Summary of "True Crime Vault: The Sinfluencer of Soho" – 20/20 Podcast by ABC News

Release Date: December 11, 2024

The "True Crime Vault: The Sinfluencer of Soho" episode delves into the captivating story of Anna Sorokin, also known as Anna Delvey, a notorious con artist who infiltrated New York's elite society by masquerading as a wealthy German heiress. This detailed summary captures the key points, discussions, insights, and conclusions presented throughout the episode.

1. Introduction to Anna Sorokin’s Story

The episode opens with a gripping narration that sets the stage for Anna Sorokin's audacious acts:

Narrator [00:39]: "He broke her teeth. He broke her bones."

This introduction hints at the underlying tensions and confrontations that will be explored in Anna's story.

2. Crafting the Anna Delvey Persona

Anna Sorokin’s transformation into Anna Delvey is a central theme, highlighting her strategic reinvention:

Expert 3 [01:04]: "Somebody must have started the idea that she was an heiress. And who would have started that besides Anna?"

Anna Sorokin [01:27]: "I decided to be somebody else."

Anna's deliberate effort to adopt a glamorous persona allowed her to gain trust and access exclusive circles without any legitimate financial backing.

3. Infiltrating New York’s Elite

Anna’s prowess in social settings is examined, showcasing her ability to manipulate perceptions:

Expert 3 [05:06]: "She knew which people she needed to make feel important. And she also had this sort of aura about her where she's intriguing and she used that."

Her active presence on social media further solidified her image as a high-flying heiress:

Expert 3 [05:24]: "Her Instagram account actually helped build her image."

4. The Morocco Incident: A Turning Point

A pivotal moment in Anna's fraudulent activities occurred during a trip to Morocco, which led to her eventual downfall:

Rachel DeLoach Williams [12:38]: "She owed me more money than I needed to hire."

Anna's failure to pay an exorbitant hotel bill exposed the fracture in her facade:

Anna Sorokin [14:11]: "I had the money, I guess at the time when I booked it and I guess they gave me an impression that they pre-authorized my card."

This incident not only strained her relationship with Rachel DeLoach Williams but also triggered legal repercussions.

5. The Legal Battle and Testimonies

The courtroom drama unfolded with emotional testimonies from Rachel, Anna’s former friend:

Rachel DeLoach Williams [29:36]: "It was really hard. I didn't look at her until I was on the stand and was asked to identify the defendant."

Rachel's dependable friendship turned adversarial as she confronted Anna's deceit:

Rachel DeLoach Williams [33:24]: "I had put so much goodwill into. Turned out to just be a liar and who had willfully hurt me was very painful."

6. Trial Proceedings and Verdict

Anna’s trial was marked by strategic defense and media spectacle:

Anna Sorokin [23:04]: "I wanted to go to trial just like I felt like it was the only way to tell my story."

Despite her efforts to present herself favorably, the jury found her guilty on several counts:

Expert 2 [35:52]: "A New York City jury finding socialite Anna Sorokin, a so-called Soho grifter, guilty on eight counts, including grand larceny, attempted grand larceny, and theft of services."

7. Sentencing and Incarceration

Anna was sentenced to between four to twelve years in prison, along with restitution:

Expert 2 [36:27]: "Sorokin was acquitted of two charges, including the most serious, attempting to steal a million dollars from a bank. Still, she faces deportation and up to 15 years in prison."

During her time in Rikers Island, Anna maintained her charm and sought media opportunities:

Anna Sorokin [22:08]: "I was really upset at the time. Yeah, I just, like, learned to deal with it."

8. Post-Release Activities and Continued Deception

Upon early release for good behavior, Anna attempted to reclaim her socialite status:

Anna Sorokin [40:26]: "I'm a Christian. Sins are forgiven."

Her continued presence on social media and attempts to engage with the public illustrated her unrepentant nature:

Expert 3 [42:10]: "She was giving interviews on social media, really living the high life."

However, her lack of genuine remorse and persistence in deceit led to further legal troubles:

Expert 4 [41:37]: "Anna will fight being deported to Germany tooth and nail."

9. Conclusion: The Enduring Impact of Anna Sorokin’s Story

The episode concludes by reflecting on the timeless allure of such con artist tales and the lessons they impart:

Expert 4 [43:17]: "I think maybe she has a more shot at it at the city that she didn't do."

Deborah Roberts [43:52]: "You tell me. Do you feel scammed?"

Anna Sorokin’s narrative underscores the intricate dance between charisma, deception, and the pursuit of an elusive dream, leaving listeners pondering the depths of human ambition and morality.

Notable Quotes with Attribution and Timestamps:

• Deborah Roberts [01:04]: "Take a listen."
• Expert 2 [04:35]: "She was really taking people for an absolute ride."
• Rachel DeLoach Williams [09:12]: "She and I spent some time going to dinners and hanging out."
• Anna Sorokin [10:35]: "Why not? I would like to show the world that I'm not this damn greedy person that they portrayed me to be."
• Expert 3 [26:09]: "I can't answer that."
• Rachel DeLoach Williams [33:24]: "I understand the word trauma is, you know, is relative."
• Anna Sorokin [36:06]: "I mean, just deal with the consequences."
• Expert 2 [38:15]: "I think she has a problem with authority."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the rise and fall of Anna Sorokin, offering insights into her manipulative tactics and the eventual legal repercussions she faced. Through expert analysis and personal testimonies, the episode paints a vivid picture of one of Soho's most infamous con artists.