Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns

By Hidden Killers PodcastNews True Crime News Commentary

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Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns episodes

January 12, 2024 Missing Connecticut Mother Jennifer Dulos Declared Legally Dead Ahead of Ex-Partner's Girlfriend's Murder Trial
Jennifer Dulos, a Connecticut mother of five who went missing in May 2019, has been declared legally dead. The news comes just days before the trial of Michelle Troconis, the former girlfriend of Jennifer's estranged husband, Fotis Dulos, who is facing charges related to Jennifer's disappearance and presumed murder.

Jennifer Dulos was last seen on May 24, 2019, in New Canaan, Connecticut, after dropping her five children off at school. Although her body was never found, evidence of her blood in her garage and other locations led the state medical examiner to classify the case as a "homicide of violence." Jennifer was in the midst of a contentious divorce and a bitter custody battle when she vanished.

Authorities alleged that Fotis Dulos, her estranged husband, was responsible for her disappearance and subsequent presumed murder. They further asserted that Michelle Troconis, his then-girlfriend, conspired with him, created an alibi, assisted in cleaning up after the crime, and helped dispose of evidence.

Fotis Dulos was charged in January 2020 with felony murder and kidnapping in connection to his wife's disappearance. Tragically, he died by suicide at his home while free on bail a few weeks later. Meanwhile, Michelle Troconis faced charges of conspiracy to commit murder, tampering with physical evidence, and hindering prosecution. Her trial, which has faced numerous delays, is now set to commence.

Last October, a probate judge granted a request by Gloria Farber, Jennifer Dulos' 88-year-old mother and guardian of her children, to declare Jennifer legally dead to protect the family's assets. While Connecticut state statutes typically presume death after seven years of being missing, the judge concluded that Jennifer's case was an exception, stating that the "inescapable conclusion" is that Jennifer Dulos is dead.

At the time of her disappearance, Michelle Troconis was residing in the Farmington home that Jennifer and Fotis Dulos had once shared before Jennifer moved with their children to New Canaan and initiated divorce proceedings. Jennifer had also sought an emergency custody order, expressing her concerns for her family's safety, believing that Fotis was capable of taking their children and disappearing.

Despite court orders granting Fotis visitation with the children, he defied these orders by allowing Troconis and her daughter to be present during their meetings. This led one judge to criticize Fotis for exposing the children to Troconis and her daughter, disregarding prior court orders and the impact of his actions on the children.

Michelle Troconis has maintained her innocence and pleaded not guilty to all charges. Her attorney, Jon Schoenhorn, previously described her belief that the Duloses' divorce was "amicable" when she moved in with Fotis.

During the investigation, police stated that Michelle Troconis confirmed being a passenger in Fotis Dulos' truck, which was seen in surveillance videos showing him disposing of plastic garbage bags in several trash receptacles in Hartford on the evening Jennifer Dulos disappeared. Troconis claimed she was "on the phone" and not paying attention to Fotis Dulos' actions during that time.

In those garbage bags, investigators found numerous items soaked in Jennifer Dulos' blood, including clothing, cleaning supplies, and zip ties. DNA evidence linked Fotis Dulos to these bags, tape, and a glove, while Troconis' DNA was found on one of the bags. Police also noted that Fotis and Troconis had spent hours shuttling between their home and another property, claiming to be cleaning, on the same day.

Kent Mawhinney, a longtime friend and former attorney of Fotis Dulos, is also facing charges related to Jennifer Dulos' disappearance. He, too, has pleaded not guilty and may be called to testify for the prosecution during Troconis' trial.

As the trial begins, Jennifer Dulos' family and friends have issued a statement, emphasizing the importance of focusing on Jennifer, who left behind five children. They seek accountability and answers in a case that has garnered significant attention. The trial is anticipated to last between six to eight weeks as the legal proceedings unfold.
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The latest on 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
January 11, 2024 Donna Adelson, Accused in Dan Markel Murder, Hires New Defense Team Ahead of Rescheduled Hearing
Donna Adelson, who faces charges in connection with the 2014 murder of her former son-in-law, Dan Markel, has taken a significant step in her legal defense by hiring a new team of attorneys. Her choice of legal representation has raised eyebrows, as it includes the attorney who defended her son Charlie Adelson during his trial.

According to documents posted by the Leon County Clerk, Donna Adelson has enlisted the services of Daniel Rashbaum, the attorney who led her son Charlie Adelson's defense, and Tallahassee-based attorney Alex Morris. This move marks a significant development in her legal battle as she faces serious charges of murder, conspiracy, and solicitation in the high-profile case.

