Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns

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Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns episodes

August 20, 2024 Mother and Stepfather Charged After 12-Year-Old Girl Dies from Injuries Following Days of Neglect
A tragic case in Atascosa County has led to the arrest of a mother and stepfather after their 12-year-old daughter, Miranda Sipps, died following what authorities describe as a critical delay in seeking medical care for severe injuries.

According to the Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began when 36-year-old Denise Balbaneda called 911 on Monday to request medical assistance for her daughter. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) met Balbaneda en route to the hospital and found Miranda “alive but unconscious.” Despite efforts to save her, the young girl died nearly two hours after arriving at the hospital.

Authorities have since revealed that Miranda's injuries were sustained on August 8, four days before her mother sought medical help. During that time, Balbaneda and her husband, 40-year-old Gerald Gonzales, allegedly attempted to treat Miranda’s severe condition with home remedies, including smoothies and vitamins, instead of seeking professional medical care.

At a news conference, Sheriff David Soward expressed his frustration and disbelief over the couple’s actions. “Basically, they thought they could nurse her back to health,” Soward said. “We do not think they wanted the attention that this would draw if the little girl was injured, which is strangely ironic, but that was their line of thinking.”

Soward added that the couple likely chose to drive Miranda away from their home while waiting for EMS to avoid having law enforcement respond to their residence.

The Sheriff’s Office has not yet detailed how Miranda sustained her injuries, and an autopsy report is still pending. However, the charges against Balbaneda and Gonzales are severe. Both have been charged with injury to a child causing serious bodily injury by omission, a first-degree felony. Their bonds have been set at $200,000 each.

The investigation also revealed that this was not the first time law enforcement had been called to the home. Sheriff Soward acknowledged that they had responded to previous incidents at the residence, although he did not specify the nature of those calls. Records obtained by local news outlet KSAT indicate that three calls were made to the home within the past year, including two related to marks on a child.

The case has raised significant concerns about the welfare of children in similar situations, where parents or guardians may delay or avoid seeking necessary medical care due to fear of legal repercussions or drawing attention to their actions. Sheriff Soward emphasized the importance of promptly seeking medical help when a child is injured, regardless of the circumstances.

“This case is a heartbreaking reminder of what can happen when parents don’t seek the care their children need,” Soward said. “Miranda might still be with us today if her injuries had been treated sooner.”

As the investigation continues, authorities are working to piece together the events that led to Miranda’s injuries and to determine whether additional charges may be filed against Balbaneda and Gonzales. The community, meanwhile, is left grappling with the tragic loss of a young life and the disturbing circumstances surrounding her death.

Miranda Sipps’ death has not only brought grief to those who knew her but also sparked a wider discussion about child welfare and the responsibilities of parents and guardians in ensuring the safety and health of their children.

As authorities await the autopsy report, the focus remains on understanding how this tragedy could have been prevented and ensuring that justice is served for Miranda.

The charges against Balbaneda and Gonzales underscore the seriousness of neglecting a child's medical needs, and the case will likely serve as a stark warning to others about the devastating consequences of such actions.

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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, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
9 min
August 19, 2024 Matthew Perry's Death Linked to Criminal Network Involving Hollywood Producer and Doctors
Federal authorities have charged five individuals, including a former Hollywood director and two medical doctors, in connection with the ketamine overdose death of "Friends" star Matthew Perry. The charges were announced by the Department of Justice in Los Angeles, revealing a complex and underground criminal network that allegedly took advantage of Perry's struggle with addiction.

Erik Fleming, 54, a former Hollywood director and producer, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine and one count of distribution of ketamine resulting in death. Fleming admitted to distributing 50 vials of ketamine, with half of those vials being delivered just four days before Perry's death in October 2023. According to court documents, Fleming coordinated the drug sales with Jasveen Sangha, known as "The Ketamine Queen," and was responsible for delivering cash from Perry's assistant to Sangha in exchange for the ketamine.

The Department of Justice described Fleming's role as that of a drug dealer, operating within a larger criminal network. U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada stated, "These defendants took advantage of Mr. Perry's addiction issues to enrich themselves. They knew what they were doing was risking great danger to Mr. Perry, but they did it anyway." Fleming, along with other defendants, faces up to 25 years in prison.

