Thanks to critic for this gem from the past… around 1989ish, just in time for Tracy to get protection from LA County and anyone else before/during the first Nash-Diles trial.
$48.72
Another thing Tracy was caught forging was more prescriptions, pre-Wonderland.
The best episode in this unique and sad series. The photos are of Marvin’s father.
Click for video.
John can you contact me please? I’m in Southern California
Hi Don,
Email me wonderland1981blog at gmail.com
Thanks my friend
Fred E. Basten wrote or co-wrote Porn King, the story of Holmes’ life. It is well written but alas, filled with much nonsense and self-aggrandizement of an aging hustler attempting to re-write history.
That said, Fred has written over 40 books. His tome, Life at the Marmont, is a wonderful history of that hotel, with all its glimpses into the stars of yesteryear.
The city of Santa Monica honored Fred a while back for his help with the tourism and travel area… Read more.
Hopefully, I will be talking to Fred next week!
Hey john !did Eddie Nash died back in 2014?as per Wikipedia article
Yes, he died. He’s either with the angels, or the devil is putting hot coal up his bum!
Hey John check out this story on Tracy Ray McCourt. Not sure if I ever saw this on Wonderland1981.
https://www.newspapers.com/clip/14989934/the_advocatemessenger/
Wow, what a bad ass McCourt was. No titmouse in that article
Its no wonder why Tracy outlived the rest of the gamg members. He had street smarts. Anybody who shoots a cop and gets fined like $48 has got some ju Ce for sure.
Dude shot a cop and basically got sentenced to 16 days in jail.
That’s a great find Critic! I guess Launius was a bad influence, lol. It says “McCourt 39” this would have been in 1988 I think. I guess the judge in Kentucky figured McCourt had more important places to be like Nash’s preliminary trial which started a few months later in Jan of “89.
Or, the cop just accidentally shot himself like the article implies?
This screen capture is from the movie “Suburbia” in 1984. The Kit Kat strip joint also featured performances by rock bands, including the young Red Hot Chili Peppers. According to Hollywood legend, it was here that the band debuted their tube socks over the penis routine. All eyes had been on the strippers, so the band had to win back the audience, while also making tube sock history.
Or, the cop just accidentally shot himself like the article implies?
yes, while dancing with tube socks over his penis at the kit kat klub in 1984
Reblogged this on Wonderland1981 – The Wonderland Murders.
The Wondery Network’s “Hollywood and Crime” podcast on the case is essential listening to anyone who hasn’t heard it yet. The two narrators do a super job, and as localarts stated, Tom Lange and Bob Souza’s interview is excellent. Also, the chapter on the Nash robbery will have you on the edge of your seat!
Click image for link:
This was amazing! Read Malice in Wonderland, and I’m sure you know but your blog is mentioned by Lange.
Yes, Greg… I was shocked. It would be cool to have a beer with Lange & Souza!
With a blog this epic ( The benchmark for all other’s ) I’m not surprised Lange gave you props.
can’t wait, going to lesson to it on the way to work
Al Goldstein (RIP) wrote a brilliant chapter on Holmes in his 2006 auto-bio. I never read Screw magazine, so I was unaware of Al’s writing prowess. You can’t put this book down.
Thanks for coming back!
“I, John”
Excellent examples John. I’m sure Holmes was involved in this horrible murder.
Thanks Tony, yes his willingness was obvious to me
Apparently, Holmes made quite a few trips to Eddie’s after the murders. He was scared to death Nash was going to be after him but he kept making trips over to Dona Lola.. It really doesn’t mesh with the facts.
John was for he innocent of the murders back in ’82.
Typo. That should read “John was found innocent of the murders back in ’82.”
There was never enough evidence to convict him. With that said, Holmes was far more complicit in these murders than his side of the story would lead you to believe. If I’m not mistaken, Chris Cox showed up at Eddie’s the day of the robbery sometime in the afternoon and saw Holmes “standing by the bar acting nervous” I don’t think John Holmes needed a whole lot of persuading from Nash. This was simple role reversal.
To complete the talk of jewelry on the last page, JH told Al that his pinky solitaire ring “…went up my nose in a couple of toots”.
I do believe john was scared of eddie. I think he went over there to try to make sure that he wasn’t going to come after him. And trying to keep everything cool and smooth. Also he wanted to leave town since the cops were on him and not only wanted to borrow money but wanted to let ed know he was leaving.
Old, only because this was forty years ago. Vicki spent her last days roughing it in a generic condo having taken in a crazy guy she met in rehab.
Vicki lost this home because Alfred Bloomingdale’s wife, sought legal action upon his death to take away everything he promised to Vicki; although she was named in the contracts. This included her 1/2 share in Showbiz Pizza. For more on Vicki, pick up the book “Beautiful Bad Girl” by Gordon Basichis.