The substitution of counsel motion filed by Rashbaum and Morris was approved by Circuit Judge Stephen Everett, paving the way for them to replace Donna Adelson's previous attorney, Marissel Descalzo of Miami. This decision comes as the case against Donna Adelson unfolds and enters a critical phase.

A case management hearing, originally scheduled for a recent date, had to be canceled due to severe weather conditions that prompted the closure of all courts in the Second Circuit. A new date for the hearing has not yet been set, but it remains an important event in the legal proceedings.

Donna Adelson's legal team is not only advocating for her but also making a strong statement about her innocence. Attorney Alex Morris emphasized that Donna Adelson is a mother, grandmother, and wife who vehemently denies any involvement in the alleged criminal conspiracy to kill Dan Markel.

Charlie Adelson, her son, was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison for his role in the murder-for-hire plot. He had been convicted of hiring hitmen to carry out the murder of Dan Markel, who was embroiled in a contentious custody battle with Charlie's sister, Wendi Adelson.

In response to the charges against Donna Adelson, Morris stated, "Donna Adelson had absolutely nothing to do with Mr. Markel’s homicide, and the evidence demonstrates this. The State’s efforts to prosecute Mrs. Adelson are not supported by the evidence. We look forward to getting this matter to trial as quickly as possible in the coming months."

The case management hearing that was canceled due to adverse weather conditions has been rescheduled for January 30. Donna Adelson's legal team is determined to pursue her defense vigorously and work towards clearing her name in the ongoing legal battle.

Donna Adelson is the latest individual to face charges related to Dan Markel's murder, with four others, including her son Charlie, already convicted and sentenced to prison. The case continues to garner significant attention as it unfolds in the courtroom, with legal proceedings expected to intensify in the coming months.
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The latest on 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
13 min
January 11, 2024 South Carolina Clerk of Court Faces Dual Investigations Amidst Controversy and Legal Challenges
Rebecca "Becky" Hill, the Colleton County Clerk of Court who gained notoriety during the high-profile trial of former-lawyer Alex Murdaugh, finds herself embroiled in a web of legal challenges and controversy as two separate investigations by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) come to light.

The first investigation revolves around Hill's alleged improper interactions with the jury during Alex Murdaugh's trial for the murder of his wife, Maggie, and son Paul in early 2023. This development comes as a stunning turn of events for Hill, who initially garnered admiration for her charm, humor, and composure during the six-week trial that drew international attention to Walterboro, South Carolina.

The second investigation centers on allegations that Hill utilized her elected position for personal gain, further complicating her legal predicament.

The controversy surrounding Hill began to escalate in early September, following the release of her insider memoir about the Murdaugh trial, titled "Behind the Doors of Justice." Murdaugh's defense attorneys raised concerns in court filings, alleging that Hill had inappropriately influenced jurors, potentially compromising the integrity of the trial.

Among the accusations were claims that Hill engaged in private conversations with jurors, denied them permission to take smoke breaks during deliberations, and instructed them "not to be fooled" by evidence presented by the defense team. Additionally, the defense contended that Hill had plotted to remove a juror she believed was not inclined to deliver a guilty verdict. These actions, the defense asserted, were aimed at enhancing the sales of a book Hill intended to co-author about the trial with Neil Gordon.

In response to the jury tampering allegations, Hill vehemently denied any wrongdoing and submitted a sworn affidavit refuting more than two dozen accusations outlined in the defense's motion. She enlisted the legal representation of State Rep. Justin Bamberg and former assistant U.S. attorney Will Lewis to navigate the legal challenges.

However, Hill's troubles continued to mount. In November, her son, Jeffrey Hill, who served as Colleton County's technology director, was arrested and charged with wiretapping. The South Carolina Attorney General's Office assumed jurisdiction over the case, and Jeffrey Hill was subsequently terminated from his employment.

The release of a trove of Hill's emails just before Christmas added further complexity to the situation. Among these emails, co-author Neil Gordon discovered evidence of plagiarism, as Hill had lifted parts of the introduction of her book from a BBC article mistakenly sent to her. In response, Gordon pledged to donate a portion of his book profits to charity, and the publication of the book was halted.

