Issue 240, October 7, 2024

Depraved-Heart Murder Case Highlights Overdose Death Complexities; Illinois Woman Manipulates Boyfriend in Twisted Love Triangle

October 07, 2024

🕵️Trivia Question

Which notorious serial predator, active in the 1970s and 1980s, was known for targeting young women and was later linked to over 50 murders across multiple states?
Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

PODCAST: Crime Junkie | MYSTERIOUS DEATH OF: Debanhi Escobar

When a young woman vanishes after being left alone on a highway, the ensuing search for her and the fallout from her disappearance ignites public outrage across her home country of Mexico.

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What’s Happening Now

Depraved-Heart Murder Case Exposes The Complexities of Overdose Deaths and Calls for Tougher Laws

On the morning of Jan. 26, 2022, 25-year-old Sarah Harris was found unresponsive in her home shared with boyfriend Dr. James Ryan.

The scene was in disarray, with Ryan tearfully speaking to police about the night before.

Ryan suggested an overdose due to Sarah's drug and mental health struggles.

Despite his claims, evidence suggested foul play.

Detailed text messages and evidence from the scene proved Ryan's involvement in administering lethal drugs to Sarah.

After a trial, Ryan was found guilty of depraved-heart murder and sentenced to 45 years in prison.

The case shed light on the complexities of overdose cases and the need for tougher laws.

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Illinois Woman Manipulates Boyfriend to Commit Murder-Suicide in Twisted Love Triangle

An Illinois woman manipulated her cheating boyfriend into believing he was being threatened by drug runners, causing him to kill a family of four before taking his own life.

The boyfriend, Nathaniel Huey Jr., was tracked by detectives in Romeoville for nearly a year after the murders.

It was discovered that his girlfriend, Ermalinda Palomo, orchestrated the plot to eliminate a romantic rival.

Palomo created a fake persona to deceive Huey and convince him he was in danger.

After planning the murders, Huey carried them out with Palomo's guidance.

The tragic case has left a lasting impact on the community.

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đź‘€ Safety Tip of the Day: Always trust your instincts. If a situation feels uncomfortable or suspicious, remove yourself from it immediately.

Serial predators often rely on manipulation and charm to gain the trust of their victims. They may present themselves as friendly or harmless, which can make it difficult to recognize their true intentions. By trusting your instincts, you can make quick decisions that prioritize your safety. If something feels off—whether it’s a person’s behavior or a situation—it's better to err on the side of caution. Stay aware of your surroundings, and don’t hesitate to seek help or distance yourself if you feel threatened. Remember, your intuition is a valuable tool in staying safe.

Cold Case Highlights

The Murder of Sarah Yarborough: A Case of Justice Delayed and Genetic Breakthroughs

Sarah Yarborough, a 16-year-old honors student, was murdered on her high school campus in 1991.

The case remained unsolved for nearly three decades until forensic genetic genealogy connected Patrick Nicholas to the crime.

Nicholas, a serial predator, was found guilty of first-degree murder and second-degree murder with a sexual motivation.

His criminal history revealed a pattern of violent crimes against women.

Despite Nicholas being not guilty of premeditated murder, he received a sentence of almost 46 years.

The use of forensic genetic genealogy in Sarah's case highlighted the need for legislative changes to allow familial DNA searches in Washington State.

Sarah's legacy remains one of unity and remembrance among her family and friends.

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Sister of Missing Man Refuses to Give Up Hope After 53 Years

Diana Waggoner Shurbet has been searching for answers since her younger brother, David Waggoner, went missing in October 1971.

Despite 53 years passing, she remains determined to find out what happened.

David was last seen living in an apartment in Pasadena, Texas, and his motorcycle was later found abandoned on Highway 59.

Detective MacGregor from the Pasadena Police Department leads the Cold Case Unit but acknowledges the lack of evidence in the case.

Diana refuses to believe her brother committed suicide and continues to seek closure.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Pasadena Police Department.

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PODCAST: 20/20 | The Killer Down the Hall

POne of the most sensational true crime tales: a brutal murder in Los Angeles that takes an unexpected twist no one could have predicted.

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🔍Trivia Answer
Ted Bundy.

Ted Bundy was a notorious American serial killer who confessed to the murders of more than 30 young women, although the actual number may be higher. Active during the 1970s and early 1980s, he lured his victims by pretending to be injured or in need of assistance. Bundy was apprehended multiple times and escaped custody before his final arrest in 1978. His crimes, characterized by their brutal nature and psychological manipulation, sparked widespread fear and led to significant media coverage, making him one of the most infamous serial predators in U.S. history.