Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns

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Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns episodes

October 11, 2024 Dr. Dre Sued for $10 Million by Former Marriage Counselor Alleging Harassment and Homophobic Threats
Dr. Dre, one of hip-hop's most influential figures, is facing a $10 million lawsuit from his former marriage counselor, Dr. Charles Sophy. The lawsuit accuses Dre of engaging in a sustained campaign of harassment involving threatening texts, intimidation, and homophobic comments.

Dr. Sophy, a well-known psychotherapist, was hired by Dre in 2018 to facilitate mediation between Dre and his now-ex-wife, Nicole Young, during their tumultuous divorce. The couple, who had been married for 24 years, finalized their settlement in 2021. However, Dr. Sophy claims that the harassment began roughly 14 months later, taking him by surprise.

"Rather than treating the mediation process as an opportunity for healing, [Dre] decided to take his frustrations about the mediation out on Dr. Sophy,” the lawsuit states. Sophy alleges that this was part of a “nearly year-long sustained campaign,” according to documents obtained by *Billboard* and *Rolling Stone*.

The lawsuit highlights a specific instance in February 2023 when Dre allegedly sent Dr. Sophy threatening messages. In one text message, Dre reportedly warned the doctor that he would "have to pay" for something he had heard. Sophy states that he was “fearful for his life” following these texts and even felt compelled to wear a bulletproof vest for protection.

The lawsuit also claims that Dre sent individuals posing as FBI agents to Dr. Sophy's gated community, allegedly attempting to enter his home under false pretenses. This incident left Dr. Sophy shaken, adding to his concerns for his personal safety.

Dr. Sophy further alleges that Dre’s threats were based on his sexual orientation, including homophobic rhetoric. According to *Rolling Stone*, one of the text messages from Dre reportedly read, "You're going to have to give me a written apology. If not, I'm moving forward. I'm not playing, trust me."

The psychotherapist is not only seeking $10 million for civil harassment but has also filed for a court order prohibiting Dre from contacting him and is requesting a trial. As of now, Dre's legal team has not issued a public response to the lawsuit.

Dr. Sophy’s lawsuit brings serious allegations against Dre, who has a prominent reputation as a music mogul, producer, and entrepreneur. These claims, if proven, could have significant legal repercussions and impact Dre’s public image.

USA TODAY reached out to Dre’s lawyer for comment on these allegations but has yet to receive a response.
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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
8 min
October 11, 2024 Sean 'Diddy' Combs Faces Federal Sex Trafficking Charges, Denied Bail Ahead of May Trial
Hip-hop mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs faces serious federal charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy, amid accusations he led a pattern of abuse and coercion against women for over a decade. According to an indictment, Combs allegedly employed a network of associates to intimidate victims and keep them silent through acts such as kidnapping, arson, and physical violence. Combs, who has pleaded not guilty, appeared in Manhattan federal court where Judge Arun Subramanian set a trial date for May.

The legal proceedings follow Combs' arrest on September 16, which led to the seizure of 96 electronic devices from his residences in Miami, Los Angeles, and a private airport in Florida. Prosecutors highlighted the significance of these devices, stating that eight of them contained over 90 terabytes of data. "The volume of information is extraordinary," Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson remarked, explaining delays in processing the evidence.

At a recent court hearing, Combs' legal team attempted to deflect accusations against him by pointing to a leaked video aired by CNN in May. The footage allegedly shows Combs assaulting his former protege and girlfriend, singer Cassie, in a hotel hallway in 2016. Combs later posted a video on social media expressing regret, stating, “I was disgusted when I did it...I’m disgusted now.” His lawyers, however, accused the Department of Homeland Security of leaking the video, which they say has tainted public opinion. “These government leaks have led to damaging, highly prejudicial pretrial publicity that can only taint the jury pool and deprive Mr. Combs of his right to a fair trial,” they argued in court.

Federal prosecutors responded, denying that they had possession of the video before CNN aired it. They further emphasized the seriousness of the charges and the risk Combs poses if released, prompting the judge to enforce a gag order on both parties to limit public statements related to the case.

Efforts to secure bail for Combs have repeatedly failed. Judges previously rejected a $50 million bail package that included home detention and electronic monitoring, citing the potential risk of witness tampering. Combs' legal team contends that the proposed bail package would sufficiently mitigate any risk, claiming that the court’s prior decisions reflected “exaggerated rhetoric” from the prosecution. They urged the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to overturn these bail rulings, arguing that Combs would be unable to pose a danger or contact witnesses under house arrest.

