What Happened to Libby Caswell

Stacey Rutherford thought she met her soulmate when she laid eyes on Dr. Justin Rutherford. They fell in love, and it was better than she ever imagined. But this family doctor, beloved father, and cherished husband had dark secrets. He had sworn to do no harm but would resort to any means necessary to save himself.  

We’re excited to share this Betrayal story with you and even more excited to tell you that you can get access to episodes 100% ad free with an iHeart True Crime+ subscription, available exclusively on Apple Podcasts. Plus, you’ll get access to the next episodes 1-week ahead of everyone else - available only to iHeart True Crime+ subscribers! And you’ll also get access to ALL episodes from Betrayal S1 and S2 ad-free as well! So don’t wait! Head to Apple Podcasts, search for “iHeart True Crime+” and subscribe today! 

If you would like to reach out to the Betrayal Team, email us at [email protected].

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Libby Caswell is unable to share her experience of domestic violence in her own words.  In this bonus episode, four anonymous women tell their stories of domestic abuse- the details they remember, the ones they wish they could forget, and how they eventually got out.

If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, call the National Domestic Abuse Hotline for help at 1-800-799-7233.

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The nuisance law in Independence, Missouri played a pivotal role in Libby's story. In this bonus episode, hear Melissa's extended conversation with Sandra Park, former ACLU lawyer and current head of the Civil Rights Bureau of the NY State Attorney General’s Office, as they discuss what nuisance laws are, how they're often misused and what's being done about them.

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Go behind the scenes on the making of What Happened to Libby Caswell. Host Melissa Jeltsen talks to fellow journalist and podcaster Emma Gray (MSNBC columnist, host of the Love To See It podcast, and co-author of the Rich Text Substack) about what drew Melissa to Libby's case, what she looks for when considering a new investigative project, why she focuses on stories about violence against women, and what she hopes both seasons of What Happened To tell us about how we, as a culture, view women's lives and deaths.

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In the final episode, a new witness comes forward with details that raise tantalizing questions. Cindy becomes a national advocate for changes in how domestic violence is handled.

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Family members defend Libby’s boyfriend and help shed light on his actions over the years.

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A forensic expert discovers evidence that upends the official narrative about Libby’s death and points to a coverup. Local police defend their work. 

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Libby’s mom Cindy hires a private investigator to uncover new clues. Investigative journalist Melissa Jeltsen visits the motel for herself. And Libby’s friends open up about the last week of her life.

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We learn more about the secrets in Libby’s life that threatened to endanger it, and the tumultuous cycle that led Cindy to a difficult decision.

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Investigative journalist Melissa Jeltsen explores Libby’s complicated relationship with her boyfriend and their interactions with police. And, a witness comes forward with a harrowing story.

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