American History Tellers: "American Criminal" - Detailed Summary
Podcast Information:
- Title: American History Tellers
- Host/Author: Wondery (Hosted by Lindsay Graham, not the Senator)
- Episode Title: American Criminal
- Release Date: November 12, 2024
Overview: In the episode "American Criminal," Wondery's American History Tellers delves into the dark and twisted pursuit of the American Dream by Sante Kimes, a woman whose insatiable greed led her down a path of extreme criminality. Hosted by Lindsay Graham, the episode unpacks the elaborate schemes, manipulation, and eventual downfall of Kimes and her accomplice, Ken Sr., painting a vivid portrait of ambition gone awry.
Introduction to Sante Kimes
The episode opens with a chilling portrayal of Sante Kimes' relentless pursuit of wealth and influence. The narrator sets the stage by questioning the lengths one might go to achieve the American Dream, ranging from minor deceit to heinous crimes. Sante Kimes embodies the latter, having committed numerous offenses in her bid for power and luxury.
Notable Quote:
"She wanted it all and she was willing to do whatever it took to get it."
— Narrator [00:01]
Life on the Run
Following a failed attempt in Washington D.C., Sante and Ken Sr. evade authorities by moving frequently within Las Vegas. Their nomadic lifestyle shifts to a more stable setup when they rent a condo in La Jolla, San Diego, in August 1985. Despite their efforts to stay hidden, their past catches up with them.
The Unveiling of Heinous Crimes
Federal marshals apprehend Sante and Ken Sr., not for minor larceny, but for grave charges of slavery and human trafficking. Over more than a decade, Sante orchestrated the smuggling of young women from Mexico, El Salvador, and Peru to work as unpaid maids and tutors in her household. These women were subjected to abuse, including physical violence and psychological torment.
Notable Quote:
"The maids were beaten, burned, and belittled, stripping them of any hope of escape."
— Host [02:15]
The System's Failure
Despite numerous complaints and horrifying accounts—such as the incident involving a 14-year-old girl in Guadalajara—the authorities failed to act for years. It wasn't until the accumulation of undeniable evidence that federal agents moved decisively against Sante and Ken Sr.
Notable Quote:
"Nothing was done for years, even when a 14-year-old girl reported Sante's brutality."
— Host [04:00]
Arrest and Immediate Consequences
Upon their arrest, Sante and Ken Sr. are transported to Las Vegas to face charges. Ken Sr.'s wife takes custody of their son, Kenny, while Ken faces the repercussions of his actions. Sante, ever manipulative, continues to exert control even from jail, attempting to influence decisions affecting her family's future.
Notable Quote:
"Sante's determined to keep pulling the strings on the men in her life."
— Host [05:30]
Legal Maneuvers and Plea Deals
Both Sante and Ken Sr. are advised to accept plea deals to mitigate their sentences. Ken Sr. agrees to plead guilty to misprision of a felony, receiving probation instead of a lengthy prison term. Meanwhile, Sante is supposed to accept a deal with a maximum sentence of two years. However, a clerical error alters her agreement, leading to chaotic courtroom drama.
Notable Quote:
"A typo in Sante's deal meant her prison terms would be served consecutively, not concurrently."
— Host [06:45]
The Courtroom Meltdown and Escape
Sante's temper erupts in the courtroom upon discovering the mistake, resulting in her refusal to sign the plea deal. Her tantrum leads to her being confined, but not before she orchestrates a daring escape by feigning a medical emergency. Utilizing the lax security at the hospital, Sante vanishes, leaving law enforcement and the public in a state of alert.
Notable Quote:
"Sante started throwing a tantrum right there in the courtroom... nothing and no one could calm her down."
— Host [07:50]
Aftermath and Public Reaction
Sante's escape headlines national news, spotlighting her as a notorious figure akin to a real-life Liz Taylor lookalike on trial for slavery. The public's perception of her turns overwhelmingly negative, with former victims and the community rallying against her through substantial civil lawsuits seeking millions in damages.
Notable Quote:
"People are lining up to take their shot, assembling a group to file a $31 million civil suit against Sante and Ken Sr."
— Host [08:30]
Current Status and Continuing Threat
As of the episode's release, Sante Kimes remains a fugitive, her whereabouts unknown, and the legal battles against her continue to evolve. The episode concludes by highlighting the enduring impact of her actions on her victims and the ongoing quest to bring her to justice.
Notable Quote:
"Now all of Las Vegas is on the lookout for the Liz Taylor lookalike who's on trial for slavery."
— Narrator [08:56]
Conclusion
"American Criminal" offers a comprehensive and gripping exploration of Sante Kimes' criminal empire, illustrating how her quest for the American Dream led to widespread suffering and eventual legal downfall. Through meticulous storytelling and poignant interviews, the episode underscores the profound consequences of unchecked ambition and the resilience of those who fight against such dark legacies.
Listen to American History Tellers on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts to uncover more riveting stories from America's past.