Bryan Kohberger's bombshell plea. A double prosecution in Kentucky. Plus, a verdict for Sean Combs.

Summary

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Dateline NBC – "Bryan Kohberger's Bombshell Plea, Double Prosecution in Kentucky, Plus a Verdict for Sean Combs"

Release Date: July 3, 2025
Host/Author: NBC News
Description: Current and classic episodes featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries, and in-depth investigations.

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Overview

In this gripping episode of Dateline NBC, host Blaine Alexander navigates through three high-stakes true-crime stories: the unexpected guilty plea of Bryan Kohberger in Idaho, a significant double prosecution in Kentucky involving the murder of Crystal Rogers, and the verdict in the racketeering trial of music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs. Additionally, the episode highlights the introduction of the Turquoise Alert system aimed at improving the response to missing indigenous people in New Mexico.

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Bryan Kohberger's Plea Deal

A Sudden Turn in Idaho

Bryan Kohberger, accused of fatally stabbing four University of Idaho students in 2022, made headline news by agreeing to plead guilty to four first-degree murder counts and one count of felony burglary. This plea was strategically made to avoid the death penalty, bringing a swift end to a case that had captivated the nation.

Courtroom Dynamics and Reactions

During the plea hearing, Kohberger presented a composed demeanor. Josh Mankiewicz observed at [05:21], "He seemed almost a jump at the chance to, to say it, to get that in, that word in there as quick as you could." His quick affirmation of the charges reflected his preparedness and understanding of the legal process.

The courtroom atmosphere was tense yet orderly. Veronica Mazeka noted at [07:29], "One thing that really blew my mind was when the judge said he was going to call in 10,000 prospective jurors," highlighting the unprecedented scale of the case.

Prosecutors' Strategy

The prosecution's decision to accept the plea deal was multifaceted. Veronica explained at [07:41], "In a jury pool, I think it's often in the state's interest to reach a plea first, you know, you get a guaranteed life sentence." This approach ensured a definitive outcome without the uncertainties of a trial, saving both time and resources.

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Double Prosecution in Kentucky: The Crystal Rogers Case

Unraveling the Mystery

The episode delves into the tragic case of Crystal Rogers, a mother of five who disappeared a decade ago in Kentucky. After an eight-year investigation, Brooks Hauck, Crystal's former boyfriend, was charged with her murder, alongside his employee Joseph Lawson, who faces conspiracy and tampering with evidence charges.

Key Testimonies and Evidence

• Crystal’s Last Day:
  Shane Bishop recounts at [14:06], "She said on the stand that the night that she ended up going missing, Brooks had planned this like a kid-free date night." Contrary to Hauck’s claims, the date never occurred, and evidence suggests they went to Brooks' family farm, where Crystal likely met her fate.

• Danny Singleton’s Testimony:
  Danny Singleton, a former employee of Brooks, testified at [15:05], "I spoke to Rosemary two weeks before Crystal disappeared, and she asked me if I could find someone to get rid of Crystal." Despite his admission, the defense challenged his credibility by highlighting his past perjury-related arrest and inconsistent statements.

• Heather Snelling and Charlie Gurdley:
  Heather Snelling testified about overhearing discussions to dispose of Crystal's body using a skid steer, a detail that adds to the prosecution's narrative. Charlie Gurdley further corroborated these claims, though his reliability was questioned due to his history with drug use and fluctuating statements.

Defense's Counterarguments

The defense systematically undermined witness credibility, pointing out discrepancies and questioning their motives. For instance, they highlighted Danny Singleton’s drug use and inconsistent accounts, suggesting that investigators may have influenced his testimony to fit their case theory.

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Verdict in Sean "Diddy" Combs's Trial

Trial Proceedings and Outcome

Sean "Diddy" Combs faced a federal trial with charges including transportation for prostitution, sex trafficking, and racketeering conspiracy. After 13 and a half hours of deliberations, the jury delivered mixed verdicts:

• Guilty:

  • Two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution

• Not Guilty:

  • Two counts of sex trafficking
  • One count of racketeering conspiracy

Post-Verdict Reactions

Upon hearing the verdict at [22:23], Combs reacted emotionally by sinking to his knees, appearing to pray. His family celebrated the guilty verdicts, while the court proceeded to deny his bail request, ordering him to remain in custody pending sentencing. The prosecution indicated that Combs could face 4 to 5 years in prison based on the sentencing guidelines.

