Tag: Murder

James Fields Jr. Sentenced to Life in Prison Plus 419 Years & $480,000 in Fines for the Charlottesville, Virginia Car Attack Resulting in the Death of Heather Heyer (July 15, 2019)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military PolicyLeave a comment
Heather Heyer (photo WBUR)
James Fields Jr.

James Fields Jr., 20, from Ohio, was charged with second-degree murder after killing Heather Heyer, 32, and critically injuring several others when he drove his vehicle into a crowd of protestors in Charlottesville, Virginia. The protestors that he harmed were counter protesting a “white nationalist” protest. According to police records, Fields was previously accused of beating his mother and threatening her with a knife. James Fields Jr. served in the active duty Army for about four months from August to December 2015. He was discharged after failing out of basic training at Fort Benning in Georgia. Fields was denied bail. On June 28, 2019, a federal judge sentenced James Fields Jr. to life in prison for 29 hate crimes. On July 15, 2019, Fields Jr. was sentenced to life in prison plus 419 years and $480,000 in fines by the State of Virginia for the Charlottesville car attack.

In the News:

James Alex Fields Jr. is behind bars after he allegedly plowed his car into a crowd of people protesting against a white nationalist rally in Virginia. -ABC News (August 13, 2017)

James Fields, the white nationalist who killed Heather Heyer by ramming his car into a crowd of protesters at the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia has been sentenced to life in prison. -NowThis News (June 28, 2019)

An avowed white supremacist who plowed his car into a crowd of counterprotesters, killing a young woman, apologized to his victims Friday before being sentenced to life in prison on hate crime charges. -Bloomberg TicToc (June 28, 2019)

The man who deliberately drove through a crowd of people in Charlottesville, Virginia, has received another life sentence. Dozens were wounded and one person was killed. -CBS News (July 15, 2019)

Related Links:
James Alex Fields, Jr. : 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know
Who Is James Alex Fields Jr: 7 Facts to Know About Man Charged in Charlottesville Car Killing
What We Know About James Alex Fields, the Driver Charged in the Charlottesville Attack
James Alex Fields Jr: Full Story & Must-See Details Of Racist Charlottesville Murderer
Who is James Alex Fields Jr., arrested for deadly car attack at white nationalists rally?
Rally murder suspect is an Army dropout ‘infatuated with Nazis’
Teacher: Charlottesville car crash suspect discussed radical views
Teacher says suspected Charlottesville driver James Alex Fields Jr. showed extremist ideologies in high school
Alleged driver of car that plowed into Charlottesville crowd was a Nazi sympathizer, former teacher says
James Alex Fields Jr.: Charlottesville suspect was in the Army, spokesperson says
Charlottesville Driver Who Rammed Crowd Washed Out of Army
What We Know About James Alex Fields, Driver Charged in Charlottesville Killing
Charlottesville Murder Suspect James Alex Fields May Be A Veteran, But He Was Never A Soldier
Army: Charlottesville Driver Kicked Out Of Active Duty After Failing Basic Training
James Fields flunked out of basic Army training, denied bail in Charlottesville case
Charlottesville Suspect James Alex Fields Jr. Denied Bond at First Court Appearance
Mom previously accused Virginia driver of beating her; Bail denied
Man charged in Charlottesville attack failed training at Fort Benning
James A. Fields Jr., avowed neo-Nazi in Charlottesville car attack, sentenced to life in prison
Charlottesville White Nationalist James Fields Gets Life in Prison; Prosecutors, FBI React | NowThis
Mother of Heather Heyer Speaks Out After Charlottesville White Supremacist Sentenced to Life
Man gets life plus 419 years in Charlottesville attack
White supremacist James Fields sentenced to life for Virginia car attack
Neo-Nazi James Fields Gets 2nd Life Sentence For Charlottesville Attack
Man Who Killed Heather Heyer at Charlottesville Sentenced to Life In Prison, Plus 419 Years
Man gets life plus 419 years in deadly Charlottesville car attack
Avowed neo-Nazi James Fields sentenced to life in prison for Charlottesville hate crimes
Charlottesville car rammer James Alex Fields gets life plus 419 years for state charges
White-Nationalist Charlottesville Killer Given Extra Life Sentence Plus 419 Years in Prison
Neo-Nazi who drove car into Charlottesville crowd given second life sentence
James Fields Jr. Sentenced to Second Life Term in Charlottesville Rally Car Attack
White supremacist James Fields Jr. handed second life sentence for 2017 Charlottesville murder
James Fields Jr. Drove Into a Group of Protestors in Charlottesville, Virginia Killing Heather Heyer and Injuring Several Others; Sentenced to Life in Prison (August 12, 2017)

Profile of Serial Rapist and Killer Cesar Barone (July 3, 2019)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Felony Crime, Homicide, Military Policy, Sexual Assault, True CrimeLeave a comment

“Cesar Francesco Barone enlisted in the Army and served during the 1989 invasion of Panama out of Fort Lewis, Wash. A year later, the Army discharged him for lying about his felony conviction.”

