How a Foul Smell Led to Uncovering a Hidden Body

Summary

Months after Craig Thatford vanished, a faint, foul odor at his property, initially dismissed by responding officers, became the first clue in a bizarre case of alleged murder and meticulous cover-up. Craig's wife, Dena, provided conflicting stories about his whereabouts, claiming he was in Mexico, while neighbors and family reported no contact for months. Investigators, prompted by disturbing accounts from Dena's ex-husbands and her daughter about her violent history and drug use, began to suspect foul play. Financial records showed Dena spent hundreds of thousands of dollars after Craig's disappearance. A breakthrough came when Dena's daughter revealed that Craig's body was hidden on the property. Police searched a carport and discovered Craig's remains, confirming he had been shot multiple times. Dena was arrested in Texas and charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence. The motive remains unclear, but prosecutors are building a circumstantial case, with Dena facing life in prison.