Last sold for $2.78M… very nice:
Thank you for this. The Vicki Morgan case is fascinating. Love the pics!
“Porn star doesn’t reveal all”
This is from a special NY Daily monthly column at the time… A Justice Story by Charles W. Bell.
It’s readable.. although tbe dear reader may need to right-click image, Open in new window, or image viewer, to go full-size.
Jack Wrangler WHO? Johnny Wadd was and will always be The King.
A peppy song, but it’s about Wonderland. From the band called The Big Nowhere. There is also another song from the band Life is Hard.
Sorry for being away so long again, get ready for some exciting new posts!
Here’s the link.
Very cool!
Sarah
On Wed, Jan 23, 2019 at 9:02 AM Wonderland1981 – The Wonderland Murders wrote:
> John posted: “A peppy song, but it’s about Wonderland. From the band > called The Big Nowhere. There is also another song from the band Life is > Hard. Sorry for being away so long again, get ready for some exciting new > posts! Here’s the link. ” >
Bobby Heasley, 
localarts, 
donjuan951, and 14 others are discussing. 
criticextraordinaire, 
pj mt, and 
dirtboy068, 
Melissia, 
dana is discussing. 
Sarah Hunt is discussing. 
Bobby Heasley 2:28 am on March 2, 2019 Permalink |
Wait wtf? As I’m reading this article, my first thoughts were; ‘ONLY 6 MOS. in jail for SHOOTING A POLICE OFFICER?? How is this possible??’ … Then super quickly my next thoughts were; ‘Wait… Why is he receiving ANY jail time at all? If the police officer “accidentally discharged” his own weapon, why was he being charged with ANY crime at all?? (fraud, forgery not withstanding obv.)’
This case, the people attached to it and even the Wonderland home itself has so many twist and subplots and best of all… fascinating stories and the stories never end. And the crazy thing is (aside from the speculation of Launius being involved in at least 28 murders) most of the stories seem to have some hint of truth to them.
Bobby H.
localarts 11:11 am on March 4, 2019 Permalink |
For many years I was highly skeptical of the 28 murders Launius was reportedly involved in. Even going so far as to question Roger Jacobs credibility…..I WAS WRONG. Susan Launius told Nils Grevillius that in fact the story about Mexican drug deal / double cross ( Lainius killing her captors ) is true. Tracy McCourt said “Ron is on a whole different level, he kill’s people” And finally, Tom Lange said Ron Launius was a contract killer. If Ron Launius was a contract killer, who sought out his services? The mafia? Just imagine hiring Ron Launius to run a debt collection company!
Bobby Heasley 1:21 pm on March 4, 2019 Permalink
I imagine Ron would have been terrible at it… You can’t collect from someone if they’re dead. If I had to pick 1 member from the wonderland gang to collect a debt on my behalf – no question I’m picking David Lind. In my opinion, Lind was a beast. I’ve read that he could scare the #!*% out of someone just by giving them a look.
My next pick would be Billy and Joy, but only if they collected together, as a team.
criticextraordinaire 6:52 pm on March 9, 2019 Permalink
I think 28 was the tip of the iceberg. Who knows how many people he blew away down in México. He was really pissed.
Patrick Engeleiter 6:26 am on June 12, 2019 Permalink
I have a good source from the LA Police Dept that Bill and Joy were under surveillance from 6am to 8pm every day. The LA Police came on to Ron Launius by accident watching the house. Ron was known to the Sacramento Police more than LA. The only reason nobody was watching the house when the murders took place Is the drug informants convinced the detectives on the case no heroin sales happened after 7-8pm. Heroin buys get their fix every morning and most heroin dealers close shop by 7-8pm. Most of Joy’s business had become primarily heroin by 1981 mostly due to her and Bills addiction. Everyone in the house was addicted to heroin. The coke was a side venture or party drug. Wonderland drive is extremely narrow and two cars can’t even pass on the street. My understanding is most people would park and walk up the hill to their house. Now they had parties but not like it has been reported and the last few months prior to the murders I believe it had calmed down. They all knew they were being watched. Everyone in the house had pending cases and was looking at Jail time. The reason they didn’t split after the crime is the pending cases. In fact we all know Ron was due in court the morning his body was found. It is possible they thought they had time to get out of Dodge, that is why they were still at the house. I don’t think any of the gang ever thought John would sell them out as he would be putting his own life in danger, why would he do that? They never thought John would be dumb enough to call Eddie or be so dumb as to be caught with jewelry on his person. He could have denied involvement had he used his acting skills and not let on or admit involvement. We still don’t know exactly what led Eddie to John and the wonderland gang but I believe it had more to do with the guns and a comment Ron had made during the robbery about “finally taking his guns home”. I believe that is what initially put Ed on John and from there they knew John could not stand up to any interrogation and would tell them everything. That blew their cover, they would have been better off killing everyone including John and Tracy. Ron knew deep inside himself it would be John or Tracy who would fold if there ever was any questions. It just shows you how clouded everyone’s judgement had become. Their addiction overcame any reasonable judgment they had as good criminals. This robbery was supposed to be everyone’s ticket out of the life but it ended up taking their lives instead.
