A man from New York has been given a life sentence for killing and dismembering a woman to collect life insurance benefits. Cory Martin, 37, was found guilty of watching crime shows like “Dexter” and “The First 48” for tips on how to commit the murder successfully. He was also sentenced to 20 years for wire fraud conspiracy and two years for aggravated identity theft.
The victim, Brandy Odom, 26, was managed by Martin and lived with him in Queens. Prosecutors stated that Martin saw Odom as a way to make money, trafficked her for sex work, and later killed her with his bare hands to profit from her death. Martin and a co-conspirator obtained life insurance policies in Odom’s name before the murder.
After Odom’s scent was detected in their car by a cadaver dog, Martin and his accomplice were investigated by the police. Evidence showed that Martin searched for tools and techniques to dismember Odom’s body before dumping the parts in a Brooklyn park. Despite multiple unsuccessful attempts to claim the insurance benefits, they were caught in 2020.
During the trial, prosecutors argued that Martin’s knowledge of crime shows misled him into thinking he could evade law enforcement. The jury found him guilty, and U.S. Attorney Breon Peace condemned the crime as cold-blooded and planned out of greed.
Nicole, Odom’s mother, described her daughter as a loving and kind person who had no enemies. The family continues to mourn her tragic death caused by Martin’s heinous actions.
The case serves as a reminder of the influence of media on individuals and the importance of law enforcement in bringing criminals to justice. Despite attempts to mimic fictional scenarios, real-life crimes like this one have serious consequences and devastate families and communities. The sentencing of Cory Martin reflects the severity of his actions and the need for justice to prevail in such cases.
