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Murder in McHenry
Murder in McHenry
Sun, 01/4/09 – 1:03 am | 5 Comments

On the morning of June 2, 1981, two people were found shot to death in the living room of an apartment at the rear of the P.M. Pub, located at 238 West Rand Road in Lakemoor, Illinois.

The victims were the tavern’s owner, 37-year-old Ronald Scharff , and barmaid Patricia Freeman, who had worked her first shift at the bar the previous evening. Lakemoor is situated about 45 miles northwest of Chicago and was a community of around 800 at the time.

These were the first reported homicides there since its incorporation in 1952.

Read the full story »
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newspapers

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Video

Supplementary videos about the case or the people involved.

messages from paul »

THE KANSAS CITY MOB WAR – GARY JENKINS’S GANGLAND WIRE
Wed, 09/17/14 – 4:55 pm | One Comment

THE KANSAS CITY MOB WAR – GARY JENKINS’S GANGLAND WIRE

THE KANSAS CITY MOB WAR – GARY JENKINS’S GANGLAND WIRE
Gary Jenkins is the producer to the DVD Gangland Wire. Gangland Wire is the documentary of the events that led up to and about operations Strawman …

messages from paul »

A McHenry County Deputy is No Longer Under Siege
Wed, 08/13/14 – 5:05 pm | Comments Off on A McHenry County Deputy is No Longer Under Siege

A McHenry County Deputy is No Longer Under Siege

A McHenry County Deputy is No Longer Under Siege
Last year I told you a story about former McHenry County Deputy Zane Seipler being under sieged by his former boss McHenry County Sheriff Keith Nygren. You …

Featured »

Frank Cullotta’s BlogTalkRadio Show FRANK’S WORLD
Tue, 08/12/14 – 6:46 pm | One Comment

Frank Cullotta’s BlogTalkRadio Show FRANK’S WORLD

Frank Cullotta’s BlogTalkRadio Show FRANK’S WORLD
On August 11th at 8PM CST I was on Frank’s Cullotta’s BlogTalkRadio show Frank’s World. Frank was traveling so I was interviewed by Dennis Griffin, Frank’s co-author of his book …

messages from paul »

Where We’ve Been, Where are We Going, and MOB CON 2014
Wed, 06/25/14 – 4:08 pm | Comments Off on Where We’ve Been, Where are We Going, and MOB CON 2014

Where We’ve Been, Where are We Going, and MOB CON 2014

I am back from a much needed writing break to fill you in with updates on the Republican Primary for McHenry County Sheriff and Mob Con 2014. If you have been following me about my …

messages from paul »

Zinke felt Threatened by a 78 Year Old Woman and His Campaign Manager may be an Internet Troll
Wed, 03/12/14 – 3:08 pm | Comments Off on Zinke felt Threatened by a 78 Year Old Woman and His Campaign Manager may be an Internet Troll

Zinke felt Threatened by a 78 Year Old Woman and His Campaign Manager may be an Internet Troll

Undersheriff Andrew Zinke got himself in trouble again. While being served a subpoena in January of this year, Zinke now has to go in front of a Federal Judge to explain his behavior. He was …

A McHenry County Deputy is No Longer Under Siege
Wed, 08/13/14 – 5:05 pm | Comments Off on A McHenry County Deputy is No Longer Under Siege
A McHenry County Deputy is No Longer Under Siege

A McHenry County Deputy is No Longer Under Siege
Last year I told you a story about former McHenry County Deputy Zane Seipler being under sieged by his former boss McHenry County Sheriff Keith Nygren. You …

Where We’ve Been, Where are We Going, and MOB CON 2014
Wed, 06/25/14 – 4:08 pm | Comments Off on Where We’ve Been, Where are We Going, and MOB CON 2014
Where We’ve Been, Where are We Going, and MOB CON 2014

I am back from a much needed writing break to fill you in with updates on the Republican Primary for McHenry County Sheriff and Mob Con 2014. If you have been following me about my …

Zinke felt Threatened by a 78 Year Old Woman and His Campaign Manager may be an Internet Troll
Wed, 03/12/14 – 3:08 pm | Comments Off on Zinke felt Threatened by a 78 Year Old Woman and His Campaign Manager may be an Internet Troll
Zinke felt Threatened by a 78 Year Old Woman and His Campaign Manager may be an Internet Troll

Undersheriff Andrew Zinke got himself in trouble again. While being served a subpoena in January of this year, Zinke now has to go in front of a Federal Judge to explain his behavior. He was …

Frank Cullotta’s BlogTalkRadio Show FRANK’S WORLD
Tue, 08/12/14 – 6:46 pm | One Comment
Frank Cullotta’s BlogTalkRadio Show FRANK’S WORLD

