Kill List: Spokane | Episode 15 – A Detailed Summary

Title: Kill List
Host/Author: Wondery | Novel
Release Date: December 24, 2024
Episode: Spokane | 15

Introduction

In Episode 15 of Kill List, hosted by Carl Miller from Wondery | Novel, listeners delve into the harrowing case of Dr. Ronald Ilgerman. This episode intricately weaves the narrative of a respected neonatologist who, beneath his commendable public persona, orchestrated a dark web-based kidnapping and abuse scheme. Through investigative journalism and personal interviews, the episode unravels the layers of manipulation, control, and the profound impact on the lives his actions touched.

Emily Sugarman's Assignment and Initial Contact

Emily Sugarman, a senior reporter at the Daily Beast, receives an assignment from her editor to investigate a sensational story featured in the Spokane Spokesman Review. The headline reads: "Spokane Doctor Accused of Attempted Kidnapping in Dark Web Bitcoin Scheme." Intrigued by the contrast between Ron Ilgerman's respectable standing and the shocking allegations, Emily decides to pursue the story.

Emily Sugarman [00:38]:
"It said Spokane County Jail on my phone. And I was like, is this what I think it is?"

Emily's initial skepticism turns into determination as she uncovers Ron's dual life.

Unmasking Ron Ilgerman

Ron Ilgerman, known publicly as a dedicated neonatologist and a volunteer for children's charities, appears to embody the ideals of a compassionate medical professional. However, behind this façade, Ron is implicated in a disturbing plot involving the dark web and a "kill list" of intended victims.

Emily Sugarman [02:17]:
"He was a neonatologist. He was pretty high up in the practice. You know, he volunteered for children's charities. And from the outside, you know, just seemed so kind of like a typical guy."

This revelation prompts Emily to delve deeper into understanding the psyche of someone capable of such heinous actions.

The First Call: A Glimpse into Manipulation

While Emily is at the gym, she receives an unexpected call from Ron Ilgerman, who is incarcerated at Spokane County Jail. This interaction marks the beginning of a complex relationship characterized by Ron's attempts to manipulate and charm.

Ron Ilgerman [06:39]:
"Let me know if you can't hear me because I can wander around in my cell a little bit and try to get better reception."

During their 15-minute conversation, Ron presents himself as a misunderstood individual seeking to share his side of the story, attempting to cast doubt on the prosecution's narrative.

Emily Sugarman [07:36]:
"Imagine you're me getting this call from a guy who has some incredibly damning evidence against him in court. Anybody else would be telling me just, you need to speak to my lawyer."

Ron’s demeanor and statements reveal his calculated approach to influence Emily, positioning himself as a victim rather than an abuser.

Unveiling the Abuse and Dark Web Activities

As Emily investigates further, testimonies from Ron’s victims, including his estranged wife Jennifer and another woman named Amanda, emerge. Jennifer reveals the extent of Ron's abusive behavior, masked under the guise of a consensual BDSM relationship.

Jennifer [04:11]:
"He wanted me to call him sir all the time, and then he'd get frustrated if I didn't want to do certain things that he requested me to do."

Amanda also shares her traumatic experience, recounting how Ron threatened to leave her in a septic tank for hours.

Jennifer [04:20]:
"There's like a septic tank thing in his yard. She said that he put her down in there and put the top on, threatening to leave her in there for hours."

These accounts paint a grim picture of Ron's manipulative and abusive nature, starkly contrasting his public image.

The Guilty Plea and Emergence of Izzy

In August 2022, Ron Ilgerman pleads guilty to the charges, signaling an acceptance of his actions, yet not without ulterior motives. During this period, Ron introduces Izzy, a new woman who becomes entwined in his manipulative schemes.

Emily Sugarman [18:08]:
"So, okay, wherever you are right now, sounds pretty good."

Izzy, who has her own history of trauma and abusive relationships, becomes a target for Ron’s continued manipulation. Through persistent phone calls and letters, Ron leverages Izzy’s vulnerabilities to maintain control and influence.