The investigation into Perry's death uncovered a broader scheme involving several individuals, including Dr. Salvador Plasencia, a licensed medical doctor who allegedly worked with Fleming and Perry's live-in assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa. Plasencia is accused of obtaining ketamine from another doctor, Mark Chavez, and distributing it to Perry over a two-month period in exchange for $55,000 in cash. The vials, which cost the doctors only $12 each, were sold to Perry for $2,000 per vial.

Estrada highlighted the greed and callousness of the defendants, noting that Plasencia referred to Perry as a "moron" in text messages and expressed a desire to be the actor's "go-to for drugs." Despite knowing the dangers of ketamine, Plasencia continued to supply it to Perry, even as the actor's addiction spiraled out of control.

During his arraignment, Plasencia pleaded not guilty to the charges, appearing in court with shackled feet. His attorney, Stefan Sacks, argued that Plasencia should not be prohibited from treating other patients as a condition of his employment, claiming that the doctor had already surrendered his Drug Enforcement Administration license and could no longer prescribe controlled substances. The government, however, contended that Plasencia acted as a "street-corner drug dealer after money and profit."

The other defendants in the case, including Perry's assistant and Dr. Chavez, have entered plea agreements on federal drug charges. Jasveen Sangha, who is alleged to have sold the batch of ketamine that killed Perry, was arrested alongside Plasencia.

The case has drawn significant attention due to Perry's celebrity status and the involvement of individuals who once held positions of influence in Hollywood. Fleming, who directed and produced films in the late 1990s and early 2000s, had transitioned to working within a production company co-run by Sydney Holland, a former girlfriend of media mogul Sumner Redstone.

With the trial of these individuals pending, the case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of addiction and the lengths to which some will go to exploit vulnerable individuals for financial gain.

#MatthewPerry #KetamineOverdose #ErikFleming #SalvadorPlasencia #JasveenSangha #HollywoodScandal #DrugDistribution

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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, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
14 min
August 19, 2024 Key Testimonies Link Robert Telles to Murder of Journalist Jeff German
Eight witnesses provided crucial testimony on the fourth day of the murder trial of former Clark County Public Administrator Robert Telles, who stands accused of killing Las Vegas Review-Journal investigative reporter Jeff German. The trial, which has captured widespread attention, is centered on allegations that Telles, 47, murdered German in response to a series of articles the journalist wrote about his conduct and internal turmoil within the county office.

During the day's proceedings, former Metropolitan Police Department detective Cliff Mogg provided critical evidence connecting Telles to the crime scene. Mogg testified about his analysis of surveillance footage that captured a maroon Yukon Denali, identified as the suspect's vehicle, near German's home. He noted a distinctive feature of the vehicle—the rear lift gate, where the license plate appeared dark in one image but displayed a white spot in another, matching the specialty plate on Telles's vehicle.

When Telles's defense attorney, Robert Draskovich, questioned Mogg's conclusions, the detective confidently responded, "I was present for the execution of a search warrant at Mr. Telles' residence where several items of evidence were recovered. That absolutely confirmed my belief that Mr. Telles' vehicle was the one used in the commission of Jeffrey German’s murder."

Further testimony came from real estate agent Zackary Schilling, who had worked with Telles in the public administrator’s office. Schilling testified that he recognized the suspect in the surveillance footage based on the individual's walk, shoes, and the vehicle seen driving away from the crime scene.

"Boy, that really looks like somebody I know," Schilling recalled thinking when he first saw the footage. When asked by Chief Deputy District Attorney Christopher Hamner who he believed the suspect was, Schilling answered, "I was thinking of Mr. Telles."

Schilling also identified the suspect’s shoes as "the cheap Nikes he always wore," a detail that further solidified his recognition. He mentioned discussing the footage with his colleague, Kristen Riffle, who also testified, and they both agreed that the person in the footage appeared to be Telles.

"It just came down my spine," Schilling said in court, describing his realization that the vehicle in the footage matched Telles's car. "I didn’t want to believe it, but the facts are the facts. That was Rob Telles’ car."