Read on www.thoughtco.com/serial-rapist-and-killer-cesar-barone-973160

Dateline NBC Premiered ‘The Overlook’: Did David Strickland Commit the Rape & Double Shooting of Mollie Olgin & Kristene Chapa in South Texas? (June 7, 2019)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Scandals, Sexual Assault, VeteransLeave a comment

Two young women are shot and left for dead on a beach in Texas. After one miraculously survives, she is determined to find out who the attacker is. When a young man is eventually convicted, the long road to justice seems to be complete until a stunning twist raises a question – could the wrong man be in prison? Josh Mankiewicz reports. -Dateline NBC (June 7, 2019)

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Mollie Olgin & Kristene Chapa Murder Case
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Rebounding From Fatal LGBT Attack | Originals | MSNBC
Authorities Arrest Man Who Allegedly Shot Lesbian Teen Couple in Texas
Man and wife jailed in 2-year-old attack on female couple near Corpus Christi
Jury finds man guilty in Portland capital murder
‘Stone cold killer’ David Strickland busted in fatal shooting of Texas lesbians
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Mary Kristene Chapa who was shot in head sues for $660m for assault against her and dead teen girlfriend Mollie Olgin
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San Patricio Judge approves DNA test for convicted murderer
Defense: New DNA results exonerate man convicted in 2012 double shooting in Portland
Lawyers: DNA evidence should exonerate Helotes man convicted of rape and murder at South Texas park
Dateline NBC reexamines Helotes man’s conviction for heinous park shooting & rape in South Texas
Dateline NBC reexamines Helotes man’s conviction for heinous park shooting & rape in South Texas 2
Dateline will feature the story of a local couple who were shot and left for dead
David Strickland could get new trial
New Friday Dateline NBC on Twist in Texas Murder Case that Could Alter the Verdict
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Dateline Episode Trailer: The Overlook | Dateline NBC (website)
Dateline Episode Trailer: The Overlook | Dateline NBC

Crime Junkie Podcast Featured ‘Murdered: The Eastburn Family’; Army MSG Timothy Hennis on Military Death Row for Rape & Three Murders (May 13, 2019)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military Policy, Sexual Assault, Stateside Death, True CrimeLeave a comment
Crime Junkie Podcast
Crime Junkie Podcast

“In 1985 Katie Eastburn and two of her daughters were brutally murdered while her husband was away. It would take over 20 years and three trials before their killer would be brought to justice.” –Crime Junkie Podcast

Listen to “Murdered: The Eastburn Family” on Crime Junkie Podcast here.

Eastburn Family
Kathryn, Cara, and Erin Eastburn

Related Links:
Air Force Spouse Kathryn Eastburn & Daughters Cara & Erin Found Murdered in Fayetteville, NC Home; Youngest Toddler Jana Discovered Unharmed (May 9, 1985)
A Military Jury Delivered a Guilty Verdict in a Death Penalty Trial to Retired Army MSG Timothy Hennis for the Triple Murders of Kathryn, Cara & Erin Eastburn (April 8, 2010)
In 3rd Trial, Retired Army MSG Timothy Hennis Sentenced to Death by Military Court Martial for the Murders of Kathryn, Cara & Erin Eastburn in Fayetteville, NC (April 15, 2010)
Four Service Members on Military Death Row at Fort Leavenworth, Army Private John Bennett was Last Military Execution by Hanging in 1961
Unusual Suspects Premiered ‘Mother’s Day Murders’ on ID: Timothy Hennis on Military Death Row for Murders of Kathryn, Cara & Erin Eastburn (October 8, 2012)
Death’s Door Podcast Featured the Case of Military Death Row Inmate Army MSG Timothy Hennis (September 14, 2017)
Murdered: The Eastburn Family | Crime Junkie Podcast (May 13, 2019)
Military Murder Podcast Premiered First Three Episodes on Veteran’s Day: Stephen Schap, Russell Williams, and Timothy Hennis (November 11, 2019)
Seven Intriguing True Crime Podcasts Spotlighting Active Duty Military Suicide, Missing, and Murder Cases
Violent Crime, Non Combat Death and Suicide at Fort Bragg, North Carolina (US Army)

Army Veteran Major Christian ‘Kit’ Martin Arrested for 2015 Pembroke, Kentucky Homicides; Two Years Later in 2021, Jury Finds Guilty, Sentenced to Life in Prison (May 11, 2019)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Child Abuse, Cold Cases, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military Policy, National Guard, Veterans1 Comment

The latest: Major Martin became a “person of interest” to law enforcement officials in the Fort Campbell area after several bodies were discovered Nov. 19 at two different locations not far from his Pembroke, Ky., home. One of the bodies was that of Calvin Lee Phillips, 59, a man who lived across the street from the major and was set to testify during the aforementioned military trial. Following an emergency hearing Nov. 24, a military judge ordered the trial, set to begin Dec. 1, delayed indefinitely. -Bob McCarty (Nov. 30, 2015)

Christian Martin interview
Screenshot of Christian Martin’s interview with News 4 Tennessee about the Pembroke murders (April 28, 2016). Click here for raw video.

Facts:

  • Nov. 18, 2015: Calvin Phillips was found fatally shot in his home & the bodies of his wife Pamela Phillips & neighbor, Edward Dansereau, were found in Pam Phillips’ burned out car on Rosetown Road in Pembroke, Kentucky
  • April 28, 2016: Christian Martin interviewed with the local media about the Pembroke murders. He denied any involvement and was confident that he would not be accused of the crimes. He wanted to set the record straight.
  • May 13, 2016: Christian Martin was found guilty of two counts of mishandling of classified material & two counts of assault of a child; Martin was found not guilty on two charges of rape of a child & communicating a threat; Sentenced to three months in jail & discharged from the Army
  • July 11, 2018: Kentucky Attorney General Andy Beshear faces scrutiny for past campaign contributions; Beshear’s top deputy was accused of taking kick-backs and bribes for political donations; Republicans accused team Beshear of being corrupt; although it had been two years at the time of print, the money still had not been spent but Beshear vowed to donate any tainted contributions to Common Cause, a government watchdog group
  • May 10, 2019: Martin was indicted on three counts of murder; one count of arson; one count of attempted arson, burglary in the 1st degree & three counts of tampering with physical evidence; Authorities have not given a motive or said what led them to believe Martin was responsible
  • May 21, 2019: Attorney General Andy Beshear wins the Democratic primary for Kentucky governor
  • May 22, 2019: At arraignment, Christian Martin pleads not guilty; the State of Kentucky AG is holding him in jail with no bond and threatening the death penalty
  •  

