Moms and Mysteries: A True Crime Podcast

This week, we are discussing the story of Todd Stermer, who was tragically killed in a fire under circumstances that initially seemed accidental but soon raised unsettling questions. Was it a tragic accident, or was something more sinister at play?

Thank you to this week’s sponsors!

Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to RocketMoney.com/MOMS. 

Treat yourself to the best bras and shapewear on the market and save up to 50% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/MOMS20 this month only. Inventory is limited and the sale ends soon so don’t miss their best deals of the year. After you purchase, they’ll ask you where you heard about them. PLEASE support our show and tell them we sent you. Elevate your comfort, elevate your style, thanks to Honeylove.

This Holiday Season, unlock Jennifer Anniston-approved hair at lolavie.com. As our loyal listeners you'll get an exclusive 15% off your entire order when you use code MOMS15 at checkout. 

 

To advertise on the show, contact [email protected] or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/MomsandMysteriesATrueCrimePodcast. 

 

New merch! Check out Moms and Mysteries Threadless! You can also get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus merch and more at Patreon.com/momsandmysteriespodcast

Listen and subscribe to Melissa’s other podcast, Criminality!! It’s the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: www.pod.link/criminality 

 

Check-out Moms and Mysteries to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more!

 

Sources:

1. https://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/2023/03/testimony-allowed-in-retrial-of-michigan-woman-convicted-of-killing-husband-appeals-court-rules.html

2. https://www.courts.michigan.gov/siteassets/case-documents/uploads/OPINIONS/FINAL/COA/20230316_C361326_42_361326.OPN.PDF

3. https://mdocweb.state.mi.us/OTIS2/otis2profile.aspx?mdocNumber=757152

4. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/linda-stermer-husband-murder-todd-tells-her-side/

5. https://scholar.google.com/scholar_case?case=5147995026067897751&q=todd+stermer&hl=en&as_sdt=2006

6. https://scholar.google.com/scholar_case?case=2272973874759103219&q=todd+stermer&hl=en&as_sdt=2006

7. https://scholar.google.com/scholar_case?case=3674139640037191140&q=todd+stermer&hl=en&as_sdt=2006

8. https://www.newspapers.com/image/441420611/?terms=linda%20stermer&match=1

9. https://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/2020/06/prosecutor-will-retry-michigan-woman-convicted-of-killing-husband-in-house-fire.html 

10. https://wwmt.com/news/local/linda-stermer-todd-murder-court-appeals-trial-testimony-fire-lawrence-van-buren-county-conviction-scott-leroy-jail-dardeda-gordon

11. https://www.aol.com/court-appeals-rules-favor-woman-174300957.html

12. https://www.wtkr.com/us-news/crime/retrial-set-for-woman-accused-of-beating-burning-running-over-husband 

In this week's episode, we unravel the tragic story of Jason Bass, a young man fatally stabbed in a Rhode Island road rage incident that quickly turned into a case of mistaken identity. 

Thank you to this week’s sponsors!

Help teach your kids financial literacy by signing up for greenlight today at greenlight.com/moms.

 

If you’re looking to get hair that looks great and feels even better, check out Nutrafol. For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month’s subscription plus free shipping at Nutrafol.com and enter promo code MOMS.  

 

The holidays are getting close! If you’re kid wants a smart phone, but you don’t want all the dangers that come along with it, check out Gabb! Right now Gabb is offering HUGE discounts on their phones and watches. The best part? There's no contract required! Just go to Gabb.com/moms to get started! 

 

To advertise on the show, contact [email protected] or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/MomsandMysteriesATrueCrimePodcast. 

 

New merch! Check out Moms and Mysteries Threadless! You can also get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus merch and more at Patreon.com/momsandmysteriespodcast

Listen and subscribe to Melissa’s other podcast, Criminality!! It’s the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: www.pod.link/criminality 

 

Check-out Moms and Mysteries to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more!