The day's testimony also included harrowing details from Stephanie Yagi, a medical examiner with the Clark County coroner’s office. As the autopsy photos were displayed in court, Telles appeared to grimace, a reaction that did not go unnoticed by those in attendance.

Yagi described the 13 injuries German sustained during the attack, including six stab wounds, seven incise wounds, and a slash on his throat. She also noted defensive injuries on German's hands, indicating that he may have attempted to fend off the attack.
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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, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
19 min
August 16, 2024 South Carolina Supreme Court to Hear Alex Murdaugh’s Appeal Amid Jury Tampering Allegations
The South Carolina Supreme Court has agreed to hear an appeal from disgraced former attorney Alex Murdaugh, who is currently serving a life sentence without parole for the murders of his wife and son. The appeal centers on allegations of jury tampering during Murdaugh’s murder trial, where his defense claims the court clerk improperly influenced the jury.

Murdaugh, nearly three years into his sentence, is also appealing a 40-year federal prison sentence for financial crimes after pleading guilty to stealing nearly $11 million from his clients and law firm. His defense argues that the sentence, which is 10 years longer than federal guidelines recommend, is excessive and unconstitutional.

The jury tampering allegations are pivotal in Murdaugh’s state court appeal. Murdaugh’s lawyers contend that Colleton County Clerk of Court Becky Hill improperly told jurors not to trust Murdaugh’s testimony, had private discussions with the jury foreperson, and pressured the jury to reach a quick verdict. Hill resigned amid an ethics investigation following these claims. Murdaugh’s defense argues that this misconduct influenced the jury’s decision, warranting a new trial.

Judge Jean Toal, a retired South Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice assigned to the case, emphasized that overturning a verdict on the grounds of jury tampering requires proving that a juror changed their mind due to improper influence. However, Murdaugh’s defense cites a federal standard suggesting that the potential to influence jurors should be enough to overturn the conviction.

The South Carolina Supreme Court has given Murdaugh’s legal team 30 days to submit further arguments, but no date has been set for the hearing.

In federal court, Murdaugh is challenging his 40-year sentence for financial crimes, arguing it violates his right against cruel and unusual punishment. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Richard Gergel, who rejected the 17 to 22-year range recommended by federal guidelines. Murdaugh’s defense compares his sentence to those given to high-profile defendants like crypto entrepreneur Sam Bankman-Fried and Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes, who received 25 and 11 years, respectively.

Murdaugh’s crimes involved stealing from vulnerable clients, including a quadriplegic man and children whose parents died in a car crash. Judge Gergel highlighted the severe breach of trust in sentencing Murdaugh, stating, “Those people placed all their problems and all their hopes with their lawyer.”

Federal prosecutors argue that Murdaugh waived his right to appeal by signing an agreement when he pleaded guilty, stating he would only appeal if prosecutors lied or his defense was inadequate. They also noted that it is rare for a court to overturn such a sentence, citing only one relevant case involving a life sentence for passing a $100 bad check.

The U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Virginia, will hear Murdaugh’s appeal, with a three-judge panel randomly assigned to the case.

Murdaugh’s legal troubles began unraveling in 2021 when he was accused of murdering his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul, at their home in Colleton County. Prosecutors argued that the murders were intended to gain sympathy and buy time as his financial schemes collapsed. Murdaugh, who testified in his defense, admitted to lying to police but denied committing the murders. Despite his claims, evidence, including a video recording of his voice at the crime scene minutes before the killings, played a critical role in his conviction.

Murdaugh’s family had long held significant influence in South Carolina’s legal system, with his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather serving as prosecutors in Hampton County for nearly nine decades. Murdaugh’s extensive legal battles, including these appeals, are expected to continue for years as he fights to overturn his convictions and reduce his sentences.