Emily Sugarman [20:23]:
"She told me, you know, well, if someone cared enough to do that for me, try to kidnap and torture me to get me back, I would be flattered by that."

Manipulation Through Izzy: Letters and Online Campaigns

Ron orchestrates a campaign to rehabilitate his image and influence his sentencing through Izzy. He encourages Izzy to start a YouTube channel, presenting a distorted narrative of his innocence and downplaying his abusive behavior.

Ron Ilgerman [21:42]:
"I am Izzy. I am Izzy. I am Izzy."

Through letters and online content, Ron attempts to sway public perception and the judicial system, manipulating Izzy into becoming a conduit for his continued influence.

Ron Ilgerman [21:59]:
"Baby daughter, Spokane hit to hire, dark web, kidnapping, all that big story that went and well, he is my best friend."

These actions not only perpetuate Ron's manipulative tactics but also further entrench Izzy in his web of control.

Sentencing Hearing: Exposing True Intentions

As the sentencing date approaches, the prosecution uncovers seven letters Ron wrote to Izzy, showcasing his lack of remorse and continued manipulative intent. These letters become crucial in solidifying the prosecution's case for a harsher sentence.

Prosecutor Richard Barker [32:57]:
"In some of the letters, he's attempting to use this case to get more attention. He wants to do interviews with Dateline. He wants to get on TV and just draw more attention to his poor victims."

During the sentencing hearing, Ron's statement intended to convey remorse quickly devolves into self-serving rhetoric, revealing his true nature.

News Reporter [34:54]:
"This is going to be very difficult for me. What I did was horrible. The messages I wrote were I can't even and wrap my mind around what I did. I truly can."

Despite moments that appear genuine, Jennifer and the prosecution recognize the underlying manipulation and disingenuousness in Ron's demeanor.

Jennifer [35:09]:
"I cried because I was shocked and I thought, wow, he actually admitted to it and called it, you know, horrendous."

Ultimately, the judge sentences Ron Ilgerman to eight years in prison, the maximum allowed, underscoring the severity of his crimes and lack of genuine remorse.

Reflections on Domestic Abuse and Manipulation

Post-sentencing, Emily Sugarman and Carl Miller reflect on the broader implications of Ron's case, highlighting the intricate dynamics of domestic abuse and the potent combination of public persona and personal manipulation.

Emily Sugarman [38:23]:
"What Jennifer was saying was very scary. And the fact that he was allowed to continue following her, stalking her, until the FBI got notified that there was a possibility dark web hitmen plot, I find that very striking."

The episode emphasizes how abusers like Ron exploit their status and manipulate vulnerable individuals, making it challenging for victims to escape and for authorities to intervene promptly.

Carl Miller [39:54]:
"Where does Ron's power, the power of abusers, come from? It can seem so strange that anyone could fall for a guy like Ron and stand by him. And one part of the answer is who? Ron is. A careful, calculated manipulator with influence, intelligence, and money. But according to Emily, it's also down to something else."

Emily underscores the role of victim vulnerability in abusers' pervasive control, illustrating how the quest for love and acceptance can lead individuals to overlook red flags.

Conclusion: The Lingering Threat and Ongoing Vigilance

The episode concludes by highlighting that Ron Ilgerman's story is far from over. With his scheduled release in September 2027, there are concerns about his continued manipulative tendencies, evidenced by his creation of a profile on a prisoner dating website.

Carl Miller [40:55]:
"News Reporter: I used to work as a doctor and loved helping with community outreach. I keep a positive attitude. I'm a Christian and people describe me as a nice guy. I'm an open person, so feel free to ask me anything. I look forward to getting to know you."

Kill List underscores the importance of vigilance and the need to address the underlying issues that empower abusers, ensuring that victims receive the protection and support they deserve.

Final Thoughts

Episode 15 of Kill List masterfully blends investigative reporting with personal narratives to shed light on the complex dynamics of abuse and manipulation. Through Emily Sugarman's relentless pursuit of the truth and Carl Miller's insightful commentary, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of how abusers like Ron Ilgerman can maintain control and the critical importance of recognizing and addressing abusive behaviors early on.