criticextraordinaire 12:39 pm on October 13, 2019 Permalink
Well Tracy is the guy who proved to be the real survivor in this story, and he managed to keep his mouth shut.
dirtboy068 10:16 pm on March 13, 2019 Permalink |
my thoughts as well. Wtf, and then why was he charged at all. talk about crazy
localarts 2:49 pm on March 4, 2019 Permalink |
I agree. David Lind would be perfect debt collector. He was after all a bounty hunter. One has to wonder just how connected Launius was to underworld figures. Of those 28, how manny were committed between 78-81? Maybe John can get his family to open up.
Mirko 7:22 am on March 5, 2019 Permalink |
Hi John, I came across this podcast on YouTube. Did you know the story between 26.00 and 27.00? Just curious…
Mirko 7:23 am on March 5, 2019 Permalink |
John 9:56 am on March 8, 2019 Permalink |
No Mirko, what is it?
Mirko 3:30 am on March 10, 2019 Permalink
Localarts 11:21 am on March 10, 2019 Permalink |
Critic, why do you believe 28 is just scratching the surface? Ted Bundy admitted to 30 before he was executed but many believe it was over 100. Clearly, both men were psychopaths and murdered for different reasons. It would be interesting to know where Roger Jacobs got his info as it relates to Launius.
Bobby Heasley 11:54 am on March 10, 2019 Permalink |
I still think its highly unlikely that Ron, a full-blown heroin addict, would be capable of working as a hit-man and be able to get away with 28+ murders without first getting himself killed or caught. I’ve never been a hit-man and I’ve never tried heroin, so maybe I’m wrong and just don’t know? But I don’t think so
Localarts 8:08 pm on March 10, 2019 Permalink |
There’s a lot of mystery surrounding Ron Launius simply because very little is known about him. You hear all these crazy stories which may or may not be true. Tom Lange said Launius was a contract killer and Tom Lange has a lot of credibility. One thing I do know for 100% absolute certainly, had Ron Launius survived that night he would have killed John Holmes free of charge, No contract needed!
Bobby Heasley 6:22 am on March 18, 2019 Permalink
David Lind & Tracy McCourt had 7 years to get their revenge on John Holmes, yet they did nothing and John Holmes was a very touchable man – he was not in any protection program, he didn’t go in to hiding… he had no bodyguards, no security and he didn’t move a large crew to help protect him – and yet, he remained untouched until passing away from AIDS 7 years later.
I don’t think the wonderland gang was as tough or connected as people today make them out to be. I think that these guys were nothing more than every other drug dealer I’ve ever met… tough talking with an extra $80 bucks in their pocket.
Eddie Nash on the other hand . . . It took him less than 2 days after the robbery to find and have John Holmes brought to him. The wonderland gang was nothing even close to being in the same league of criminals that Eddie Nash belonged to.
So, what would Ron Launius had done IF he survived that night… I don’t think he would have done anything.
Patrick Engeleiter 5:52 am on June 12, 2019 Permalink
Where did all the info on Launius come from? Who originally had the Launius story about Mexico? Was it Roger Jacobs and if so does he cite any sources in his book “long time money?” The other stories about Ron either came from Susan or Larry Herschmann aka Cherokee. I wish I would have spoken to Larry before he passed away. I had a line on several good interviews for a documentary and my three biggest interviews died, Larry and two others that knew Eddie very well. I would like to do a documentary and come back to LA to interview some people who were close to the case and get the exact list of who committed these murders. At this point we know 3 of the 4 or 5 who went into the house are dead, both Diles brothers and John. There is one more and It could be the so called Israeli God Father but I think he was too soft to take part in any murders. It had to be one of Greg or Sam’s boys. I believe there is one person still out there who was in that house that night. I am raising money to do a documentary and the first thing I am doing is going to the neighborhood where Greg grew up to find some of his friends. I’m sure some people are still in his old neighborhood who knew Greg well. Anyone who wants to invest will be listed as a producer. Please contact me if interested. I am hiring a film crew and I believe if we do a good documentary with good interviews we can sell to Netflix or one of the current crime channels. I found a local film crew and want to start interviews in August in LA. Contact me if anyone is interested. I have some info on Paul Kelly and where he grew up, I am still looking for people who worked with Bill Vlick. At this point all crimes are past prosecutable time. I was about to fly to Vegas to interview Bill Vlick at his nursing home in Vegas and he passed away. Bill has no funeral and nobody ever visited him or picked up his possessions. In fact he had a trust from his longtime girlfriend Rose McKee. Anyone with info on the Diles brothers, Paul Kelly, Ed, et al please contact me. I have two people close to Ed i am speaking with this week. John I would love to collaborate with you in some capacity as you are the leader on this subject. We need a film on this case that seriously puts together who committed the crime and I believe the last person in that room is still alive. However it is possible that person was some crony or LA gangbanger that Greg and Same knew but I believe it was someone close to Ed and Greg as Ed was too smart to send anyone not close to him or Greg. Please contact me if anyone has info-message/text me 414-306-1667. Thank you.
dirtboy068 10:20 pm on March 13, 2019 Permalink |
I’m with you on this. A drug addict getting away with alot of murders,even in that time period I think would be highly unlikely.