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DATELINE Roundup

Corey Richens' Expanding Legal Troubles

Corey Richens, a children's book author accused of fatally poisoning her husband, faces over two dozen new charges related to financial crimes. These include mortgage fraud, money laundering, and forgery, stemming from the investigation into her husband's death. The timing of these charges, just days before the statute of limitations expires, suggests a strategic move by prosecutors.

Dan Serafini's Ongoing Trial

Former MLB pitcher Dan Serafini is accused of shooting his in-laws in Lake Tahoe, killing his father-in-law and seriously wounding his mother-in-law. His wife testified against him, describing the deceitful actions of Samantha Scott, who has since taken a plea deal. The defense is anticipated to challenge the testimonies and motives presented by the prosecution.

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Missing in America: Tiffany Reed and the Turquoise Alert

The Tiffany Reed Case

Twenty-one years ago, 16-year-old Tiffany Reed vanished from Shiprock, New Mexico. Her case remains unsolved, and her family has criticized the local police for delays in reporting her disappearance, which hindered early intervention efforts.

Introduction of the Turquoise Alert

In response to the gaps in the existing alert systems, New Mexico has introduced the Turquoise Alert, designed specifically to address the high number of missing indigenous people aged 18 to 46.

• Interview with Josette Monette:
  At [28:24], Josette Monette, New Mexico's Cabinet Secretary of Indian Affairs, explained the necessity of the Turquoise Alert: "Most missing indigenous people fall between like 18 to 46. And so one of the things with the Turquoise alert is trying to ensure that there's an alert system in place for that age group." This system aims to provide immediate and widespread notifications similar to Amber and Silver Alerts, tailored to the unique needs of indigenous communities.

Impact and Hope for the Future

While it's uncertain if the Turquoise Alert could have altered the outcome in Tiffany Reed's case, Monette expressed hope that this new system will enhance the rapid response and visibility necessary to prevent other similar tragedies.

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Conclusion

This episode of Dateline NBC offers a deep dive into some of the most compelling and high-profile cases in recent memory. From the unexpected legal maneuvers in Bryan Kohberger's case to the intricate courtroom battles in Kentucky and the emotional verdict in Sean "Diddy" Combs's trial, listeners are provided with comprehensive analyses and firsthand accounts. Additionally, the introduction of the Turquoise Alert system marks a significant step towards addressing the long-standing issues surrounding missing indigenous people, highlighting the podcast's commitment to covering both ongoing and systemic issues in true crime.

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Notable Quotes

• Josh Mankiewicz on Kohberger's Plea Demeanor:
  "He seemed almost a jump at the chance to, to say it, to get that in, that word in there as quick as you could." [05:21]

• Veronica Mazeka on Prosecutors' Plea Strategy:
  "In a jury pool, I think it's often in the state's interest to reach a plea first, you know, you get a guaranteed life sentence." [07:41]

• Josette Monette on the Turquoise Alert:
  "Most missing indigenous people fall between like 18 to 46. And so one of the things with the Turquoise alert is trying to ensure that there's an alert system in place for that age group." [28:24]

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This summary provides a detailed overview of the key discussions, insights, and conclusions presented in the episode, ensuring that listeners who haven't tuned in can grasp the essential elements and emotional undertones of each story.

Transcript

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[Blaine Alexander]

If.

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[Franny Kelly]

Good morning.

[Blaine Alexander]

It's time for dateline's morning meeting.

[Keith Morrison]

We're getting a live shot from Franny.

[Shane Bishop]

Who is at the courthouse.

[Blaine Alexander]

Our producers are catching up on breaking crime news.

[Shane Bishop]

The defense begins their case on Monday. Recently bought McDonald's was still in the charred kitchen.

[Blaine Alexander]

Welcome to DATELINE True Crime Weekly. Blaine Alexander filling in today for Andrea Canning, who's on vacation. It's July 3rd, and here's what's on our docket. In a Kentucky courthouse, prosecutors lay out their case against the man they say killed Crystal Rogers, a mother of five, and the case against a second man who they say helped cover it up.

[Shane Bishop]

She overheard Steve and Joseph Lawson talking about moving a body at Brooks Family's farm.

[Blaine Alexander]

In DATELINE Roundup, big news from Utah in the case of Corey Richens, the children's book author who was accused of fatally poisoning her husband. She is now facing more than two dozen new charges. And we've got a verdict in the racketeering trial of music mogul Sean Diddy Combs. I'm going to interrupt you just closely here because we are getting the verdict coming in right now. And you might be familiar with the Amber Alert for missing children, but what about the Turquoise Alert? Officials are hoping it will help save lives.

[Keith Morrison]

There is no wait time in New Mexico to make a report about somebody. You should report your missing loved one right away.