Frank Cullotta’s BlogTalkRadio Show FRANK’S WORLD
On August 11th at 8PM CST I was on Frank’s Cullotta’s BlogTalkRadio show Frank’s World. Frank was traveling so I was interviewed by Dennis Griffin, Frank’s co-author of his book …

Hi I am Dave Bachmann and Sheriff Keith Nygren wants me DEAD
Mon, 03/17/14 – 4:38 pm | Comments Off on Hi I am Dave Bachmann and Sheriff Keith Nygren wants me DEAD
Hi I am Dave Bachmann and Sheriff Keith Nygren wants me DEAD

Dave Bachmann is a former McHenry County Coroner Candidate that unsuccessfully ran for coroner in 2008. Allegedly Sheriff Keith Nygren wanted Dave Bachmann dead, and asked former Deputy Scott Milliman to kill him. I will …

Nothing Wrong at the Sheriff’s Office according to Zinke
Wed, 03/5/14 – 5:28 pm | Comments Off on Nothing Wrong at the Sheriff’s Office according to Zinke
Nothing Wrong at the Sheriff’s Office according to Zinke

If you watched the debate or the League of Women Voter’s forum, there is Nothing Wrong at the Sheriff’s office according to Undersheriff Andrew Zinke. We were lucky to even have had this debate. As …

My First Radio Show, LAS VEGAS AND THE MOB with Host Denny Griffin
Wed, 02/26/14 – 6:17 pm | Comments Off on My First Radio Show, LAS VEGAS AND THE MOB with Host Denny Griffin
My First Radio Show, LAS VEGAS AND THE MOB with Host Denny Griffin

I have come a long way since my first radio show interview in November of 2008. Since December of last year until now I have done Ron Chepesiuk’s Crime Beat, Burl Barer’s Outlaw Radio, and …

Sheriff Opts for Belligerence to Thwart FEN’s Attempt to Secure Undersheriff Andrew Zinke Report
Wed, 02/19/14 – 6:29 pm | Comments Off on Sheriff Opts for Belligerence to Thwart FEN’s Attempt to Secure Undersheriff Andrew Zinke Report
Sheriff Opts for Belligerence to Thwart FEN’s Attempt to Secure Undersheriff Andrew Zinke Report

This is a story that has been going on for over a year now. It is a comment on what Sheriff Keith Nygren feels about inviting transparency for the public into his sheriff’s department. Keith …

Bill Prim VIDEO, Q&A, and even a DEBATE!
Wed, 02/12/14 – 4:50 pm | Comments Off on Bill Prim VIDEO, Q&A, and even a DEBATE!
Bill Prim VIDEO, Q&A, and even a DEBATE!

Please take a look at the video put out by the campaign for Bill Prim for McHenry County Sheriff. It was excellently done and highlights all the points on why Bill Prim would make an …

Tony “Big Tuna” Accardo the Outfit’s Ultimate Boss Part II
Wed, 02/5/14 – 5:15 pm | Comments Off on Tony “Big Tuna” Accardo the Outfit’s Ultimate Boss Part II
Tony “Big Tuna” Accardo the Outfit’s Ultimate Boss Part II

 
Tony “Big Tuna” Accardo is now the head of the Outfit since the remaining top leaders were sitting in jail because of the Hollywood Extortion Scandal. In my last article I went to Accardo’s other …

Tony “Joe Batters” Accardo the Outfit’s Ulitmate Boss Part I
Wed, 01/29/14 – 6:30 pm | Comments Off on Tony “Joe Batters” Accardo the Outfit’s Ulitmate Boss Part I
Tony “Joe Batters” Accardo the Outfit’s Ulitmate Boss Part I

 
Tony “Joe Batters” Accardo was the boss of the Chicago Outfit. He got his start in the Outfit working under Al Capone as his driver and body guard in the 1920’s. He worked his way …

Get MURDER IN McHENRY for FREE on Amazon!!
Wed, 01/22/14 – 4:55 pm | Comments Off on Get MURDER IN McHENRY for FREE on Amazon!!
Get MURDER IN McHENRY for FREE on Amazon!!

Starting on January 29th you will be able to get MURDER IN MCHENRY, A Son’s Pursuit of Justice for FREE on Amazon for Kindle. Every Wednesday from January 29th to February 26th my book will …

Is Sheriff Nygren and Undersheriff Zinke Intimidating and Tampering with Federal Witnesses?
Wed, 01/15/14 – 7:00 pm | Comments Off on Is Sheriff Nygren and Undersheriff Zinke Intimidating and Tampering with Federal Witnesses?
Is Sheriff Nygren and Undersheriff Zinke Intimidating and Tampering with Federal Witnesses?