Cupcake1083 1:48 pm on March 10, 2020 Permalink |
As someone who was addicted to heroin i can tell u it’s definitely possible that he could’ve been a hitman and an addict. What alot of people don’t understand is heroin isn’t a party drug. Basically when you’re addicted u spend a ton of money to be normal. U only take it 2 avoid being sick. So most of the time you’re totally normal. And as I said it takes ALOT of money so u basically will do anything u have 2 for cash. Seems 2 me being a hit man was a perfect solution 4 a dude like Ron. It’s not really a tough job physically and its usually a good chunk of cash for something that takes a few minutes 2 do. Anyway he seemed like a mean tough guy definitely not the type 2 feel guilty afterwards.
dirtboy068 10:12 pm on March 13, 2019 Permalink |
Hi. I’m knew to the blog and wanted to say hi to everyone. After watching Wonderland ( one of my all time favorites) naturally I became fascinated by the whole unbelievable story. It’s something about the time in America, that Hollywood nights, the seeded underbelly of cocaine, and the effect it was starting to on society, that I can’t get enough of. I just read the autobiography ” High Concept” about Hollywood executive Don Simpson. Amazing read, highly recommend. How to see more post in the future and replies!!!!
John 2:09 pm on March 18, 2019 Permalink |
Hi man, thanks and glad you found us. I am going to order that Don Simpson book asap. I have always found his story do crazy
Localarts 6:32 pm on March 15, 2019 Permalink |
Never heard that one, Mirko. Can’t say I’m surprised though.
Mirko 6:55 am on March 25, 2019 Permalink |
Ok, thanks anyway
Localarts 1:09 pm on March 19, 2019 Permalink |
Bobby, I had the same mindset as you when I first read Roger Jacobs book “Long Time Money & Lot’s of Cocaine” back in 05. It sounded to outlandish. Like it was fabricated in order to “sensationalize” Ron Launius into something more than he really was. You’re right. Most every body else at Wonderland were nothing more than drug dealers and thieves. However, with everything we know now from his ex wife, detectives, David Lind, McCourt & Ton Lange, all the evidence suggests Launius was a killer. His body count is debatable but the general concensus is everybody was afraid of Ron Launius for a reason. You can draw your own conclusion but for me there’s too many credible sources that say otherwise.
I think its kind of obvious David Lind was on the short list of people that want Holmes dead. Lind was not a dumb man. I’m sure David Lind knew he would be one of the first suspects police would look to had something happened to Holmes.
Bobby Heasley 5:51 pm on March 19, 2019 Permalink |
Okay, how about this quesion:
If the wonderland gang had killed Nash & Diles during the robbery (not doing that was their 2nd biggest mistake) what do you think would have ended up happening to the members of the gang?
1. They don’t move to Hawaii, they don’t move period. They just sit around and get high off the Nash’s stash, sell a little to pay rent and make ends meet … until…
2. John Holmes, for obvious reasons becomes a suspect in the “drug deal gone wrong double murder” (the media would have surely jumped on and ran with the ‘drug deal gone wrong’ headlines – they’ll correct it with barely a footnote once the facts completely surface, and some media outlets won’t correct it at all).
3. Holmes foldes, snitches on his crew and cuts a deal to save himself… goes into the witness protection program.
3a. Less than 1 year later, missing the attention of the spotlight, Holmes returns to porn and leaves the witness protection prgram. He dies from complications due to AIDS in 1988.
4. Launius recieves the death penalty after being convicted. He dies in 1992 (liver failure) before the execution can be carried out.
4a. Lind & Deverall are found guilty and receive life in prison – Lind appeals and due to his previous work as a law enforcement snitch, recieves an 18 to life sentence WITH the possibility of early parole….they both die in prison – Billy from old age, Lind at the hands of fellow inmates (albeit under mysterious circumstancea)
4b. Barbara and Joy are charged as being accessories to murder –
Joy pleads guilty, her ex-husband acting as her lawyer negotiates a 7 year sentence… for medical reasons (cancer) she’s released to home confinement 18 months later, dies in 1989.