#AlexMurdaugh #JuryTampering #SouthCarolinaSupremeCourt #FederalAppeal #FinancialCrimes #MurderTrial #LegalAppeal

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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, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
12 min
August 16, 2024 Former Politician Robert Telles on Trial for Murder of Investigative Reporter Jeff German
The trial of Robert Telles, the former Clark County Public Administrator accused of murdering Las Vegas investigative journalist Jeff German, began with the selection of a jury and opening arguments from both sides. The trial, which has captured public attention, is centered around allegations that Telles killed German after a series of investigative reports written by the journalist exposed issues within Telles' office.

On the first day of the trial, a jury comprising seven men and seven women was selected and sworn in. They will decide the fate of Telles, who has pleaded not guilty to the charges. The trial is being presided over by Judge Michelle Leavitt, who reminded the jury of Telles' presumption of innocence.

Prosecutors began their opening statements by highlighting the circumstances leading to German’s death. Chief Deputy District Attorney Pam Weckerly described how German was found dead on September 9, 2022, with his body decomposing outside his home. According to Weckerly, German's neighbors grew concerned when they could not reach him, and it was initially believed he had died of natural causes until evidence of foul play emerged.
Weckerly presented the jury with surveillance footage showing German being attacked outside his home the night before his body was discovered. The video depicted the perpetrator “lying in wait” for German, then fleeing to a maroon SUV after the attack. The prosecution also displayed autopsy photos and recounted the investigation that followed.
The prosecutor detailed how German’s investigative reporting on Telles had led to a contentious relationship between the two. Telles had publicly criticized German, calling his reports “politically motivated” and referring to him as a bully on social media. Weckerly pointed to this animosity as a potential motive, explaining that Telles had a maroon SUV similar to the one seen in the surveillance footage and that DNA evidence found under German’s fingernails matched Telles’.
The prosecution's case also included details of a police search of Telles' home, where they discovered items resembling those seen in the surveillance footage. Weckerly emphasized that the case was solely about murder, stating, "This case is just about murder—not politics or who was a good boss."

In response, Telles' defense attorney, Robert Draskovich, painted a different picture. He portrayed Telles as a family man and a reformer who had made changes in the Public Administrator's office that upset longtime employees. Draskovich argued that these employees conspired against Telles, using German to dig up damaging information.
He also questioned the focus on Telles’ vehicle, pointing out that 67 other vehicles in the area matched the description of the maroon SUV seen near the crime scene.

Draskovich challenged the prosecution’s narrative, asserting that "losing a job is not a motive for murder" and highlighting German’s reputation for making enemies through his bold reporting. He presented voicemail threats Telles had received and suggested that there was a "bigger picture" that had not been fully investigated.

The court heard from its first witness, Holly Bailey, who had been German’s neighbor for 27 years. Bailey provided emotional testimony about the day she and her husband discovered German’s body. She described her initial concern when she noticed German’s garage door was left open, something he never did. When her text messages to German went unanswered, she became increasingly worried. The next day, her husband went to check on German and found his lifeless body, prompting a 911 call.
Bailey’s testimony left the courtroom in silence, with the defense choosing not to cross-examine her. The trial is expected to continue with more witnesses and evidence being presented by both sides.

This trial, set against the backdrop of journalistic integrity and political intrigue, continues to unfold with significant public interest as the jury deliberates the facts and determines Telles’ fate.
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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, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
21 min
August 15, 2024 Idaho Prosecutors Reject Bryan Kohberger's Motion to Move Trial Out of Latah County
Idaho prosecutors have formally objected to the defense’s request to move the trial of Bryan Kohberger, the man accused of murdering four University of Idaho students in 2022, out of Latah County. The defense argued that extensive pre-trial publicity in Latah County, where the slayings occurred, would prevent Kohberger from receiving a fair trial. However, prosecutors contended that moving the trial would be both unnecessary and inconvenient, given the widespread media coverage throughout the state.

In a filing made public on Tuesday evening, Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson and special assistant attorney general Ingrid Batey opposed the motion, which sought to relocate the trial to Ada County, over 300 miles away from where the murders took place. "Defendant has filed a motion to change venue, requesting that the trial in this matter be moved from Latah County—where the offenses took place—to Ada County, some 300 miles away," the prosecutors wrote. They argued that Kohberger’s team had failed to provide sufficient evidence to justify the move.