Is Sheriff Nygren and Undersheriff Zinke intimidating and tampering with McHenry County Deputies listed as federal material witnesses? Former Deputy Scott Milliman’s wrongful termination case is moving through the system, albeit slowing by moving forward …

Andrew Zinke Fearful to Debate Bill Prim Lies to Get Out of It
Wed, 01/8/14 – 7:30 pm | Comments Off on Andrew Zinke Fearful to Debate Bill Prim Lies to Get Out of It
Andrew Zinke Fearful to Debate Bill Prim Lies to Get Out of It

Andrew Zinke revokes his commitment to debate Bill Prim. However, that is not what you would have read in the Northwest Herald the following Monday. Let’s start at the beginning of the sequence of events.
On …

Undersheriff Andrew Zinke Shuts Down Cal Skinner’s Blog Site
Wed, 12/18/13 – 6:24 pm | Comments Off on Undersheriff Andrew Zinke Shuts Down Cal Skinner’s Blog Site
Undersheriff Andrew Zinke Shuts Down Cal Skinner’s Blog Site

Undersheriff Andrew Zinke is fighting it out with Cal Skinner again. This time Skinner alleges that Zinke was able to get his website www.mchenrycountyblog.com taken down for a short period of time on Wednesday December …

Most Sadistic Loan Shark in Chicago Outfit’s History, “Mad Sam” DeStefano
Wed, 12/11/13 – 5:37 pm | 2 Comments
Most Sadistic Loan Shark in Chicago Outfit’s History, “Mad Sam” DeStefano

I wrote an article on Frank Cullotta’s boss Tony Spilotro. Tony got connected to the Chicago Outfit at an early age and became part of Sam “Mad Sam” DeStefano’s crew. “Mad Sam” mentored and groomed …

Chicago Outfit Enforcer and Las Vegas Boss Tony Spilotro
Wed, 12/4/13 – 6:53 pm | Comments Off on Chicago Outfit Enforcer and Las Vegas Boss Tony Spilotro
Chicago Outfit Enforcer and Las Vegas Boss Tony Spilotro

My story MURDER IN MCHENRY relates to former mobster turned government witness Frank Cullotta. This is not a story about him but his former boss. You can say that Frank Cullotta started his Outfit Association …

The Story behind the Larry Neumann Photo on the cover of MURDER IN MCHENRY
Wed, 11/20/13 – 5:23 pm | One Comment
The Story behind the Larry Neumann Photo on the cover of MURDER IN MCHENRY

The Story behind the Larry Neumann Photo on the cover of MURDER IN MCHENRY
 
On the cover of my book, I have a photo of Larry Neumann in glasses. The day was August 1st, 1956. There …

IUOE Local 150 and Andrew Zinke. Is this Gangster Money for a Gangster Cop?
Wed, 11/6/13 – 5:46 pm | Comments Off on IUOE Local 150 and Andrew Zinke. Is this Gangster Money for a Gangster Cop?
IUOE Local 150 and Andrew Zinke. Is this Gangster Money for a Gangster Cop?

A few weeks ago I noticed something peculiar about a contribution made to Andrew Zinke’s campaign for sheriff. The contribution was from the IUOE or the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150. What I …

Mob Con 2013 Las Vegas Part IIII Frank Calabrese Jr.
Wed, 10/30/13 – 5:03 pm | Comments Off on Mob Con 2013 Las Vegas Part IIII Frank Calabrese Jr.
Mob Con 2013 Las Vegas Part IIII Frank Calabrese Jr.

Being from the Chicagoland area I was very familiar with the Family Secrets Trial. This was the largest trial of its kind as it named the entire Chicago Outfit (mob) as a criminal enterprise. The …

Paul Scharff is a “Disenfranchised Son, with an Axe to Grind, Who’s Out to Sell his Book”
Wed, 10/23/13 – 4:43 pm | One Comment
Paul Scharff is a “Disenfranchised Son, with an Axe to Grind, Who’s Out to Sell his Book”

Paul Scharff is a “disenfranchised son, with an axe to grind, who’s out to sell his book,” is a comment that I found on my article on Andrew DiDonato that I did two weeks ago. …

Mob Con 2013 Las Vegas Part III Kenny “Kenji” Gallo
Wed, 10/16/13 – 4:49 pm | One Comment
Mob Con 2013 Las Vegas Part III Kenny “Kenji” Gallo

I met Kenny “Kenji” Gallo at Mob Con in Las Vegas, when I was selling my book MURDER IN MCHENRY. We were all at the cocktail party at the Tropicana in Las Vegas for Mob …

Mob Con 2013 Las Vegas Part II Andrew DiDonato
Wed, 10/9/13 – 6:04 pm | 8 Comments
Mob Con 2013 Las Vegas Part II Andrew DiDonato

Last week I shared with you a letter that I sent to Mr. James M. Sweeney, the President-Business Manager of Local 150 International Union of Operating Engineers. His union contributed $12,308.50 to Undersheriff Andrew Zinke’s …

Will McHenry County be Ripped Off by Special Interest in Sheriff Election?
Wed, 10/2/13 – 5:27 pm | 2 Comments
Will McHenry County be Ripped Off by Special Interest in Sheriff Election?