 

Sources:

 

Wanted Poster

1. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/162955309/jason_k-bass

2. https://www.newspapers.com/image/440298736/

3. https://www.newspapers.com/image/440612842/?match=1&terms=jason%20k.%20bass

4. https://www.newspapers.com/image/1020844228/?match=1&terms=jason%20bass%20adam%20emery

5. https://web.archive.org/web/20190327091014/https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/1994/09/25/a-leap-of-fate/00f97615-edb2-48e4-add4-ecff04bd4170/?utm_term=.a606e91eee72 

6. https://www.newspapers.com/image/848793401/?match=1&terms=jason%20bass%20adam%20emery

7. https://www.newspapers.com/article/tallahassee-democrat-vanished-couple-sh/89635564/

8. https://www.newspapers.com/image/546875315/?fcfToken=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJmcmVlLXZpZXctaWQiOjU0Njg3NTMxNSwiaWF0IjoxNzMwNzc0MDkzLCJleHAiOjE3MzA4NjA0OTN9.cM6946jvRLNYZIFtCiRD975hDNZDeCRIFs0C6-pq8iI

9. https://www.newspapers.com/image/533055797/?clipping_id=89634909&fcfToken=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJmcmVlLXZpZXctaWQiOjUzMzA1NTc5NywiaWF0IjoxNzMwNzc0MDk1LCJleHAiOjE3MzA4NjA0OTV9.NHicGnu54UjIGVc3SrpJ0FSIes6wosFLq2maOoeMmR0

10. https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-boston-globe-police-ri-bones-not/89635817/

11. https://www.wpri.com/news/crime/fbi-still-looking-for-ri-convicted-killer-who-vanished-in-1993/

12. https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/when-adam-lost-the-taillight-of-his-tbird-things-got-bad-then-they-got-worse-a-truthisstrangerthanfiction-story-keith-botsford-reports-1396426.html

13. https://web.archive.org/web/20160502095603/http://wpri.com/2016/04/28/after-26-years-murder-victims-family-still-asking-wheres-adam-emery/

14. https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/wanted-by-fbi-man-in-murder-case-who-may-be-in-florida/

15. https://unsolved.com/gallery/adam-emery/

16. https://www.newportthisweek.com/articles/the-mysterious-case-of-adam-emery/

17. https://www.wpri.com/news/local-news/east-bay/dead-or-alive-ris-most-infamous-mystery-still-unsolved/

18. https://turnto10.com/news/local/30th-anniversary-of-jason-bass-killing-renews-interest-in-adam-emery-case

19. https://ucr.fbi.gov/wanted/murders/adam-c.-emery/@@poster.pdf 

This week we’re discussing the tragic murder of Charlotte Waites, a beloved mother whose life was cut short in a case that shocked her community. The investigation unfolds with unexpected twists and the relentless pursuit of justice, revealing the hidden truths behind this heartbreaking story.

 

Thank you to this week’s sponsors!

Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to RocketMoney.com/MOMS.  

 

Join the 17 million members who are already saving! Start all of your holiday shopping at Rakuten.com or download the Rakuten app to start saving today, your Cash Back really adds up!

 

Don’t miss out on saving BIG with Wayfair this holiday. Head to Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday Deals. 

 

To advertise on the show, contact [email protected] or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/MomsandMysteriesATrueCrimePodcast. 

 

New merch! Check out Moms and Mysteries Threadless! You can also get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus merch and more at Patreon.com/momsandmysteriespodcast

Listen and subscribe to Melissa’s other podcast, Criminality!! It’s the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: www.pod.link/criminality 

 

Check-out Moms and Mysteries to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more!