The defense team, representing Kohberger, who is charged with the murders of Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin, cited “inflammatory” and ongoing publicity in Latah County as the primary reason for the requested change of venue. According to a July filing from the defense, "A fair and impartial jury cannot be found in Latah County because of the extensive publicity that is ongoing and inflammatory. The inflammatory nature of the publicity has included inaccurate information and inadmissible information."

The defense conducted a survey of potential jurors across four Idaho counties—Latah, Ada, Canyon, and Bannock—arguing that the results supported their claim that a fair trial was not possible in Latah County. However, prosecutors refuted this, stating that the survey data did not demonstrate that Latah County’s jury pool was uniquely tainted. Instead, they argued that "pervasive and wide-ranging coverage of this case throughout the entire State of Idaho has led to high case recognition among survey respondents across all four surveyed counties."

Prosecutors further asserted that moving the trial would disrupt the judicial process and inconvenience numerous witnesses and parties involved in the case. They stated, "The court should decline to relocate itself, the state, and scores of witnesses hundreds of miles only to face another jury pool with similarly high media exposure."

The legal battle over the trial’s location is one of several pre-trial disputes in the case, which has garnered significant national attention. The trial is scheduled to begin in June 2025, nearly three years after the brutal stabbings of the four students in their off-campus home in Moscow, Idaho.

The defense has continued to argue that media coverage in the small university town has been particularly intense and detrimental to Kohberger’s right to a fair trial. However, prosecutors maintain that media coverage alone does not warrant moving the trial to a distant county, especially when the entire state has been exposed to similar levels of reporting on the case.

Kohberger, a former Washington State University graduate student, has been in custody since his arrest. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.

As the trial date approaches, both sides will continue to prepare, with the question of the trial’s location being a key issue that could shape the proceedings. The court has yet to rule on the motion to change venue, and it remains to be seen whether the trial will remain in Latah County or be moved to another part of Idaho.

#BryanKohberger #LatahCounty #UniversityOfIdaho #MoscowMurders #ChangeOfVenue #IdahoProsecutors #FairTrial

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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, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
9 min
August 15, 2024 California Father Pleads Guilty to Attempted Murder After Driving Off Cliff with Twin Daughters
A California man is facing a 31-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to multiple charges related to a horrific attempted murder-suicide in which he drove off a cliff with his 2-year-old twin daughters in June 2020.

Robert Brians, 51, admitted to charges of attempted murder, kidnapping, burglary, child abuse, and domestic violence during a court hearing on Friday, August 9, according to reports from the San Diego Union-Tribune, FOX 5, and NBC 7. His guilty plea is part of a deal that resulted in other charges being dropped in exchange for a lesser sentence.

The terrifying incident occurred in the early hours of June 13, 2020, when Brians' wife frantically called the San Diego Sheriff’s Department, reporting that her husband had taken their twin daughters and was threatening to kill them by driving off a cliff. Authorities responded quickly, and within hours, they located Brians and his truck at the bottom of a cliff in San Diego.

The twins, who were just 2 years old at the time, were rescued by officer Jonathan Wiese, who described the scene to NBC 7: "He had both girls. He was holding them and trying to tread water, but they were all going under. One was awake and crying, the other one was pretty lifeless.” One of the girls suffered severe injuries, including brain damage, as confirmed by authorities during a preliminary hearing.

Brians' actions were premeditated, as evidenced by the disturbing text messages he sent to his wife shortly before driving off the cliff. In one of the messages, he chillingly wrote, "The girls are going to Heaven and I’m going to Hell to wait for you." He also posted a message on Facebook just minutes before the attempted murder, stating, "Tonight, I’m sending my babies to Heaven."

Following the incident, Brians was arrested and initially pleaded not guilty to the charges. However, after years of legal proceedings, he accepted a plea deal on August 9, 2024, acknowledging his guilt in exchange for a reduced sentence. The girls' mother, who has been a central figure throughout the investigation and court proceedings, expressed her relief during the hearing, saying, "Thank you for the closure."

The legal process shed light on the severity of the situation and the premeditated nature of Brians' actions. Authorities revealed that after taking the children, Brians exchanged angry text messages with his wife, outlining his plans and making it clear that he intended to harm both his daughters and himself.