The charges against Combs stem from alleged incidents dating back to 2008. Prosecutors claim that the evidence they’ve gathered reveals a “disturbing pattern” of criminal behavior orchestrated over several years, including explicit digital records. The court has set additional deadlines for both the prosecution and defense to submit pre-trial arguments, while the defense has requested an expedited trial start date in April.

Despite his legal troubles, Combs appeared unfazed in court, hugging his lawyers and engaging them with a smile. Judge Subramanian has set a further hearing for December, though his appearance may be waived if both parties agree.

As the case progresses, the court will continue to examine the extensive digital evidence gathered, with the defense and prosecution preparing for what promises to be a high-profile trial.
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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
19 min
October 10, 2024 Indiana Couple Arrested After Tip Alleges Man Confessed to Killing and Burning His Children
A disturbing tip has led to the arrest of two Indiana residents, Steven Valle, 31, and Samantha Sebella, 25, who are now facing multiple charges, including murder, in connection with the alleged deaths of Valle’s children. Police were alerted to the potential crime on Sept. 20, when a tipster contacted the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, claiming that Valle had confessed to killing his two children and burning their bodies in a backyard fire pit.

The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation shortly after receiving the tip. Chief Deputy Jason Wallace said in a statement, “We received information from an individual who stated that an acquaintance, Steven Valle, admitted to killing his two children and burning their remains on his property.” The tip prompted a police search for Valle and his alleged accomplice, Sebella.

Authorities located Valle and Sebella at a hotel in Newton County, not far from Wheatfield. When questioned by the police, both Valle and Sebella denied having any knowledge of the alleged crimes. “They just denied it,” Wallace said. “They were cooperative but had nothing to share on the topic.” Police believe the pair previously resided at the property in Wheatfield where the alleged crimes were reported to have taken place.

Acting on the information provided, police executed a search warrant on Sept. 30 at the Wheatfield residence. During the search, they discovered bone fragments at three separate locations on the property. The remains have been sent to a forensic lab for analysis to determine whether they are human and, if so, if they might be connected to Valle’s children. “It is not immediately clear if the bone fragments are human or animal,” Wallace added.

On Oct. 3, nearly two weeks after the tip was received, authorities arrested Valle and Sebella. The charges against them include murder, neglect of a dependent causing death, abuse of a corpse, obstruction of justice, and failure to report a dead body. These charges indicate the severity of the accusations as well as the ongoing effort to unravel the details of this disturbing case.

While the investigation continues, police have yet to confirm how Valle and Sebella are linked to the alleged child victims or whether they are the parents of the deceased children. Sheriff Patrick Williamson and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office have been coordinating with other law enforcement agencies and are following up on any leads that may shed light on the alleged events.

In addition to the murder charges, Valle and Sebella face accusations of neglect resulting in death and abuse of a corpse. Online court records show no available plea or attorney information for either of the suspects at this time.

Anyone with additional information related to this case is encouraged to reach out to the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office at (219) 866-7334 and request to speak with a detective. The investigation remains active as authorities work to uncover the full scope of what occurred at the Wheatfield residence.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
10 min
October 10, 2024 Kentucky Sheriff’s Defense Seeks Reduced Charges, Citing 'Crime of Passion' in Judge’s Killing
Former Letcher County Sheriff Shawn Stines, accused of fatally shooting District Judge Kevin Mullins in a shocking courthouse incident, is seeking to have his charges reduced from murder to manslaughter. Stines’ defense attorney, Jeremy Bartley, argued that the killing was a “crime of passion,” carried out during an “extreme emotional disturbance” and thus warrants a lesser charge.

“It was not something that was planned and occurred in the heat of passion,” Bartley stated in an interview with *People*. “For us, the highest level of culpability should be manslaughter based on the partial defense of extreme emotional disturbance.”

The tragic encounter between the two longtime friends, Stines, 43, and Mullins, 54, occurred inside Mullins’ chambers in the Letcher County Courthouse. Surveillance footage revealed the pair in a tense discussion before Stines drew a gun and aimed it at Mullins’ head. The footage showed Mullins sitting behind his desk, raising his hands in apparent fear as Stines fired eight rounds, with Mullins attempting to hide under the desk.

Prosecutors presented the footage last week, showcasing Mullins’ desperate attempts to avoid the gunfire. The video reportedly captures Stines approaching Mullins, who was crouched beneath the desk, and firing two additional shots at close range before leaving the room where Mullins had served as judge for 15 years.