With the looming three-day court hearing beginning on January 29, where allegations of jury tampering will be aired, Hill faces significant credibility challenges. Lawyers familiar with the case have suggested the possibility that Hill may invoke her Fifth Amendment right not to testify. This series of legal and ethical challenges has cast a shadow over Hill's previously admired reputation and brought her to the forefront of the ongoing legal saga surrounding Alex Murdaugh.
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The latest on 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
January 10, 2024 Gypsy Rose Blanchard, known for 'Mommy Dead and Dearest,' Marries Pen Pal Ryan Anderson
In a surprising turn of events, Gypsy Rose Blanchard, whose life story gained notoriety through the documentary "Mommy Dead and Dearest," has found love and tied the knot with pen pal Ryan Anderson. The couple's unique love story has captured the attention of many, shedding light on their journey from correspondence to marriage.

Ryan Anderson, a 37-year-old special education teacher from Louisiana, first connected with Gypsy while she was serving time in prison for conspiring to murder her abusive mother, Clauddine "Dee Dee" Blanchard. Anderson revealed during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE that their initial contact was part of a conversation with a hospital co-worker who had taken an interest in writing to Joseph Allen Maldonado, famously known as "Joe Exotic" from the Netflix hit show "Tiger King."

Reflecting on that time, Anderson said, "Tiger King was really popular at the time. I said, 'I'll tell you what, if you write him, I'll write Gypsy Rose Blanchard. I never thought she'd be my wife."

While Anderson had watched "Mommy Dead and Dearest," a documentary about Gypsy's ordeal, he made sure to also watch "The Act," a Hulu series from 2019 based on Gypsy's life, referencing its ending in his letter to her. Anderson poured his heart out in the letter, sharing personal details about himself.

"I remember telling her what her story meant to me, and on the second page, I just let her have it," Anderson stated. Gypsy later explained that one reason she chose to respond was because Anderson hailed from Louisiana, her original home state, adding a touch of familiarity.

Their correspondence began in May 2020 through exchanged emails, eventually leading to their first meeting in June 2021. Just over a year later, on July 21, 2022, the couple exchanged vows in a small prison ceremony at the Chillicothe Correctional Center in Missouri, where Gypsy had spent more than eight years.

Gypsy Rose Blanchard had previously pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in 2016 for her involvement in the conspiracy to kill her mother, while her then-boyfriend, Nicholas "Nick" Godejohn, carried out the killing. Godejohn was found guilty of first-degree murder and armed criminal action, receiving a life sentence in prison without the possibility of parole, along with an additional 25 years.

Now, as they navigate married life after Gypsy's release from prison on December 28, 2023, the couple is adjusting to newfound public attention. Anderson shared their approach, saying, "Now it’s kind of like, ‘Oh, you’re in the public eye now — go out there and experience it.’" Despite the challenges of the spotlight, their deep love for each other is evident.

Gypsy expressed her feelings for Anderson, stating, "We’re in love." The couple is looking forward to a second wedding ceremony where friends and family can attend, allowing them to celebrate their love surrounded by their loved ones.

As the couple continues their journey together, their story serves as a reminder that love can be found in unexpected places, even amidst challenging circumstances and personal hardships.
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The latest on 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
15 min
January 10, 2024 Decapitated Woman Posed in "Sexual Manner" in California Vineyard in 2011 Finally Identified
After more than a decade of mystery surrounding a gruesome discovery in a California vineyard, authorities have finally identified the decapitated woman found posed in a "sexual manner" in 2011 as 64-year-old Ada Beth Kaplan. The case, initially perplexing investigators, has taken a significant step forward with the identification, though many questions remain unanswered.

Ada Beth Kaplan's lifeless body was discovered in March 2011 in a horrifying scene that baffled law enforcement. Efforts to identify her were unsuccessful at the time, and authorities classified her death as a homicide while struggling to determine the exact cause.

Kaplan's body had been found in a disturbing state, with her head and thumbs missing, making it virtually impossible to identify her. The condition in which her body was left shocked those who came across the scene, with former Kern County Sheriff’s Department official Ray Pruitt describing it as if someone had posed a mannequin in a provocative manner.

"The body was completely nude and lying prone on its back on the dirt roadway, and it appeared that the body had been posed by whoever left the body there," Pruitt stated, emphasizing the eerie nature of the crime scene.

For nearly a decade, the case remained cold and unsolved, leaving authorities and the community with unanswered questions. However, in 2020, a renewed effort to crack the case began when the Kern County Medical Examiner’s Office teamed up with the DNA Doe Project. This collaboration led to a painstaking investigation that involved tracing back eight generations of Kaplan's ancestors, eventually leading to her identification.