I am going to change gears and talk about the potential of having our election for Sheriff being ripped off by special interest dumping cash into the election. I will get back to Mob Con …

MOB CON 2013 Las Vegas Part I
Wed, 09/25/13 – 4:58 pm | One Comment
MOB CON 2013 Las Vegas Part I

At the beginning of this month I was at Mob Con 2013 in Las Vegas. This was the very first Mob Con and it was a huge success. Mob Con even got the attention of …

The Chicago Outfit and their Political Fixers
Wed, 09/4/13 – 4:55 pm | 13 Comments
The Chicago Outfit and their Political Fixers

Last week I introduced a definition of Political Fix or Fixer. This was in reference to the way that the Ethics Commission conducted itself in the hearing of a complaint of Undersheriff Andrew Zinke’s sending …

Zinke’s middle finger may cost Cal Skinner $5,000
Wed, 08/28/13 – 5:36 pm | One Comment
Zinke’s middle finger may cost Cal Skinner $5,000

Mark Gummerson, an attorney for Undersheriff Andrew Zinke is following through with his threat towards Cal Skinner from the Ethic Commission hearing. Andrew Zinke filed a complaint against Cal Skinner for $5,000. A fine that …

And there is hope, even for the Ethics Commission
Wed, 08/21/13 – 5:06 pm | One Comment
And there is hope, even for the Ethics Commission

If you have read my book MURDER IN MCHENRY, you know that there is a lot of bad stuff in there about some bad people. There is also signs of hope in the book too. …

First Electric Newspaper v.s. Sheriff Nygren and EEO Officer Donald Leist
Wed, 08/14/13 – 5:38 pm | Comments Off on First Electric Newspaper v.s. Sheriff Nygren and EEO Officer Donald Leist
First Electric Newspaper v.s. Sheriff Nygren and EEO Officer Donald Leist

Why is Pete Gonigam of the First Electric Newspaper battling Sheriff Nygren and EEO Officer Donald Leist?
On October 23, 2012 Sgt John Koziol of the McHenry County Sheriff’s Department filed a motion for a Special …

McHenry County Ethics Commission, Ethical or NOT!?!?
Wed, 08/7/13 – 4:55 pm | One Comment
McHenry County Ethics Commission, Ethical or NOT!?!?

If you do not recall this infamous photo or if you have not seen it before, it has stirred up quite the controversy. This photo was taken at the 4th of July Parade in Crystal …

How Gary Gauger got to DEATH ROW
Wed, 07/31/13 – 5:20 pm | One Comment
How Gary Gauger got to DEATH ROW

If you’re not familiar with Gary Gauger, you should be. His story got a lot of attention back in the 90s, early 2000s, and even until this day. The story involves the McHenry County Sheriff’s …

Writing with a very Heavy Heart – Homage to Eric
Wed, 07/24/13 – 7:18 am | 10 Comments
Writing with a very Heavy Heart – Homage to Eric

I am writing with a much heavy heart today. One of my good friends passed away this past Saturday July 20th, 2013. I am currently in travel to be with him and say my final …

Another McHenry County Deputy under siege, Scott Milliman
Wed, 07/17/13 – 5:46 pm | 7 Comments
Another McHenry County Deputy under siege, Scott Milliman

Last week’s article I talked about Zane Seipler’s battle with Keith Nygren and the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office.  This week I’m going to talk about another deputy, Scott Milliman, and his battle with Sheriff Keith …

McHenry County Deputy Zane Seipler under siege, Again!!
Wed, 07/10/13 – 4:59 pm | 3 Comments
McHenry County Deputy Zane Seipler under siege, Again!!

McHenry County Sheriff Keith Nygren is acting out against one of his own, Again. Deputy Zane Seipler was terminated from his position more than four years ago, and Nygren was forced to reinstate him a …

Hole in the Wall Gang on the 4th of July 1981, Bertha’s and Karma
Wed, 07/3/13 – 8:50 am | 5 Comments
Hole in the Wall Gang on the 4th of July 1981, Bertha’s and Karma

It is the week of the 4th of July, a time that we get together with family and friends for cookouts, fireworks and other 4th of July activities. This day also has meaning to myself …

Who is Tommy Amato?
Wed, 06/26/13 – 6:41 pm | 4 Comments
Who is Tommy Amato?