“The Christian County Sherriff’s Department tells FOX 17 that both Major Martin and [Joan] Harmon are persons of interest in the triple murder that happened in Pembroke back in November. The department says it has interviewed Harmon twice about the murders and what she knows. However, the department refuses to say she’s a suspect.” –Fox 17 Nashville (May 11, 2016)

In the News (2019):

  1. Christian Martin interview with Channel 4 I-Team about Pembroke murders (April 28, 2016) [VIDEO]
  2. Beshear faces scrutiny for past campaign contributions (July 11, 2018)
  3. NCFM Member ‘Kit Martin’ Indicted for Murder in Kentucky
  4. Pilot With NC Ties Indicted In 2015 Triple Murder
  5. Past defense attorney for Army Major indicted in triple murder says he’s innocent
  6. Former Army Major indicted in triple murder, past attorney says he’s innocent
  7. Neighbors relieved after suspect arrested in 2015 Christian County murders
  8. Kentucky town hopes for closure as pilot returns to face triple murder charges
  9. Arraignment Set For Pilot Charged In 3 Killings In Christian County
  10. Arraignment set for pilot charged in 3 killings in Kentucky
  11. Fiancee of commercial pilot charged in Kentucky triple homicide says he’s ‘100 percent innocent’
  12. Dad died over evidence he gave Army, victim’s son says after pilot’s arrest in triple homicide
  13. Pilot accused of triple murder claimed in interview one victim had affair with his ‘bigamist’ ex-wife
  14. Pilot accused in 2015 triple homicide could face death penalty
  15. Man Indicted For 2015 Christian Co. Triple Murder Could Face Death, Held Without Bond
  16. Andy Beshear wins the Democratic primary for Kentucky governor
  17. Andy Beshear Wins Democratic Primary for Kentucky Governor
  18. Fear Thy Neighbor – The Pembroke Murders Investigation
  19. The Murder of a Federal Witness – A News4 Special
  20. A Love Triangle & Financial Ruin: Who Had the Motive to Murder in Pembroke?
  21. A Love Triangle & Financial Ruin: Who Had the Motive to Murder in Pembroke? Part 2
  22. Christian Martin, pilot arrested in triple murder, pleads not guilty
  23. Airplane pilot pleads not guilty in Kentucky triple murder case
  24. Raleigh pilot Christian Martin charged with triple murder pleads not guilty

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law. Arrests and charges are accusations by legal authorities until a suspect is convicted of the crime.

*****************************************************

The Murder Of A Federal Witness : A News4 Special -WSMV (June 30, 2019)

In May when the Kentucky Attorney General arrested Christian “Kit” Martin for the murders of three people in Pembroke, Kentucky, he offered no clues on what new evidence led to the arrest. -Fox Nashville (July 26, 2019)

A love triangle and financial ruin: Who had the motive to murder in Pembroke? Part 2 -Fox Nashville (July 26, 2019)

Timeline of Events

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2015:
NCFM sends letter to Secretary of Defense about the wrongful persecution of Major Christian “Kit” Martin
Army Major Questioned in Pembroke Murders
Nashville’s Fox 17 Omits Key Details From News Reports About Army Officer Caught Up In Murder Investigation
Man found dead inside Ky. home was witness in court-martial case
Man found dead was to be witness in court-martial case
Home, Cars of Fort Campbell Army Major Searched in Connection to Ky. Murders
Major Martin 9-2-15 Interview with Updates (November 30, 2015)
Attorney Cites ‘Foul Smell in the Air’ Surrounding Effort to Link Army Officer to Multiple Murders Near Fort Campbell
Computer custody questioned in sex assault hearing
Law-and-Order Veterans ‘Smell A Rat’ at Fort Campbell
Officials Identify Gunshot Victim Found Inside Home While Facebook Comments About Case Appear and Disappear
NCFM asks DoD Inspector General for Referral to U.S. Attorney General for Criminal Probe of JAG Prosecutors in the Case of U.S. Army Major Christian “Kit” Martin, then there’s the triple murder…
NCFM used in triple murder case article linked to the Army’s persecution of Major Martin

2016:
Kit Martin interview with Channel 4 I-Team about Pembroke murders
Recording of victim 2 weeks before murders reveals connections to person of interest
Witnesses say Army major physically, sexually abused them
Minors take stand in court-martial of Army major to accuse of sex abuse
Family of Fort Campbell Army Major says he’s Innocent in Triple Murder Case
Army major found not guilty of sexual assault charges
Major Christian “Kit” Martin is acquitted of child sex abuse
NCFM update, Major Christian “Kit” Martin Dodges a Bullet in Courts-Martial at Fort Campbell – Is Acquitted of Child Sex Abuse Charges
Ft. Campbell Army Major Found Guilty of Assault on a Child
Court-martialed Army major found guilty, sentenced
NCFM update in the False Accusation and Wrongful Conviction Case of Army Major “Kit” Martin
U.S. Army Major Christian “Kit” Martin: The Wrongful Conviction of an American Hero
Triple Murder, False Rape Allegations and the corruption of both a police department and the U.S. Army
False Accusation and Wrongful Conviction Case of Army Major “Kit” Martin
Police still seeking info in Pembroke triple-murder
Police still seeking info in Pembroke triple-murder

