Joyce Pelzer
Aug 16, 2026 · 42m
Summary
This episode details the brutal stabbing of Rosalind Lewis by her wife, Joyce Pelzer, which exposed a seven-year-old cold case. Investigators linked the attack to the 2011 disappearance of Joyce’s ex-girlfriend, Shondell McLeod, after uncovering Joyce’s history of abuse and stalking. With help from an informant, police captured Joyce, who confessed to killing Shondell and attempted to frame Rosalind. Joyce was ultimately convicted of both murders and sentenced to life without parole.
Topics discussed
Bloody hotel room attack and victim's confession
Police response and crime scene details
Rosalind Lewis: Background and coming out
Rosalind meets Joyce and their marriage
The stabbing, manhunt, and Joyce's flight
Rosalind's death and connection to missing person case
Shondell McLeod's disappearance in 2011
Joyce's abusive relationship with Shondell
Investigating Joyce and Rosalind's false alibis
Clearing Rico and focusing on Joyce
Seven-year investigation and Joyce's confession to Katie
Recorded threats and motive for killing Rosalind
Joyce's arrest and guilty plea for Rosalind's murder
Joyce's trial, conviction, and life sentence
Tributes to Shondell and Rosalind
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