When I learned that Larry Neumann killed my father, Ron Scharff and Patricia Freeman, from reading the book CULLOTTA, I reached out to Dennis Griffin, who co-authored the book with Frank Cullotta. In our initial …

Andrew Zinke plus Rita Corporation equals ON THE TAKE
Wed, 06/19/13 – 5:31 pm | 7 Comments
Andrew Zinke plus Rita Corporation equals ON THE TAKE

A few weeks ago I wrote a blog called, “Andrew Zinke for McHenry County Sheriff, Really?” In my blog I relate my personal experience and what it was like having Andrew Zinke reopen my father’s …

Justice gone backwards. It’s a sad day for the citizens of McHenry County.
Wed, 06/12/13 – 5:52 pm | 12 Comments
Justice gone backwards. It’s a sad day for the citizens of McHenry County.

Your best interest and my pursuit of justice took a  backseat to the protectionism of ghosts, or someone living. As many of you know, I have filed an Appeal with the Public Access Bureau in …

Did an Illinois Parole Board kill Ron Scharff, Patricia Freeman, and Robert Brown?
Wed, 06/5/13 – 5:04 pm | Comments Off on Did an Illinois Parole Board kill Ron Scharff, Patricia Freeman, and Robert Brown?
Did an Illinois Parole Board kill Ron Scharff, Patricia Freeman, and Robert Brown?

CLICK ON PHOTO TO ENLARGE
If a picture is worth a 1000 words then here’s 10,000 of them. This picture was taken August 1, 1956. The man standing up against the wall with the glasses, is …

Andrew Zinke for McHenry County Sheriff, Really???
Wed, 05/29/13 – 5:53 pm | 6 Comments
Andrew Zinke for McHenry County Sheriff, Really???

Zinke for Sheriff? It’s a preposterous idea but it will happen unless we do something about it.
Just like the original investigator, George Hendle, he started my father’s investigation as a Lieutenant. He now currently resides …

Simon Barrett BloggerNews.Net Book Review: Murder In McHenry
Sun, 05/26/13 – 10:18 pm | Comments Off on Simon Barrett BloggerNews.Net Book Review: Murder In McHenry

Posted on March 27th, 2013
Book Review: Murder In McHenry
Simon Barrett does a Book Review
http://www.bloggernews.net/129003

Simon Barrett BloggerNews.Net Coming Really Soon: Murder In McHenry by Paul Scharff and Keith Bettinger
Sun, 05/26/13 – 10:16 pm | Comments Off on Simon Barrett BloggerNews.Net Coming Really Soon: Murder In McHenry by Paul Scharff and Keith Bettinger

Posted on March 19th, 2013
Coming Really Soon: Murder In McHenry by Paul Scharff and Keith Bettinger
Simon Barrett wrote this article a week prior to my book release.
http://www.bloggernews.net/128986
 

Simon Barrett BloggerNews.Net Coming Soon: A Book by Paul Scharff About His Father’s 1981 Murder
Sun, 05/26/13 – 10:08 pm | Comments Off on Simon Barrett BloggerNews.Net Coming Soon: A Book by Paul Scharff About His Father’s 1981 Murder

Posted on Oct 20, 2012
BloggerNews.net
This article was written by Simon Barrett. He wrote this article about Murder In McHenry that was coming out in a few months.
http://www.bloggernews.net/128625

Simon Barrett BloggerNews.Net Cold Cases When Is Just Too Cold?
Sun, 05/26/13 – 10:02 pm | Comments Off on Simon Barrett BloggerNews.Net Cold Cases When Is Just Too Cold?

Posted on February 27th, 2011
BloggerNews.net
This article was written by Simon Barrett. He wrote this article about another cold case that was resolved 50 years later. He was doing a comparison to my father’s cold case.
http://www.bloggernews.net/126123
 

Simon Barrett BloggerNews.Net Ronald Scharff & Patricia Freeman The Only Victims?
Sun, 05/26/13 – 9:55 pm | Comments Off on Simon Barrett BloggerNews.Net Ronald Scharff & Patricia Freeman The Only Victims?

July 23rd, 2009
BloggerNews.net
This article was written by Simon Barrett. He wrote this article about Larry Neumann and his wealth. He had a Trust Fund that his father left him but chose to kill and hurt …

Simon Barret BloggerNews.net Ronald Scharff & Patricia Freeman – A Cold Case Once Again?
Sun, 05/26/13 – 9:46 pm | Comments Off on Simon Barret BloggerNews.net Ronald Scharff & Patricia Freeman – A Cold Case Once Again?