[Blaine Alexander]

But before all that, we're off to Idaho, where a case that has gripped and horrified the nation came to a dramatic and unexpected conclusion this week. Five weeks from now, reporters, family members and public spectators were set to flock to Boise, Idaho, to attend the trial of Bryant Kohberger the man accused of fatally stabbing four University of Idaho students back in 2022. The courthouse was reserved and lawyers on both sides were prepar preparing to present their cases. But all of that changed earlier this week when news broke that Coburger had agreed to plead guilty to four first degree murder counts and an additional charge of felony burglary, all in exchange for taking the death penalty off the table. Kohberger appeared in court on Wednesday for a change of plea hearing. Keith Morrison and DATELINE producer Shane Bishop were watching that, and they're here now to tell us what happened. Keith and Shane, you two have been on this story from the very beginning. You've broken news on this story. So I am so glad, glad to talk to you about this latest huge development in this case. Welcome.

[Josh Mankiewicz]

Thank you very much for asking us, for having us here. It was pretty big, but I was initially kind of surprised, but then not so much after about half an hour of thinking about it. What did you think, Shane? Were you surprised?

[Veronica Mazeka]

I wasn't. I felt like the judge was always moving this case toward a plea deal in subtle ways.

[Blaine Alexander]

Well, I want to talk more about that, but first, let's talk about how this hearing unfolded on Wednesday. Both of you watched the live streamed plea hearing. We saw Kohberger sitting there at the defense. What was his demeanor? What was he looking like?

[Josh Mankiewicz]

Well, I saw a young man sitting there, perfectly erect in his chair, wearing a shirt and tie, not the suit jacket that he had worn in the past. This time he sat. He paid attention. At one point, early on, he wanted to stand up to address the judge.

[Secretary Monette]

And Mr. Kohlberg, just to make it easier. You don't need to stand when you speak to me. I appreciate the sign of respect, but for convenience, you can remain seated.

[Josh Mankiewicz]

All right. But he was just. He was being Mr.

[Blaine Alexander]

Correct.

[Veronica Mazeka]

Yeah. I could see he had a fresh haircut. I noticed the lack of suit jacket as well. And he looked like the teaching assistant at the college, which he was.

[Josh Mankiewicz]

Right.

[Blaine Alexander]

I think there were a couple of things that stood out to me that were especially chilling. One, hearing Bryan Kohberger's voice, hearing him repeatedly say yes when the charges were read out.

[Secretary Monette]

And then let me ask you, did you kill and murder Madison Mogan, a human being?

[Blaine Alexander]

Yes.

[Secretary Monette]

And did you do that willfully, unlawfully, deliberately, and with premeditation and malice aforethought?

[Blaine Alexander]

Yes.

[Secretary Monette]

Did you, Honor, about that same date, kill and murder Kaylee Gonsalves, a human being?

[Veronica Mazeka]

Yes.

[Secretary Monette]

And did you, on that same date, kill and murder Zanna Kernodle, a human being?

[Blaine Alexander]

Yes.

[Secretary Monette]

Did you kill and murder Ethan Chapin, a human being?

[Blaine Alexander]

Yes.

[Josh Mankiewicz]

He seemed almost a jump at the chance to, to say it, to get that in, that word in there as quick as you could. To me, it was like, here is the well versed criminology student knowing how this is going to work, knowing what his answers would have to be or should be, and wanting to be able to supply them. Boom, boom, quickly and easily.

[Blaine Alexander]

Now, as he was going through this, guys, what was the reaction inside the courtroom?

[Josh Mankiewicz]

Well, you know, from what I could see, it just seemed like a very quiet, well ordered room where, you know, nobody was going to speak out of turn. Nobody wanted this to go sideways. The only time that there was anything that was other than what seemed to be very carefully planned ahead of time was when the prosecutor completed his recitation of the facts of the case. He became somewhat emotional.

[Veronica Mazeka]

On November 13, 2022, excuse me, Ms. Coburger entered the residence at 1122 King Road in Moscow, Idaho. He did that with the intent to kill and that he then killed Matty Mogan, Kaylee Gonsalves, Ethan Chapin and Santa Cruz. Thank you, your honor.

[Secretary Monette]

Thank you.

[Blaine Alexander]

And I understand that there were some family members who were almost sobbing during portions of this as well.

[Josh Mankiewicz]

It's not an easy story to hear. And for a family member especially, you.

[Blaine Alexander]

Know, I want to step back and just talk quickly about how this plea deal came about. I mean, we're so close to the start of the trial. Why now?