2017:
Family offers $100K reward for information on Pembroke triple murder
$100K reward offered in deaths of Ky. couple found in burned car
$100,000 Reward In Triple Homicide

2018:
Three Year Anniversary Of Unsolved Pembroke Triple Murders

Christian Richard Martin is facing several charges, in Christian County, Ky., including murder and arson. Martin moved from Kentucky to North Carolina after the murders, the Attorney General’s Office said. -WFMY News 2 (May 11, 2019)

2019 (Arrest):
NCFM Member ‘Kit Martin’ Indicted for Murder in Kentucky
Beshear: Man Indicted for 2015 Christian County Triple Murder
Kentucky AG indicts man of 3 counts of murders in 2015
Pilot With NC Ties Indicted In 2015 Triple Murder
Man indicted for 2015 Pembroke, Kentucky murders
Man indicted for 2015 Christian County triple murder
Man Arrested In 2015 Triple Slaying In Christian County
Christian R. Martin Indicted for 2015 Christian County Triple Murder
Pembroke Triple Murder Suspect A Pilot For American Airlines
Pilot accused of 2015 triple murder in Western Kentucky arrested at Louisville airport
Pilot arrested at Louisville airport, indicted for 2015 triple murder
American Airlines pilot arrested at Louisville airport for 2015 triple homicide
Airline pilot charged with killing 3 in Kentucky in 2015
Airline pilot arrested, charged in connection with 2015 triple murder in Kentucky
Airline pilot faces murder and arson charges in 2015 triple slaying in Kentucky
Two bodies in a burned car, another shot in his home. Years later, a former neighbor is indicted.
Christian Co. Grand Jury Unseals Triple Murder Indictment Friday
Man Indicted for 2015 Christian County Triple Murder: After meeting with family members two years ago Beshear’s office took over the case (May 11, 2019 Tweet)
Past defense attorney for Army Major indicted in triple murder says he’s innocent
Former Army Major indicted in triple murder, past attorney says he’s innocent

2019 (Arraignment):
Arraignment Set For Pilot Charged In 3 Killings In Christian County
Arraignment set for pilot charged in 3 killings in Kentucky
Martin arraigned in court for Pembroke murders
Pembroke triple homicide suspect entered not guilty plea at arraignment
Pilot arrested at Louisville airport pleads not guilty in triple murder case
Christian Martin, pilot arrested in triple murder, pleads not guilty
Raleigh pilot Christian Martin charged with triple murder pleads not guilty
Airplane pilot pleads not guilty in Kentucky triple murder case
Pilot charged in Kentucky triple slaying pleads not guilty
Pilot arrested at Louisville airport pleads not guilty in triple murder case
Pilot arrested at Louisville airport pleads not guilty in triple murder case
Commercial pilot pleads not guilty to 2015 triple murder charges
American Airlines Pilot Pleads Not Guilty To Murder
American Airlines pilot pleads NOT guilty to the 2015 murders of three people
Fiancee of commercial pilot charged in Kentucky triple homicide says he’s ‘100 percent innocent’
Dad died over evidence he gave Army, victim’s son says after pilot’s arrest in triple homicide
Pilot accused of triple murder claimed in interview one victim had affair with his ‘bigamist’ ex-wife
Neighbors relieved after suspect arrested in 2015 Christian County murders
‘Monster’ in the Cockpit: Inside the Crazy Case of the American Airlines Pilot Accused of Triple Murder
Kentucky town hopes for closure as pilot returns to face triple murder charges
‘Scars the community’ Pilot, former Army major held without bond in triple Kentucky murder
Who Is Christian Martin? New Details On The Army Major Turned Airline Pilot Arrested For Triple Murder
Christian Martin: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know
Pilot accused in 2015 triple homicide could face death penalty
Update: Man Indicted For 2015 Christian Co. Triple Murder Could Face Death, Held Without Bond

Kentucky vs. Christian ‘Kit’ Martin | Pilot Triple Murder (Court TV):

Do you believe Christian Martin? | COURT TV

“A former commercial pilot and US Army major is accused in the deaths of three neighbors in a sordid web of allegations including infidelity, murder and political opportunism. Christian “Kit” Martin is accused of murdering Edward Dansereau and married couple Calvin and Pamela Phillips on November 18, 2015. The charred remains of Pamela Phillips and Dansereau were found in a burnt car in a field in Pembroke. The car was traced to the Phillips’ home, where investigators found another crime scene – Calvin Phillips dead from multiple gunshot wounds.” -COURT TV

Please click here for the Court TV YouTube playlist for Kentucky vs. Christian Martin (2021) or click here for the entire trial on COURT TV ON DEMAND.

Dateline NBC Premiered ‘The Call’: Navy Dependent Meghan Landowski Found Stabbed to Death in Portsmouth, Virginia Home (May 10, 2019)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military Policy, Navy, Sexual Assault, True CrimeLeave a comment

Trailer: When a dancer is murdered in her Virginia home, investigators are hopeful they can crack the case. But after interviewing a series of suspects, detectives realize the case is much more complicated than previously thought. Could an unexpected tip lead them to an unlikely person? -Dateline NBC (S27,E32)

On April 10, 2008, Navy sailor Chris Shortt discovered his step-daughter Meghan Landowski stabbed to death in their Portsmouth, Virginia home. Meghan was 16 years old and from the looks of the crime scene, there was a struggle; Meghan fought back. Investigators learned the killer used a knife from the family’s kitchen. They found it in a gutter down the street. The police didn’t know who committed the murder but they believed it was personal and Meghan knew her attacker. Chris and Angie Shortt believed Robert Hickey killed Meghan and they called NCIS at Naval Station Norfolk to let them know what happened. NCIS questioned Hickey. Robert Hickey was a military officer who was on his way to the rank of Captain when he was accused of sexual assault by Meghan. Robert was a close friend of the family and NCIS believe he groomed Meghan for a sexual relationship. Meghan said Rob began touching her when she was 14 and by age 15, Meghan was having a sexual relationship with a 30-year-old man.

