Podcast Summary: "The Suitcase Suffocation //493" – Going West: True Crime
Podcast Information:
- Title: Going West: True Crime
- Hosts: Daphne Woolsoncroft and Heath Merryman
- Episode: The Suitcase Suffocation //493
- Release Date: April 11, 2025
Introduction to the Case
In episode 493 of Going West: True Crime, hosts Daphne Woolsoncroft and Heath Merryman dive deep into the harrowing case of George Torres Jr., a 42-year-old Florida man who was tragically murdered by his longtime girlfriend, Sarah Boone. This case is marked by intricate relationship dynamics, disturbing evidence, and a courtroom drama that left many listeners shocked.
Background of George and Sarah
George Torres Jr.
Born on February 13, 1978, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, George was one of ten siblings. He married his first wife, Dolores, with whom he had three children. After a 14-year marriage marked by no reported violence, George moved to Winter Park, Florida, to start anew following his second divorce.
Sarah Boone
Sarah, originally from Atlanta, faced early family tragedies, losing her grandfather, father, mother, and grandmother by her early twenties. She married Brian Boone in 2004, with whom she had a son, Lucas. Their 13-year marriage deteriorated due to Sarah's alcoholism and erratic behavior, leading to their divorce in 2017.
The Toxic Relationship Between George and Sarah
Approximately ten months post-divorce, Sarah met George at a bar. They quickly formed a relationship, but it was fraught with violence and manipulation. As Daphne notes, "There was so much he said, she said," with numerous texts revealing Sarah's racist and threatening language towards George and his family.
Notable Quote:
Daphne [02:11]: "There’s so much he said, she said, but also a lot of concrete evidence in the form of videos that we will absolutely be playing."
The Fateful Day: February 23, 2020
On February 23, 2020, Sarah and George spent the day engaging in seemingly normal activities like drinking wine, painting, and playing hide and seek. However, their day took a dark turn when George began playing a dangerous joke.
Key Event: Sarah claims they were playing hide and seek, and George, weighing 103 pounds, fit himself into a large suitcase. Sarah alleges she fell asleep, forgetting George was inside, leading to his suffocation from positional asphyxia. However, body cam footage and Sarah's own texts contradicted her account, revealing her mocking George's pleas for help.
Notable Quote:
Heath [32:06]: "Sarah, for everything you've done to me. Sarah, for everything you've done to me."
Investigation and Evidence
After George was found dead the next morning, Sarah delayed calling 911 and instead contacted her ex-husband, Brian Boone, who urged her to report the incident. Police investigations uncovered a trove of damning evidence, including:
- Text Messages: Revealing Sarah's abusive language towards George and his family.
- Body Cam Footage: Showing Sarah prioritizing personal comforts over attending to George's pleas.
- Videos: Recorded by Sarah, depicting George's desperate attempts to be freed from the suitcase while Sarah taunted him.
Notable Quote:
Heath [31:31]: "It's actually insane not only that she recorded this, but that they are out there and available for us to watch."
Trial Proceedings and Conviction
Sarah Boone's trial was marred by complications, including her cycling through nine attorneys and delays caused by COVID-19. Prosecutor William J. Told argued that Sarah's actions were premeditated and maliciously intended to punish George.
Jury Verdict: After a swift 90-minute deliberation, the jury unanimously convicted Sarah of second-degree murder on October 25, 2024. She was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole on December 2, 2024.
Notable Quote:
Heath [52:26]: "And on December 2, 2024, a little over a month later, she was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole."
Sarah Boone's Statement and Appeal
Following her conviction, Sarah delivered a 20-minute statement to the court, absolving herself of responsibility and blaming George and his family for her actions. Her statements were characterized by the hosts as lacking accountability and rife with narcissism.
Notable Quote:
Daphne [53:13]: "I want to say that she was correct as far as us not liking her, and she should have stated that she didn't like us either, because that is very much correct as well."
Sarah's appeal process commenced a few months post-sentencing, indicating her intent to contest the conviction.
Impact and Reflections
The case highlights the complexities of abusive relationships and the challenges in discerning truth amidst conflicting narratives. George's family vehemently defended his character, portraying Sarah as the sole aggressor despite evidence of mutual abuse.
Notable Quote:
Daphne [39:57]: "At some point, somebody gets enough, then they have to do something to defend themselves."
Conclusion
"The Suitcase Suffocation" episode of Going West: True Crime meticulously unpacks a tragic tale of love, abuse, and betrayal. Through detailed examinations of evidence, personal testimonies, and courtroom drama, Daphne and Heath provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the events leading to George Torres Jr.'s untimely death and Sarah Boone's subsequent conviction.
Notable Quote:
Teeth [58:43]: "What a wild story. I mean it was so senseless and so tragic all the way around."
Further Resources: For listeners interested in delving deeper, Going West: True Crime plans to share text transcripts and photos related to the case on their social media platforms. However, due to the sensitive nature of the content, particularly the disturbing videos, hosts advise discretion.
Contact Information: To suggest cases or provide tips, listeners can reach out via email at goingwestpodcastmail.com.