjacking. However, the vehicle was soon found abandoned with the keys and his gun inside, which led investigators to reconsider their initial theory.
The investigation revealed a series of surveillance videos that tracked the movements of a suspect who was later identified as Leslie. These videos depicted a woman, believed to be Leslie, disposing of evidence and changing clothes in various locations, including a Starbucks and a Walmart. This footage was crucial in piecing together the case against her.
Todd’s background as a hardworking truck driver and cowboy, and his loving relationship with his family, painted a stark contrast to the betrayal he faced. Leslie’s motive, it appeared, was tied to financial gain from multiple life insurance policies and the potential alimony payments she could avoid by killing her husband. Further investigation showed that Leslie had been secretly planning the murder, using tips learned from the CSI exhibit to cover her tracks.
Despite Leslie’s initial denials and claims of innocence, the mounting evidence led to her arrest and conviction. She was found guilty of first-degree murder in 2020 and sentenced to 25 years to life in prison. The case was complicated by issues related to circumstantial evidence and legal appeals, but the overwhelming evidence from the surveillance videos proved pivotal.
“Point Blank” will provide an in-depth look at the evidence, including exclusive interviews and new insights into the case. The episode highlights how a seemingly normal family outing became a prelude to a tragic and meticulously planned crime.