 

Sources:

1. https://www.wsfa.com/story/5676217/tearful-tale-from-a-daughter-juror-dismissed-attorney-on-the-floor-graphic-photos-in-lanett-murder-trial/

2. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation/what-is-atrial-fibrillation-afib-or-af

3. https://ecf.almd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/show_public_doc?2010cv0295-15

4. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/13312159/charlotte-waites#view-photo=27340473

5. https://www.wtvm.com/story/5714084/former-lanett-city-councilman-guilty-in-wifes-murder/

6. http://www.nbcnews.com/id/11277648/ns/us_news-crime_and_courts/t/visions-victim-inspire-murder-accusation/#.XhQWq9ZKg1I

7. https://www.foxnews.com/printer_friendly_wires/2006Nov21/0,4675,PoliticalWhodunit,00.html

8. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/187055955/barry-clark-waites#view-photo=165882788

9. https://www.wtvm.com/story/5841699/former-mayor-gets-40-years-for-murdering-wife/

10. https://www.wsfa.com/story/5838756/update-former-lanett-city-councilman-gets-his-sentence-for-murder-of-his-wife/

11. https://www.wtvm.com/story/5681079/murder-suspect-barry-waites-back-in-court/

12. https://www.gadsdentimes.com/article/DA/20061121/Sports/603226092/GT

13. https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=8YM0AAAAIBAJ&sjid=xacEAAAAIBAJ&dq=charlotte%20waites%20murder&pg=6707%2C2046334

14. https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=ZJYnAAAAIBAJ&sjid=9acEAAAAIBAJ&dq=charlotte%20waites%20murder&pg=6627%2C3255220

15. https://www.martindale.com/birmingham/alabama/james-w-parkman-iii-27901-a/

16. https://cochranfirm.com/legal-legends/

17. https://www.newspapers.com/image/260973626/?terms=charlotte%2Bwaites

18. https://www.newspapers.com/image/537075862/?terms=barry%2Bwaites

19. https://www.newspapers.com/image/537076269/?terms=barry%2Bwaites

20. https://www.newspapers.com/image/261575619/?terms=barry%2Bwaites

21. https://www.newspapers.com/image/261575641

22. https://www.newspapers.com/image/537098561/?terms=barry%2Bwaites

23. https://www.newspapers.com/image/261676934/?terms=barry%2Bwaites

24. https://www.newspapers.com/image/571407338/?terms=barry%2Bwaites

25. https://www.newspapers.com/image/262225750/?terms=barry%2Bwaites

26. https://www.newspapers.com/image/262646400/?terms=barry%2Bwaites

27. Nightmare Next Door, Season 7 Episode 5 “Cruel Intentions”

In September 2020, Andra  "Andee" Adams was tragically killed in Seattle, Washington, after being run over by her boyfriend.  While mounting questions surround her death, no charges have been filed, and her family continues to fight for accountability and answers.

Research by Haley Gray. Research assistance by Whitney St. Andre. Thank you to Lilith, Andee's Mom, for your help with this episode. 

For more information about domestic violence awareness month including resources for survivors, supporters, and ways to give back, including joining us and Navigating Advocacy Podcast in our Survivor's Bag Drive, check out momsandmysteries.com/dva. 

 

If you want to learn more about Andee’s story, you can follow Lilith’s TikTok, “Justice for Andra Adams”, and join her Facebook group, “In loving memory of Andra Adams”.

 

Canadian Resources:

• Sheltersafe.ca: Provides information and a clickable map to help connect women and their children across Canada with the nearest shelter for safety and support.

• iHEAL app: A free, private and secure app to help Canadian women who have experienced abuse from a current or past partner to find personalized ways to stay safe and be well.

• For Indigenous people, Hope for Wellness 24/7 Help Line: Call 1-855-242-3310 (toll-free) or connect to the online Hope for Wellness chat.

• https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/stop-family-violence/services.html 

 

International Resource: 

https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizations

Thank you to this week’s sponsors!

 

Get your kids started on the journey of financial literacy. Sign up for Greenlight today at Greenlight.com/moms. 

 

If you’ve always wanted Jennifer Aniston’s hair(care products) now is the time! Check out lolavie.com. As our loyal listeners you'll get an exclusive 15% off your entire order when you use code MOMS15 at checkout. 