In addition to the text messages, Brians' Facebook post, which was made just minutes before the tragic event, further demonstrated his intent. The post read, "Tonight, I’m sending my babies to Heaven," indicating a clear plan to end the lives of his children and himself.

Despite the trauma of the incident, the twins have been recovering, with family members expressing gratitude for their progress. A GoFundMe page set up for the girls shortly after the incident indicated that they were receiving the care they needed and were showing signs of improvement.

Brians is scheduled to be sentenced in September 2024, where he will likely face 31 years in prison for his crimes. The case has drawn significant attention due to the harrowing details and the ultimate survival of the two young girls. The San Diego District Attorney’s Office has confirmed that the sentencing will take place in the coming weeks, bringing some closure to a case that has deeply impacted all involved.

The attempted murder-suicide has left a lasting mark on the community and serves as a tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and mental health crises.

#RobertBrians #AttemptedMurder #TwinDaughters #SanDiego #DomesticViolence #ChildAbuse #JusticeServed

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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, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
10 min
August 14, 2024 City of Uvalde Releases Harrowing 911 Calls, Revealing the Tragic Events and Chaotic Police Response During Robb Elementary School Shooting
After a prolonged legal battle, the city of Uvalde, Texas, has released a series of audio and video recordings connected to the tragic 2022 mass shooting at Robb Elementary School. The devastating event claimed the lives of 21 individuals, including 19 students and two adults. These recordings, made public following a lawsuit filed by several news outlets, including the Associated Press, CNN, and the Austin American-Statesman, offer a chilling glimpse into the chaos and fear that unfolded during the horrific event.

Among the communications released were 911 calls made during the shooting, capturing the desperate pleas of students and teachers trapped inside the school. One of the most heart-wrenching calls was made by 10-year-old Khloie Torres, who was trapped in a classroom where the gunman, 18-year-old Salvador Ramos, had opened fire. "Please, I don’t want to die. My teacher is dead. Oh my God," Khloie told the dispatcher, describing the scene around her with a trembling voice. "A lot of people are gone," she added, referring to the many victims who had already succumbed to the gunman's bullets.

The recordings also revealed the chaos and confusion among law enforcement as they attempted to respond to the crisis. The police response included nearly 150 U.S. Border Patrol agents, 91 state police officials, as well as school and city police. Despite the overwhelming presence of law enforcement, the response was slow and disorganized, with dozens of officers standing in the hallway, uncertain of their next move. Meanwhile, terrified students and teachers continued to make desperate 911 calls, begging for help as the gunman continued his deadly rampage.

The gunman, Salvador Ramos, entered Robb Elementary School at 11:33 a.m., first firing shots from the hallway before entering two adjoining fourth-grade classrooms. The first officers arrived minutes later, but they retreated after Ramos opened fire on them, leaving the children and teachers inside to fend for themselves. As the minutes ticked by, the Uvalde Police Department’s radio traffic remained focused on setting up a perimeter around the school, controlling traffic, and managing the crowd of desperate parents who had gathered outside, pleading for officers to go in and save their children.

At 12:06 p.m., the chaos was still palpable as officers struggled to establish a command post, with one officer lamenting that they lacked the manpower to both manage the perimeter and deal with the situation inside. "They’re trying to push in," one officer said, referring to the frantic parents outside.

By 12:16 p.m., a SWAT team from Austin, located 162 miles away, was en route to the scene, but local police still struggled to provide coherent information about the situation inside the school. It wasn’t until 12:50 p.m., nearly 80 minutes after Ramos began his attack, that a tactical team finally entered one of the classrooms and fatally shot him.

The delayed response has been heavily criticized in multiple reports, including a U.S. Justice Department review that highlighted the lack of urgency in establishing a command center, which led to confusion among officers about who was in charge. The report, along with other federal and state investigations, pointed to cascading failures in law enforcement training, communication, leadership, and technology. Some reports even questioned whether officers had prioritized their own safety over that of the children and teachers trapped inside.