Kaplan's family history played a pivotal role in the identification process, with three of her four grandparents being immigrants. The investigation delved into Eastern European records and enlisted the help of Jewish genealogy experts to piece together her lineage, finally revealing her identity.

In July, two potential family members were located, and their DNA samples were used to make the match that positively identified Kaplan, shedding light on her identity and bringing her story to the forefront after years of anonymity.

However, the revelation that Kaplan was the decapitated woman found in the vineyard presented yet another mystery. Authorities learned that she was never reported missing, adding to the enigma surrounding the case.

Despite the breakthrough in identifying the victim, critical details such as the identity of the perpetrator and the circumstances surrounding Kaplan's death remain unknown. The case is still under investigation, with law enforcement agencies in Kern County committed to uncovering the truth behind this gruesome and perplexing crime.

As authorities continue their efforts to solve this decade-old mystery, the identification of Ada Beth Kaplan marks a significant step forward. It is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of those involved in seeking justice for the victim, though the full story of what happened in that California vineyard in 2011 remains to be uncovered.
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The latest on 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
8 min
January 09, 2024 Mother Sentenced to 42 Years in Prison for Role in Torture and Murder of 4-Year-Old Son in Indiana
A tragic case of child abuse and murder has concluded with the sentencing of 28-year-old Mary Yoder to 42 years in a state correctional facility for her role in the torture and killing of her 4-year-old son, Judah Morgan. The heartbreaking incident occurred in 2021, and it has sent shockwaves through the community and the nation.

LaPorte County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Alevizos handed down the sentence on Friday, marking a grim chapter in a case that has horrified the public. Yoder had previously pleaded guilty to one count of neglect resulting in the death of a dependent and one count of domestic battery to a child. These charges were linked to the abuse suffered by Judah's younger sibling, further emphasizing the severity of the situation.

The child's father, Alan Morgan, had earlier pleaded guilty in 2022 to multiple felonies, including murder and battery, directly related to Judah's death. He received a 70-year prison sentence for his actions.

As part of her plea agreement with prosecutors, Mary Yoder admitted to physically and emotionally abusing both Judah and her other child. She also confessed to failing to intervene or contact authorities regarding her husband, who subjected Judah to torturous punishments regularly. During Friday's hearing, Yoder expressed remorse and stated that she missed her "sweet boy." However, Judge Alevizos reacted strongly, displaying a photo of Judah's autopsy and remarking, "Look at him. Unbelievable."

The horrific events came to light when authorities responded to a 911 call at Yoder and Morgan's rural home at around 3 a.m. on October 11, 2021. They found Judah's bruised and bloodied naked body wrapped in a blanket inside a bedroom. Yoder had made the call, informing the dispatcher that Morgan had become violent and harmed Judah.

Evidence presented at Alan Morgan's trial revealed a pattern of systematic abuse inflicted on Judah. The father frequently physically and emotionally abused his son, often locking him in a dark basement, naked, for extended periods due to toilet training issues. He also withheld food and water from the child and used duct tape to silence him. Surveillance footage from inside the home showed disturbing incidents of physical violence, with Morgan punching Judah multiple times.

Judah ultimately succumbed to blunt force trauma to the head, resulting in massive bleeding on his brain, as determined by an autopsy. Medical professionals described his injuries as among the most severe cases of blunt force trauma they had ever seen.

Inside the family's home, investigators discovered a basement with no working lights, containing a toddler potty training toilet, training pants, and a single blanket. The basement was covered in feces and remnants of torn duct tape, providing a harrowing glimpse into the suffering Judah endured.

Before the sentencing, Jenna Hullett, Judah's second cousin and foster mother, addressed the court, expressing her deep anger towards Mary Yoder. She had been forced to give up custody of Judah only months before his tragic death and had repeatedly reached out to Yoder, seeking help and intervention, which went unanswered.

This heart-wrenching case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of reporting child abuse and neglect, and the dire consequences that can result when such pleas for help go unheeded. The sentencing of Mary Yoder and Alan Morgan represents a form of justice for young Judah Morgan, but it also underscores the need for greater awareness and action to protect vulnerable children from abuse and harm.
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The latest on 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
8 min
January 09, 2024 Search Warrants Reveal Shocking Details in Alleged Poisoning Case: Utah Man Had Wife's Medication in System
Shocking revelations have emerged in the case of Eric Richins, a Utah man allegedly poisoned to death by his wife, Kouri Richins, in March 2022. Unsealed search warrants have shed new light on the circumstances surrounding Eric's tragic demise, uncovering disturbing details about the events leading up to his death.