According to Kentucky Detective Clayton Stamper, additional footage captured Stines making multiple calls to his daughter on both his own phone and Mullins’. Stamper testified that police found Stines’ daughter’s number saved on the judge’s phone. Shortly after the shooting, Stines surrendered to law enforcement, asking them to “treat me fair” as he was taken into custody. In an unusual twist, he informed the police, “They’re trying to kidnap my wife and kid,” though authorities have yet to elaborate on the specifics of this statement.

While the motivation behind the violent confrontation remains unclear, authorities have suggested a potential link to a sex scandal, though they have not provided further details. Stines has entered a plea of not guilty to first-degree murder and is currently being held at the Leslie County Jail. The case has moved to a grand jury, with the prosecution and defense preparing for upcoming proceedings.

As the investigation continues, detectives are examining the cellphones involved and interviewing additional witnesses to shed light on the events leading to this fatal encounter.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
10 min
October 09, 2024 Karen Read Seeks to Delay Wrongful Death Suit as Retrial Nears in 2022 Death of Boston Police Officer
Karen Read, the Massachusetts woman accused of killing her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe, in 2022, is attempting to delay a wrongful death lawsuit filed by O'Keefe’s family until after her criminal trial. Read faces a second trial for second-degree murder and other charges in January, after her initial trial ended in a mistrial three months ago.

According to documents filed by her attorneys, the civil suit should be postponed until the criminal case concludes to avoid compromising her Fifth Amendment rights. The wrongful death lawsuit also names Waterfall Bar & Grill and C.F. McCarthy’s as defendants, alleging they continued to serve Read alcohol on the night of the incident, despite her visible intoxication.

The lawsuit claims that Read backed her SUV into O’Keefe during a snowstorm and left him outside, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Read’s criminal trial in July ended in a mistrial after jurors could not reach a verdict on a manslaughter charge but agreed to acquit her on charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene. “My best guess right now is they will dispense with the first argument pretty quickly,” Suffolk University law professor Chris Dearborn commented on the upcoming appeal. “The second argument… is the one I think has a little more promise.”

In the lead-up to the retrial, Read’s legal team is set to argue before the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court in hopes of having two charges dismissed, including the second-degree murder charge. This appeal could have significant repercussions for the January trial date, especially if the court takes months to reach a decision. “I don’t know if that is fair to either side,” Dearborn said, noting the challenges of preparing for trial amid ongoing legal uncertainties.

Meanwhile, the decision to bring in special prosecutor Hank Brennan, who previously represented mobster James “Whitey” Bulger, has sparked interest. Brennan’s involvement is seen by some, including Dearborn, as an effort to underscore the prosecution’s commitment to a rigorous and ethical handling of the case. “I think this is the DA Morrissey trying to send a message to everybody that we don’t want anyone to think there is anything going on here that is untoward or not ethical,” Dearborn explained.

With these pending legal battles, both criminal and civil, and heightened media scrutiny, the case continues to captivate Massachusetts and beyond, as Read faces another showdown in court on January 27.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
12 min
October 09, 2024 Diddy’s Mother Denounces ‘Public Lynching’ as Legal Troubles Mount
Janice Smalls Combs, mother of music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs, has publicly defended her son as he faces multiple allegations of sexual assault and abuse, as well as federal charges for sex trafficking and racketeering. In a statement released by her son’s legal team, Combs condemned what she perceives as a "public lynching" against her son, stating that he deserves the right to defend himself in court rather than be judged by the public.

“It is heartbreaking to see my son judged not for the truth, but for a narrative created out of lies,” Janice said. She emphasized that Diddy, despite his mistakes, should not be vilified by what she described as unverified claims. “I come to you today as a mother who is devastated and profoundly saddened by the allegations made against my son. Like every human being, my son deserves to have his day in court, to finally share his side, and to prove his innocence”

Diddy is currently facing several legal battles. Federal authorities have charged him with sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for prostitution, with allegations spanning from 2008 to the present. If convicted, these charges could result in a life sentence. Additionally, he is embroiled in civil lawsuits filed by multiple alleged victims. Notably, high-profile attorney Tony Buzbee claims that as many as 120 more individuals may come forward with accusations, some involving minors

Janice referenced the incident with his former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, which has attracted widespread media attention. In 2016, surveillance footage showed Diddy allegedly assaulting Ventura, leading to an out-of-court settlement. Acknowledging this incident, Janice stated, “I am not here to portray my son as perfect because he is not. He has made mistakes in his past, as we all have.” She suggested that the decision to settle the case may have contributed to the current allegations, with some individuals pursuing financial gain rather than justice.

