Podcast Summary: "Simeonette Mapes-Crupi // 519" – Going West: True Crime
Episode Details:
- Title: Simeonette Mapes-Crupi // 519
- Release Date: July 11, 2025
- Hosts: Daphne Woolsoncroft and Heath Merryman
- Produced by: Dark West Productions
Introduction
In Episode 519 of Going West: True Crime, hosts Daphne Woolsoncroft and Heath Merryman delve into the harrowing case of Simeonette Mapes-Crupi, a 29-year-old beloved school teacher whose mysterious and brutal murder shook Staten Island. The hosts set the stage by expressing their disbelief and frustration over the senselessness of the crime, promising an in-depth exploration of the events leading up to and following Simeonette's untimely death.
Background: Simeonette's Life and Relationships
Simeonette Mapes-Crupi, born on September 25, 1982, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, was a dedicated educator with deep roots in Staten Island's close-knit Italian community. She excelled academically, graduating with honors from Fort Hamilton High School and pursuing her passion for teaching special needs children.
Her family described a strong sibling bond with her older brother, John, and a supportive relationship with her parents, Teresa and John. Simeonette's move to Staten Island was a dream come true, allowing her to connect with extended family and build a fulfilling career. Her engagement and subsequent marriage to Jonathan Croupy marked the pinnacle of her personal life, with Simeonette often praised for her selflessness and dedication both at home and at school.
Notable Quote:
"Cissy was my wife's best friend, her confidant, her life compass."
— John Mapes ([43:23])
The Fateful Day: July 5, 2012
On July 4, 2012, Simeonette and Jonathan celebrated Independence Day with family. The following day, Jonathan returned home to find Simeonette murdered in their Staten Island residence. Initially reported as a home invasion, several inconsistencies raised red flags:
- Staged Crime Scene: Despite claims of a robbery, valuable items like checkbooks, credit cards, cash, and Simeonette's engagement ring remained untouched.
- Contradictory Evidence: The only open door showed no signs of forced entry, and burner phone calls coupled with incriminating Google searches suggested premeditation.
- Jonathan's Behavior: Described as numb and calm during questioning, Jonathan's alibi was quickly dismantled by security footage and phone records.
Notable Quote:
"This sentence was like a hammer of an exclamation mark."
— John Mapes ([43:23])
Investigation Unfolds
Detectives began uncovering Jonathan's deceitful life:
- Infidelity Exposed: Jonathan had been secretly seeing a sex worker known as "Miss Pumpkin" for over two years, using burner phones to arrange clandestine meetings.
- Staged Alibi: Despite claiming to be running errands, phone records showed Jonathan was at a motel meeting Miss Pumpkin at the time Simeonette was murdered.
- Evidence Tampering: Jonathan was seen with a gym bag containing a burner phone and his school laptop, which linked him to the crime scene as he had to move Simeonette's body to hide the bag.
Notable Quote:
"And you like, ugh. I'm down to earth and easygoing, but I have a side to me that is very spiritual as well. I am an innocent man with some very promising opportunities on the horizon."
— Jonathan Croupy ([47:21])
Psychological Profile and Motive
The hosts discuss the psychological turmoil that likely led Jonathan to commit the murder:
- Financial and Career Struggles: Jonathan lied about his teaching certification and struggled to maintain his career, relying heavily on Simeonette's support.
- Emotional Betrayal: Simeonette had discovered Jonathan's infidelity months before her death and was contemplating leaving him.
- Crime of Passion: The combination of deceit, financial strain, and the threat of losing his wife likely drove Jonathan to a violent outburst.
Notable Quote:
"He is a cheater, but he's not a murderer."
— Heath Merryman ([40:45])
Trial and Conviction
After a prolonged investigation and mounting evidence—including DNA evidence and Jonathan's incriminating online searches—Jonathan was arrested on November 13, 2012. The trial revealed the depth of his deceit and lack of remorse:
- Prosecutor’s Stance: Emphasized Jonathan's double life and the emotional devastation inflicted on Simeonette and her family.
- Defense's Weaknesses: Despite attempts to create reasonable doubt, the overwhelming evidence led to a swift conviction.
- Sentencing: In September 2015, Jonathan was sentenced to 25 years to life, the maximum sentence, reaffirming his guilt.
Notable Quote:
"There is one thing I cannot apologize for. I did not kill her. I am an innocent man."
— Jonathan Croupy ([44:44])
Aftermath and Reflections
The episode concludes with reflections on the impact of Simeonette's loss:
- Family's Grief: John Mapes shares a poignant letter read in court, highlighting the irrevocable damage caused by Jonathan’s actions.
- Legacy of Simeonette: Remembered as a compassionate teacher who bridged divides among her students, Simeonette's influence persists despite her tragic end.
- Jonathan's Regret: Even years into his incarceration, Jonathan maintains his innocence, further aggravating Simeonette's family.
Notable Quote:
"Simonette's family will never be the same."
— John Mapes ([43:23])
Conclusion
Daphne and Heath wrap up the episode by emphasizing the cruelty and calculated nature of Jonathan's actions, contrasting it with Simeonette's selfless life. They express their sorrow for the family and reaffirm the importance of seeking justice for victims of such heinous crimes.
Final Thoughts:
"He is stepping out on his incredible wife constantly, and they've only been married for a few years. He is lying about getting a teaching certification... he murders her like, bro."
— Daphne Woolsoncroft ([36:46])
Key Takeaways:
- Deception Leads to Tragedy: Jonathan's web of lies and infidelity culminated in the brutal murder of his supportive and loving wife, Simeonette.
- Impact of Hidden Lives: The case underscores the devastating effects that deceit and hidden lives can have on loved ones.
- Justice Served: Despite attempts to fabricate an alibi and downplay his actions, Jonathan was held accountable, ensuring that Simeonette's legacy remains untarnished.
Closing Remarks: Daphne and Heath thank listeners for tuning in and encourage support for Daphne's debut thriller novel, Night Watcher. They invite listeners to stay engaged for future episodes, promising more gripping true crime stories.
Notable Quote:
"This murderer cannot be among good people ever. He will do this again if given the chance."
— John Mapes ([43:23])
This comprehensive summary captures the essence of Episode 519, highlighting the key moments and emotional depth of the Simeonette Mapes-Crupi case. For those seeking a detailed understanding without listening to the full episode, this summary serves as an informative and engaging overview.