Podcast Summary: "Bad Romance: Barefoot Witness" – 20/20 by ABC News
1. Introduction to the Case
The "Bad Romance: Barefoot Witness" episode of ABC News' 20/20 delves deep into the harrowing true crime case of Lintel Washington, a dedicated middle school teacher who mysteriously disappeared on April 22, 2025. The episode meticulously unpacks the series of events leading to her disappearance, the subsequent investigation, and the eventual trial of Robert Marks, the man suspected of her murder.
2. Lintel Washington's Background
Lintel Washington, affectionately known as "Puffy," was a beloved and dedicated teacher at a middle school. Recognized for her unwavering commitment, she was named Teacher of the Year, signaling a promising future ahead. Off-campus, Lintel yearned for a fulfilling personal life, grappling with past relationships and her desire for a stable family.
Notable Quote: "She was loyal, dedicated, and hardworking. Very funny. Very passionate. Very kind person." – Jamisha, Friend and Co-worker (02:15)
3. The Mysterious Disappearance
On a seemingly ordinary Thursday morning, security footage captured a distressing scene: a three-year-old girl, Lintel's daughter, wandering a parking lot barefoot and clutching a pillow, tears streaming down her face. Her desperate plea, "Where's your mom?" led to immediate police involvement.
4. The Investigation Unfolds
Detective investigations revealed Lintel's car—a blue four-door sedan—was bloodied, and her keys and purse were left behind. The little girl's detailed yet fragmented account provided crucial leads. Authorities quickly identified Lintel as a missing teacher, heightening concerns due to her previously meticulous nature.
Notable Quote: "A blood-soaked car, an abandoned child, her mother missing. The police need answers and they need them fast." – Narrator (05:30)
5. Robert Marks: The Last Person to See Lintel
Central to the case was Dr. Robert Marks, the assistant principal with whom Lintel was having an affair. Their relationship, unbeknownst to most at the school, offered a potential motive. Marks' conflicting statements and his alibi raised suspicions, especially when cell phone data placed both him and Lintel together around the time of her disappearance.
Notable Quote: "I had nothing to do with this." – Robert Marks (45:10)
6. The Massive Search Effort
The investigation expanded to Iberville Parish, a rural and remote area with vast sugarcane fields. A comprehensive search involving aerial patrols, ATVs, and ground teams scoured the region. On the sixth day, authorities discovered Lintel's body in a watery ditch, confirming her death by a single gunshot wound to the head.
Notable Quote: "I was hoping and praying that they would find her alive, but my gut instinct told me that she would probably be deceased." – Chief Criminal Deputy Ronnie Hebert (22:50)
7. The Discovery and Coroner's Report
Dental records and coroner's analysis conclusively identified Lintel Washington. The coroner ruled her death a homicide, aligning with the little girl's testimony about her mother being hurt. Additionally, it was revealed that Lintel was pregnant with Robert Marks' child, establishing a potent motive rooted in betrayal and threat.
8. The Trial of Robert Marks
Years of meticulous evidence collection culminated in Robert Marks standing trial five and a half years after the crime. The prosecution presented a compelling case, leveraging cell phone geolocation data, Marks' incriminating online searches, and the child's eyewitness account. The defense, however, attempted to undermine the reliability of a three-year-old's testimony and questioned the absence of direct evidence linking Marks to the murder scene.
Notable Quote: "What did you hear when mommy got hurt?" – Detective Claytor (58:20)
9. Verdict and Aftermath
In a swift deliberation lasting only 30 minutes, the jury found Robert Marks guilty on all charges, including murder and feticide. Marks' conviction brought a semblance of justice to Lintel's family and community, culminating in his life sentence at the notorious Angola prison.
Notable Quote: "After five and a half years, finally got our justice served today." – Family Member (1:15:45)
10. Conclusion and Legacy
"Bad Romance: Barefoot Witness" not only recounts the tragic loss of Lintel Washington but also highlights the resilience of her daughter, whose brave testimony was pivotal in securing justice. The episode underscores the profound impact of personal relationships gone awry and the relentless pursuit of truth by those seeking closure.
Final Reflection: "I hope that somewhere inside of her, that strong little girl realizes that she stood up for her mom." – Narrator (1:28:10)
This detailed summary captures the essence of the 20/20 episode, providing listeners with an in-depth understanding of the investigative process, the human emotions entwined in the case, and the ultimate pursuit of justice for Lintel Washington.