This summary of the video was created by an AI. It might contain some inaccuracies.
00:00:00 – 00:21:03
The video tells the story of Russian immigrant Michael Prozumenshikov's journey from janitor to successful stockbroker in the U.S. His mysterious disappearance in 1991 led to a complex investigation involving financial fraud, potential motives, and forensic evidence. Suspicions fell on Zachary Persitz, who had financial dealings with Michael and was ultimately convicted of first-degree murder due to strong forensic evidence linking him to the crime. The case exemplifies the significance of forensic evidence in solving crimes and the repercussions of attempting a perfect crime.
00:00:00
In this segment of the video, the story of Russian immigrant Michael Prozumenshikov’s rise from janitor to successful stockbroker in the United States is highlighted. Michael’s determination and drive to achieve the American dream are emphasized, as well as his rapid success in the stockbroking field. However, his sudden disappearance in 1991 following his extravagant lifestyle and behavior is revealed, leaving behind a mysterious and intriguing story filled with jealousy and greed.
00:03:00
In this segment of the video, Michael’s briefcase was found in the car at the beach, with no signs of violence present. Investigators discovered what seemed to be blood on a frozen lake nearby, but tests were inconclusive. Subsequently, a human leg and torso were found at a compost pile, and a fingerprint from the scene matched Michael Prozumenshikov’s brokerage license. Law enforcement speculated that his Russian immigrant status may have made him a target. Investigators uncovered that Michael had enemies, including dissatisfied clients like Zina Shirl, who accused him of unauthorized trading in her account, a practice known as “churning the account” in the brokerage business.
00:06:00
In this segment of the video, it is revealed that Michael allegedly promised returns of 18% per year, a practice illegal in many states, to attract clients. Investigators found that Michael made poor stock choices, such as buying shares in Texas Air at $48 which then plummeted to $15. The transcript discusses some clients’ lack of surprise or even approval when Michael disappeared or was murdered. Michael’s behavior on the night he went missing, including speaking Russian on phone calls, asking for $200,000 urgently, and referencing a boat to his boss, raised suspicion. The medical examiner believes Michael was killed that night as police found parts of his body later.
00:09:00
In this segment of the video, a hair found at the crime scene is identified as belonging to a Bernese Mountain Dog, providing a lead. Paint transfers and a plastic fragment suggest a car was involved. A witness saw a black Mercedes-Benz near a brown vehicle, possibly a Mazda 626, related to the plastic bumper fragment. Investigators suspect a client of the victim who drove a brown Mazda and owned a Bernese Mountain Dog. The victim, Michael Prozumenshikov, had scammed investors with a fake resort project, giving a possible motive for his murder. A car wash employee’s strange encounter with a customer linked to a brown Mazda raised suspicions.
00:12:00
This part of the video discusses the investigation into Zachary Persitz, a Russian immigrant who was friends with Michael. Persitz, a respected member of the community, had financial dealings with Michael, leading to losses. Despite passing a lie detector test, suspicions arose due to forensic evidence, including blood in his trunk and paint damage on his car. Scrutiny intensified as investigators analyzed microscopic paint chips from Persitz’s car in comparison to the broken gate’s paint.
00:15:00
In this segment of the video, chemical solubility tests were conducted to determine the common source of paint found on Kenneth Perstiz’s bumper and a broken bumper near the gate. The forensic analysis revealed that the broken bumper could only have come from Zachary’s car, indicating a perfect match. Additionally, investigators found similarities between the dog hair owned by Perstiz and a hair found with Michael’s body. Further evidence was revealed in Perstiz’s car with luminal spray showing evidence of a gunshot, suggesting Michael was in the driver’s seat when killed. Investigators also found a receipt for handcuffs in Perstiz’s office, connecting him to the crime. Zachary Perstiz was arrested and charged with first-degree murder due to the prosecution’s strong case, which highlighted his financial motive and his inability to cope with financial troubles.
00:18:00
In this part of the video, it is revealed that Zachary Persitz allegedly set up a meeting with Michael, threatened him with a gun, demanded money, and ultimately killed him. Persitz then disposed of Michael’s body, leaving only traces of forensic evidence behind. Persitz pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity but was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison. The case highlights the importance of forensic evidence in solving crimes and the consequences of attempting to commit the perfect crime.