[Veronica Mazeka]

Well, my belief is that the defense was out of moves. In June, there was a closed door hearing where the defense tried to argue that they should be allowed to present alternate perpetrator evidence during the trial. The judge heard their proffer and decided that basically there was nothing to it. So with that gone and Coburger's I think, very weak alibi defense, that he was stargazing and turned his phone off during the time of the exact time of the murders. I think the defense was out of moves.

[Blaine Alexander]

I'm curious why the prosecutors would take this. What was the benefit to them?

[Veronica Mazeka]

Well, let me say one thing. One thing that really blew my mind was when the judge said he was going to call in 10,000 prospective jurors. I mean, that is a mind boggling number.

[Josh Mankiewicz]

Sure.

[Veronica Mazeka]

In a jury pool, I think it's often in the state's interest to reach a plea first, you know, you get a guaranteed life sentence. The guy is not going to be a danger to anybody else. Secondly, Dylan and Bethany don't have to testify. And thirdly, I mean, this saves millions, if not tens of millions of dollars for the county and the state.

[Blaine Alexander]

Let's talk about the victims families, because one thing, when the news broke on Monday, almost immediately thereafter, we saw this Facebook statement from the Gonzalez family essentially saying, we are beyond furious at the state of Idaho. They have failed us. Steve Gonzalez, the father of Kaylee Gonzalez, actually spent the hearing outside of the courthouse. He refused to go inside. He did speak, however. He spoke to some reporters. Let's listen to that.

[Veronica Mazeka]

Why do you want this to go to trial?

[Blaine Alexander]

Because then my peers, this community, will decide that he's guilty. One man shouldn't decide what four souls are worth. You said they made a deal with the devil. Well, yeah, they did. On the other hand, there were some families who were actually almost relieved by this plea deal. Right.

[Veronica Mazeka]

Even Chapin's parents were completely behind it. Madison Mogan's family put out a statement saying they were behind it and ready to move on. I believe it was Zanna Kernodle's aunt who said she was not good with it. As the Gonsalves family expressed, they were not good with it.

[Blaine Alexander]

And we say this all the time. You don't know how you would feel about something unless they're in that position. So I could certainly understand how families could be split on either side. Yeah, I think one thing is certain, that this case has generated a tremendous amount of public interest. A lot of people have questions and really were looking to watch this trial and hoping to have some of those questions answered.

[Josh Mankiewicz]

The question that is remains unanswered, of course, is why and why he chose. The investigators believed it was Matty Mogan who was the target and the other ones in some way became collateral damage.

[Veronica Mazeka]

Well, I think one of the big things is everybody wants to know where the knife went. Our sources tell us he probably dumped it in the river down in Lewiston the next day. As for why, I mean, I talked to people throughout the last two and a half years about motive, and someone once told me he wanted to make pretty girls ugly.

[Josh Mankiewicz]

Yeah.

[Veronica Mazeka]

And I think that's probably the best explanation you're going to get from somebody who's not a forensic psychologist.

[Josh Mankiewicz]

That's the suggestion. And I think it makes some sense. Whether it's actually correct or true or not, I don't know we'll ever know.

[Blaine Alexander]

And finally, let's talk about sentencing happening later this month. I mean, a couple of changes there. One, Bryan Kohberger will not be wearing regular street clothes. He'll be appearing in jail attire. But what can we expect to see during the sentencing hearing?

[Veronica Mazeka]

I think the sentencing hearing there will be so much emotion as the victims families are all by law able to speak.

[Josh Mankiewicz]

The question I have in my mind is whether Bryan Kohberg's parents will make a statement on what they might have.

[Veronica Mazeka]

To say or will he say anything?

[Blaine Alexander]

Well, Shane and Keith, like I said, nobody knows this case better than the two of you. So I really appreciate you two joining us to break it down today. Thank you.

[Josh Mankiewicz]

Thank you.

[Veronica Mazeka]

Thanks, Blake.

[Blaine Alexander]

Up next, the jury hears chilling testimony at the trial of two men accused of being involved in the murder of Kentucky mom Crystal Rogers. We've got all the details.

[Veronica Mazeka]

Hey, it's Ryan Reynolds here for Mint Mobile.

[Blaine Alexander]

Now.

[Veronica Mazeka]

I was looking for fun ways to.

[Blaine Alexander]

Tell you that Mint's offer of unlimited Premium Wireless for $15 a month is back. So I thought it would be fun if we made $15 bills, but it turns out that's very illegal. So there goes my big idea for the commercial. Give it a [e-mail] Switch upfront payment of $45 for a three month plan equivalent to $15 per month required. New customer offer for first three months only. Speed slow after 35 gigabytes of networks busy taxes and fees extra.