Barbara is found NOT guilty! She never folds, she never breaks.. she is released from custody, meets another man and lives the rest her life raising her children in relative anonymity.
4c. Susan Launius is found guilty of being an accessory to murder after the fact… recieves a 5 year sentence. released from prison 2 1/2 years later in excellent health.
5. Eddie Nash – his legacy builds and over time, Nash comes to be seen as one of the biggest organized crime bosses in modern history – in 1998 “inside sources” leak out infornation suspecting Nash of ordering 28 murders between 1964 thru 1978
5a. Greg Diles legacy remains the same for a while, but eventually gets lost in the pages of history. In the movie, his character is played by Bruce Willis.
Localarts 12:48 pm on March 21, 2019 Permalink |
That’s a lot of speculation Bobby. What we do know to be as close to the facts as possible is: Launius was going to kill both Nash & Diles however, Deverell and Lind talked him out of it. Deverell also talked Launius out of killing the maid during the robbery of the pet store owner who owned the antique guns. Had Launius killed Nash & Diles as he intended to I’m sure any witness would have been killed as well once the heat came down.
Suleiman Hodali 8:05 am on April 25, 2019 Permalink |
hey bobby where did you locate this information that, “in 1998 “inside sources” leak out infornation suspecting Nash of ordering 28 murders between 1964 thru 1978” ? Curious where this was published. thanks
Bobby Heasley 1:42 pm on March 21, 2019 Permalink |
All witnesses? Are you sure about that?
What about the girls? All three of them (Barbara, Joy & Susan) would have had basic knowledge of the robbery and who the victim was. Barbara & Joy (unsure of Susan) helped the guys with planning the robbery… or at the very least plans were made and names were talked about in front of the girls.
Even if they don’t tell the girls that they killed Nash & Diles, it’s going to be a MAJOR news story carried by every outlet… they’re going to find out. At that point, all it take is one pissed-off and scorned girlfriend who wants to get even to walk into a police station… and, well… start getting even.
I guess the conclusion that I’m coming to is that… either way, or anyway you look at it… these guys were f#$*! after robbing Nash. I don’t see any way out for the wonderland gang.
If they kill Nash & Diles, they’d soon be caught and more than likely spend the rest of their lives in prison…
If they let them both live… well, I don’t even need to speculate on that one.
Anyways, I find this story to be very interesting. Especially since I’ve lived my entire life less than 10 minute’s from both the wonderland home and Nash’s house… and I have either been to or driven by almost every location written about about on this blog.
I just wanted to try and spark some cnversation up on this blog. again.
Localarts 4:20 pm on March 21, 2019 Permalink |
Yes, it is a fascinating story. That’s cool you live close to all the infamous places mentioned on this blog. I still have my original copy of the Rolling Stone issue ” The Devil and John Holmes” from 1989. That was the first time I ever heard about Wonderland as we know it. I agree. The shit would have hit the fan either way. Launius would have died in prison, I’m almost certain of it. Things have slowed down a bit over the last year or so only because there has been so much info shared there’s not a lot to write about. John is however writing a book of his own about Wonderland and trying to interview the Launius family. Let’s all hope he successful!!
donjuan951 2:54 am on June 4, 2020 Permalink |
Hi Bobby do you still live close to the areas? I’m in Riverside but I travel there as often as I can.
Bobby 11:36 pm on August 23, 2020 Permalink
Yes. I live in Burbank.
Localarts 6:12 pm on June 30, 2019 Permalink |
I doubt there were any heroine sales at Wonderland. Tracy McCourt testified that “China White” was very hard to come by. That was more or less the whole premise for pawning the antique guns to Nash in the first place. Any available heroine at 8763 was probable for personal use. Its anyones guess where Roger Jacobs obtained his info on Ron Launius as it relates to the Mexican double cross.
Nils Grevillius said Susan Launius told him in fact it did happen. A sit down interview with Susan Launius would be worth the cost of admission.
criticextraordinaire 11:12 am on July 13, 2019 Permalink |
Ronnie would not have been dumb enough to keep a huge stash of drugs at his place, because that would have made him a target for people who rip off drug dealers (which was one of his lines of business). The big stash was elsewhere, with only enough stuff at the house to party.
Note that when the Gang died, none of the loot from the Nash job was there. It might still be squirreled away somewhere for all we know.
Bobby Heasley 12:02 pm on July 13, 2019 Permalink
Ronnie would have DEFINITELY been dumb enough to keep a huge stash of drugs at his place. People please… Don’t buy into this “he was smart” nonsense. Because it’s just not true. I have yet to come across one smart thing this guy ever did.
And no bedlam at that house that night. I’m sorry to ruin the mythological idea you may have of Ron Launius but the truth is he died in bed. He was beaten to death with not even so much as a single defensive wound on his body. Even worst, he put his wife in danger and kept her in danger KNOWING that the danger was all to real. THAT IS NOT SMART!