Get ahead of the New Year with a routine that helps you now by going to Seed.com/moms and use code 25MOMS to get 25% off your first month. 

 

To advertise on the show, contact [email protected] or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/MomsandMysteriesATrueCrimePodcast. 

 

New merch! Check out Moms and Mysteries Threadless! You can also get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus merch and more at Patreon.com/momsandmysteriespodcast

Listen and subscribe to Melissa’s other podcast, Criminality!! It’s the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: www.pod.link/criminality 

 

Check-out Moms and Mysteries to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more!

Sources: 

1. Interrogation Video with Dustin Ballard

2. Seattle Police Department Incident report 2020-271402

3. LF King County Medical Examiners Report

4. Summary of Investigation from OPA

5. Seattle Fire Department Incident Report F200093711

6. Body Cam footage

7. Justice for Andra TikTok

8. Phone Interview with Kaylee Hance

9. Body Cam Footage -with eyewitness statement

10. Don’s phone call to law enforcement

11. Footage of Dustin Walking

12. Interview with Lilith

In October 2021, Meghan Kiefer was brutally stabbed 54 times by her ex-boyfriend outside her Long Island home. In May 2023, he was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder, following his attempted flight to North Carolina after the crime.

 

Special thanks to Meghan’s Mom, Bevin, for sharing her story and the important work she is doing to raise awareness about domestic violence. You can join the facebook group Meggie’s Voice to learn more. 

You can also make a donation to Meghan's Memorial fund here. 

 

Research by Haley Gray. Research assistance by Sheryl Bartleman and Whitney St. Andre

 

For more information about domestic violence awareness month including resources for survivors, supporters, and ways to give back, including joining us and Navigating Advocacy Podcast in our Survivor's Bag Drive, check out momsandmysteries.com/dva. 

 

Thank you to this week’s sponsors!

 

Wayfair is your one-stop-holiday shop for everything on your to-do list this season! Head to Wayfair.com right now to get your home holiday ready. Every style. Every home.

Are you tired of cooking, but the kids still need to eat? Check-out Nurturelife! For 55% off your order, head to NurtureLife.com and use code MOMS.  

For a limited time only, head to BranchBasics.com/MOMS and use Code MOMS for 15% off your entire order.  Choose Branch Basics because cleanliness matters! 

To advertise on the show, contact [email protected] or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/MomsandMysteriesATrueCrimePodcast. 

 

New merch! Check out Moms and Mysteries Threadless! You can also get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus merch and more at Patreon.com/momsandmysteriespodcast

Listen and subscribe to Melissa’s other podcast, Criminality!! It’s the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: www.pod.link/criminality 

 

Check-out Moms and Mysteries to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more!

 

Sources:

1. Kandel, Jason, Law & Crime, “Ex-con sentenced to life in prison…”, June 1, 2023 

2. Kalmbacher, Colin, Law & Crime, “Upstate New York Man Charged…”, October 26, 2021

3. Gusoff, Carolyn, CBS New York, “Kason Parker Arrested…”, October 25, 2021

4. Parpan, Grant, Newsday, “Albany man pleads guilty…”, May 2, 2023 

5. Parpan, Grant, Newsday, “No apologies at sentencing”, June 1, 2023

6. Casetext, Part of Thomson Reuters, Parker v. State, CV 22-2097, May 1, 2023

7. Llanes, Bevin, Break the Silence, “Meghan Kiefer” 

8. Supreme Court of the State of New York, The People of the State of New York against Kason G. Parker, May 1, 2023. Attached.

9. The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, Press Release, “Albany Man Pleads Guilty…”, May 2, 2023

10. Interview with Bevin

Thank you for your Interest is a new podcast about professional rejection, where listeners and people just like you go on and share their most heartbreaking/hellish and hilarious job rejection stories.    Enjoy the first half of Episode 1 - catch the ending on their feed:https://pod.link/1767856056 Be sure to subscribe and follow the show so you don't miss new episodes which come out on Mondays!   If you want to be on the show visit TYFYIPOD.COM!

