🎙️ Interesting Humans Podcast - Episode 50: John McPhee, FBI Horror Story

Host: Jeff Hopeck
Guest: John McPhee, Retired FBI Agent
Release Date: April 3, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 50 of the Interesting Humans Podcast, host Jeff Hopeck delves into one of the most harrowing cases handled by the FBI with his guest, John McPhee, a retired FBI agent. The episode explores a deeply disturbing story of human depravity, survival, and the relentless pursuit of justice.

Jeff [00:00]: "I got quite an interesting story here and human being. I want you to meet John McPhee."

Background of the Case

John McPhee recounts how the case came to his attention in 2003 when Jackie Zudis, a survivor of severe abuse, approached the FBI to report her father for molesting her and her friends. This case was unique due to its complexity and the decades-long suffering inflicted upon the victim.

John McPhee [02:07]: "She wanted to provide information about her father or a person that she described as her father."

Initial Investigation

The investigation began with Jackie reporting that her father, George England (later known as George Sego after assuming a new identity), had been molesting her and her girlfriends since the 1970s. McPhee explains the procedural challenges of handling such an old case, especially when the perpetrator had fled and assumed a new identity.

Jeff [00:00]: "This is going to be a very challenging episode to get through for most."

John McPhee [04:06]: "In the FBI to get involved in a fugitive investigation, there has to be some type of interstate nexus."

Revelations and Extending the Investigation

As McPhee and his team dug deeper, they discovered that George had not only continued his abuse over the years but had also fathered a child with Jackie at the tender age of 13. This revelation added a new dimension to the case, compelling the FBI to pursue additional charges and uncover more victims.

John McPhee [10:27]: "They want to get out into the public and let the public know that this guy was being released because they were upset."

Gathering Evidence

The case hinged on proving decades-old crimes, making it exceptionally difficult. McPhee details the painstaking process of locating old records, interviewing victims, and gathering sufficient evidence to bring George Sego to trial. One of the pivotal moments was identifying and reconnecting with David, the son born from the assault, whose DNA evidence was crucial in establishing George's guilt.

John McPhee [08:30]: "We filed the complaint and it was an uphill battle..."

John McPhee [38:38]: "So all that's good because that's what Jackie's saying, but you still don't have the evidence to link George to molesting her."

The Trial

The trial was an emotional ordeal, with Jackie serving as the star witness. Her testimony was so compelling that it moved the jury profoundly, leading to George's conviction on six counts of debauchery—charges that carried a cumulative sentence of 30 years. McPhee describes the courtroom dynamics, Jackie’s bravery, and the overwhelming emotional impact on all parties involved.

John McPhee [46:53]: "Every one of them had to be affected by this case."

John McPhee [51:03]: "The jury comes back, they have a verdict... they found him guilty on all six counts."

Reuniting with Her Son

A particularly poignant moment in the episode is the reunion between Jackie and her son, David, nearly two decades after the assault. McPhee narrates the emotional meeting facilitated by the FBI, highlighting the profound personal impacts of the case beyond the courtroom victory.

John McPhee [102:50]: "When we met him, he looked just like you."

Aftermath and Jackie’s Tragic End

Despite the successful prosecution, the emotional toll on Jackie was immense. McPhee shares the heartbreaking news of Jackie’s struggle with alcoholism and her eventual death from alcohol poisoning shortly after George's demise. This tragic ending underscores the enduring scars left by such traumatic experiences.

John McPhee [64:54]: "And around three weeks later, her son calls me and says they found Jackie dead..."

Insights into the FBI and Law Enforcement

Beyond the case, McPhee provides valuable insights into the workings of the FBI, the challenges of handling cold cases, and the importance of perseverance in law enforcement. He discusses the evolution of investigative techniques, the critical role of documentation, and the bureaucratic hurdles that often impede justice.

John McPhee [84:40]: "Debauchery was sentencing back in the '70s and '60s... having sex with a child is immoral against society."

John McPhee [110:02]: "I started working in February 96, assigned to the violent crimes squad..."

Personal Reflections and Legacy

Throughout the interview, McPhee reflects on the emotional aspects of his role, the satisfaction derived from bringing perpetrators to justice, and the personal connections formed with victims like Jackie. His dedication and emotional investment highlight the human side of law enforcement, where agents often carry the weight of the cases they handle long after the proceedings conclude.

John McPhee [139:19]: "Probably my perseverance and me going outside the box."

John McPhee [142:42]: "Probably, you know, look, if law enforcement is good in your area... you should feel safe in your house."

Conclusion

Episode 50 of the Interesting Humans Podcast offers a gripping and emotional recounting of a harrowing FBI case through the eyes of Agent John McPhee. The episode not only sheds light on the dark facets of human nature but also celebrates the resilience of survivors and the unwavering commitment of law enforcement officers to seek justice. McPhee’s transparency and heartfelt narration make this episode a profound exploration of trauma, justice, and the enduring human spirit.

Jeff [171:13]: "This was special. Thank you again for being vulnerable."

Key Takeaways:

• Human Depravity: The case exemplifies extreme human cruelty and the capacity for prolonged abuse within familial structures.

• Persistence in Law Enforcement: McPhee’s relentless pursuit of justice over decades underscores the importance of perseverance in solving complex cases.

• Emotional Impact: The emotional toll on victims and law enforcement alike highlights the deeply personal nature of such investigations.

• Evolving Investigative Techniques: The advancement of DNA technology played a crucial role in substantiating evidence and securing convictions.

• Legacy of Survivors: Jackie Zudis’s bravery in coming forward serves as a powerful testament to the strength of survivors in overcoming unimaginable trauma.

Notable Quotes:

• Jeff [02:00]: "I got the goosebumps again now because I know the story from the pre interview..."

• John McPhee [08:30]: "We file the complaint and it was an uphill battle..."

• John McPhee [46:53]: "There wasn't a dry eyed house and hugged and kissed her..."

• John McPhee [139:19]: "Probably my perseverance and me going outside the box."

• Jeff [171:23]: "This is awesome. So I wanna, I mean, I wanna thank you..."

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in true crime, law enforcement processes, and the human stories behind the headlines. John McPhee’s candid and heartfelt narrative provides an unflinching look into one of the FBI’s most disturbing cases, offering valuable lessons on justice, resilience, and the enduring fight against human trafficking and abuse.