Dateline NBC: The Widow of Woodland Hills – Episode Summary
Introduction
In the gripping episode titled "The Widow of Woodland Hills," Dateline NBC delves deep into the harrowing true-crime story of Fabio Simontilli, a beloved celebrity hairdresser, whose life was brutally taken in his own home. Hosted by Lester Holt and featuring in-depth interviews with family members, investigators, and key figures in the case, this episode unravels the intricate web of deceit, betrayal, and murder that shook the affluent Woodland Hills community.
Background
Fabio Simontilli was a renowned hairdresser, celebrated for his work with celebrities such as Jackie Chan and Jennifer Love Hewitt. Married to Monica Crescentini, Fabio cherished his family and his dream Porsche, symbolizing his success and the American Dream. The couple had two daughters, Jessica and Isabella, and were enjoying a prosperous life in Los Angeles after relocating from Toronto due to Fabio’s executive position at Wella.
The Crime
On January 23, 2017, tragedy struck. At approximately 4:50 PM, Fabio was found dead in his backyard, stabbed multiple times during what initially appeared to be a home invasion robbery. Isabella Simontilli, then 16, discovered her father seated on the patio, slumped over in a pool of blood, and immediately called 911. Detective Mitzi Roberts, with 29 years in the LAPD’s Robbery Homicide Division, led the investigation.
Notable Quote:
"It was a coordinated, planned attack where they caught Fabio off guard. He didn't have time to even react." – Detective Mitzi Roberts [15:45]
Investigation
The LAPD’s investigation quickly determined that the murder was not a random burglary gone wrong but a targeted execution. Evidence such as Fabio's undisturbed watch, the stolen Porsche, and minimal theft suggested the primary motive was to kill rather than steal. Surveillance footage revealed two suspects entering the Simontilli home at 4:18 PM and the getaway in Fabio’s Porsche at 5:00 PM.
Notable Quote:
"No question those are your killers." – Detective Mitzi Roberts [22:10]
Suspects
Initially, suspicion fell on ordinary burglars, especially given a series of "knock-knock" burglaries in the area. However, it wasn't long before the investigation pointed towards a more sinister plot. Surveillance footage identified Robert Baker, a convicted sex offender and gym acquaintance, as one of the perpetrators. Baker’s connection with Monica Simontilli, Fabio’s wife, raised significant red flags.
Notable Quote:
"Monica was planning a lavish future with her new man." – Prosecutor Beth Silverman [1:30:20]
The Double Life
As detectives delved deeper, it emerged that Monica was leading a double life with Robert Baker. Their clandestine meetings and intimate behavior were captured on surveillance, revealing Monica’s possible motive rooted in infidelity and financial gain through a $1.6 million life insurance policy on Fabio.
Notable Quote:
"Monica was living a double life, and at some point, she realized these two worlds couldn't continue to coexist." – Prosecutor Beth Silverman [2:10:35]
Trial and Evidence
The trial was a dramatic courtroom showdown where both Monica and Baker pleaded not guilty initially. Key evidence included:
- DNA from Baker found in the Porsche and at the crime scene.
- Surveillance footage of Monica interacting closely with Baker around the time of the murder.
- Testimonies from Chris Austin, a third party involved in the conspiracy, who confessed to his role and implicated Monica as the mastermind.
Notable Quote:
"If you watch Dateline, it goes like this. I'm a liar. I lied to my husband. But murder? I would never do that." – Defense Attorney Leonard Levine [3:45:50]
Verdict and Aftermath
After nine hours of deliberation, the jury found Monica Simontilli guilty of first-degree murder with special circumstances and conspiracy. Robert Baker also faced his convictions, revealing his sole responsibility while distancing Monica through his testimony. Despite Monica’s defense claiming her innocence and portraying Baker as the sole perpetrator, the overwhelming evidence presented by the prosecution sealed her fate.
Notable Quote:
"You took our beautiful mother's selflessness and our amazing father's life down with you." – Fabio’s Sisters [4:30:15]
Conclusion
"The Widow of Woodland Hills" serves as a poignant reminder of how appearances can be deceiving and the lengths individuals may go to for personal gain. Fabio Simontilli's legacy as a positive and beloved figure contrasts sharply with the betrayal by those closest to him, leaving his family to cope with immeasurable loss while the community grapples with the truth behind the tragic event.
Final Note
Fabio’s last words, captured in a heartwarming interview before his untimely death, emphasize the importance of relationships:
"I want to be remembered for the relationships I built. I want to be remembered for how maybe I've made people feel." – Fabio Simontilli [7:50:30]
This episode of Dateline NBC encapsulates the complexities of human relationships, the pursuit of the American Dream, and the devastating impact of betrayal, ensuring that Fabio Simontilli’s story remains etched in the hearts of listeners.