Gabby Petito, a 22-year-old travel blogger, was found murdered in September 2021 after going missing during a cross-country trip with her fiancé, Brian Laundrie. Her death sparked widespread media attention, and Laundrie was later found dead, with authorities concluding he was responsible for her murder. In this episode, the hosts of Moms and Mysteries sit down with Nichole Schmidt, Gabby Petito's mother, to discuss the foundation she and Gabby's family started, the warning signs of unhealthy relationships, the current state of domestic violence worldwide, and essential resources available for victims and survivors.

 

Special thanks to Nichole Schmidt, Gabby’s mom, for sharing her story and the important work the Gabby Petito Foundation is doing to raise awareness about domestic violence. To learn more, visit gabbypetitofoundation.org.

 

Research assistance by Ana Luria. 

 

For more information about domestic violence awareness month including resources for survivors, supporters, and ways to give back, including joining us and Navigating Advocacy Podcast in our Survivor's Bag Drive, check out momsandmysteries.com/dva. 

Thank you to this week’s sponsors!

 

To take the next step in improving your health, go to lumen.me/MOMS to get 15% off your Lumen. 

Treat yourself to the best bras and shapewear on the market and save 20% Off at honeylove.com/MOMS20. 

 

Get cozy in Quince's high-quality wardrobe essentials. Go to Quince.com/moms for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. 

 

We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/MOMS. 

To advertise on the show, contact [email protected] or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/MomsandMysteriesATrueCrimePodcast. 

 

New merch! Check out Moms and Mysteries Threadless! You can also get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus merch and more at Patreon.com/momsandmysteriespodcast

Listen and subscribe to Melissa’s other podcast, Criminality!! It’s the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: www.pod.link/criminality 

 

Check-out Moms and Mysteries to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more!

Sources:

1. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/gabby-petito-brian-laundrie-case-story-deaths/

2. https://www.nytimes.com/article/gabrielle-gabby-petito-missing-timeline.html 

3. https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/gabby-petito-search-timeline-of-notable-dates-and-events/ 

4. https://abc7ny.com/gabby-petito-disappearance-timeline-brian-laundrie/11024821/ 

5. https://abc7ny.com/brian-laundrie-updates-photo-burner-phone-dog-the-bounty-hunter/11067939/ 

6. https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/01/us/gabby-petito-brian-laundrie-update-friday/index.html 

7. https://www.npr.org/2021/09/21/1039258838/gabby-petito-boyfriend-search-florida 

8. https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/denver/news/press-releases/fbi-denver-provides-final-investigative-update-on-gabrielle-petito-case 

9. https://www.cnn.com/2024/02/14/us/brian-laundrie-gabby-petito-parent-depositions/index.html 

10. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/15/us/gabrielle-petito-missing-vanlife.html 

11. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1U1jLY5JvzS65y4vsS-IqSalz6zCY6Z4t/view?usp=sharing 

12. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FArsVdhlOOaxS2nFI2i4c8I4nkW4ewxH/view 

13. https://www.gabbypetitofoundation.org/gabbys-story 

14. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-58629192

15. https://www.kcra.com/article/gabby-petito-letter-to-brian-laundrie/61086728  

16. https://www.northjersey.com/story/opinion/2021/10/28/gabby-petito-she-caught-cycle-abuse-brian-laundrie/8564643002/ 

17. https://www.businessinsider.com/gabby-petito-missing-instagram-who-is-case-found-laundrie-brian-2021-9 

18. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/19/us/who-is-gabrielle-petito.html 

19. https://www.wwaytv3.com/gabby-petito-once-lived-in-wilmington-friends-share-memories/ 

20. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/gabby-petito-domestic-violence-could-her-death-have-been-prevented/ 