As far as what happened to the stash from the robbery? Who cares at this point? Whether it was fenced or stashed elsewhere, it doesn’t matter. These guys were like Pinky and the Brain… Except all of them WERE PINKY!! Jeesh.
criticextraordinaire 2:24 pm on July 14, 2019 Permalink
Well if he was so dumb, how could he have outwitted the cops involving somewhere around 27 or so murders (not counting the Méxican deal)? True, on occasion he did some ill advised things… His ego wrote a check that his backside could not cash when he took on Eddie Nash. But when you’re one of the biggest coke distributors in the business, ego is part of the game.
Cops hated him and for one reason… they usually could not pin anything on him.
Bobby Heasley 3:15 pm on July 14, 2019 Permalink
Because he did not kill 27 people and he did NOT outwit the cops. After stupidly getting caught smuggling heroin inside the bodies of his fellow Marines and thereby getting thrown out of the Marines, he spent more time in prison than he did on the streets.
criticextraordinaire 7:23 pm on July 15, 2019 Permalink
Sergeant Beder Clifton was the cop who observed that Launius was “the coldest person I have ever met in my life”. You don’t get a reputation like that with the Sacramento cops for soaking your hands in Ivory Liquid all day long.
When word got out that Ronnie died, one cop commented “They won’t need many pallbearers.” When asked to elaborate, he went on to say “Because a trash can only has two handles.”
Ronnie earned this sort of enmity because he usually got the better of the cops. Behind their facade of disdain for Ronnie was probably a modicum of professional respect.
Bobby Heasley 2:48 am on July 16, 2019 Permalink
I agree with you 100% … Ron Launius was great @ being violent. He was a bully and heroin junkie who was really good at robbing people and hurting people. No more, no less. And make no mistake he would have robbed you, or me or anybody else if all that stood between him and getting high was to do so.
But, he was not smart. If he was dumb enough to keep his wife in that house, knowing the danger was all too real… He would have been dumb enough to keep drugs in the house.
For God’s sake, he TRUSTED John Holmes!?!? If you watch the interviews about Holmes in that documentary, even the dumbest – most bimbo and airheaded of pornstars knew not to trust John Holmes… none of them would have given that robbery plan a second thought. Not if it was John’s idea.
Again, the only people in this story that I lend any credence to are the detectives who worked the case. And I can guarantee you critic, if you had the chance to ask one of the detectives about Ron Launius… intelligent would not be a word we would use to describe him.
Jim 10:19 am on September 26, 2019 Permalink
They were selling it off their balcony, where else would it be. Lol
Bobby Heasley 2:00 am on July 1, 2019 Permalink |
Even if Susan Launius agreed to do an interview, I don’t think you could put absolute trust in her to tell the truth… Every person involved with the Wonderland crew were known liars, there are no exceptions to that fact and Susan Launius was definitely involved with them. Being a victim doesn’t automatically make you a good person. It sucks what happened to her, for sure, but lets not forgot the web of people that she surrounded herself with and allowed in her life… You are the company you keep.
Localarts 3:09 pm on July 1, 2019 Permalink |
Well, I would never consider Susan part of the “wonderland gang” as we know it. Her only association was her obvious marriage to Launius. I think she was the only one who didn’t have a police record, that doesn’t mean she was an angel either. If this were 1981, you’re probably right. I doubt she would be very forthcoming. But its 2019 and everybody we know to be associated with Wonderland is dead. I can’t imagine why Susan would try to hide anything about Ronnie at this point in her life. Although I’ve been wrong before, lol.
criticextraordinaire 11:17 am on July 13, 2019 Permalink
Susan should approach somebody in Hollywood, and sell the rights to Ronnie’s life story. It could be an epic film… not unlike the arc of the movie “Scarface”. She could get a pretty good stipend from it. I’d pay good money to watch that movie, if only to see how the Mexican deal played out.
With a similar ending. Like Tony Montana, Ronnie ends up deceased. But he goes down fighting in a blaze of retaliation. It must have been bedlam at 8763 when Nash’s crew showed up.
Bobby Heasley 11:32 am on July 13, 2019 Permalink
You’re right critic… she should. If only she had Hollywood’s contact info. Lolzies
Bobby Heasley 3:18 am on July 2, 2019 Permalink |
I agree, I don’t think Susan would try to hide anything either… The point I’m trying to make is that if she ever comes out with wild stories about being kidnapped by Mexican drug dealers and saved by Ronnie who happened to kill 8 Mexicans in the rescue attempt… We might all be foolish to believe her.
Localarts 11:02 am on July 2, 2019 Permalink |
This paticular account ( Mexico shoot out ) or whatever label you want to call it, has been reported by two separate sources. As the old saying goes.. “There are two sides to every story and then there’s the truth” If it is true, I can’t think of anyone who would have been more qualified to be in charge of border security than Ron Launius.