Janice called on the public to reserve judgment, asserting, “The worst part of this ordeal is watching my beloved son be stripped of his dignity, not for what he did, but for what people choose to believe about him.” She urged fans and the public alike to allow her son the opportunity to share his side of the story, stating, “My son is not the monster they have painted him to be, and he deserves the chance to tell his side.”

Janice concluded her statement with an emotional plea for understanding, saying, “I can only pray that I am alive to see him speak his truth and be vindicated.”

As the case progresses, Diddy continues to face legal challenges from both criminal charges and civil claims. The outcome remains uncertain, but Janice’s public defense highlights the family’s struggle against the mounting accusations surrounding one of the most prominent figures in hip-hop.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
15 min
October 08, 2024 Sarah Boone Rejects Plea Deal, Jury Selection in Suitcase Murder Case Set to Begin Next Week-Delayed Due to Hurricane
Sarah Boone is set to face trial next week on second-degree murder charges stemming from the 2020 death of her boyfriend, Jorge Torres Jr., who was discovered dead inside a suitcase in the couple's apartment. Prosecutors allege that Boone, 42, deliberately left Torres to suffocate after zipping him inside the luggage, which was found the morning of February 24, 2020.

Boone has asserted that Torres voluntarily climbed into the suitcase during a game of hide-and-seek after they had spent the evening drinking. However, evidence found on Boone’s phone tells a different story. In two videos recorded that night, Torres can be heard begging to be let out of the suitcase, while Boone laughs and mocks him, ignoring his pleas. Authorities say Boone left Torres trapped and went to bed shortly after recording the videos, leaving him inside the suitcase until morning.

The defense, led by James Owens, Boone's ninth attorney, intends to argue that Boone’s actions were the result of battered spouse syndrome, citing a history of abuse between the couple. “This was a toxic, tumultuous relationship with a record of domestic disturbances,” Owens stated. Boone's defense will seek to highlight years of domestic abuse and arrests as contributing factors in her actions.

Boone has been outspoken in her own defense, writing numerous letters to the presiding judge, Michael Kraynick, and even placing a personal advertisement to find a new attorney. Owens, who volunteered to represent her after Boone's previous eight attorneys withdrew due to her behavior, maintains that she has a story that must be heard. “The details of this case are more complex than they appear on the surface,” Owens commented. “Sarah Boone has experienced significant trauma, which we believe played a role in the events leading up to Mr. Torres' death.”

On October 7, Boone rejected a plea agreement that would have allowed her to plead guilty to manslaughter and serve 15 years in prison. By rejecting the offer, she risks a minimum of 22.5 years behind bars, with the potential for a life sentence if convicted. Boone’s decision to proceed to trial underscores her desire to tell her side of the story, despite the considerable risks involved.

The trial's start date was initially set for October 7, but a forecasted hurricane forced the courthouse to close, leading to a one-week delay. Jury selection is now scheduled to begin on October 14, with the trial expected to draw significant public attention due to the disturbing nature of the evidence and Boone's ongoing claims of self-defense.

Boone's defense team will face a challenging case as prosecutors seek to use the video evidence to portray Boone as callous and unremorseful. Prosecutor Linda Driscoll stated, “These videos speak volumes. You can see the victim pleading for his life, and the defendant is simply ignoring him. That kind of indifference speaks to intent.”

The case’s unique details, combined with Boone's defense strategy, have captured the interest of the public. As the trial approaches, both sides are prepared to delve into the complicated dynamics of Boone and Torres' relationship. The outcome will rest with a jury that will weigh Boone’s claims of past abuse against the prosecution’s argument of deliberate and fatal neglect.
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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
8 min
October 08, 2024 Ruby Franke's Daughter Blasts Lifetime's New Movie, Says it Will “Only Hurt” Her Siblings
Shari Franke, the eldest daughter of YouTuber Ruby Franke, recently spoke out against the upcoming Lifetime movie *Mormon Mom Gone Wrong: The Ruby Franke Story*, which dramatizes the events surrounding her mother’s child abuse conviction. Shari, now estranged from her mother, criticized the movie in a social media post, calling it “trash” and emphasizing its potential harm to her siblings.