Adding to the tragedy, Ramos had shot and wounded his grandmother before driving to the school, where he carried out his attack. His uncle, Armando Ramos, made several frantic 911 calls, begging to be connected to his nephew in hopes of talking him down. "Everything I tell him, he does listen to me," Armando said, his voice cracking. "Maybe he could stand down or do something to turn himself in." His desperate pleas, however, came too late; by the time he made contact, the shooting had already ended, and Salvador Ramos had been killed by law enforcement.

In the aftermath, two officers involved in the response have faced criminal charges. Former Uvalde School Police Chief Pete Arredondo and former school officer Adrian Gonzales have pleaded not guilty to multiple charges of child abandonment and endangerment. Arredondo, in a recent interview with CNN, claimed he has been “scapegoated” for the botched response.

The release of these recordings has reignited conversations about accountability and the need for reform in law enforcement responses to critical situations. Families of the victims have called for more officers to be charged and have filed federal and state lawsuits against law enforcement, social media, online gaming companies, and the gun manufacturer that produced the rifle used by the gunman. As the legal battles continue, the community of Uvalde remains haunted by the events of that tragic day, with many still seeking justice for the lives lost.

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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, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
18 min
August 14, 2024 Scott Peterson Breaks Silence After 21 Years: “I Didn’t Kill My Family,” New Docuseries Sheds Light on His Fight for Freedom
Sitting in the noisy dayroom of Mule Creek State Prison in Ione, California, Scott Peterson appears more like a laidback surfer than a convicted murderer. Sporting long, tousled hair that he sometimes wears in a ponytail, Peterson, now 51, projects a calm and friendly demeanor over a grainy video call. But as he begins to speak about the events that led to his incarceration, his tone turns serious.

In a rare on-camera interview, Peterson opens up for the first time since his arrest over two decades ago. His interview is part of a new three-part docuseries, *Face to Face with Scott Peterson,* set to premiere on Peacock on August 20. The series aims to explore the high-profile case that captured national attention and ultimately led to Peterson's conviction for the 2002 murder of his wife Laci and their unborn son, Conner.

In the interview, Peterson reflects on the affair he had with Fresno massage therapist Amber Frey, which became a focal point during his trial. “It’s horrible,” Peterson admits. “I was a total a-hole to be having sex outside our marriage.” Despite acknowledging the affair, Peterson vehemently denies any involvement in the disappearance and death of Laci and Conner. “I regret not testifying [at my trial], but if I have a chance to show people what the truth is, and if they are willing to accept it, it would be the biggest thing that I can accomplish right now—because I didn’t kill my family,” he asserts.

Peterson's defense centers around what he describes as a flawed investigation, claiming that the police and prosecutors ignored significant leads and built their case on circumstantial evidence. “The so-called investigation was focused on convicting me rather than finding the truth,” he says in the documentary.

The docuseries also sheds light on the ongoing efforts to overturn Peterson's conviction. The Los Angeles Innocence Project, a renowned organization dedicated to exonerating wrongfully convicted individuals, has taken up his case. They are working to present new evidence that they believe supports Peterson’s claim of innocence. The appeal, launched in January, marks a significant development in Peterson’s long-standing battle for freedom.

One of the most vocal supporters in the documentary is Janey Peterson, Scott's sister-in-law, who became a lawyer in part to fight for his release. Despite acknowledging the pain caused by Scott’s infidelity, Janey maintains her belief in his innocence. “Scott lied about cheating, and that was upsetting,” she tells *PEOPLE* magazine. “But he wasn’t charged with infidelity. He was charged with murder.”

The prosecution’s portrayal of Peterson during his five-month-long trial in 2004 painted him as a man desperate to escape fatherhood and his marriage without the financial burden of spousal and child support. “That is so offensive and so disgusting,” Peterson responds in the documentary. “I certainly regret cheating on Laci, absolutely. It was about a childish lack of self-esteem, selfish me traveling somewhere, lonely that night because I wasn’t at home. Someone makes you feel good because they want to have sex with you.”

