
About this Event
Mark your calendars for this exclusive event! In 1984, the nation was gripped by the shocking and tragic events surrounding the abduction of 11-year-old Jody Plauché. The case became one of the most infamous in true crime history, as the story took a dramatic and unexpected turn when Jody’s father, Gary Plauché, publicly executed the man who had kidnapped and sexually assaulted his son.
Jeffrey Doucet, the perpetrator, had lured Jody away from his Baton Rouge, Louisiana home, and for days, the young boy's whereabouts were unknown. As law enforcement worked tirelessly to locate Jody, the nation anxiously followed the story.
When Jody was finally rescued, it was a moment of national relief. But that sense of safety was shattered when Doucet, being escorted by police through an airport, was suddenly shot dead by Gary Plauché. The act was a father's brutal vengeance for his son's suffering, and it was witnessed by the public, with the entire event caught on camera.
This true crime case raised profound questions about justice, revenge, and the moral limits of parental protection. Was Gary Plauché’s action an act of vigilantism or a desperate father’s attempt to right an unfathomable wrong? The case captivated the country, and the legal, public, and personal repercussions were immediate. The events that followed, including Gary’s plea deal conviction, only deepened the intrigue and the moral debate surrounding the case given Gary received 300 hours of community service and 5 years of probation.
However, Jody's story does not end with the execution of his abuser. In his memoir, Why, Gary, Why, Jody provides an intimate and raw account of the trauma he endured during his abduction, the psychological scars left by his father’s actions, and the media frenzy that followed. Jody's book documents his journey of healing from the horrors of his childhood, his search for meaning, and his efforts to reclaim his life and voice in the aftermath of the national media circus.
Featured in high-profile television programs such as The Oprah Winfrey Show, Geraldo, Maury, ESPN E:60, and Discovery ID’s Unraveled, Jody Plauché has used his platform to raise awareness about childhood sexual abuse and the long-lasting effects on survivors. Through his book and speaking engagements, he has become a powerful advocate for others who have suffered similar trauma, helping to break the silence surrounding sexual abuse and offering hope for those on their healing journeys.
Jody’s true crime story is a story of survival, justice, and redemption. Why, Gary, Why goes beyond the sensationalized headlines, offering a personal and emotional reflection on the consequences of an act that rocked the world. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, even in the wake of unimaginable tragedy.
Join us at South Bend Brew Werks for a two-hour event where Jody will offer signed copies of his book. It’s a rare opportunity to meet firsthand the survivor of one of the most publicized and emotional cases in true crime history.
In preparation for this event, guests can purchase a copy of Jody Plauché’s memoir, Why, Gary, Why, on Amazon here: https://a.co/d/4vfVSP7 or purchase your copy on event day at South Bend Brew Werks.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
South Bend Brew Werks, 321 South Main Street, South Bend, United States
USD 0.00