Shari posted her reaction on Instagram after seeing the film’s trailer unexpectedly. She described how the moment triggered an “anxiety attack,” explaining, “I saw the trailer suddenly in class and had an anxiety attack. None of us were contacted about the movie. None of the proceeds are going to the kids.” Shari continued, “This movie is trash, and only hurts my siblings more,” before urging her followers, “Please do not support this movie.”

The film, starring Emilie Ullerup as Ruby Franke and Heather Locklear as her business partner Jodi Hildebrandt, chronicles the downfall of Ruby, who gained online fame as a family vlogger before her arrest in 2023. Both Ruby and Jodi were convicted of child abuse following a harrowing incident in which Ruby’s 12-year-old son escaped Hildebrandt’s home, visibly malnourished and bound, prompting police intervention.

Ruby’s arrest marked the culmination of years of alleged abuse, which Shari, in previous Instagram posts, claimed her family had tried reporting to authorities for a long time. Following the arrests, Shari had written, “Today has been a big day. Me and my family are so glad justice is being served. We've been trying to tell the police and CPS for years about this, and so glad they finally decided to step up.”

Shari’s criticism highlights a growing frustration among people directly impacted by true crime stories that are commercialized without consent. As true crime adaptations surge in popularity, the ethical considerations of dramatizing real-life traumas, especially involving minors, are increasingly scrutinized.

Ruby Franke’s case became a topic of national interest when her son’s escape revealed conditions of severe neglect and abuse. Prosecutors detailed how Ruby’s two youngest children were found in poor physical condition, sparking outrage and leading to Ruby and Jodi’s conviction and subsequent prison sentences. According to Shari, the ongoing media attention, now through Lifetime’s film, has made it difficult for her and her siblings to heal. “It only hurts my siblings more,” she reiterated.

As *Mormon Mom Gone Wrong: The Ruby Franke Story* approaches its October 26 premiere, Shari’s plea calls attention to the often-overlooked perspective of family members left to pick up the pieces. Her statement serves as a reminder of the ethical complexities surrounding such portrayals, particularly when minors are involved, and highlights the need for sensitivity in these adaptations.

The film’s creators have yet to respond publicly to Shari’s comments. Whether her message will impact the movie's viewership remains to be seen, but her words underscore the real-world impacts that these dramatizations can have on those closest to the story.

#RubyFranke #LifetimeMovie #ShariFranke #MormonMomGoneWrong #ChildAbuse #TrueCrime
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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
10 min
October 07, 2024 Menendez Brothers Resentencing Bid Under Review, Says DA Gascón
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced that his office is thoroughly reviewing the Menendez brothers' petition for release following new evidence, though he remains undecided on the matter. The brothers, Lyle and Erik Menendez, were convicted of the 1989 murders of their parents, Jose and Kitty Menendez, and have been serving life sentences since 1996.

At a press conference, Gascón said, "I'm not leaning in any direction right now. We have people in the office that are looking at this very carefully, very experienced lawyers... but the final decision will be mine." His office’s examination of the new evidence presented in May 2023 includes sexual abuse allegations made by former Menudo band member Roy Rosselló against Jose Menendez, as well as a letter Erik Menendez wrote to his cousin that reportedly details his father's alleged abuse.

While Gascón acknowledged the gravity of the sexual abuse claims, he emphasized that no conclusions have been drawn by his office yet. "We are not at this point ready to say that we either believe or do not believe that information," he said, adding, "We have a moral and an ethical obligation to review what is being presented to us."

The Menendez brothers, who were 21 and 18 at the time of the killings, have long maintained that their father’s years of sexual abuse drove them to commit the murders. However, prosecutors at the time argued that the real motive behind the killings was greed, pointing to the brothers’ lavish spending spree following the deaths, which included purchasing expensive watches, cars, and tennis lessons.

Gascón acknowledged that opinions within his office on the brothers' case are divided. "There are differences of opinion within the office and that is a healthy part of the process," he explained. "There are people in the office that would tell you this case should never be either resentenced nor a habeas should be granted. There are other people... who believe this should be evaluated carefully."

The new evidence includes Rosselló’s allegations that he was sexually abused by Jose Menendez in the 1980s, and the discovery of Erik’s letter to his now-deceased cousin, which details the alleged sexual abuse. These pieces of evidence were not available during the original trial, and Gascón indicated that if such evidence had been presented, it might have led the jury to a different conclusion.

Despite the weight of the new claims, Gascón made it clear that his office has not yet confirmed the validity of the evidence. "We're not saying that there was anything wrong with the original trial," he noted.