[Joshua Anklewitz]

See mintmobile.com I'm Joshua Anklewitz with a Dateline 24.7 Marathon. On July 4th, fireworks light the sky. But in these cases, it's relationships that are explosive.

[Secretary Monette]

It's just unfathomable that a person could be that evil.

[Blaine Alexander]

It was starting to get scary.

[Joshua Anklewitz]

When these sparks fly. My advice is watch out.

[Veronica Mazeka]

This is gonna go sideways fast. The only thing I could ask is why?

[Shane Bishop]

I was absolutely shocked.

[Joshua Anklewitz]

Our When Sparks Fly marathon Friday through Monday on Dayline 24.

[Blaine Alexander]

7.

[Josh Mankiewicz]

It looked like a pleasant summer day, but was was in fact a spectacle. Spectacular summer day, perfect for lounging and listening to Dateline. Subscribe to DATELINE Premium and get a free one month trial ad, free listening, bonus episodes and early access to new original series. This special offer expires July 30th. So subscribe now to DATELINE Premium only on Apple Podcasts. You don't want to miss out, do you?

[Blaine Alexander]

For our next story, we're heading back to a Kentucky courthouse where the state's trial of the decade is underway. Ten years ago this week, Crystal Rogers disappeared almost without a trace. Her car was found abandoned on the Bluegrass Parkway and her body was never located. After an eight year investigation, Brooks Hauck, Crystal's former boyfriend, was charged with her murder and his Employee Joseph Lawson with conspiracy to commit murder and tampering with evidence. Both men have pleaded not guilty and are now standing trial together. This week, the prosecution called more than a dozen witnesses, each with their own piece of the puzzle about what may have happened to Crystal the night she disappeared. DATELINE producer Marissa Meyer has been in the courtroom and joins us now to talk about what we have learned so far. Marissa, welcome to the podcast.

[Franny Kelly]

Thank you.

[Shane Bishop]

I'm glad to be here. Plane.

[Blaine Alexander]

We've heard from dozens of witnesses. Just kind of tell us about some of the ones that have stood out to you so far.

[Keith Morrison]

Sure.

[Shane Bishop]

Well, we heard from one witness, Crystal's friend. She spoke with and saw Crystal on the day she disappeared. She said on the stand that the night that she ended up going missing, Brooks had planned this like kid free date night.

[Blaine Alexander]

And Marissa, according to the prosecution, that date night never actually happened. Right. Instead, they went to Brooks family farm, where the prosecution believes Crystal died. What else did we learn here?

[Shane Bishop]

She also gave some insight into the relationship between Brooks and Crystal. She talked about how sometimes Brooks could say things about Crystal's appearance and how Brooke's mother, Rosemary didn't seem to approve of the relationship.

[Blaine Alexander]

Brooks mother, Rosemary, she came up in the testimony of another witness as well. Right. Who was that witness and what did he have to say about her?

[Shane Bishop]

Yes. So that witness was Danny Singleton, and he was a former employee of Brooks. He'd worked for brooks for about 15 years. Fifteen years. And Danny said he spoke to Rosemary two weeks before Crystal disappeared, and she asked him if he could find someone to get rid of Crystal.

[Blaine Alexander]

The prosecution in their opening statement called Rosemary Hauck a co conspirator, but she has never actually been charged with anything. In fact, on cross examination, the defense really went after Singleton's credibility, pointing out that he had been arrested for perjury related to this case. What, what does that stem from?

[Shane Bishop]

Yeah, the defense got Danny to admit that he lied about his whereabouts the night of July 3rd when Crystal disappeared. And Danny had told investigators that he was at a bar. But on the stand, he admitted he was doing drugs. And he said he lied when he first talked to investigators because he didn't.

[Blaine Alexander]

Want to get arrested for doing drugs.

[Shane Bishop]

Yes. But Danny held firm under cross examination that now he is telling the truth in this trial. He says he is telling the truth.

[Blaine Alexander]

Well, you know, we've heard from a lot of witnesses. Someone else we heard from Marissa was the ex girlfriend of Joseph Lawson's father, Steve. Now, just a quick reminder to our listeners. Steve was convicted for his role in Crystal's murder a few weeks ago. Like Joseph, Steve Lawson had been charged with conspiracy and tampering with evidence. So what did we learn from her testimony? The ex girlfriend's testimony?

[Shane Bishop]

This is a woman named Heather Snelling. She said she overheard Steve and Joseph Lawson talking about moving a body at Brooks family's farm using a skid steer, which I had never heard of. But the skid steer is a piece of.