April 14th, 2009
BloggerNews.net
This article was written by Simon Barrett. He wrote this article in response of me calling him and telling him that the investigation has been scaled back. Simon contacted both Andrew Zinke, lead …

McHenry Deputies and MURDER IN MCHENRY
Wed, 05/22/13 – 5:31 pm | Comments Off on McHenry Deputies and MURDER IN MCHENRY
McHenry Deputies and MURDER IN MCHENRY

In promoting my father’s story I get to speak to a lot of people. I really enjoy it, and I get to talk to all different kinds of people. The last few weeks the people …

How does the movie CASINO relate to the book MURDER IN MCHENRY PART 2
Wed, 05/15/13 – 2:51 pm | Comments Off on How does the movie CASINO relate to the book MURDER IN MCHENRY PART 2
How does the movie CASINO relate to the book MURDER IN MCHENRY PART 2

How does the movie CASINO relate to the book MURDER IN MCHENRY PART 2
The movie CASINO was filled with fictitious characters that were based on actual people. The two main characters of the movie Robert …

How does the movie CASINO relates to the book MURDER IN MCHENRY PART 1
Wed, 05/8/13 – 5:26 pm | Comments Off on How does the movie CASINO relates to the book MURDER IN MCHENRY PART 1
How does the movie CASINO relates to the book MURDER IN MCHENRY PART 1

This week’s blog is going to be part one of two. I’m going to discuss how the movie CASINO relates to my book Murder In McHenry. If you never seen the movie CASINO it is …

From 1893 Chicago to Lakemoor Illinois 1981, the history of the Chicago Outfit
Wed, 05/1/13 – 6:27 pm | 2 Comments
From 1893 Chicago to Lakemoor Illinois 1981, the history of the Chicago Outfit

I wrote this piece a while back in hopes of using it for the book. For the direction that we wound up going, it was excluded. I wrote it, because I believe that most people …

FOIA Appeal Update
Thu, 04/25/13 – 6:11 pm | 2 Comments
FOIA Appeal Update

I just wrote a blog yesterday called Humbling Moments. I’m not trying to blog you guys to death but more or less provide you with an important update. Last week I posted my Freedom of …

Humbling Moments…
Wed, 04/24/13 – 5:22 pm | One Comment
Humbling Moments…

Last week I wrote about a radio show that I did. It was Denny Griffin’s show, We Knowa Guy Radio. There was a special surprise guest on that show, Frank Cullotta. I mentioned that I …

It has been a while…
Sat, 04/20/13 – 5:04 pm | One Comment
It has been a while…

First I like to thank everybody from home for all the great support and help with the release of the book Murder In McHenry. It has been out for less than a month and is …

Freedom of Information Act Appeal to get the remainder of my father’s file.
Wed, 04/17/13 – 4:47 pm | 2 Comments
Freedom of Information Act Appeal to get the remainder of my father’s file.

After the book Murder In McHenry was sent to the publisher, I filed for the freedom of information act to get my father’s file from the McHenry County Sheriff’s office. My co-author Keith Bettinger had …

Sun Times : Bar Slaying Case Closed
Tue, 07/21/09 – 6:28 pm | Comments Off on Sun Times : Bar Slaying Case Closed
Sun Times : Bar Slaying Case Closed

The baby-sitter, it turns out, got it right.

The McHenry County sheriff’s office has concluded that a now-dead mob hit man named Larry Neumann, in all likelihood, killed two people in 1981 in the small town of Lakemoor — a long-cold case that was reopened last summer on the basis of a tip from Holly Hager, who baby-sat for the children of one of the pair back then.

Read the full Sun Times article on the Scharff/Freeman murder.

Northwest Herald – Probe Into ’81 Deaths Closes
Sun, 07/19/09 – 3:20 pm | Comments Off on Northwest Herald – Probe Into ’81 Deaths Closes
Northwest Herald – Probe Into ’81 Deaths Closes

Today’s article in the Northwest Herald talking about the current status of the Scharff/Freemen murder investigation.

“Almost a year after sheriff’s investigators revived their efforts to solve the 28-year-old case, they announced that they believe Larry Neumann – a mob hitman who died Jan. 9, 2007, in prison for an unrelated murder – is responsible for slaying P.M. Pub owner Ronald Scharff and his bartender, Patricia Freeman.”

Read the article here.

Frank and Me
Tue, 06/30/09 – 6:56 pm | Comments Off on Frank and Me
Frank and Me

I am sorry that I have not put a blog in a couple of weeks, but I placed an entry today. I have taken a break to some of the more dreary things that I have been writing as of lately to something a little more upbeat. I promise to get back to the dreary stuff on my next entry.

This week I have written about my trip to Las Vegas and my day with Frank Cullotta. Please take a look at and I hope that you enjoy.

