48 Hours Podcast Episode Summary: "Justine’s Voice"

Release Date: February 17, 2025
Host: CBS News
Title: Justine’s Voice

1. Introduction: The Disappearance of Justine Vandershute

The "48 Hours" episode titled "Justine’s Voice" delves deep into the tragic and complex case of Justine Vandershute, a 17-year-old girl whose disappearance in Auburn, California, in 2003, shook her community and left her family in a relentless quest for justice. This episode meticulously traces the events leading up to Justine's disappearance, the subsequent investigation, and the long-term legal battles her family continues to face.

2. The Day Justine Disappeared

On September 2, 2003, the morning tranquility of the Vandershute household was shattered. Lynette Vandershute discovered her daughter Justine's bedroom empty, her truck missing, and no trace of her 17-year-old daughter. Just minutes before, the family had enjoyed a barbecue with Don Vandershute, Lynette, Justine, and her boyfriend Danny Besumer. Justine had bid her family goodnight, but she never returned.

"I see the chaplain and I see detectives. My mom's crying and my dad said, your sister's not coming home," [00:45].

Her disappearance was out of character, prompting immediate and extensive search efforts both organized by authorities and personally by the family with search and rescue teams.

3. Emergence of Suspects: Danny Besumer and Brandon Fernandez

As the investigation unfolded, suspicion quickly fell on Justine's boyfriend, Danny Besumer, and his roommate, Brandon Fernandez. Friends and acquaintances began to reveal the toxic nature of Danny and Brandon's relationship with Justine. Characteristics such as Danny's jealousy, possessiveness, and controlling behavior were highlighted.

"Danny's possessive. He's jealous. He's angry. He believes Justine is cheating on him," [15:30].

Brandon's involvement intensified suspicions, especially after he confessed during an interview that Danny had strangled Justine and led authorities to her buried body.

4. The Confession and Discovery of Justine’s Body

Brandon Fernandez ultimately provided a chilling account of the night Justine was murdered. In his confession, he described how Danny strangled Justine, with Brandon assisting in disposing of her body.

"I heard the car horn followed by a scream. I hurried back to find Danny had strangled Justine, his hands still around her neck and a Taser next to her lifeless body," [45:20].

This confession led investigators to the location where Justine's body was discovered, bringing a measure of closure to her devastated family.

5. Legal Proceedings: Plea Deals and Sentencing

In 2005, both Danny Besumer and Brandon Fernandez entered plea deals. Danny pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in exchange for a sentence of 25 years to life, while Brandon accepted a plea of second-degree murder, receiving 15 years to life.

"A piece of justice was served. At least we can put some of this behind us," [1:15:00].

Despite these convictions, the case remained unresolved in the eyes of Justine's family, particularly due to Brandon's ongoing attempts to reduce his sentence based on changes in California law.

6. Ongoing Legal Battles and Advocacy for Justice

Brandon Fernandez's repeated petitions for sentence reductions have kept the case in the public eye and prolonged the family's suffering. The legal system's evolving standards have allowed Brandon to contest his conviction, leading to appeals and renewed court hearings.

"It's hard to imagine that both men were once welcome in the family's home," [1:10:00].

The Vandershute family has remained steadfast in their fight, participating in numerous court hearings and advocating for stricter enforcement of sentencing to ensure lasting justice for Justine.

7. Justine’s Legacy and Family Advocacy

In the years since Justine's murder, her family has channeled their grief into advocacy efforts. They have partnered with local authorities to sponsor "Justine's Law," which mandates teen dating violence prevention education in California high schools. This initiative aims to prevent similar tragedies by educating youth about healthy relationships and the dangers of possessive and controlling behavior.

"What do you want Justine's legacy to be now? To help educate other boys and girls. Even if it saves one life, it's worth everything," [1:40:00].

The family’s dedication to these causes serves as a poignant reminder of Justine’s vibrant spirit and her enduring impact on her community.

8. Conclusion: The Continuing Quest for Justice

As of May 2024, the legal battle against Brandon Fernandez persists, with Deputy DA Tim Wirtz spearheading efforts to solidify the case against him. The family's perseverance highlights the enduring struggle many families face in the pursuit of justice within a complex and often slow-moving legal system.

"She's been gone as long as she was here on Earth. It was September 18, 2003, when Justine Vandershute's remains were discovered," [1:00:00].

The "48 Hours" episode "Justine’s Voice" not only chronicles a heartbreaking loss but also underscores the systemic challenges in achieving full justice, the resilience of a grieving family, and the lasting changes that can emerge from unimaginable tragedy.

Notable Quotes and Attributions:

• "I almost sensed Lynette just crumbling." — (Witness at Court, [1:55:00])

• "Danny Besumer is the real danger... a psychopath." — (Brandon's Defense Attorney, Steve DeFilippis, [2:10:00])

• "You don't know what to expect. On August 1, 2024... the judge denied Brandon Fernandez's motion." — (Narrator, [2:25:00])

• "Strength and honor." — (Danny Besumer during initial confession, [0:50:00])

Final Thoughts:

"Justine’s Voice" serves as a compelling narrative that not only recounts the tragic events surrounding Justine Vandershute's murder but also illuminates the broader implications of the justice system on victims' families. Through gripping interviews, detailed timelines, and emotional testimonies, the episode provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the case's enduring impact and the relentless pursuit of justice by those left behind.

For a deeper exploration of the case, tune in to the "Post Mortem" series every Tuesday, where producers and correspondents dissect key evidence, discuss investigative challenges, and reveal unexpected twists encountered during the investigation.