The family supported Meghan as she pressed charges against Robert but they learned from civilian investigators that Hickey’s crimes amounted to a misdemeanor in Virginia; he would spend 12 months maximum in prison. But Robert Hickey was a Navy sailor and subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice. The Navy was investigating and planning to prosecute the case. When NCIS questioned Robert Hickey about Meghan’s murder, he invoked his right to silence. NCIS considered Hickey a person of interest because he had a lot to gain if Meghan died. Meghan feared Hickey because he had a lot to lose. But Hickey’s DNA didn’t match the DNA collected at the crime scene and NCIS had no proof that Hickey committed the crime. Nonetheless, Hickey was given an other than honorable discharge from Navy. The police also suspected Meghan’s high school friend Donald because they dated in the past but the DNA didn’t match him either. At least 80 people volunteered DNA. Investigators sent the DNA for further testing to determine the geographic ancestry identity and learned the DNA belonged to an African American.

This changed the direction of the investigation and detectives began looking for African Americans in Meghan’s life. One person who became a person of interest was a counselor at Norfolk Naval Station but this individual wouldn’t cooperate with the investigation. Five months after Meghan’s murder, every lead dried up and fear was building in the community. Then a community member planned a memorial walk to help generate new leads. It was at this point someone came forward with Robert Barnes’ name. Investigators learned Meghan and Barnes were on the same bus and both participated in an exclusive arts program at school. Robert played the violin and was on his way to becoming a success story. Robert was described as a nice guy who blended in; he was fully committed to his violin music. A friend suspected Robert liked Meghan and when she asked him, he admitted it. Detectives went to the school to speak to Robert Lee Barnes and asked for a DNA sample. Eventually he acquiesced and gave investigators a used piece of gum.

The DNA was tested and the crime scene investigators reported the DNA submitted by Robert Barnes actually belonged to a girl; the police needed to talk to Robert again. In this interview, Robert Barnes admitted he was in Meghan’s house on the day of the murder. He said he went to Meghan’s house and climbed through the window after no one answered the door. He said he walked into a crime in progress; the perpetrator was wearing a mask and holding Meghan at gun point. Robert said the masked man asked him to have sex with Meghan, asked him to stab Meghan, and cut him to leave his DNA at the scene. The police believed that Robert Barnes was making this all up and arrested him. Robert’s DNA matched the DNA at the crime scene. Given the mountain of evidence against him, Robert’s defense attorney asked for a plea deal. Robert Lee Barnes pleaded guilty to first degree murder, attempted rape, aggravated sexual battery, abduction, and statutory burglary. In return, Barnes will be eligible for early release from prison in 42 years. Meghan’s parents were relieved there would be no trial.

Related Links:
Watch Dateline Full Episode: The Call
Dateline Episode Trailer: The Call (S27,E32)
Dateline Episode Trailer: The Call
Dateline Friday Preview: The Call
Dateline: The Call | Facebook
Dateline: The Call | Facebook 2
Dateline: The Call | Facebook 3
Dateline: The Call | Facebook 4
Dateline NBC Podcast: The Call
Landowski killer wants to retract plea
Meghan’s parents & friends talk about her vibrant personality & passion for dance
All-New Two-Hour Dateline NBC on a Virginia Murder That Stuns Detectives
Obituary: Meghan Nicole Landowski (1991-2008)
Police believe suspect discussed Landowski’s death online
Capital Murder Charges Against Teenager
Man gets 42-year sentence for Landowski murder
Teen gets 42-year sentence in murder of Portsmouth girl
Teen sentenced to 42 years in Meghan Landowski murder case
Landowski killer wants to retract plea
Killer tries to remove guilty plea
4 years later, Portsmouth killer tries to erase guilty plea
Inside the mind of a killer: The murder of 16-year-old Meghan Landowski
10 years later, looking back at the Meghan Landowski case
He killed at 17, now he wants out of prison 41 years later
Unusual Suspects Premiered ‘Last Dance’ on Investigation Discovery: Navy Dependent Meghan Landowski Found Stabbed to Death in Virginia Home (January 11, 2015)
Meghan Landowski, Robert Barnes: Watch ‘Dateline The Call’, Portsmouth Dancer’s Home Alone Murder
Navy Dependent Meghan Landowski Found Stabbed to Death in Virginia Home; Schoolmate Robert Lee Barnes Pleaded Guilty, Sentenced to 42 Years in Prison (April 10, 2008)
Unusual Suspects Premiered ‘Last Dance’ on Investigation Discovery: Navy Dependent Meghan Landowski Found Stabbed to Death in Virginia Home (January 11, 2015)
A Month in Review: In the News on Military Justice for All (June 2018)

Snapped Premiered ‘Donna Matthews’ on Oxygen: Michael Gayan Found Murdered in Wisconsin Home, Former Girlfriend Charged (March 3, 2019)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Domestic Violence, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, True Crime, VeteransLeave a comment