Localarts 4:22 pm on July 2, 2019 Permalink
By the way Bobby, to my knowledge Susan Launius has never came forward or volunteered any information about Ronnie. Most of the background on Ron Launius has been through state or federal investigations. Over the years, most of that has filtered down to the general public. His immeadiate family refuses to discuss anything about him.
Bobby Heasley 7:28 pm on July 2, 2019 Permalink
Actually, Im going off information that you previously wrote about back in March of this year…
You said: “Susan Launius told Nils Grevillius that in fact the story about Mexican drug deal / double cross was true” and I’m not saying it’s not true, I’m just saying I have a hard time believing anybody who had anything to do with the Wonderland crew… Including Susan Launius. The only people in this story that I lend any credence to and can believe are the detectives and the police who worked on this case.
Bobby Heasley 7:30 pm on July 2, 2019 Permalink
Actually, the saying goes “there are 3 sides to every story… His side, her side and the truth”
Bobby Heasley 7:34 pm on July 2, 2019 Permalink
Where do the lies end and the truth begin? In this case, with these type of people, it’s impossible to ever be able to know the truth.
Localarts 6:54 am on July 3, 2019 Permalink |
That is correct. John scored an excellent interview with Nils which can be found on this blog. That is the content that I referenced back in March. It represents one piece of the Ron Launius puzzle. Whether or not Mexico blood bath ever took place, I think we can both agree he was a very dangerous individual.
localarts 8:12 pm on July 14, 2019 Permalink |
Bobby, I know this may come as somewhat of a shock but Ron Launius was honorably discharged from the USAF.
localarts 8:31 pm on July 14, 2019 Permalink |
I’m with Critic. I would be willing to break the bank if a full length motion picture about Ron Launius made it to the big screen. I think Josh Lucas should resurrect his role if the opportunity presented itself.
Bobby Heasley 8:55 pm on July 14, 2019 Permalink |
That’s NOT TRUE… Ron Launius was dishonorably discharged in 1972 from the USAF for smuggling heroin back to the States in the coffins of dead soldiers.
Here are my sources and I have plenty more if you continue to need more proof:
https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/632128/ron-launius-of-the-wonderland-gang-is-now-connected-the-tree
https://raccawel.ml/2183988-ron-launius-air-force.aspx
Patrick Engeleiter 12:10 am on July 22, 2019 Permalink |
John could you tell me more about Eddie’s connection with Milwaukee, WI? Does he have relatives still here? Daughter? Would like to interview her very much. Thanks John.
criticextraordinaire 5:02 am on August 8, 2019 Permalink |
Remembering John Holmes, film king of the 1970s, here on his birthday, August 8th.
If he were still with us, he’d be 75 years old and a huge internet sensation. Probably would have his own cable channel too. “All Johnny Wadd, all the time. 24/7/365.”
localarts 6:59 pm on August 8, 2019 Permalink |
That’s most likely true. Although, Bob Chinn would have something to say about that since he probably owns the rights to the “Johnny Wadd ” franchise.
criticextraordinaire 6:47 pm on August 9, 2019 Permalink
I’m sure that John would of course cut Chinn in on.a piece of the action.
criticextraordinaire 5:33 am on August 21, 2019 Permalink |
I just saw that there is a new Rambo movie coming out, Rambo: Last Blood. The premise is that Rambo goes into Mexico to rescue the daughter of one of his old army buddies.
Word on the street is that this story is based on Ronnie Launius’ real-life situation when he had to rescue his wife from the Mexican drug dealers. Has anybody here heard anything about this?
Excellent casting. If you’re gonna have somebody portray a vengeant Ronnie Launius, who better than John Rambo? Although I suspect that Rambo will not stop at snuffing just 9 kidnappers.
localarts 9:55 am on August 23, 2019 Permalink |
I kinda doubt Last Blood is based on the Mexican double cross involving Launius but you never know.. An accurate documentary / movie about Ronnie seems remote.
Bobby Heasley 12:02 am on August 24, 2019 Permalink |
Word on the street? Lol … Who’s word would that be??
criticextraordinaire 6:29 pm on August 24, 2019 Permalink |
The street. People are talking. The similarities between this new Rambo installment and Ronnie’s Mexican caper are astounding.
Bobby Heasley 7:32 pm on August 24, 2019 Permalink
Oh, gotcha
Jim 1:26 am on September 25, 2019 Permalink
New Rambo movie based on Launius Mexico caper. LOL LMFAO
Kdimmick 9:59 pm on October 7, 2019 Permalink
Hey Critic…….you still around?
criticextraordinaire 12:25 pm on October 13, 2019 Permalink
Hey there kdimmick. Yep, I am still around. Always checking in to hear if there is anything new re: Wonderland or John Holmes.