Paul Scharff Interviewed on TheVegasMob.com
Mon, 06/22/09 – 2:14 pm | Comments Off on Paul Scharff Interviewed on TheVegasMob.com
Paul Scharff Interviewed on TheVegasMob.com

Mark Anthony, editor of The Vegas Mob and host of The Vegas Tourist Podcast, interviews Paul Scharff about the murder of his father and Patricia Freeman in Lakemoor, IL in 1981.

Northwest Herald: Elusive Peace
Tue, 06/2/09 – 6:56 am | Comments Off on Northwest Herald: Elusive Peace
Northwest Herald: Elusive Peace

There is a new article in the Northwest Herald today covering the Scharff case.

Earth to Earth and Ashes to Ashes
Tue, 05/19/09 – 10:53 pm | Comments Off on Earth to Earth and Ashes to Ashes
Earth to Earth and Ashes to Ashes

Finally, my father is being put to rest. The surreal feelings that I have been having is starting to wear off. This is good because I need to move from feeling shocked. However, I feel that I am giving in to my anger. The reality of never seeing my father again is sinking into my bones.

Happy Birthday to Me
Sun, 05/17/09 – 10:04 am | Comments Off on Happy Birthday to Me
Happy Birthday to Me

Larry Neumann killed my father and Patricia Freeman on June 2nd, 1981. My Birthday is June 5th which was the same day as my father’s wake. Unfortunately but understandably this is the birthday in my life that I remember most. The loss of my father still is not setting in yet but my memories of him are almost immediately start fleeting from me. I started to grow up I think on that day. I think that this also may have been one of the longest days in my life.

The First Dark Day
Sun, 05/10/09 – 12:24 pm | 17 Comments
The First Dark Day

This week I wrote about the first couple of days after Larry Neumann killed my father and Patricia Freeman. I had some immediate struggles trying to comprehend what happened to my dad. You will sense the fears that I had moving forward with my life. I did not even know how I was going to move forward or what I was going to be working with. When I write about those days back then, I feel sad for that little boy!

June 1st, 1981 and Before
Sun, 05/3/09 – 9:59 pm | 11 Comments
June 1st, 1981 and Before

This week I wrote about what things were like before June 2nd, 1981. Before Larry Neumann murdered my father Ron Scharff and his barmaid Patricia Freeman in my father’s tavern in Lakemoor, IL.

What Is The Purpose of McHenry County 1981 and Why Should We Care?
Sun, 04/26/09 – 8:45 am | Comments Off on What Is The Purpose of McHenry County 1981 and Why Should We Care?
What Is The Purpose of McHenry County 1981 and Why Should We Care?

Paul Scharff, the eldest son of Ron Scharff, who was murdered in Lakemoor, Illinois in June of 1981 along with his employee Patricia Freeman, gives his thoughts on why the public should care about this case and what the purpose of the efforts are around the McHenry County 1981 group and web site.

Simon Barrett: Ronald Scharff & Patricia Freeman – A Cold Case Once Again?
Tue, 04/14/09 – 6:37 pm | Comments Off on Simon Barrett: Ronald Scharff & Patricia Freeman – A Cold Case Once Again?
Simon Barrett: Ronald Scharff & Patricia Freeman – A Cold Case Once Again?

Simon Barrett from The Bloggers News Network has written an article today talking about his discussions with McHenry County Sheriff about the current activity around the Scharff case. According to Barrett, they have scaled resources back to 2 officers handling the case – though its not clear how much time they are spending on it as nothing seems to have been done. Read Simons take on the case and his conversations with the McHenry County Sheriff.

Paul and Holly On Dennis Griffin’s BlogTalk Radio Show April 15 at 8pm.
Mon, 04/13/09 – 6:13 am | 2 Comments
Paul and Holly On Dennis Griffin’s BlogTalk Radio Show April 15 at 8pm.

On April 15th at 8 PM CT, Paul Scharff and Holly Hager will be guests on Dennis Griffin’s Blog Talk Radio Show, Las Vegas and the Mob.

They will be talking about the Ron Scharff/Patricia Freeman murder case and its current status. If you would like to call in and ask any questions, you can by dialing (646) 478-0982.

JOHN L. SMITH: Some wiseguys were killers while others really lived to kill
Thu, 02/19/09 – 6:21 am | Comments Off on JOHN L. SMITH: Some wiseguys were killers while others really lived to kill
JOHN L. SMITH: Some wiseguys were killers while others really lived to kill

Frank Cullotta was interviewed again by John L. Smith for an article in the Las Vegas Review Journal. The article discusses Larry Neumann, the killer of Ron Scharff and Patricia Freeman, and his ability to scare gangsters and cops alike with his propensity to kill.