[Blaine Alexander]

What is that?

[Shane Bishop]

Yeah, it's a piece of equipment that I guess usually has a bucket in front, and it's used for digging and moving things in landscape and construction, that kind of thing. On cross, the defense went through the interviews she'd done with law enforcement, and they were pointing out she never brought up what she says she overheard.

[Blaine Alexander]

Another striking piece of testimony about Joseph Lawson came on Monday from another former employee of Brooks.

[Shane Bishop]

That's right. This came from Charlie Gurdley. And he'd also testified at Steve Lawson's trial as well. Gurdley said Joseph Lawson once talked with him about Crystal. And according to Gurdley, Joseph said he would bury her with a skid steer and nobody would ever find her. Charlie said also the day Crystal went missing, he saw Brooks give Joseph Lawson Crystal's car keys. But there was also this really dramatic moment when Charlie said Joseph said he would pull her teeth and the hogs would do the rest.

[Blaine Alexander]

Oh, wow.

[Shane Bishop]

Yeah.

[Blaine Alexander]

And assuming pull her teeth, meaning get rid of a way to identify her with her dental records. Wow. Oh, my gosh. So how did the defense try to counter Gurdley's testimony on cross?

[Shane Bishop]

They did what they've been doing with other witnesses. They really questioned Charlie's credibility, and they pointed out that he was a drug user and that his story had changed significantly over the years. And Charlie himself admitted that one time when he was being questioned by state police investigators, he'd been awake for five to six days, high on drugs, too.

[Blaine Alexander]

Wow.

[Shane Bishop]

And the defense also pointed out that even as late as 2023, Charlie told investigators Brooks had never talked to him about Crystal. And Charlie had had said at that point that Brooks was not involved at all. And the defense insinuated that investigators really led Charlie into telling them a story that neatly fit into what their theory of the crime is.

[Blaine Alexander]

Okay, well, the prosecution has now arrested its case. So what do we know so far about the defense here?

[Shane Bishop]

So the defense has started. It seems like, overall, they're trying to paint this picture that the facts and the proof in this case were replaced by assumptions and theories and that witnesses were really manipulated and they said, even bullied into fitting a certain narrative of this crime.

[Blaine Alexander]

Well, Marissa, we know that you're going to stay all over it as always, and we really appreciate you talking with us today. Thanks so much.

[Shane Bishop]

Thank you so much, Blaine.

[Blaine Alexander]

Up next, it's time for DATELINE Roundup. Children's book author and accused killer Corey Richins faces new charges. The murder trial of former major league baseball player Dan Serafini winds down with his wife on the stand. And after 13 and a half hours of deliberations, a verdict in the trial of music mogul Sean Diddy Combs. Plus, New Mexico's secretary of Indian affairs joins us to talk about a new law that she thinks will be a game changer in the search for missing indigenous people.

[Grand Canyon University]

The hit podcast DATELINE Missing in America is back with a new season and more unsolved missing person cases that you might be able to help solve.

[Joshua Anklewitz]

Monday, May 17, Tiffany Reed set out on foot for Shiprock Northwest High School in New Mexico. Except that day, Tiffany never made it home. That was 21 years ago.

[Keith Morrison]

I'm gonna hang on to that hope that she's still alive. I just want to know where she is.

[Grand Canyon University]

Listen now to DATELINE Missing in America and maybe you could be the keaton to solving her case, available now wherever you get your podcasts.

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[Grand Canyon University]

To get started offer in 731 25, must enter code at checkout, must be 18 or up after first month, you'll be automatically charged $65.99 a year plus tax for an annual subscription until you cancel. Cancel anytime through your device settings under Apple account. See website for full terms.

[Joshua Anklewitz]

I'm Josh Mankiewicz and I hope you'll join us for season four of DATELINE Missing in America. In each episode of Date award winning series, we will focus on one missing persons case and hear from the families, the friends and the investigators all desperate to find them. You will want to listen closely. Maybe you could help investigators solve a mystery.

[Grand Canyon University]

Search DATELINE Missing in America to listen on Apple Podcasts.

