Podcast Summary: Into The Dark – Episode 122: The Ogre of Ardennes

Introduction

In Episode 122 of Into The Dark, titled “The Ogre of Ardennes,” host Peyton Moreland delves deep into the chilling true crime story of Monique Olivier and Michelle Fournier. This episode explores their twisted relationship, a series of heinous crimes, and the intricate dynamics that bound them together as serial killers operating in the early 1990s.

Background of Monique Olivier and Michelle Fournier

Peyton sets the stage by introducing Monique Olivier, a French woman freshly divorced from an abusive ex-husband, Andre. Monique felt trapped and fearful of her ex’s potential retaliation even after the divorce. Seeking solace, she responded to a personal ad in a Catholic magazine from Michelle Fournier, a convicted criminal serving time for multiple sexual assaults, including against minors.

“Love can be a conscious choice or action. When you love someone, that means waking up every day and choosing to be there for them intentionally.” [02:05]

Despite Michelle's dark past, Monique found purpose in their correspondence, leading to a rapid and intense emotional bond. Their exchanges quickly evolved from letters to a proposal of marriage, with Michelle promising to eliminate Monique’s abusive ex-husband in exchange for her assistance in fulfilling his own twisted fantasies.

The Formation of a Deadly Partnership

Upon Michelle’s release from prison in October 1986, Monique and Michelle met in person and immediately moved in together in the remote Ardennes region, near the France-Belgium border. Their secluded mansion provided the perfect setting for their gruesome activities, allowing them to operate without immediate suspicion from neighbors.

Rumors suggest Michelle acquired substantial wealth through nefarious means, possibly involving stolen gold from a fellow inmate, enabling them to afford their luxurious residence. However, Michelle failed to honor his promise to kill Andre, leaving Monique disappointed yet still complicit in his further crimes.

“She saw a chance to escape her circumstances in the pages of a Catholic magazine.” [06:30]

The Onset of Murderous Acts

In December 1987, Monique and Michelle embarked on their killing spree. Their method involved premeditated kidnappings under the guise of needing help, often exploiting Monique’s pregnancy to lower the victims’ guard. Their first confirmed murder involved abducting 17-year-old Isabelle Laville, whom Michelle sexually assaulted and murdered.

“She thought he'd assault this poor girl, and Monique liked the idea of him doing it to someone who at least resembled her.” [09:15]

The duo continued their atrocities, targeting young women and girls between the ages of 12 and 21 across France and Belgium. Monique played an active role, sometimes assisting in the assaults or disposing of bodies. Their crimes went undetected for years, partly due to Michelle’s known status as a sex offender and the strategic concealment of evidence on their expansive property.

The Investigation and Capture

Their downfall began in June 2003 when Michelle abducted a 13-year-old girl who managed to escape and alert authorities. The victim provided a description and the license plate of Michelle's van, leading detectives to connect him to multiple unresolved cases. Upon investigation, authorities discovered additional evidence linking both Michelle and Monique to numerous murders, prompting their arrest.

“Michelle ultimately confessed to 11 murders. And he gave the police very specific details about what his victims looked like.” [22:40]

Trial and Conviction

During the trial, Michelle admitted to his crimes and was sentenced to life in prison. Monique, however, mounted a defense claiming she was coerced by Michelle, portraying herself as a victim. Despite her arguments, the court found her equally culpable, attributing her active participation in the murders.

“They each pushed their spouse to be more violent and aggressive than they ever would have been on their own.” [27:30]

Aftermath and Continued Crimes

Even after their convictions, the horrors linked to Monique and Michelle did not cease. Monique continued her deceptive tactics to lure victims, using their son as an accomplice. Tragically, Michelle died in prison in 2021, but Monique faced additional charges posthumously as evidence mounted of further unsolved murders. In 2023, she was convicted of additional counts and received an extended life sentence.

Psychological Dynamics and Public Perception

Mental health evaluations revealed that Monique was highly intelligent, contrary to her claims of manipulation by Michelle. Experts suggested that their partnership was a mutual exacerbation of each other's darkest impulses rather than a one-sided abusive relationship. The public and jurors perceived Monique as equally responsible, dismissing her victim narrative despite her attempts to portray herself as coerced.

“Everyone, including Monique, agrees that she got into a bad relationship, she fell in love with someone dangerous, and she and Michelle both became the worst versions of themselves afterward.” [31:05]

Conclusion

Episode 122 of Into The Dark paints a disturbing portrait of how two individuals can spiral into darkness together, committing unimaginable atrocities. Monique Olivier and Michelle Fournier's story serves as a grim reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the capacity for evil when influenced by a toxic partnership.

“We can only wonder, if Michelle and Monique had never met, how different would both of their lives have looked? How many other lives might have been saved?” [31:20]

Notable Quotes

• “Love can be a conscious choice or action. When you love someone, that means waking up every day and choosing to be there for them intentionally.” – Peyton Moreland [02:05]

• “She saw a chance to escape her circumstances in the pages of a Catholic magazine.” – Peyton Moreland [06:30]

• “She thought he'd assault this poor girl, and Monique liked the idea of him doing it to someone who at least resembled her.” – Peyton Moreland [09:15]

• “Michelle ultimately confessed to 11 murders. And he gave the police very specific details about what his victims looked like.” – Peyton Moreland [22:40]

• “They each pushed their spouse to be more violent and aggressive than they ever would have been on their own.” – Peyton Moreland [27:30]

• “Everyone, including Monique, agrees that she got into a bad relationship, she fell in love with someone dangerous, and she and Michelle both became the worst versions of themselves afterward.” – Peyton Moreland [31:05]

• “We can only wonder, if Michelle and Monique had never met, how different would both of their lives have looked? How many other lives might have been saved?” – Peyton Moreland [31:20]

Final Thoughts

Peyton Moreland masterfully unravels the dark and disturbing narrative of Monique and Michelle, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of their motivations, actions, and the profound impact of their crimes. This episode not only recounts past atrocities but also invites reflection on the nature of love, manipulation, and the human capacity for evil.