21. https://www.sltrib.com/news/2023/02/07/newly-released-photo-appears/ 

22. https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title76/Chapter5/76-5-S103.html#:~:text=Aggravated%20assault%20%2D%2D%20Penalties.,-(1)&text=Terms%20defined%20in%20Section%2076,101.5%20apply%20to%20this%20section.&text=other%20means%20or%20force%20likely%20to%20produce%20death%20or%20serious%20bodily%20injury.&text=A%20violation%20of%20Subsection%20(2)%20is%20a%20third%20degree%20felony.&text=an%20act%20under%20Subsection%20(2,produces%20a%20loss%20of%20consciousness. 

23. https://www.wfla.com/news/sarasota-county/read-brian-laundries-notebook-confession-message-to-gabby-petito/ 

24. https://people.com/crime/gabby-petito-best-friend-brian-laundrie-jealousy-issues/ 

25. https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2022/06/gabby-petito-death-brian-laundrie 

 

 

Francine Hughes, a mother of four, set fire to her Michigan home in 1977, killing her ex-husband after enduring thirteen years of relentless abuse. The case gained national attention and became a pivotal moment in raising awareness about domestic violence and the legal challenges survivors face.

 

Research by Elizabeth Atwood. 

 

For more information about domestic violence awareness month including resources for survivors, supporters, and ways to give back, including joining us and Navigating Advocacy Podcast in our  Survivor's Bag Drive, check out momsandmysteries.com/dva. 

Thank you to this week’s sponsors!

 

Right now, Hungryroot is offering Moms and Mysteries listeners 40% off your first delivery and free veggies for life. Just go to Hungryroot.com/moms to take advantage of this amazing deal!

 

For 55% off your order, head to NurtureLife.com and use code MOMS.  

 

To advertise on the show, contact [email protected] or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/MomsandMysteriesATrueCrimePodcast. 

 

New merch! Check out Moms and Mysteries Threadless! You can also get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus merch and more at Patreon.com/momsandmysteriespodcast

Listen and subscribe to Melissa’s other podcast, Criminality!! It’s the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: www.pod.link/criminality 

 

Check-out Moms and Mysteries to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more!

Sources:

1. Boots, Anna, “The Burning Bed” Recalls the Case That..., The New Yorker, 2020

2. Francine Hughes Wilson, whose ‘burning bed’..., The Washington Post

3. Grimes, William, Francine Hughes Wilson, 69, ...,, The New York Times, 2017

4. White, Otis, Mrs. Hughes accused of affair, Lansing State Journal, 1977

5. McNulty, Faith Battered wife…(Excerpt from The Burning Bed), Edmonton Journal, 1981

6. Hughes, Mike, Nichols, Sue, The tale behind 'The Burning Bed' .., The San Bernardino County Sun, 1984 

7. Nixon, Mark, Former wife arrested in arson death, Lansing State Journal, 1977 

8. Woman arraigned for ex-husband's death, Lansing State Journal, 1977 

9. Heron, Kim, Abused Dansville woman helped...,, Lansing State Journal, 1977

10. Leach, Hugh, Mrs. Hughes bound over to trial, Lansing State Journal, 1977

11. Killer of ex-husband awaits trial, The Columbus Telegram, 1977

12. White, Otis, Mrs. Hughes' children tell of beatings, threats, Lansing State Journal, 1977

13. AP, 2d Man in fire death trial, Detroit Free Press

14. White, Otis, Mrs. Hughes called temporarily insane, Lansing State Journal, 1977

15. Michigan woman’s story of abuse forever changed America’s…, Michigan Public, 2017

16. Jones, Jennifer, Chapter 4. Totaled Women: The Battered Wife…, Project Muse, 2003

17. State v. Kelly, 33 Wn. App. 541 | Casetext, 1982

18. State v. Kelly - Washington - Case Law , 1985

19. Weiand v. State, 732 So. 2d 1044 | Casetext, 1999

20. State v. Bobbitt, 415 So. 2d 724 | Casetext, 1982

21. State v. Bobbitt, 389 So. 2d 1094 | Casetext, 1980

22. Carleton, Sue, Battered spouse case is closed, Tampa Bay Times, 1999

23. Blakemore, Erin, Francine Hughes Killed Her Abusive Husband…, History, 2019

24. Transcript: The Domestic Violence Case That Turned…, Retro Report, 2020

25. Fletcher, Kayla, National Domestic Violence…,Stockbridge Community News, 2020

26. Dozier, Vickki, Abused Michigan wife who inspired 'The Burn…, Detroit Free Press, 2017

27. White, Otis, Childhood incident caused Francine..., Lansing State Journal, 1977

28. Maitland, Leslie, Courts easy on rising family violence, The New York Times, 1976

29. Franks, Mary Anne, Real Men Advance, Real Women Retreat: Stand Your Ground, Battered Women’s Syndrome, and Violence as Male Privilege, Miami Law Review, 2014

30. Flock, Elizabeth, How Far Can Abused Women Go to Protect…,, The New Yorker, 2020

31. White, Otis, Francine Hughes’ case nears jurors, Lansing State Journal, 1977

32. White, Otis, Jury frees Mrs. Hughs, Lansing State Journal, 1977

33. Van Der Hayden, Ute, Francine Hughes is no longer a battered wife, News-Press, 1980

34. Diliberto, Gioia, A violent death, a haunted life, People, 1984

35. Simmons, Emma, Police: Woman fatally shot boyfriend during argument…, ABC, 2017

 

 

 

 

Emma Compton, a small business owner from Halifax County, Virginia, was found murdered in 2017 after disappearing under mysterious circumstances and after years of domestic violence at the hands of her husband. Seven years later, her family continues to seek justice, as no arrests have been made in the case, and they remain committed to raising awareness and finding answers for her unresolved murder.

Research assistance by Anna Luria and Whitney St. Andre. 

And thank you to Brandie from Evaporate the Missing, who put us in touch with Emma’s sister Shawna. 

If you have any information in Emma’s case, please call the Halifax County crime line at 434-476-8445. 

Shawna is thankful for everyone who is listening to this episode. It means the world to her to know that people now know about Emma, and the incredible, incredible human being she was. Shawna said she hopes that “Maybe Emma can save a life or more or can give at least one person a reason to not to go back…to leave & NEVER EVER LOOK BACK.” 

For more information about domestic violence awareness month including resources for survivors, supporters, and ways to give back, including joining us and Navigating Advocacy Podcast in our  Survivor's Bag Drive, check out momsandmysteries.com/dva. 

Thank you to this week’s sponsors!

This is the absolute best time to check out Gabb! Right now, they are offering $25 off any device to new customers—with no contract required! That’s $25 off any Gabb smartphone or smart watch. Just go to GABB.com/MOMS —that’s where you’ll get the best deal. 

Stop wasting money on things you don’t use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to RocketMoney.com/MOMS. 

Start getting your best sleep this fall with Boll & Branch. Enjoy 20% off plus free shipping on your first set of sheets at  BollandBranch.com  promo code MOMS. Limited time only. Exclusions apply. See site for details.

To advertise on the show, contact [email protected] or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/MomsandMysteriesATrueCrimePodcast. 

New merch! Check out Moms and Mysteries Threadless! You can also get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus merch and more at Patreon.com/momsandmysteriespodcast

Listen and subscribe to Melissa’s other podcast, Criminality!! It’s the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: www.pod.link/criminality 

Check-out Moms and Mysteries to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more!

