Podcast Summary: Devil in the Desert: Catching Nayeri
Podcast Information:
- Title: 20/20
- Host/Author: ABC News
- Episode: Devil in the Desert: Catching Nayeri
- Release Date: July 23, 2025
1. Introduction and Escape Overview
The episode opens with Deputy District Attorney Heather Brown expressing her concerns over the escape of Hussein Nyere from Orange County Jail. The escape, which occurred three days prior to the events discussed, left the community on edge as officials struggled to locate the fugitives.
Notable Quote:
- Heather Brown: "When I got that text, I thought, oh my God, they let Hannibal Lecter out. [...] This is someone who's capable of the most atrocious, heinous acts and people are in harm's way." [05:30]
2. Initial Manhunt and Community Impact
Following the escape, a massive manhunt ensued involving hundreds of officials, including Orange County Sheriff's deputies and the FBI. Public anxiety grew as days passed without any leads, exacerbated by Brown's call for a sheriff's investigation into the jail's security lapses.
Notable Quote:
- Matt Gutman: "The search for the three men was like looking for a needle in a state-sized haystack." [08:45]
3. Capture of Buck Yoong
On the seventh day, Buck Yoong, one of the escapees, turned himself in at an auto repair shop in Santa Ana. This unexpected surrender momentarily shifted the focus of the manhunt, raising questions about the locations of the remaining fugitives, Jonathan Tew and Hussein Nyere.
Notable Quote:
- Buck Yoong's Friend: "He wants to make sure that he gets caught safely, but nobody gets hurt." [15:10]
4. Investigation and Role of Long Ma
Investigators discovered that a 71-year-old Vietnamese cab driver, Long Ma, had been coerced into assisting the escapees. Ma's reluctant cooperation provided crucial leads about the fugitives' movements and shelters during their week on the run.
Notable Quote:
- Long Ma: "I saw the men bickering and even physically fighting each other. I thought they were planning to kill me." [22:05]
5. Capture of Nyere in San Francisco
Matthew Hay Chapman, an unhoused individual and self-described news junkie, played a pivotal role in capturing Nyere. Recognizing Nyere near Golden Gate Park, Chapman alerted the San Francisco Police Department, leading to a swift apprehension and the discovery of Jonathan Tew hiding in a stolen van.
Notable Quote:
- Chapman: "I immediately recognized Hussein Nyere. I started walking behind him until I saw two police officers." [28:30]
6. Post-Capture and Author's Attempt to Interview
ABC News correspondent Matt Gutman sought to humanize Nyere by forming a relationship through letters and eventually securing a face-to-face interview. This interaction aimed to delve into Nyere's perspective, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the man behind the crimes.
Notable Quote:
- Matt Gutman: "Could I find that human side with Nyeri? It would be years before Nayeri would appear in front of a judge." [35:50]
7. The Trial: Proceedings and Witnesses
The trial began on July 17, 2019, at the Harbor Justice Center in Newport Beach. Prosecutors Heather Brown and Matt Murphy presented a compelling case against Nyere, detailing the brutal kidnapping and torture of Mary Barnes and Michael. Key evidence included a blue glove with Nyere's DNA and testimonies from the victims.
Notable Quote:
- Heather Brown: "There is nothing that I could say right now that could prepare you adequately for the things that you're going to see and hear during the course of this trial." [45:15]
8. Defense Strategies and Nayeri's Testimony
Defense attorney Sal Chulla challenged the prosecution's evidence, suggesting possible tampering and questioning the credibility of witness Courtney Shigerian. A pivotal moment occurred when Nyere took the stand, portraying himself as wrongfully accused and attempting to humanize his actions.
Notable Quote:
- Hussein Nyere: "I chose not to attack anyone. Nobody had a freaking clue where we were." [52:40]
9. Closing Arguments and Verdict
In closing arguments, Prosecutor Matt Murphy emphasized Nyere's guilt and orchestrating the crimes, while defense attorney Chulla urged the jury to consider reasonable doubt. The jury deliberated for several days before returning a verdict.
Notable Quote:
- Matt Murphy: "Either the world was out to get him, or he's guilty." [1:05:20]
10. Sentencing and Appeals
Nyere was sentenced to two consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole. Following the verdict, he filed appeals challenging the trial's conduct and the evidence presented, particularly disputing the testimonies and the prosecution's handling of his defense.
Notable Quote:
- Michael (Victim): "I live with the feeling of always looking over my shoulder, never feeling 100% safe in any one location for any period of time." [1:15:55]
11. Conclusion: The Lingering Question of Nayeri’s Future
The episode concludes by reflecting on the possibility of future escapes or legal maneuvers by Nyere. Despite his incarceration, lingering doubts and his appeals process leave the community and victims questioning whether justice has been fully served.
Notable Quote:
- Narrator: "Even though he's now behind bars, his victims might always wonder, have we seen the last of Hussein Nayeri?" [1:20:10]
Final Thoughts
"Devil in the Desert: Catching Nayeri" offers a comprehensive and gripping account of a high-stakes manhunt, the complexities of the legal battle, and the profound impact on the victims and community. Through detailed storytelling and insightful interviews, ABC News provides listeners with an in-depth exploration of this true crime saga.