[Blaine Alexander]

Welcome back to kick off this week's roundup, we got big news in a story that we've been covering in our daily podcast on trial. After seven weeks of testimony, 34 witnesses and more than 13 hours of deliberations, the jury came back Wednesday morning with a verdict in the federal trial of music mogul Sean Combs. I'm going to interrupt you just closely here, missy, because we are getting the verdict coming in right now. This is coming in real time. And we faced a life sentence on the most serious charges. Just after 10:15am Combs held the hand of one of his defense attorneys as the verdict was read out. Guilty on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, not guilty on two counts of sex trafficking and one count of racketeering conspiracy, the charges that could have seen him face decades behind bars. After the jury was excused, Combs sank to his knees, resting his head on a chair as if praying. His family in the courtroom clapped and cheered. Outside the courthouse, the civil attorney representing Cassie Ventura Combs, ex girlfriend, and one of the main prosecution witnesses spoke to the press.

[Veronica Mazeka]

We're pleased that he's finally been held responsible for two federal crimes, something that he's never faced in his life.

[Blaine Alexander]

A few hours later, the judge denied Combs request for bail and ordered him to remain in custody until his sentencing. According to the prosecution, Combs could face at least four to five years in prison based on sentencing guidelines. We'll keep you posted as we learn more. If you want to hear more in depth coverage of the case, remember to check out our podcast on trial. All right. And for the rest of this week's headlines, I'm joined by DATELINE digital producer Veronica Mazeka. And we're starting with a case out of Utah. Veronica, thanks so much for being here with us today.

[Franny Kelly]

Thanks for having me.

[Blaine Alexander]

Well, Veronica, a flurry of new charges have been filed against Utah mom Corey Richins. Just a reminder for our listeners. She's the woman accused of poisoning her husband with a lethal dose of fentanyl and then writing a children's book about grief. She has pleaded not guilty to her murder charge, but just this week she was hit with 26 new charges. What's that about?

[Franny Kelly]

Yeah, they were all pertaining to financial crimes that prosecutors allege took place in the months leading up to her husband's death. These charges stem from the homicide investigation and include mortgage fraud, communications fraud, forgery, issuing a bad check, money laundering and a pattern of unlawful activity.

[Blaine Alexander]

And these charges come more than two years after she was charged with her husband's death and just two days before the statute of limitations was set to expire on some of these charges. Richen's murder trial is scheduled for February 2026, but there's been no trial date yet set for these new charges. We'll watch and see what happens there. And finally, we are checking into the trial of former MLB pitcher Dan Serafin. He's the man accused of shooting his in laws at their home in Lake Tahoe, killing his father in law, Gary Spohr, and seriously wounding his mother in law, Wendy Wood. Aaron Spore. Dan Serafini's wife, continued her testimony on the stand. What were the main takeaways from her testimony?

[Franny Kelly]

She defended her husband, Dan, but when it came to Samantha Scott, she called her deceitful. And when asked if Samantha Scott could be trusted and Aaron answered, quote, absolutely not.

[Blaine Alexander]

And just a reminder, Samantha Scott is the woman who says she actually drove Seraphini to Lake Tahoe the day of the attack and has taken a plea for her role in the shooting.

[Franny Kelly]

Yes. She also admitted on the stand that she became Seraphini's lover.

[Blaine Alexander]

Well, the defense then projected four photos. Two of Samantha Scott during the trial and two of Aaron. They asked Aaron to comment on whether she thought that Samantha Scott was trying to be her. What was that?

[Franny Kelly]

Yeah, so she said that it appeared that she was. And she also said that the similarities in their appearances were, quote, creepy.

[Blaine Alexander]

So she was saying that essentially she thought that Samantha was trying to become her in a way, pretty much, I.

[Franny Kelly]

Guess, and taking her spot, if you will, since she became Dan's lover as well.

[Blaine Alexander]

Interesting. Okay, well, jurors will be receiving their instructions this week with closing arguments scheduled for next week, July 8th. So, of course, we will be following that trial as it winds down and the jury begins deliberations. Veronica, thanks so much for joining me this week.

[Franny Kelly]

Thank you.

[Blaine Alexander]

21 years ago, 16 year old Tiffany Reed vanished from her small town of Shiprock, New Mexico, located on the Navajo reservation. She has never been found. Her family blames the local police for not acting more quickly. Tiffany's big sister spoke with Josh Mankiewicz for his most recent episode of Dateline. Missing in America.

[Keith Morrison]

They asked if my sister had taken off from home before, and my mom said, yeah, she has. And they just basically ran with that and said, okay, well, maybe she just ran away from home. So if she's not back in 72 hours, then you can report her missing.

[Joshua Anklewitz]

You must have thought about that delay a lot in the last 20 years.

[Keith Morrison]

I have.

[Blaine Alexander]

Tiffany is one of nearly 200 missing indigenous people in the state of New Mexico this week, the state became the fourth in the nation to introduce an alert system designed to get more attention more quickly for indigenous people who go missing. It's called the Turquoise alert System. My next guest, Josette Monette, is New Mexico's Cabinet Secretary of Indian affairs, and she's joining us now to tell us more about this new alert system. Secretary Monette, welcome and thank you so much for joining us today.

