Noble is a riveting crime podcast that delves into the horrific discovery of 300 human corpses on a property owned by a prominent family in the remote town of Noble, Georgia. This happened in the year 2002. Narrated by investigative journalist Shaun Raviv and based on his work, the story explores the shocking discovery, the extensive investigations that followed, and ultimately concludes with Raviv’s speculations on how such an appalling crime could have occurred.
Noble is not your typical run-of-the-mill true crime podcast. While there are no murders involved, the crimes committed are equally disturbing. The podcast examines a series of criminal acts, detailed investigations, and the devastating impact on the victims and their families as they confront the harrowing revelations unearthed during the inquiry. Raviv also delves into his research and conjectures about how someone could act so callously, disregarding the sanctity of the deceased they were entrusted to care for.
The first episode begins like the opening scene of a horror movie. Jerold Cooke, a young man and native of Noble, arrives at the Tri-State Crematory to make a delivery. To his horror, he discovers human remains—bones and flesh—strewn across the property.
After a brief and unsettling encounter with Brent Marsh, the young owner and manager of the crematory, a shaken Jerold leaves, unsure of what to do next. Ultimately, he decides to contact his aunt, who works for the FBI.
In the next episode, Robin, a special agent, receives a call from Jerold’s aunt and visits the crematory with his colleague Larry to investigate. When the agents confirm the presence of corpses, they enlist Greg Ramey, an agent from the Georgia Bureau of Investigations, to expand the investigation.
By the third episode, the plot deepens with large-scale investigations and the arrest of Brent Marsh. The podcast also introduces listeners to the families of individuals who were supposed to have been cremated at the Tri-State facility, revealing their anguish and the betrayal of trust.
As the legal proceedings against the Marsh family unfold in subsequent episodes, Brent is represented by a flamboyant lawyer renowned for his theatrical courtroom performances. Authorities work tirelessly to determine the exact number of bodies on the property and uncover the extent of the crematory’s long-standing desecration.
The final chapters shift focus to the Marsh family, a Black family with deep roots in the area, dating back to the time of slavery. For generations, the Marshes worked hard and seemed to embody the American dream. How could a member of such an esteemed family commit such an inhuman act, betraying the trust of their community?
Raviv concludes the podcast with an interview with Brent Marsh after his release from prison. Now a preacher attempting to turn over a new leaf, Brent reflects on his actions and their aftermath. The Noble investigation remains the largest and most expensive case in Georgia’s history.
Noble not only investigates the crimes but also explores how death affects us all. This podcast is a must-listen for true crime enthusiasts.
Noble is available on
Audible
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