Criminal Podcast Summary: "The Man Without a Will"
Vox Media Podcast Network
Release Date: March 21, 2025
Introduction
"The Man Without a Will," an episode of the acclaimed podcast Criminal hosted by Phoebe Judge, delves into a complex narrative of deceit, manipulation, and betrayal intertwined with legal and ethical breaches. The story revolves around Adeline Balgobin, a government employee, her relationships with Robert Konasewich—a Toronto police officer—and Candace Dixon, Robert's long-term girlfriend. The episode meticulously unpacks how personal relationships and professional responsibilities intersect, leading to criminal activities that have far-reaching consequences.
Adeline and Robert: A Complex Relationship
Adeline Balgobin, a 26-year-old woman working for the Ontario government, is introduced to Robert Konasiewicz through a co-worker's encouragement to meet a charming police officer. Their relationship blossoms quickly, marked by frequent outings, travel, and a seemingly strong bond.
Katherine Laidlaw (Reporter):
"She had a photo of the two of them framed on her desk at work" (01:14).
However, after a year, Adeline grows suspicious of Robert's behavior—frequent cancellations, lack of introduction to his family, and the revelation that he still lives with his ex-girlfriend, Candace Dixon, under the guise of a platonic roommate arrangement.
Katherine Laidlaw:
"She couldn't shake the feeling that it was strange that she had never met his family" (01:39).
Robert Konasiewicz: Background and Lifestyle
Robert hails from Oakville, a suburb of Toronto, and follows in his father's footsteps by joining the Toronto Police Force after graduating in 2008. Known for his penchant for flashy cars and a vibrant social life, Robert's luxurious lifestyle is sustained by his position in the police force and various side gigs in security.
Katherine Laidlaw:
"He had expensive taste. He liked to go out to clubs and restaurants" (05:01).
His encounter with Candace Dixon rekindles an old pact they made during high school—to marry if both remained single by age 35. Their relationship is marked by extensive travel and integration into each other's social circles.
The Case of Heinz Sommerfeld and the OPGT
Adeline's professional role at the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (OPGT) places her in charge of managing the affairs of mentally incapable Ontarians. In 2017, she is assigned to Heinz Sommerfeld's estate—a man with dementia, estranged from his family, and possessing an estate worth approximately 834,000 Canadian dollars without a will.
Katherine Laidlaw:
"Heinz Sommerfeld had grown up in Germany... He worked as a draftsman for the Ministry of Transportation for 36 years" (14:27).
Manipulation of Heinz Sommerfeld's Estate
Recognizing an opportunity, Adeline delays passing Heinz's file to the trust department. She involves Robert in the process, reporting a fabricated will that names Robert as the sole beneficiary.
Katherine Laidlaw:
"She decided to report to the OPGT that Hines had left a will... all of Heinz Sommerfeld's money would go to one person, a close friend of his, Robert Konasiewicz" (18:47).
Robert corroborates the fake will with an affidavit, claiming an improbable past relationship with Heinz. To lend credibility, he introduces falsified witnesses and documentation, including a Christmas card marked with his name (19:14).
Candace Dixon's Discovery and Investigation
Candace begins to suspect Robert's infidelity and double life. Her suspicions are piqued when she learns of Adeline's involvement through inadvertent clues—business cards, emails, and suspicious letters addressed to Heinz's estate.
Katherine Laidlaw:
"Candace started collecting the mail... she noticed a letter from TD bank addressed to her ex, care of the estate of Heinz Sommerfeld" (28:58).
Her investigation leads her to uncover evidence of Robert's fraudulent activities, including manipulated wills and deceitful financial transactions.
Katherine Laidlaw:
"She eventually finds an SD card that... shows dozens of photos documenting multiple indiscretions" (30:23).
Trial and Conviction
In July 2023, both Robert and Adeline face trial. The prosecution presents extensive evidence, dismantling the credibility of the fabricated will and exposing the fraudulent activities orchestrated by the duo.
Katherine Laidlaw:
"They demonstrated that the witnesses who had allegedly witnessed the will didn't exist" (36:08).
The jury convicts both parties swiftly, resulting in a seven-year prison sentence each—a notably severe penalty reflecting the gravity of their betrayal and abuse of trust.
Phoebe Judge:
"They were both found guilty and they were sentenced to seven years each in jail" (37:00).
Aftermath and Current Status
Post-conviction, Adeline and Robert's personal and professional lives unravel. Adeline relocates to Florida, embarking on a new venture with one of Robert's sisters, distancing herself from her past transgressions. Robert's relationship with Candace deteriorates irreparably, culminating in his disassociating from her.
Heinz Sommerfeld's estate remains in limbo, awaiting the conclusion of appeals before his half-brother can claim the rightful inheritance.
Katherine Laidlaw:
"The money will go to his half brother and his half brother's family... the money is in limbo right now" (38:00).
Conclusion
"The Man Without a Will" serves as a compelling exploration of how personal relationships can intersect disastrously with professional responsibilities, leading to elaborate schemes that exploit legal systems. The episode underscores themes of trust, betrayal, and the intricate web of deceit that can ensnare individuals in unexpected ways.
For an in-depth analysis, listeners are encouraged to read Katherine Laidlaw's article, "The Inside Job," linked in the show notes.
Notable Quotes with Attribution and Timestamps
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Katherine Laidlaw:
"She decided to hang on to the file for a little bit longer than she should have and saw an opportunity" (18:19).
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Phoebe Judge:
"Tell me a little about who is Robert Konasiewicz? Where did he grow up? Who is he?" (04:02).
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Katherine Laidlaw:
"They would be seated at different tables and, you know, it's impossible to know if they were texting each other" (38:02).
These excerpts highlight pivotal moments in the narrative, providing insight into the characters' motivations and the unfolding of events.
Further Information
For more details on this episode, including access to additional resources and the full transcript, visit the Criminal Podcast website.