While investigating a tragic murder, Wisconsin police must work their way through a complex web, spanning across the nation, with alleged mafia ties and scandalous text messages. -Donna Matthews, Snapped, Oxygen (March 4, 2019)

Municipal construction workers making a house call discover a foul odor coming from a residence near their work site. -Donna Matthews, Snapped, Oxygen (March 4, 2019)

Law enforcement, legal counsel and friends describe Donna Matthews’ calculated murder plan of her former boyfriend Michael Gayan. -Snapped, Oxygen (March 6, 2019)

Derrick Matthews, brother of Donna Matthews is interviewed by police. -Donna Matthews, Snapped, Oxygen (March 7, 2019)

Tristine Fleming, friend of Donna Matthews, explains there are always two sides to every story. -Snapped, Oxygen (March 8, 2019)

Full Episode: While investigating a tragic murder, Wisconsin police must work their way through a complex web, spanning across the nation, with alleged mafia ties and scandalous text messages. -Donna Matthews, Snapped, Oxygen (March 3, 2019)

In the News:

WGTD covered the highly discussed Donna Matthews Murder Trial that occurred from June 25th-July 10th, 2018. Matthews was convicted of murder July 10th. The closing arguments are attached. -WGTD (July 11, 2018)

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From Crime Victim to Murder Suspect
Independence Day: Alleged Killer Frees Self From Abusive Ex?
Kenosha Murder Suspect Bound Over For Trial
Maui woman to be tried over Wisconsin slaying
Murder Suspect Qualifies for Public Defender Representation
Siblings Charged in Death of Michael Gayan
‘Life or death situation:’ Brother, sister charged in fatal 2016 shooting in Kenosha convicted, set for sentencing
Prosecutors hope to block self-defense argument in homicide trial
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No one disputes that a woman killed her former boyfriend – it’s the “why” that is in question
Murdered Man May Have Abused Multiple Women
Another former girlfriend testifies Gayan put her in hospital, threatened to kill son
Dead man’s son writes letter supporting convicted killer
Matthews Found Guilty of Murder
Matthews gets life for 2016 murder
Kenosha woman gets life in ex-boyfriend’s killing
Brother gets seven years for helping sister with homicide
WGTD Exclusive: Closing Arguments: Donna Matthews Trial (WARNING- Inappropriate Language)
Snapped: Preview – Donna Matthews (Season 24, Episode 26) | Oxygen
Snapped: Preview – A Body Is Found Inside A Kenosha , WI Home (Season 24, Episode 26) | Oxygen
Snapped: Bonus – Life In Prison Without Parole For Donna Matthews (Season 24, Episode 26) | Oxygen
Snapped: Bonus – Derrick Matthews Interview (Season 24, Episode 26) | Oxygen
Snapped: Bonus – The Trial Of Donna Matthews (Season 24, Episode 26) | Oxygen
Donna Matthews | Snapped | Oxygen (S24,E26)
I Was Asked to Do This by Donna Matthews
Why I Won’t Be Supporting Donna Matthews’ Murder Trial Appeal
Harassment By Donna Matthews’ Friends And Family
The Real Donna Matthews: Responding to the Audio of Her Sentencing
Corrections to Snapped Episode on Donna Matthews Murder of Michael Gayan
Season 24 | Snapped | Oxygen (Amazon Prime Video)

Fort Campbell Army Sgt. Jamal Williams-McCray Sentenced to Life in Prison After Pleading Guilty to the Pre-Meditated Murder of Ex-Wife Pfc. Shadow McClaine (March 1, 2019)

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Jamal Williams-McCray 2
Jamal Williams-McCray, U.S. Army

Crime Watch Daily spoke with the parents of missing Army soldier Shadow McClaine. Shadow disappeared from Fort Campbell, Kentucky on September 2, 2016. Shadow’s parents were concerned her life may be in danger prior to her disappearance. They shared that someone cut her vehicle break lines on base and Shadow posted a picture of it on social media. They also said she reported the incident to her Chain of Command but felt dismissed. The Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID) conducted an investigation and reported two soldiers were being held as person of interests and the case was under investigation.

On November 29, 2016, Sgt. Jamal Williams-McCray and Spc. Charles Robinson were charged with conspiracy, premeditated murder, and kidnapping under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). On January 23, 2017, the remains of Pfc. Shadow McClaine were discovered off the I-24 highway near Exit 19 in Kentucky. It was confirmed that Shadow was in fact a victim of kidnapping and homicide. A year after Shadow went missing in September 2017, Spc. Charles Robinson pleaded guilty to murder. He claimed he helped Shadow’s estranged husband Williams-McCray kidnap and murder her. On March 1, 2019, Sgt. Jamal Williams-McCray was sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty to premeditated murder.

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Pfc. Shadow McClaine, US Army

Learn more: JUSTICE FOR SHADOW MCCLAINE

In the News:

Private First Class Soldier Shadow McClaine has mysteriously gone missing and theories are swirling on what happened to her and why. Now, new details could help them. -True Crime Daily (October 24, 2016)

Shadow McClaine, a young soldier, mysteriously disappears — some say she left, while others say someone was out to get her. -True Crime Daily (October 24, 2016)

Two soldiers were taken into custody in connection to the case of missing female soldier, Shadow Branice McClaine. -News Channel 5 (October 25, 2015)

Shadow McClaine, 25, has been missing for nearly two months after disappearing from Fort Campbell. -CBS Sacramento (October 26, 2016)

Some thought Shadow McClaine was running away from her problems. But it now appears she was the victim of something sinister. -True Crime Daily (December 6, 2016)