As the documentary's premiere approaches, it is sure to reignite the debate surrounding one of the most infamous murder cases in recent American history. Whether Scott Peterson’s plea for a reevaluation of the evidence will resonate with the public and lead to a new trial remains to be seen. However, the series offers a platform for Peterson to tell his side of the story and challenge the narrative that has defined his life for the past 21 years.

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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, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
10 min
August 13, 2024 Scott Peterson to Speak Out in New Documentary as Netflix Revisits Laci Peterson Case
Scott Peterson, the man convicted of murdering his wife, Laci Peterson, and their unborn child, Conner, continues to assert his innocence, even as a new wave of documentaries revisits the high-profile case. Peacock’s upcoming "Face to Face with Scott Peterson" will feature Peterson’s first on-air comments in over 20 years, while Netflix's three-part docuseries, "American Murder: Laci Peterson," directed by Skye Borgman, is set to debut on August 14, ahead of the Peacock special.

"American Murder: Laci Peterson" is a comprehensive review of the case that captivated the nation in the early 2000s. The series provides a platform for both sides of the argument concerning Scott Peterson's guilt, though it’s challenging to watch without feeling the weight of the evidence against him. The documentary includes interviews with key players in the case, such as Laci’s mother, Sharon Rocha, and friends Lori Heintz, Stacey Boyers, Rene Tomlinson, and Heather Adams. Scott’s sister, Susan, and sister-in-law, Janey Peterson, also share their perspectives.

Laci Peterson went missing on December 24, 2002, from her Modesto, California, home while she was eight months pregnant. Scott reported her disappearance after returning from what he claimed was a Christmas Eve fishing trip. His story quickly raised suspicions, particularly after he lied to a neighbor, stating he had been golfing that day. Furthermore, Scott's family was unaware of the boat he had recently purchased on December 9, which he claimed was meant to surprise his father-in-law.

The documentary underscores Scott’s unusual behavior in the aftermath of Laci’s disappearance. He remained calm, unemotional, and avoided the press, contrasting sharply with the actions of Laci's loved ones, who immediately mobilized to search for her. Sharon Rocha and others describe how initial concern quickly turned to panic as they realized something was terribly wrong.

Scott’s inconsistent statements and strange actions—such as washing his clothes and eating pizza before notifying anyone of Laci's disappearance—added to the growing suspicion. According to the documentary, Scott's behavior was increasingly described as "odd," with his story about the days surrounding Laci's disappearance raising more questions than answers.

A critical moment in the investigation came when Amber Frey, a woman with whom Scott had been having an affair, came forward. She revealed that Scott had told her he was single and later claimed his wife had died. Frey’s account, along with secretly recorded phone calls between her and Scott, provided a possible motive for the crime—Scott’s desire to escape his marriage to be with her.

When Laci’s body was discovered near Brooks Island, close to where Scott claimed he had been fishing on December 24, the prosecution believed they had sufficient evidence to go to trial. The subsequent legal proceedings attracted massive media attention, ultimately leading to Scott’s conviction and a death penalty sentence. Jurors, including Greg Beratlis and Mike Belmessieri, noted that the verdict was not predetermined but based on the overwhelming evidence presented.

Scott’s family, including his sister and sister-in-law, continues to argue that he was wrongfully convicted. However, "American Murder: Laci Peterson" suggests that their claims lack substantiating evidence, with criminal investigative profiler Sharon Hagan stating that Scott’s actions after Laci’s disappearance indicated a "heartless disconnection" from the situation.

Further damaging evidence included Scott’s preparation for the alleged fishing trip, such as researching bay tides, obtaining a fishing license, and purchasing lures just days before Laci vanished. Additionally, Scott was arrested near the Mexican border with a car full of supplies and nearly $15,000 in cash, casting further doubt on his innocence.

Despite these circumstances, Scott Peterson continues to insist on his innocence. As the nation awaits his upcoming interview on Peacock’s "Face to Face with Scott Peterson," the case remains a haunting reminder of the tragedy that unfolded over two decades ago. Netflix's "American Murder: Laci Peterson" serves as a sobering retelling of the events that led to Scott's conviction, offering viewers a comprehensive yet chilling overview of a case that continues to evoke strong emotions.

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, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
10 min

About Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns

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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.