Going West: True Crime – Episode 481: Becky Bliefnick Release Date: February 28, 2025

Introduction

In episode 481 of Going West: True Crime, hosts Daphne Woolsoncroft and Heath Merryman delve deep into the harrowing case of Becky Bliefnick. Released on February 28, 2025, this episode meticulously unpacks the intricate details surrounding Becky's disappearance and subsequent murder, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of the events that transpired.

Overview of Becky Bliefnick

Becky Bliefnick, born on November 19, 1981, in Quincy, Illinois, was portrayed by her family as a selfless and compassionate individual. Described as passionate about animal welfare and dedicated to her nursing career, Becky excelled academically, graduating cum laude from Quincy University with a degree in biological science and a minor in chemistry. Her transition from a pharmaceutical sales representative to a respected travel nurse, specializing as a sexual assault nurse examiner and trauma nurse specialist, exemplified her commitment to helping others.

Becky’s Sister, Sarah (03:50): "Becky was doing it all and she was helping a ton of people along the way."

Marriage and Divorce

Becky's life took a tumultuous turn when she married Tim Bleifnik in 2009. The couple had three sons together, but over time, their marriage deteriorated. Tensions escalated primarily due to the intense custody battle over their children and the increasing strain of their separation. Tim's behavior was described by Becky's sister as "manipulative, controlling, and helpless".

Daphne (09:02): "He pulled the trigger not once, not twice, not three times, but 14 times, riddling her body with bullets."

In January 2021, Tim filed for divorce, alleging that Becky's behavior was the primary reason for the split—a claim vehemently denied by those close to Becky. The ensuing divorce was bitter, with disputes over custody, financial matters, and concerns regarding Tim's father, Ray Bleifnik, who was accused of having a history of "perversion and abusing minor children."

Becky (10:48): "I'm afraid of what Tim might do. He told me if I outed his dad, that he would probably have to move then kill himself."

The Murder

On February 23, 2023, Becky Bliefnick was brutally murdered at her Quincy home. The crime scene revealed that she was shot 14 times, with evidence suggesting a calculated attack rather than a random home invasion. Notably, Becky's 9mm handgun, reportedly given to Tim as a gift, was missing—raising suspicions about its involvement in the murder.

Heath (04:13): "He grades not just her own papers but corrupt practices around the household."

Investigation and Evidence

The investigation quickly pointed towards Tim Bleifnik as the prime suspect. Key pieces of evidence included:

• Surveillance Footage: Multiple sightings of a mysterious figure on a blue Schwinn bike near Becky's residence were later linked to Tim through his digital footprint.

• Digital Footprints: Tim's internet history revealed searches on "how to open a door with a crowbar," "how to make a homemade silencer," and "how to wash off gunpowder"—all indicative of premeditation.

• Forensic Evidence: Tim's DNA was found on plastic shards near Becky's body, and his ownership of the murder weapon further implicated him.

• Behavioral Patterns: Tim's erratic behavior, including attempts to obscure his digital activities and suspicious purchases, added to the mounting evidence against him.

Daphne (24:15): "Detectives surmised that the intruder used a patio chair to climb onto the pergola in her backyard and then onto the roof."

Trial and Verdict

The trial commenced on May 23, 2023, with prosecutors presenting a compelling case built on both circumstantial and forensic evidence. Despite the defense's attempts to create reasonable doubt—highlighting the absence of direct evidence linking Tim to the crime scene—the jury found Tim guilty of Becky's murder on August 11, 2023.

Heath (41:12): "He broke into her house and you shot her. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 times."

Tim was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole and was prohibited from any contact with his children.

Aftermath and Appeal

In November 2024, Tim and his legal team filed an appeal, contesting the admissibility of Becky's pre-murder statements. They argued that these were "irrelevant and inadmissible", aiming to present a jury case without this evidence. However, the appeal was denied, and his sentencing was upheld.

Becky's family expressed profound grief and emphasized the long-term emotional scars left on their children. Her sister, Sarah, criticized Tim for his lack of accountability and continued assertions of innocence.

Sarah (44:09): "Tim will always assert his innocence. He was never able to admit to faults or even compromise in life or marriage prior to this happening."

Conclusion

Heath and Daphne concluded the episode by underscoring the overwhelming evidence against Tim Bleifnik and reflecting on the tragic loss inflicted upon Becky's family. They highlighted the importance of thorough investigations and the devastating impact of domestic violence and custody battles gone awry.

Daphne (46:20): "I think that he truly believes that he is not at fault for this, and that's his own sick and twisted mental illness."

The episode serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities surrounding domestic disputes and the lengths to which individuals might go, emphasizing the critical need for support systems and interventions in such volatile situations.

Notable Quotes:

• Daphne (09:49): "And the burden of the chores and caretaking duties for their sons only worsened when she went back to school."

• Heath (14:25): "He's creating the scenarios so that she'll look like the guilty party."

• Daphne (32:18): "I mean, those say a whole lot."

• Heath (37:58): "Biggest mistake you made at your wedding."

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Disclaimer: This summary is based on the transcript provided and aims to encapsulate the key elements discussed in the podcast episode.