Podcast Summary: "You Left Me For Dead" – 20/20 by ABC News

Release Date: March 15, 2025

1. Introduction to the Crime

The episode "You Left Me For Dead" delves into a harrowing true crime case that shook the tight-knit community of Belgrade, Montana. It begins with Audrea Butler discovering her two roommates, Lauren Dewise and Ashley Van Hamert, shot in their shared residence.

2. Discovery of the Victims

At 00:00, Debra Roberts introduces the critical moment when Audrea Butler finds her roommates lifeless:

Debra Roberts [01:12]: "Audrea Butler wasn't home when the crime occurred, but she came home that morning and found her two roommates shot."

Audrea rushes to a neighbor's house to call 911, revealing that only Ashley is still alive.

3. Initial Police Response

Officer Jared Robinson arrives first, expressing uncertainty about the presence of an intruder:

Officer Jared Robinson [02:35]: "I just don't know what I got... I see footsteps in the snow... looks almost the same."

Sergeant Dave Keane joins, and together they begin a high-risk entry into the residence to secure the scene.

4. Investigation Unfolds

As the police clear the house, the body camera footage captures the intense and chaotic environment:

Debra Roberts [05:20]: "Ashley was obviously fighting for her life... her vision was obviously impaired by the injury she sustained."

Despite the trauma, Ashley survives with severe injuries, becoming a pivotal witness in the case.

5. Suspect Emerges: Paul Dewise

The investigation quickly points to Paul Dewise, Lauren's estranged husband. Within 09:46, it's revealed that murder is extremely rare in Belgrade, heightening the community's shock.

Paul is apprehended after a high-risk traffic stop, where his demeanor raises suspicions:

Paul Dewise [22:12]: "I didn't do it and I don't deserve to go to prison."

6. Gathering of Evidence

Detectives meticulously collect evidence, including unique shell casings and distinctive boot prints:

Debra Roberts [12:00]: "You give it a little dusting and you can see where it really makes that detail stand out."

The lack of fingerprints or DNA complicates the case, pushing investigators to explore all possible leads.

7. Critical Breakthrough: Murder Weapon Found

A turning point occurs when a Ruger .22 caliber pistol, matching the murder weapon, is discovered by a vigilant ice fisher:

Debra Roberts [60:34]: "We ultimately found through that trace of the firearm that it was in fact Mr. Dewise who had purchased that firearm."

This evidence significantly strengthens the case against Paul Dewise.

8. Trial Proceedings

Nearly two years post-incident, Paul Dewise stands trial. The prosecution presents damning evidence, including audio recordings of his threats against Lauren:

Debra Roberts [65:06]: "You threw glasses at me. You choked me with a pillow. You beat me out of me."

Despite his defense's arguments highlighting the lack of direct physical evidence, the jury convicts Paul on both counts.

9. Victim’s Resilience and Message

Ashley Van Hamert's remarkable recovery and unwavering spirit shine through:

Ashley Van Hamert [34:09]: "It literally plugged the hole perfectly in my carotid artery. That's why I did not die that night."

Her confrontation with Paul in court exemplifies forgiveness and redemption:

Ashley Van Hamert [79:05]: "If God can forgive me in a limited amount of times now, how can I withhold forgiveness from you?"

10. Conclusion

The episode concludes with the sentencing of Paul Dewise to 220 years in prison, ensuring he remains behind bars without the possibility of parole. The lasting impact on the community and the victims' families underscores the profound tragedy of domestic violence and its far-reaching consequences.

Debra Roberts [80:30]: "Silence is the worst thing that you can have with regards to domestic violence... A victim is most in danger, especially when they leave the relationship."

Key Takeaways:

• The meticulous police investigation, leveraging both traditional and innovative forensic methods, was pivotal in solving the case.
• The discovery of the murder weapon was a critical breakthrough that linked Paul Dewise directly to the crimes.
• Ashley Van Hamert's resilience serves as a powerful testament to survival and the human spirit's capacity for forgiveness.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key events, discussions, and emotional undertones of the "You Left Me For Dead" episode, providing listeners with an in-depth understanding of the case and its profound implications.