A hearing has been scheduled for Nov. 26 to determine whether the brothers will be resentenced or granted a new trial. Gascón emphasized that his decision would come only after careful review and consultation with his team. "I will make the final decision based on all those conversations," he said.

The Menendez brothers’ case gained renewed attention in recent years, especially following the release of a Netflix documentary that explored their side of the story. In the documentary, both brothers expressed their hope that the new evidence would lead to their release. Mark Geragos, the brothers' post-conviction attorney, said they are “cautiously optimistic” that their petition will succeed.

Gascón suggested that today’s legal system might approach such cases with more sensitivity than in the past. "There is no question that today there would have been a greater level of sensitivity to the way the case was looked at," he said when asked if the case would be handled differently today.

The Menendez brothers' legal team hopes the new evidence will be enough to convince the court that a reevaluation of the case is warranted, with their ultimate goal being their release after more than three decades behind bars.
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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, The Murder Of Sandra Birchmore, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
17 min
October 07, 2024 Alleged Diddy Sex Tape Featuring A-List Celebrity Creates Outrage as Legal Troubles Mount
An alleged sex tape featuring Sean "Diddy" Combs and a male A-list celebrity has reportedly resurfaced, creating a wave of outrage and emotional distress for those involved. Multiple sources have confirmed that the tape, which allegedly shows Combs and a younger male engaging in sexual acts, is being circulated among media outlets, though no one has purchased the footage due to legal concerns.

According to insiders close to the unnamed celebrity, he is devastated by the re-emergence of the video. “It’s triggering,” said a source familiar with the situation. “It feels like a betrayal and a violation, and it’s causing a lot of issues. It brings up some really disturbing and bad memories.” The celebrity, who believes he was victimized years ago, now feels as though he is being victimized all over again with the potential release of this footage.

“It’s a total nightmare,” another insider said. “If this footage gets out, it will follow him for life. It will be on the internet forever.”

The controversy is compounded by ongoing legal battles involving Diddy, who is already facing a series of lawsuits. In addition to the alleged sex tape, Diddy is entangled in more than 100 lawsuits accusing him of sexual abuse and exploitation, with some cases involving minors. Attorney Tony Buzbee, who represents many of the alleged victims, commented, “When we talk about the ages of these victims when the conduct occurred, it’s shocking.”

Law enforcement officials have been investigating Diddy’s Miami mansion, which they suspect was used to record sex parties, with some rooms allegedly rigged for remote viewing and filming without participants' knowledge. Homeland Security agents believe that several incriminating videos were recorded at Diddy's properties, and they are actively investigating the situation.

The media’s hesitance to purchase the tape stems from concerns about the legality of the footage, especially regarding the age of the A-list celebrity at the time. It remains unclear whether the footage was taken with the celebrity's knowledge, further complicating the situation.

One officer involved in the raid on Diddy’s Miami home stated, “There are recognizable names, but I won’t confirm any of their identities. But it’s more than just that one [celebrity].” The potential for this footage to create long-lasting damage to those involved, both legally and emotionally, remains a significant concern.

Attorney Ariel Mitchell-Kidd, who represents several of Diddy’s accusers, confirmed that she has seen still images from the alleged tape. “I can verify that it exists. That it’s real, and that the other person in the video is very visible,” she said. However, Diddy’s team strongly denied these allegations, calling the claims a ploy for “publicity and attention.”

As the legal situation continues to unfold, the A-list celebrity, who is reportedly praying that the situation goes away, has been left grappling with feelings of helplessness. “There’s not much he can do about it if there was a video taken without his knowledge that somehow gets out,” said a source close to him. “So all he can do is pray.”

While Diddy’s attorneys deny any knowledge of the alleged tape, the lawsuits and investigations into his past actions have brought a flood of troubling revelations into the public eye. The accusations against him span more than 30 years, and the sheer volume of claims—120 accusers in total—has intensified public scrutiny.

As the allegations continue to make headlines, Diddy’s legal team remains firm in their stance, denying any wrongdoing. However, with a growing number of lawsuits and mounting evidence, the controversy surrounding Sean "Diddy" Combs is far from over.

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Hidden Killers Live! is your daily true crime podcast delivering two hours of nonstop coverage every weekday. Hosted by Tony Brueski & Robin Dreeke this show dives into the most compelling stories in the true crime world — from murder trials and cold cases to criminal psychology, investigations, and the dark motives behind real-life crimes.