Missing Yuba City soldier’s body found in Tennessee. -KCRA News (January 25, 2017)

First Class Private Shadow McClaine’s body was discovered earlier this week and investigators arrested two fellow soldiers. -CBS Sacramento (January 28, 2017)

The body of Shadow McClaine, a soldier who was murdered near Fort Campbell in Tennessee, was returned to her family in Yuba City Friday evening. -KCRA News (February 3, 2017)

Shadow McClaine’s remains touched down at the Sacramento International Airport Friday night greeted by dozens of local service men and women along with her grieving family. -CBS Sacramento (February 3, 2017)

A look at the scene as Shadow McClaine came home on Friday. -CBS Sacramento (February 4, 2017)

Missing soldier Shadow McClaine’s body has been found. Crime Watch Daily talks to McClaine’s mother London Wegrzyn, who says that her daughter had a fraught relationship with ex-husband Sgt. Jamal Williams-McCray. Specialist Charles Robinson and Williams-McCray were charged with her murder. Crime Watch Daily also speaks to McClaine’s friend Trystan Harding about what happened to McClaine. -True Crime Daily (March 9, 2017)

Family and friends came together for a vigil to honor a murdered Fort Campbell soldier. -News Channel 5 (April 11, 2017)

Private First Class Shadow McClaine was found dead 2,000 miles away from her home, allegedly at the hands of two men who will face premeditated murder, kidnapping and conspiracy charges. -CBS Sacramento (April 11, 2017)

Army specialist Charles Robinson says he slashed Shadow McClain’s throat, then broke her neck to make sure she was dead. He says McClaine’s ex-husband, Jamal Williams-McCray hired him to murder her. -True Crime Daily (October 3, 2017)

Two years ago this week, the body of Shadow McClaine was discovered in Robertson County along Interstate 24. -News Channel 5 (January 23, 2019)

Related Links:
Soldier vanishes under mysterious circumstances; Army, Family Seeks Tips
Shadow McClaine: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know
Missing Fort Campbell soldier failed to show in court
Family searches for missing Fort Campbell soldier
Family searches for missing Fort Campbell soldier
Fort Campbell soldier missing; officials find her car abandoned
Missing Fort Campbell soldier’s car found in downtown Nashville
Car of missing Fort Campbell soldier found in Nashville
Missing Fort Campbell soldier’s car found in downtown Nashville
Missing Ft. Campbell soldier’s vehicle found in downtown Nashville parking lot
Missing Fort Campbell soldier’s car found in downtown parking lot
Missing soldier’s car found in Nashville, friends not giving up
Car belonging to U.S. Army soldier missing for more than a week is found abandoned 70 miles from her base in Kentucky
New developments in search for missing Fort Campbell soldier
Army confirms investigation of missing soldier Shadow McClaine
Fort Campbell Military Police looking for missing woman
Army CID investigating disappearance of 101st Airborne soldier
Army CID Seeks Information on Missing Campbell Soldier
Mother of missing soldier says daughter wouldn’t ‘just go away’
Group plans vigil for missing Fort Campbell soldier
Community invited to candlelight vigil for missing soldier Shadow McClaine
Vigil held for missing Fort Campbell soldier
Questions and Rumors Swirl Around Disappearance of Fort Campbell Soldier Shadow McClaine
2 held in Ft. Campbell soldier’s disappearance
Two 101st Airborne Soldiers charged in disappearance of Pfc. Shadow McClaine
2 soldiers charged in murder of 101st soldier Shadow McClaine
2 charged with murder, kidnap of missing Ft. Campbell soldier
Two Soldiers Charged with Murder in Connection with Disappearance of Fellow Soldier Shadow McClaine
Charges preferred against 2 Fort Campbell soldiers in Shadow McClaine’s death
Ft. Campbell soldier missing from Kentucky
Two Fort Campbell Army soldiers charged with murder in case of missing private first class Shadow McClaine
Soldiers face murder, kidnapping charges in disappearance of Ft. Campbell soldier
Soldier Who Survived Tours in Afghanistan Allegedly Abducted and Murdered by Ex-Husband, Prosecutors Say
Army: Remains of missing Fort Campbell soldier have been found
Skeletal remains of missing soldier from Yuba City found in Tennessee
Skeletal remains of missing Northern California soldier found in Tennessee
Pretrial Hearing Ends for GIs Charged in Murder Case
Men accused of killing soldier to silence rape accusation
Army specialist pleads guilty in Fort Campbell soldier’s slaying
Soldier pleads guilty to role in murder of Shadow McClaine
Soldier pleads guilty in murder of soldier Shadow McClaine
Soldier Pleads Guilty to Murder of Shadow McClaine
Soldier pleads guilty to murder of Shadow McClaine
Shadow McClaine murder update: Soldier pleads guilty, implicates ex-husband
Shadow McClaine killing: Fort Campbell soldier gets 25 years for helping man kill ex-wife
Shadow McClaine: Ex-husband’s murder trial will be a death penalty case
Ex-husband facing death penalty for murder of Shadow McClaine asks to move trial
Ex-husband facing death penalty for murder of Shadow McClaine asks to move trial
Ex-husband admits he had soldier killed, helped hide her body
Ex-Husband Pleads Guilty in Female Soldier’s Slaying
Ex-husband pleads guilty in Fort Campbell soldier’s slaying
Ft. Campbell soldier sentenced to life in prison after admitting he had his ex-wife killed
Violent Crime, Suicide & Non Combat Death at Fort Campbell, Kentucky
30 Domestic Abuse Cases in the Military That Ended in the Murder of Female Partners (2017)
Army Pfc. Shadow McClaine Reported Missing at Fort Campbell; Ex-Husband Sgt. Jamal Williams-McCray & Spc. Charles Robinson Pleaded Guilty to Murder (September 2, 2016)