[Keith Morrison]

Hi. Thank you so much for having me today.

[Blaine Alexander]

You once said too many Native American families have faced crisis and the heartbreak of a loved one disappearing without the swift response they deserve. Why do you believe that's the case?

[Keith Morrison]

Well, we know from various studies that there has been a large portion of Native American people that have gone missing and not always having a quick respons. And so that's. That was kind of my thought, is that this is. This hopefully will help get to bridging some of that gap of having an alert system specifically for Native American people, even when they might go missing.

[Blaine Alexander]

In your experience, have you found that these cases have not been prioritized in the same way as other missing people?

[Keith Morrison]

I can't speak for any individual, law enforcement or a family member. And, you know, I've been and lucky enough that this hasn't been something I've experienced personally. What we do know in Indian country are there are jurisdictional questions for what is federal land, what's state land, and who has the jurisdiction over that. So those sometimes do become issues. One of the gaps that we were trying to cover in particular what the Turquoise still learned, is we know that the Amber Alert covers younger children. A Silver alert covers a larger age group. But most missing indigenous people fall between like 18 to 46. And there was no alert system for that age group. And so one of the things with the Turquoise alert is trying to ensure that there's an alert system in place for that age group of missing and murdered indigenous people.

[Blaine Alexander]

Just walk me through how this would work.

[Keith Morrison]

It does function very much like an Amber Alert or a Silver Alert based on, you know, what the criteria is for a person who has gone missing due to an involuntary or unexplained or suspicious circumstances.

[Blaine Alexander]

We're talking about road signs, radio alerts, TV alerts, different ways to get that information out immediately to the public. Right?

[Keith Morrison]

Correct.

[Blaine Alexander]

Turquoise, the name Turquoise, that was not chosen by mistake. That's very intentional. Tell our listeners why that was chosen as this alert.

[Keith Morrison]

We actually had a staff member at the Indian Affairs Department who was kind of was creative in her thinking. And, you know, Turquoise means a lot to New Mexico and a lot to native people in the Southwest. It's a powerful stone. She kind of had this creative thought of, you know, you have silver and you have amber, so like a stone or kind of a material of source. And she's like, what if we use turquoise solar to kind of represent native people here in New Mexico? And I was like, oh, that's a great idea. So we ran with it. We thought it was great.

[Blaine Alexander]

You know, in Tiffany Reed's case, her family has said that police told them to wait 72 hours to file file a missing persons report. And they say that even after all of that, police then waited four days, according to the family, to put Tiffany's information into a national database for missing people. Now, police wouldn't comment to our DATELINE team on what they say happened, citing an open and active investigation. So I guess my question to you is, had this law been in effect back in 2004 when she originally went missing, do you think that this would have made a difference in her case?

[Keith Morrison]

I can't really say for sure whether or not it would have. I can say that my hope is that having this alert system moving forward does help prevent some of those things. You should report your missing loved one right away.

[Blaine Alexander]

Secretary Monette, thank you so much for your time. Thanks for joining us today to talk about this very important system. We appreciate it.

[Keith Morrison]

Thank you. I appreciate it.

[Blaine Alexander]

That's it for this episode of DATELINE True Crime Weekly. To get ad free listening for all of our podcasts tests, subscribe to DATELINE Premium. And if you want to learn more about missing persons cases, don't forget to check out Josh's new season of the DATELINE Missing in America podcast. Episodes one through four, including his report on the Tiffany Reed case, are out now wherever you get your podcasts. And remember to listen closely because you could be the key to solving a mystery. And reminder, there's no DATELINE this Friday. But don't worry, friends, you can watch our When Sparks Fly marathon on the Dateline 24. 7 channel Friday through Monday. Except, of course, when you take a break Saturday at 98 Central to watch a classic two hour Keith Mystery on NBC. Thanks so much for listening. Dateline True Crime Weekly is produced by Franny Kelly and Katie Ferguson. Our associate producers are Carson Cummins and Caroline Casey. Our senior producer is Liz Brown Kuriloff. Veronica Mazeka is our digital producer. Production and fact checking help by Terry Dickerson. Rick Kwan is our sound designer. Original Music by Jesse McEntee. Bryson Barnes is the head of audio production. Paul Ryan is executive producer. And Liz Cole is senior executive producer of Dateline.

[Veronica Mazeka]

Thanks, everybody. Have a great time.