Micahel Hughes 9:16 pm on March 3, 2020 Permalink
movie isn’t anywhere close to Mexico . not one similarity at all. incredible. Word on the street ? what street
localarts 9:06 pm on September 25, 2019 Permalink |
A fact based documentary about Ron Launius is a must. Unfortunately, I’m not sure we will ever get to that point.. It would certainly confirm or debunk a lot of this craziness.
criticextraordinaire 12:30 pm on October 13, 2019 Permalink |
I probably sound like a broken record here, but I see the possibility of an epic flick based on Ronnie’s life. Kinda like the arc of the movie about Jimmy Hoffa.
Story would start with his humble beginnings, to his service in ‘Nam, to his career in the drug trade. Like “Hoffa” it ends due to unwisely pissing off the wrong organized crime figures.
I also think a proper biopic about John Holmes would pack the movie houses. Wonderland was good, but it only focused on a narrow point in time.
localarts 4:31 pm on October 17, 2019 Permalink
Could there ever be a supporting cast worthy enough to be mentioned in the same breath as Ron Launius? Who would play the members of the outlaw motorcycle gang? Susan Launius, Sheriff Bedder Clifton, The two bank tellers and armored car employees ( according to Roger Jacobs Launius made it back across the border and robbed two banks and a armored car to procure the ransom for Susan’s release. Thats just the tip of the iceberg. You still have the 27 murder victims, Ronnies immediate family, etc. Kim Kardashian as Susan Launius.. maybe?
criticextraordinaire 9:37 pm on October 17, 2019 Permalink
Well Mark Paul Gossalaar as Ronnie. Sophia Bush as Susan. Brian Dennehey as Bill Amerson. How are those for starters.
C Floyd 7:30 pm on October 18, 2019 Permalink |
I know im a little bit late but Patrick Engeleiter heroin addicts use MORE THAN ONE TIME IN THE WHOLE DAY. In one week ill have SEVEN YEARS CLEAN from iv heroin. Im close to six months sober from alcohol but UNFORTUNATELY I know all about Iv drugs, especially Heroin smh . In my day, ya used AS SOON as u woke up! Before you PISSED IN THE MORNING, YOU SHOT HEROIN. In the next 4-6 hours, you’re getting “high” AGAIN. SO yes as an addict YOU’RE SEEING YOUR DEALER EARLY IN THE MORNING. But you’re ALSO GONNA SEE HIM AGAIN IN A FEW HOURS!. So the whole statement about the times joy & bill were being “watched” IMO IS BS. Heroin dealers DEAL ALL NIGHT. Its NOT “over” by 8pm! Heroin addicts USE ALL DAY AND NIGHT! They’re PHYSICALLY “SICK” So 1981 vs 2008 isnt much different. Your “source ” about heroin is BS!. Tbey use all DAY EVERY DAY. Just sayint……..
localarts 2:20 pm on October 19, 2019 Permalink |
I like it. Not sure about Gossalaar as Ronnie though. I though Josh Lucas did a fine job in Wonderland. Sam Elliot as sheriff Bedder Clifton. Christopher Daniel Barnes ( Brady Bunch movie) as Holmes.
Kdimmick 7:00 pm on October 19, 2019 Permalink |
Yes Critic,I really do miss the old days at the IMDB board.
Glad to see that 4 on the floor finally made it to print. Found out about it here actually. Bought it. The part in the book I liked the best was the part where immediately after the robbery Greg Diles went next door told the kid there about the robbery and then asked to use their phone…Lol
criticextraordinaire 6:15 pm on October 20, 2019 Permalink |
If he were not in jail for the next 24 years, Suge Knight would make a great Gregory Diles.
Kdimmick 8:10 pm on October 20, 2019 Permalink
Yes he would!
localarts 10:44 am on October 26, 2019 Permalink |
Kdimmick, if you’re not aware of the Wonderland Podcast by Hollywood & Crime it’s worth listening to. If you enjoyed Four on the Floor, you’ll love the interview they did with Lange & Souza. It’s outstanding!
Link: https://wondery.com/shows/wonderland-murders/#
Criticextraordinaire 5:32 pm on April 17, 2020 Permalink |
Just saw that Brian Dennehy died. He was my pick to portray Bill Amerson in “Wonderland II’.
Back to the casting calls…
Anon4Now 10:58 pm on May 30, 2020 Permalink |
Just curious: Has anyone done any DNA ethnicity tests on any of David Lind’s relatives? Like the tests they give at Ancestry.com, Family Tree DNA, or their like? Or on any of David’s remains, like baby teeth or any hair still with follicles? That’d be in an old hairbrush or the like.
Anyone know?
localarts 10:39 am on June 18, 2020 Permalink |
Profiles In Eccentricity has an interesting discussion on Holmes, Nash & The Wonderland Murders. The conversation starts at 26:12 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uz5md66du-c&t=4321s