Kouri Richins, 33, faces grave charges of aggravated murder and drug possession after she was accused of killing her husband, Eric, with illicit fentanyl in their Kamas, Utah, residence. Eric, who had been married to Kouri for nine years and shared three children with her, tragically lost his life on March 3, 2022.

The recently unsealed search warrants reveal unsettling findings that raise questions about the circumstances of Eric's death. According to a Summit County detective's report, it was discovered that Eric had a small amount of Quetiapine (brand name SEROQUEL) in his stomach contents at the time of his death. The alarming aspect was that Eric did not possess a prescription for Quetiapine, but his wife did, and the pills were readily available in their home.

Quetiapine is classified as an antipsychotic medication used to treat various mental health conditions, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It acts by balancing the levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain. However, the medication is known to carry a range of potentially dangerous side effects, such as hyperglycemia, fever, stroke, pain, seizures, and more.

Prosecutors in the case have suggested that Eric's murder may have been financially motivated, revealing a troubling backdrop to the tragic events. According to court documents, the couple had been embroiled in financial disagreements, particularly related to Kouri's desire to acquire a $2 million mansion that was under construction at the time. Her plan was to purchase the property, renovate it, and then sell it for a profit.

However, Eric believed the mansion's price was exorbitant, a sentiment that his family conveyed to investigators. Additionally, Kouri had taken out four different life insurance policies on Eric's life between 2015 and 2017, totaling more than $1.9 million. Notably, on January 1, 2022, just months before Eric's tragic death, Kouri clandestinely altered the beneficiary of a $2 million life insurance policy, making herself the recipient without Eric's authorization.

Before his death, Eric had removed Kouri from his will and designated his sister as the new beneficiary, a move that suggested he had concerns about his safety. His family informed authorities that he had feared for his life, citing previous incidents where Kouri allegedly attempted to poison him, once several years ago in Greece and again on Valentine's Day 2022.

Following Eric's untimely death, Kouri authored a children's book titled "Are You With Me?" This book, listed on Amazon for $14.99, is described as "a must-read for any child who has experienced the pain of loss, and for parents who want to provide their children with the emotional support they need to heal and grow."

The unsealed search warrants have added a new layer of complexity to the ongoing legal proceedings in this high-profile case. Eric Richins' tragic death continues to be a subject of intense scrutiny, as investigators delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding his alleged poisoning and the subsequent legal actions against his wife, Kouri Richins.
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The latest on 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
8 min
January 08, 2024 Juror in 'Take Care of Maya' Trial Cleared of Misconduct, $260 Million Verdict Stands
A juror in the closely-watched 'Take Care of Maya' trial, which recently awarded the Kowalski family $260 million against Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital (JHACH), underwent questioning by Judge Hunter Carroll following allegations of misconduct by the hospital's defense team. After a thorough examination, the judge concluded that the juror did not violate any orders, and the $260 million verdict remains intact.

The controversy surrounding the trial stemmed from claims made by JHACH's attorneys, who accused the juror of engaging in improper conduct, including sharing case details with his wife. She was present at the trial and frequently posted her thoughts about the proceedings on social media. The hospital's lawyers argued that the juror's questions in court mirrored the content his wife shared online, suggesting that the couple was exchanging information, a breach of court rules.

However, during the questioning, the juror, identified as Paul Lengyel, refuted these allegations. When asked by Judge Carroll whether he had discussed the case with anyone, including his wife, Lengyel firmly responded, "No, I did not."

Additionally, the juror explained that his limited eyesight due to diabetes neuropathy prevented him from identifying individuals in the courtroom, including his wife. The judge, after considering the responses, determined that there was no evidence of juror misconduct.

The 'Take Care of Maya' trial revolved around allegations made by the Kowalski family against JHACH, claiming that the hospital's actions led to the suicide of family matriarch Beata Kowalski. The case arose from the court's order to shelter Maya Kowalski, the family's child, at JHACH while child abuse allegations were investigated. During this time, Maya was not allowed physical contact with her mother. Tragically, Beata Kowalski took her own life after 87 days without seeing her daughter.

The jury's verdict found JHACH guilty of falsely imprisoning Maya, fraudulent billing, causing severe emotional distress, and involving social worker Catherine Bedy in battering Maya, along with medical neglect by Dr. Sally Smith.