Mobster’s biographer scoops clueless Illinois detectives, fingers 1981 killer
Mon, 02/16/09 – 6:25 am | Comments Off on Mobster’s biographer scoops clueless Illinois detectives, fingers 1981 killer
Mobster’s biographer scoops clueless Illinois detectives, fingers 1981 killer

Dennis Griffin and Frank Cullotta were interviewed by John L. Smith for an article in the Las Vegas Review Journal. The articles discusses the book Cullotta: The Life of a Chicago Criminal, Las Vegas Mobster and Government Witness and the impact it has on the investigation of my father and Patricia Freeman’s murder in Lakemoor, Illinois in June of 1981.

Frank Cullotta and Dennis Arnoldy talk about the 1981 Murders of Ron Scharff and Patricia Freeman
Fri, 01/9/09 – 11:31 pm | Comments Off on Frank Cullotta and Dennis Arnoldy talk about the 1981 Murders of Ron Scharff and Patricia Freeman
Frank Cullotta and Dennis Arnoldy talk about the 1981 Murders of Ron Scharff and Patricia Freeman

In this video interview, Denny Griffin talks to Frank Cullotta, former lieutenant to Tony Spilotro turned government witness, and Dennis Arnoldy, former FBI Agent who debriefed Cullotta about his involvement in the Spilotro gang, about the 1981 murders of Ron Scharff and Patricia Freeman in Lakemoor, Illinois. Frank and Dennis also talk about why Frank brought this murder up to the McHenry County Police during the time he was being debriefed. Denny Griffin co-authored the book “Cullotta: The Life of a Chicago Criminal, Las Vegas Mobster and Government Witness” with Frank Cullotta.

Who was Larry Neumann?
Thu, 01/8/09 – 5:07 am | 7 Comments
Who was Larry Neumann?

Who is Larry Neumann? Denny Griffin, the man who co-authored the book Cullotta: The Life of a Chicago Criminal, Las Vegas Mobster and Government Witness with Frank Cullotta, provides this profile.

Also includes other links to information about Neumann we have found in our searches.
Paul Scharff and and Holly Hager appearing on Blog Talk Radio on January 5
Sun, 01/4/09 – 2:48 am | Comments Off on Paul Scharff and and Holly Hager appearing on Blog Talk Radio on January 5
Paul Scharff and and Holly Hager appearing on Blog Talk Radio on January 5

Paul Scharff and Holly Hager will be appearing on Dennis Griffiin’s Blog Talk Radio show on January 5 at 7:00pm central time. Paul and Holly will explain the current status of their efforts to close the 27 year old murder case of Paul’s father and Patricia Freeman and get the killer, Larry Neumann, officially named.

The Murder of Ron Scharff and Patricia Freeman – NBC News Interview
Sun, 01/4/09 – 1:49 am | Comments Off on The Murder of Ron Scharff and Patricia Freeman – NBC News Interview
The Murder of Ron Scharff and Patricia Freeman – NBC News Interview

Carol Marin of Channel 5 News (NBC Chicago) covered the story on the 10:00 news on December 19,2008.

Northwest Herald Front Page Article Featuring Scharff Case
Thu, 01/1/09 – 9:00 am | Comments Off on Northwest Herald Front Page Article Featuring Scharff Case
Northwest Herald Front Page Article Featuring Scharff Case

The Northwest Herald covered the story with this front page article appearing in their January 1, 2009 issue.

“A Wonder Lake woman thinks she discovered who killed her father’s close friend and her former bus driver 27 years ago.”
A Mob Murder in McHenry County?
Sun, 12/21/08 – 9:31 am | Comments Off on A Mob Murder in McHenry County?

Cal Skinner, writer for the McHenry County Blog, posted the article A Mob Murder In McHenry County? on December 20, 2008

True Crime Book Brings Closure to a Victim’s Family in a 27-Year-Old Murder Case
Sat, 12/20/08 – 8:03 pm | Comments Off on True Crime Book Brings Closure to a Victim’s Family in a 27-Year-Old Murder Case
True Crime Book Brings Closure to a Victim’s Family in a 27-Year-Old Murder Case

Read the official press release that appeared on PRWeb on December 19, 2008.

The book that is talked about is Cullotta: The Life of a Chicago Criminal, Las Vegas Mobster and Government Witness by Frank Cullotta and Dennis Griffin.
Tips Shed Light on 1981 Murder – Chicago Sun Times
Fri, 12/19/08 – 8:00 am | Comments Off on Tips Shed Light on 1981 Murder – Chicago Sun Times
Tips Shed Light on 1981 Murder – Chicago Sun Times

Carol Marin and Don Moseley article from the Chicago Sun Times.

“More than 27 years after a mob-related double murder in McHenry County, a little bit of digging by a 42-year old former baby-sitter has led authorities to reopen what was a very cold case.
Thanks to a little bit of digging by a former babysitter, Holly Hager, authorities have reopened what was a cold double-murder case in McHenry County.”