Cathleen Roth
Summary
This episode details the 2009 disappearance of New Mexico teacher Ellen Roth, whose son Brian was initially suspected due to prior domestic violence. The investigation uncovered a conspiracy led by Brian’s wife, Kathleen Roth, who orchestrated Ellen’s murder with her boyfriend James Johnson and accomplice Christopher Donovan to eliminate a financial and emotional nuisance. Kathleen confessed to the crime, leading police to Ellen’s body in the Hemis Mountains, resulting in prison sentences for all three conspirators.
Topics discussed
Introduction: The disappearance of Ellen Roth
The initial welfare check and police response
Ellen Roth's background and family history
Reporting missing and suspecting her son Brian
Brian Roth's history of abuse and arrest
Investigation into credit card theft and van location
Case reclassified as homicide
Interviews with Brian and Kathleen Roth
Revealing the polyamorous relationship and motive
Informant reveals the murder plot and accomplices
Arrests and the search for the body
Confession, body recovery, and sentencing
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