Video Links:
Soldier vanishes under mysterious circumstances; Army seeks tips
Soldier vanishes under mysterious circumstances; Army seeks tips (2)
Missing Yuba City soldier’s body found in Tennessee
2 Ft. Campbell Soldiers Named As Persons Of Interest In Missing Soldier Case
Fellow Soldiers Named As Persons Of Interest In Missing Yuba City Woman Case
Mom Of Soldier Who Died At Hands Of Fellow Soldiers Hopes For Death Penalty
Update: Ex-Husband, Second Man Charged with Soldier’s Murder
Slain soldier Shadow McClaine’s body returns to Yuba City
Murdered Soldier’s Body Returns Home To Yuba City Family
Murdered Soldier’s Body Returns Home
Vigil Held For Murdered Ft. Campbell Soldier Shadow McClaine
Ex-Husband, Second Man Charged with Soldier’s Murder
Missing Soldier’s Body Found
Family Remembers Murdered Yuba City Soldier As They Confront Suspects
Army Specialist Pleads Guilty to Shadow McClaine Murder
Vigil held for Shadow McClaine in Robertson County two years after her body was found

Hometown Homicide Local Mysteries Premiered ‘Kelli Bordeaux’ on ID: Fort Bragg Soldier Disappears After Night Out on Town (February 26, 2019)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military Policy, Sexual Assault, Stateside Death, True CrimeLeave a comment

Full Episode: In April of 2012, when Fort Bragg medic Kelli Bourdeaux failed to report for duty her family, friends, and the army knew that something was terribly wrong. The entire town of Fayetteville, North Carolina came together to search for the missing 26-year-old soldier who had recently separated from her husband. After the case went cold, a private investigator believed a local bar worker would be the key to cracking the case. What came next was a shocking confession and gruesome discovery. -Kelli Bordeaux, Hometown Homicide: Local Mysteries (S1,E2)

Editor’s note: With a cable subscription, you can download the free ID Go app and watch Investigation Discovery programming at your convenience. And for those who do not have cable, you can watch “unlocked” episodes on the ID Go app including the latest premieres. For those who prefer commercial free programming during your binge session, Prime Video has an ID channel: ‘True Crime Files by Investigation Discovery” available for $3.99 a month. It’s a compilation of older seasons but totally worth the cost if you are a true crime addict. Download the ID Go app or purchase ID True Crime Files & binge away.

Related Links:
The Fayetteville Soldier Who Didn’t Make It Home | Hometown Homicide: Local Mysteries | Investigation Discovery (S1,E2)
Kelli Bordeaux | Hometown Homicide: Local Mysteries | Investigation Discovery (website)
Soldier Kelli Bordeaux Mysteriously Vanishes – Hometown Homicide: Local Mysteries | ID Facebook
‘Hometown Homicide: Local Mysteries’: Kelli Bordeaux | AOL
Civilian Investigators Persisted After Army Soldier Kelli Bordeaux Disappeared; Convicted Sex Offender Nicholas Holbert Sentenced to Life in Prison for Murder (April 14, 2012)
Swamp Murders Premiered ‘Murder of the Medic’ on ID: Fort Bragg Army Spc. Kelli Bordeaux Disappears in Fayetteville, North Carolina (September 30, 2015)
Dateline NBC Premiered ‘Deep in the Woods’: Army Soldier Kelli Bordeaux Disappeared After a Night Out at the Froggy Bottoms in Fayetteville, North Carolina (March 16, 2018)

Grave Mysteries Premiered ‘Murder Behind Closed Doors’ on ID: Ashley Melnyczok Found Murdered in Colorado Springs Home (February 25, 2019)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military Policy, True CrimeLeave a comment

27 year-old Ashley Melnyczok is a single mother. Her daughter is her life’s joy. In June 2015, Ashley is murdered in her Colorado Springs home. While hunting for clues, police hunt down a cast of dangerous characters and uncover a heinous plot. -Murder Behind Closed Doors, Grave Mysteries (S2,E3)

Editor’s note: With a cable subscription, you can download the free ID Go app and watch Investigation Discovery programming at your convenience. And for those who do not have cable, you can watch “unlocked” episodes on the ID Go app including the latest premieres. For those who prefer commercial free programming during your binge session, Prime Video has an ID channel: ‘True Crime Files by Investigation Discovery” available for $3.99 a month. It’s a compilation of older seasons but totally worth the cost if you are a true crime addict. Download the ID Go app or purchase ID True Crime Files & binge away.

Related Links:
Murder of Ashley Melnyczok by Joseph Kimsey and Jonathon Nelson — Grave Mysteries spotlights the case
Murder Behind Closed Doors | Grave Mysteries | Investigation Discovery (S2,E3)
Murder Behind Closed Doors | Grave Mysteries | Investigation Discovery (website)
Murder Behind Closed Doors | Grave Mysteries | Investigation Discovery (Prime Video)
Ashley Melnyczok Found Murdered in Colorado Home; Army Soldier Joseph Kimsey & Jonathon Nelson Sentenced to Life in Prison (June 3, 2015)
What the DoD Doesn’t Want You to Know: 50 Shocking Military Homicides in the Last 30 Years (March 23, 2018)
Violent Crime, Suicide, and Non Combat Death at Fort Carson, Colorado (US Army)
A Month in Review: In the News on Military Justice for All (June 2018)