In this chilling episode of Burden of Proof: True Crime Uncovered, host Chris Burden takes listeners to Mount Vernon, Ohio, where one of the most bizarre and horrifying cases in recent history unfolded. In November 2010, a quiet small town was rocked by the disappearance of Tina Herrmann, her children Sarah and Kody, and family friend Stephanie Sprang. What began as a missing persons case soon revealed a nightmare that defied explanation.

Investigators uncovered a crime scene soaked in blood, dismembered remains hidden inside a hollowed tree, and a lone survivor — 13-year-old Sarah Maynard, rescued from the home of a man consumed by a disturbing obsession with leaves. That man was Matthew Hoffman.

Through survivor accounts, forensic evidence, and the relentless pursuit of law enforcement, this episode unravels Hoffman’s twisted crimes, the resilience of young Sarah, and the lasting scars left on the community of Mount Vernon.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• The story of Tina Herrmann, her children Sarah and Kody, and Stephanie Sprang
• How investigators uncovered one of the most gruesome crime scenes in Ohio history
• The bizarre details of Matthew Hoffman’s obsession with trees and leaves
• Sarah Maynard’s survival and rescue after four days of captivity
• The community’s grief, resilience, and search for healing

Learn more about my work in investigations and security at burdenofproof.llc. 📘 And check out my book Burden of the Badge to read more about my journey in law enforcement and private investigation.

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