Attorneys for JHACH subsequently sought a new trial and filed multiple motions alleging juror misconduct and bias. Among the accusations were claims that the juror had lied on a jury questionnaire, had already formed an opinion before deliberations began, and used inappropriate symbols when taking notes about Dr. Sally Smith.

Judge Carroll acknowledged that while the defense had raised multiple concerns about the juror's conduct, there was insufficient evidence to warrant a new trial. The $260 million verdict, a significant victory for the Kowalski family, remains unchanged.

Attorneys for JHACH expressed their gratitude to the court for interviewing the jury foreman and reiterated their intention to pursue an appeal. They look forward to presenting their case to the Court of Appeals, indicating that this legal battle may continue.
In response, the Kowalski family's attorney, Greg Anderson, acknowledged the ongoing legal challenges but emphasized the finality of the jury's decision. He stated, "If the defense was given the ability, they would never have stopped digging. They would never stop peeling the onion with the juror, and that's just not the way the system operates."
The 'Take Care of Maya' trial, which garnered significant attention due to its high-stakes nature and emotional impact, has left a lasting legal and moral impact, with both sides continuing to advocate for their respective positions in the pursuit of justice.
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The latest on 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
January 08, 2024 Oscar Pistorius Released on Parole After Serving Nine Years for Reeva Steenkamp's Killing
South African Olympic runner Oscar Pistorius, known for his inspirational journey as a double-amputee athlete, has been released on parole after serving nearly nine years of his 13-year and five-month prison sentence for the fatal shooting of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, on Valentine's Day in 2013.

The South African Department of Corrections made the announcement early Friday morning, confirming Pistorius' new status as a parolee. Pistorius was secretly moved from the Atteridgeville Correctional Center prison in Pretoria to a parole office before being released to his family. However, the exact time and location of his release were not disclosed.

Pistorius, who became eligible for early release after serving at least half his sentence and received parole approval in November, is expected to live initially at his uncle's mansion in an upscale Pretoria suburb. A police van and private security vehicles were seen outside the residence, highlighting the efforts to maintain privacy.

The Department of Corrections emphasized that Pistorius' parole details, including the time of release, would not be publicized to protect him from media attention that has followed him since the tragic incident more than a decade ago.

Under strict parole conditions, Pistorius will have limitations on leaving his home, a prohibition on alcohol consumption, mandatory participation in anger management and violence against women programs, and community service. He will also meet regularly with parole officials and be subject to unannounced visits. Additionally, Pistorius is banned from speaking to the media until the end of his sentence, and any breach of parole conditions could result in his return to jail.

South Africa does not employ monitoring devices like ankle bracelets for paroled offenders, but Pistorius will be closely monitored by a Department of Corrections official. He must inform the official of any significant life changes, such as seeking employment or moving to a different residence.

Reeva Steenkamp's mother, June Steenkamp, expressed her acceptance of Pistorius' parole, acknowledging it as part of South African law. She reflected on the absence of true justice, stating, "Has there been justice for Reeva? Has Oscar served enough time? There can never be justice if your loved one is never coming back, and no amount of time served will bring Reeva back."

June Steenkamp also reiterated her commitment to the Reeva Rebecca Steenkamp Foundation, dedicated to continuing her daughter's legacy.

Oscar Pistorius has maintained that he shot Reeva Steenkamp by mistake, believing she was an intruder in his bathroom. However, prosecutors argued that he intentionally killed his girlfriend during a late-night argument.

Before the tragic incident, Pistorius was celebrated as an inspiring role model, overcoming his disability to become a champion sprinter who competed in the 2012 London Olympics.

The reaction to Pistorius' parole has been relatively subdued in South Africa, in contrast to the initial public outrage that followed the killing. Advocates against violence towards women expressed hope for Pistorius' rehabilitation. Themba Masango, the secretary-general of Not In My Name International, commented, "We can only wish and hope Oscar Pistorius will come out a better human being. We tend to forget that there is a possibility where somebody can be rehabilitated."

As Oscar Pistorius embarks on his parole journey, South Africa will closely watch his adherence to the strict conditions imposed on him, while the tragic memory of Reeva Steenkamp remains in the hearts of many.
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The latest on 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
January 07, 2024 Recorded Jail Calls Reveal Donna Adelson's Emotional Conversations After Son's Murder Conviction-WEEK IN REVIEW
Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.

This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
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Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
11 min

About Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns

From the publisher's feed

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.