Sources: 

Sources:

1. https://www.timesvirginian.com/news/article_1686a486-580b-11e7-822b-0f6070bab2df.html
2. https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/missing-in-america/emma-compton-layne-still-missing-four-months-after-disappearing-n815781
3. https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/missing-in-america/four-years-dateline-s-missing-america-90-still-missing-n826516
4. https://www.facebook.com/TomRodgers197/posts/missing-woman-in-halifax-county-vaemma-layne-age-52-was-last-seen-on-saturday-ev/260060507734080/
5. https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/missing-in-america/remains-found-very-shallow-grave-identified-missing-virginia-woman-emma-n837286
6. https://www.chathamstartribune.com/news/article_f342c0f2-d52f-11e7-b4bc-cb5cabdfc22a.html
7. https://www.yourgv.com/news/local_news/medical-examiner-neck-injury-caused-death-in-2017-homicide/article_2b07667a-9396-11e9-b9b5-37dda535c91f.html
8. https://www.wdbj7.com/content/news/New-billboard-in-Halifax-Co-to-help-solve-Emma-Compton-Layne-murder-561157591.html
9. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgqWAZ1cQdY&ab_channel=WSLS10
10. https://www.wdbj7.com/content/news/Vigil-to-be-held-for-Halifax-County-murder-victim-Emma-Compton-Layne-568552601.html?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0RPQ3cLtTwBFHE3aAISaGC2hhFOku8wH6jBQTdgJRygpxfes7UJDocxJo_aem_dDfHz6nR1coB6kCl-KWbOg

Due to character limitations, additional sources are available upon request. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 2004, Yolanda Bindics, a 25-year-old mother of four, mysteriously disappeared from Jamestown, New York, leaving her family and community searching for answers. Her remains were discovered two years later, but the case remains unsolved. New developments in Yolanda's case just this month have brought investigators closer than ever to delivering justice for her family. 

Order “The Silent Conviction: The World Moved On, But A Sister Never Forgets” by Margaret Queen. And check-out our social media for a chance to win her book. 

Thank you to this week’s sponsors!

Help start your kids on the road to financial literacy. Sign up for Greenlight today and get your first month free when you go to Greenlight.com/moms. 

 Pretty Litter helps keep tabs on my cat’s health - and keeps odors down. You and your cat are going to love Pretty Litter as much as we do! Go to PrettyLitter.com/moms and use code moms to save 20% on your first order and get a free cat toy.

It only takes 10-20 minutes a day to reshape your body.  Head to TotalGymDirect.com/MOMS for an ADDITIONAL 20% off your order. Plus that includes a FREE AbCrunch attachment AND free shipping.

We've worked out a special deal with Hiya for their best selling children's vitamin. Receive 50% off your first order. To claim this deal you must go to hiyahealth.com/MOMS. 

To advertise on the show, contact [email protected] or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/MomsandMysteriesATrueCrimePodcast. 

New merch! Check out Moms and Mysteries Threadless! You can also get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus merch and more at Patreon.com/momsandmysteriespodcast

Listen and subscribe to Melissa’s other podcast, Criminality!! It’s the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: www.pod.link/criminality 

Check-out Moms and Mysteries to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more!

Make sure you subscribe and rate our show to help others find us

Sources:

1. N/A, “2004 News Clips”, findyolanda.com, accessed 2023
2. N/A, “2005 News Clips”, findyolanda.com, accessed 2023
3. Tichy, Eric, “Family of Yolanda Bindics pained…”, Jamestown Post Journal, 2021
4. Becker, Maki, “18 years after Yolanda Bindics went…”, The Buffalo News, 2022
5. Ryan, Patrick, “Witnesses sought in Jamestown…”, YourErie, 2022 
6. N/A, “Mother of Four Missing in New York State”, ABC News, 2004 
7. Buehler, Hannah, “Investigators search for leads…”, CourtTV, 2022 
8. Warner, Gene, “What really happened to Yolanda Bindics?...”, The Buffalo News, 2005 
9. Pignataro, T.J., “‘Person of interest’ in custody…”, The Buffalo News, 2004 
10. Gryta, Matt, “Jamestown officer accused of misconduct…”, The Buffalo News, 2005 

Due to character limitations, remaining sources are available upon request.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices