Issue 63, February 1, 2024

Woman Sentenced to Probation After Fatally Stabbing Boyfriend, Man Goes on Shooting Rampage, Killing Priest Grandfather and Sister Before Being Killed by Police

🕵️Trivia Question

What is the term for a crime scene investigation method that involves a step-by-step search for evidence, often used in homicide cases?
Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

‎PODCAST: RedHanded | The Story of the Spree Killer and Impostor Jean-Claude Romand

Jean-Claude Romand's transformation from aspiring medical student to lethargic spree-killer is anything but ordinary.

For over three decades, he sustained a facade of school and work without any substance, fueled by a web of escalating deceit.

His secret existence culminated tragically, resulting in the demise of his family and a pet, all to evade reality.

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What’s Happening Now

California Woman Sentenced to Probation After Fatally Stabbing Boyfriend in Cannabis-Induced Psychosis

A California woman who fatally stabbed her boyfriend more than 100 times while experiencing a "cannabis-induced" psychosis has been sentenced to two years of probation, sparing her from prison time.

Bryn Spejcher, 32, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter for the 2018 stabbing of Chad O'Melia, whom she had been dating.

Spejcher stabbed O'Melia multiple times before also stabbing herself.

The sentencing decision drew relief from Spejcher and her family, but the victim's father criticized the ruling, claiming it sets a dangerous precedent.

Experts said Spejcher experienced a cannabis-induced psychotic disorder, leading to the violent episode.

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24-year-old Florida Man Goes on Shooting Rampage, Killing Priest Grandfather and Sister Before Being Killed by Police

A 24-year-old man in Florida went on a shooting rampage, killing his grandfather who was a priest and his grandfather's sister before being killed by police.

The incident occurred after attempts to subdue the shooter with a stun gun failed.

Police discovered a stash of weapons and ammunition in the shooter's vehicle, but his intentions remain unclear.

Two police officers were injured during the shootout but are now recovering.

The shooter's grandfather and his sister were found dead at the scene.

It is unknown what the relationship was between the shooter and his victims.

The shooter had previously been arrested for DUI and reckless driving.

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 đźš— Safety Tip of the Day: Avoiding DUI Incidents

To avoid DUI, always plan ahead and designate a sober driver, use public transportation, or arrange for a ride-sharing service. If you've been drinking, don't drive—instead, call a cab or utilize a designated driver service. Prioritize safety for yourself and others on the road.

Cold Case Highlights

UPDATE: Estranged Husband Charged with Murder of Wife 30 Years Ago Apprehended in Virginia, Awaits Trial

Jose Lazaro Cruz, who was charged with the murder of his estranged wife over 30 years ago, has been apprehended in Northern Virginia and is awaiting trial.

Cruz allegedly stabbed Ana Jurado to death in West Falls Church, Virginia in 1991.

He fled to El Salvador before he could be apprehended, as extradition was not permitted at the time.

Authorities recently discovered that Cruz had attempted to enter Costa Rica and detained him.

With the assistance of U.S. marshals and the Justice Department, he was extradited back to the United States.

Cruz had been living in El Salvador with a new family and working as a truck driver.

The Fairfax County Police Chief, Kevin Davis, emphasized the gravity of the crime and the commitment to bringing justice for the victim's family.

The original detective on the case, Fred Pfeiff, has since passed away, but his son Aaron Pfeiff, a lieutenant with the Fairfax County police, expressed their determination to provide closure for the victims.

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UPDATE: Arrest Made in the Murder of Texas Prison Guard as Suspect's Proximity to Crime Scene Raises Suspicion

Robert Dale Clary, the suspect believed to be responsible for the murder of Texas prison guard Rhonda Richardson three years ago, was recently arrested.

Richardson's body was discovered near her home in the Sam Houston National Forest by two individuals riding an ATV.

Clary was one of those individuals, but he failed to notify officials about the discovery.

He informed his family and asked his nephew to report it, fearing that he would be considered a suspect due to his proximity to the crime scene.

Clary even returned to the scene with his nephew to take photos of the body.

Authorities were eventually notified by his nephew.

Richardson had multiple injuries, including slashes and blunt-force trauma, and had been deceased for several days.

Detectives suspected Clary from the beginning, considering his previous arrests for DWI and assault.

The case remained unresolved until forensics experts analyzed cell phone coordinates and found that Clary's phone placed him near Richardson's last known location.

Subsequently, an arrest warrant was issued, and Clary was taken into custody.

The case will now be presented to a grand jury.

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PODCAST: Proof | The Investigation of Renee Ramos’ Murder

The investigation into Renee Ramos' murder seems to be reaching a dead end until a 14-year-old boy comes forward with crucial information.

With the help of this new witness and their two main suspects, detectives believe they have cracked the case.

It is revealed that a skater group played a role in the rape and murder of Jake's girlfriend.

Susan Simpson and Jacinda delve deeper into this story.

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Grid Search is a methodical crime scene investigation approach, systematically combing through evidence in a grid pattern. This meticulous technique enhances thoroughness, improving the chances of discovering vital clues. It facilitates the organization and documentation of findings, essential for precise forensic analysis and successful case resolution.