Issue 126, April 30, 2024

Man Who Drove Family's Tesla Off Cliff in California Suffered Psychotic Break, Facing Attempted Murder Charges, Murder Trial of Boston Police Officer John O'Keefe Embroils Canton in Controversy

🕵️Trivia Question

What is the term for a brief, temporary episode of psychosis characterized by hallucinations, delusions, or disorganized thinking?
Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

PODCAST: ‎Morning Cup of Murder | The Man Next Door

‎Laws governing firearms vary from one state or country to another, yet ideally, they are all implemented to safeguard the innocent. However, on April 29th, 2011, a tragic incident unfolded in South Australia, leaving many questioning how the perpetrator obtained the weapon used in the crime.

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What’s Happening Now

Man Who Drove Family's Tesla Off Cliff in California Suffered Psychotic Break, Facing Attempted Murder Charges

Doctors say the man who drove his family's Tesla off a cliff in California suffered a psychotic break during the incident.

Dharmesh Arvind Patel was arrested for attempted murder and child abuse after the crash.

Two doctors testified that Patel believed his children were being sex trafficked during the psychotic episode.

Patel also had a major depressive disorder.

He has pleaded not guilty and is seeking mental health diversion in the case.

Prosecutors oppose the diversion, arguing that Patel has schizoaffective disorder.

Concerns remain about monitoring his mental health outside of medical visits.

Patel's wife did not want him prosecuted, and their children were injured in the crash.

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Murder Trial of Boston Police Officer John O'Keefe Embroils Canton in Controversy

The murder trial begins in Canton, Massachusetts, regarding the death of Boston Police Officer John O'Keefe.

O'Keefe's girlfriend, Karen Read, is charged with second-degree murder after her initial charge of manslaughter.

Allegations of a cover-up emerge, dividing the town.

The night of O'Keefe's death, witnesses report seeing him leave with Read before he is found unresponsive in the snow.

Read's defense claims O'Keefe was severely beaten.

The trial has faced delays and controversy, including claims of witness harassment.

The trial is ongoing as prosecutors present evidence linking O'Keefe's DNA to Read's vehicle taillight.

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🛑 Safety Tip of the Day: Safely Supporting Individuals During Psychotic Episodes: Essential Tips for Caregivers

When assisting someone experiencing a psychotic episode, ensure a calm environment, speak calmly and clearly, avoid arguing or challenging their beliefs, and gently guide them away from potential sources of stress or agitation. If necessary, seek professional help or emergency assistance.
 

Cold Case Highlights

Seeking Information on Murders of Christina Bennett, Rhonda Jones, and Megan Oxendine in Lumberton 2017

The bodies of Christina Bennett, Rhonda Jones, and Megan Oxendine were found in a four-block radius in Lumberton in 2017.

The FBI and Lumberton Police Department are seeking information on their deaths.

A reward of up to $75,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the person responsible for these deaths.

The women were found dead in different locations in Lumberton in 2017, and the cause of death has not been determined.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the FBI or Lumberton Police Department.

This is an ongoing investigation.

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Unsolved Murder of Virginia Sellers: Dale County Sheriff Bynum's Quest for Justice

In Skipperville, Alabama, the unsolved murder of Virginia Sellers has not gone cold.

Dale County Sheriff Mason Bynum is determined to find justice for Sellers, whose body was found wrapped in a carpet under a bridge in 2017.

The cause of death remains undisclosed as investigators work diligently on the case.

Bynum emphasizes that the investigation is ongoing and asks the public for any information that could help solve the mystery.

Family and advocates like Shelly Linderman are hopeful that the perpetrator will be caught and justice will prevail.

Authorities are committed to seeing this case through until they find the answers.

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PODCAST: ‎48 Hours | The Curious Case of Colonel Shue

In April 2003, Air Force Colonel Philip Shue died in a car crash in Texas. Investigations suggested suicide due to a psychological breakdown. His widow, Tracy Shue, insisted he was abducted and tortured. Featured on "48 Hours" in 2009. Catch new episodes on Saturdays or stream on Paramount+.

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🔍Trivia Answer
Psychotic Episode

The term is "psychotic episode." It refers to a short-lived period of psychosis, typically lasting less than one month, often triggered by extreme stress or trauma.