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Twisted Case of Payton Shires - The Predator Therapist

Jul 31, 2026 · 50m

Summary

This episode details the case of Peyton Shires, a school social worker who sexually assaulted her 13-year-old patient, James. After crossing professional boundaries and grooming the boy, Shires was arrested following a recovered video of the abuse. She later threatened to kill James’s mother with a gun, leading to a standoff and additional charges. Despite claiming the minor manipulated her, Shires pleaded guilty to seven felonies and received a sentence of nearly five years.

Topics discussed

Introduction: The arrest of a predatory social worker Peyton Shires' background and fiancé's criminal history Grooming tactics: Gifts, vaping, and boundary violations Mother's concerns ignored by the youth program Discovery of abuse video and police sting operation Arrest at birthday party and release on bond Threatening victim's family with a gun and SWAT standoff Interrogation: Peyton's emotional breakdown and claims Peyton's defense: Claiming the minor was the aggressor Host's analysis on victim blaming and gender dynamics Court sentencing, plea deal, and episode conclusion
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