20/20 Podcast Summary: "The One That Got Out (Rebroadcast)"
Podcast Information:
- Title: 20/20
- Host/Author: ABC News
- Episode: The One That Got Out (Rebroadcast)
- Release Date: August 9, 2025
1. Introduction to the Laredo Murders
The rebroadcast episode of ABC News' 20/20 delves into a chilling true crime case that unfolded in Laredo, Texas, in 2018. The narrative centers around a series of brutal murders targeting sex workers in the San Bernardo Avenue area, also known as La Samber, Laredo's red-light district.
Notable Quote:
"Nobody deserves that. Nobody." — Sierra, daughter of Claudine Louetta ([00:45])
2. The First Victim: Melissa Ramirez
The saga begins with the discovery of 29-year-old Melissa Ramirez's body along US 83 north near Camino Colombia Road. Found by a rancher, Melissa was shot execution-style, prompting fears of a serial killer in a community previously considered safe.
Key Details:
- Date Found: 2018
- Location: Webb County, rural Texas
- Cause of Death: Multiple close-range gunshot wounds
Notable Quote:
"Could we be next?" — Community concern ([01:30])
Investigation Highlights:
- Captain Federico Calderon and Texas Ranger E.J. Salinas led the initial investigation.
- Evidence such as .40 caliber shell casings and distinct pickup truck tire tracks pointed to a potential suspect involved in a vehicle owned by a police officer, who was subsequently cleared ([04:15]).
3. The Second Victim: Claudine Louetta
A few days after Melissa's murder, Claudine Louetta, a beloved mother of five, was found dead in a similar manner. Claudine had struggled with addiction and had been forced to turnaround to the streets to support her family.
Personal Impact: Claudine's daughter, Sierra, shared her fears and the emotional toll of her mother's death, highlighting the community's vulnerability.
Notable Quote:
"I had every night growing up... I couldn't imagine what was to come." — Cristina, Melissa's mother ([07:20])
4. Escalation: A Second Murder and Rising Fears
Within ten days, a second victim was discovered, heightening fears of a serial killer:
- Third Victim: Janelle Ortiz, 26, a transgender sex worker, was brutally murdered under similar circumstances.
Community Reaction: Residents of La Samber, once tight-knit and protective of each other, became increasingly fearful, questioning their safety and the motivations behind the murders.
Notable Quote:
"I have a heavy heart for four years... Now I just want justice." — Cristina, Melissa's mother ([12:50])
5. The Breakthrough: Arrest of Juan David Ortiz
The turning point in the investigation came when Erica Pena, the fourth victim, survived an attack and provided critical testimony. Her detailed account led investigators to Juan David Ortiz, a US Border Patrol agent with a spotless record until his arrest.
Key Events:
- Surviving Victim: Erica Pena escaped Ortiz's attack, detailing how he pointed a .40 caliber gun at her face before she fled.
- Surveillance Footage: Video evidence captured Ortiz fleeing from crime scenes and engaging in suspicious activities.
- Arrest: Ortiz was apprehended after a dramatic foot chase, later revealed to be a fellow Border Patrol agent.
Notable Quote:
"Is he going to be willing to talk?" — Investigator reflecting on Ortiz's demeanor ([28:40])
6. Trial and Conviction
Ortiz's trial was marked by emotional testimonies from the victims' families and compelling evidence linking him to the murders. Despite his defense attempting to portray him as a victim of PTSD and substance abuse, the weight of the evidence led to his conviction.
Trial Highlights:
- Prosecution: Presented ballistic evidence, surveillance footage, and Erica Pena's testimony.
- Defense: Claimed Ortiz's actions were due to mental health issues and medications.
- Verdict: Ortiz was found guilty of capital murder, receiving a sentence of life without parole.
Notable Quote:
"When you see the devil coming out of somebody... you know, that’s when the monster came out." — Investigator discussing Ortiz's transformation ([55:10])
7. Community and Family Impact
The murders left deep scars on the Laredo community. Families of the victims grappled with grief and the betrayal of a trusted law enforcement officer. The trial's relocation to San Antonio and the pandemic-induced delays compounded their anguish.
Personal Stories:
- Joey Cantu: Brother of Janelle Ortiz, urged for Ortiz to receive mercy, sharing his own experiences with forgiveness and crime.
Notable Quote:
"You deserve to suffer in prison and go to hell." — Joey Cantu expressing conflicting emotions about Ortiz’s sentence ([1:15:20])
8. Conclusion: Seeking Justice and Healing
The episode concludes with reflections on the enduring pain of the victims' families and the community's strive for closure. Despite Ortiz's conviction, the wounds remain, underscoring the profound impact of his heinous crimes.
Final Thoughts:
- Sierra Louetta: Now works at the Webb County Sheriff's office, inspired by the investigators who helped her family.
- Community Resilience: Laredo's inhabitants remain vigilant, committed to preventing such tragedies in the future.
Notable Quote:
"This story is not about Juan David Ortiz. It's about four women who horrifically lost their lives, but should always be remembered for the loving women they were." — Narrator ([1:30:45])
Key Takeaways:
- Trust Betrayed: The revelation that a Border Patrol agent was the serial killer shocked and devastated the Laredo community.
- Impact of Addiction: Both victims struggled with addiction, highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by sex workers.
- Justice Achieved: Despite initial setbacks and misdirection, relentless investigation led to Ortiz’s conviction, offering some solace to the victims' families.
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the harrowing true crime story of Juan David Ortiz and the resilient Laredo community's quest for justice, as presented in the 20/20 podcast episode "The One That Got Out (Rebroadcast)".