Murder With My Husband: Episode 278 - "Caught in the Digital Fence - The Murder of Egypt Covington"
Release Date: July 21, 2025
Hosts: Peyton Moreland and Garrett Moreland
Podcast: OH NO MEDIA’s Murder With My Husband
Description: A true crime podcast exploring the darkest crimes through the lens of a wife who loves true crime and a husband who despises it.
Introduction to the Case
The episode begins with heartfelt greetings from Peyton and Garrett Moreland, setting the stage for another gripping true crime story. Peyton introduces the focus of the episode: the murder of Egypt Covington, a 27-year-old bartender from Belleville, Michigan.
Background of Egypt Covington
Egypt Covington was well-known in her tight-knit community for her vibrant personality and aspirations to become a professional singer. She worked alongside her brother Dwayne at a local pub, earning affection from regular patrons who described her as "a ray of light in their life" (06:23). Despite her promising musical career, Egypt balanced her dreams with her job at the bar to support herself.
The Murder
In June 2017, Egypt's life took a tragic turn. On June 22nd, Egypt was planning for her boyfriend Curtis Meadows to move into her duplex. However, later that night, Curtis decided to stay home, expressing his love to Egypt before she responded with a simple "nighty night." The following morning, Curtis grew increasingly worried when Egypt failed to respond to his texts or calls (02:09). His fears were confirmed when he discovered Egypt lying dead in her kitchen, bound with Christmas tree lights and suffering a gunshot wound to the head (13:32).
Initial Investigation: Suspecting Curtis and Kenny Michalik
Given the absence of forced entry and the context of Egypt's relationship with Curtis, the police initially focused suspicion on Curtis. Despite their complicated history, Curtis was cooperative, passing a polygraph test and providing a solid alibi. However, the investigation took a critical turn when attention shifted to Egypt's ex-boyfriend, Kenny Michalik (24:56). Kenny, ten years older and known for his volatile behavior, had a history of obsessive tendencies towards Egypt. Eyewitness accounts described Kenny’s aggressive actions, including "punching a wall right next to her head" and "shoving Egypt up against a wall at a wedding" (23:24).
Public Activism and Reopening the Case
For nine months, the case remained unsolved, frustrating Egypt's family. Her sister's new girlfriend, Lindsay Brink, a kindergarten teacher with a passion for true crime, spearheaded efforts to pressurize the local police into reopening the investigation (32:07). Lindsay organized online petitions and public protests, eventually compelling the state police to take over the case in 2020. This shift allowed for a more comprehensive examination of the evidence, leading to the exoneration of Kenny Michalik and redirecting suspicion towards other individuals.
Breakthrough with Geofencing Technology
The state police utilized advanced geofencing technology to analyze cell phone data, allowing them to track all devices within the vicinity of Egypt’s home on the night of her murder. This method proved pivotal, identifying a phone from Toledo, Ohio, belonging to Shandon Groom (32:27). Further investigation revealed connections between Shandon, Tim Moore, and Shane Evans, uncovering a plot to rob Egypt's duplex for her neighbors' marijuana supply. Surveillance footage from a nearby gas station showed Shandon’s truck near the crime scene, strengthening the case against him and his accomplices.
Arrests and Legal Proceedings
The use of geofencing technology ultimately led to the arrest of Shandon Groom, Tim Moore, and Shane Evans. Evidence linked them directly to the crime, including DNA from the Christmas lights and corroborating surveillance footage. All three defendants pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, receiving prison sentences ranging from 15 to 55 years (40:35). The case highlighted the crucial role of modern technology in solving crimes that might otherwise remain cold.
Reflections on Technology and Privacy
The episode concludes with a thought-provoking discussion on the balance between privacy and security. Peyton and Garrett debate the ethical implications of using geofencing and cell phone data in criminal investigations. Garrett emphasizes the necessity of such technologies in ensuring justice, stating, “It’s something that saved the case” (45:16). However, they acknowledge the ongoing tension between advancing law enforcement capabilities and protecting individual privacy rights. The hosts ponder the future of such technologies, especially in light of potential changes like Google’s proposed migration of user data away from accessible databases (46:37).
Notable Quotes:
- Peyton Moreland (06:23): "She was kind of a ray of light in their life."
- Garrett Moreland (23:24): "It's a bunch of losers, man. Like, honestly, a bunch of losers."
- Peyton Moreland (27:01): "But you have to have probable cause to get a warrant."
- Garrett Moreland (34:27): "I like this. This is great."
- Peyton Moreland (46:30): “Imagine how frustrating it would be to have your daughter murdered and then have police come to you and be like, well, Google just doesn't want to give us the information.”
Conclusion
The tragic case of Egypt Covington underscores the profound impact of technology in modern criminal investigations. Through persistent public advocacy and technological advancements like geofencing, justice was ultimately served, providing closure to Egypt’s grieving family. However, the episode also raises critical questions about the balance between leveraging technology for safety and safeguarding personal privacy, a dialogue that is increasingly relevant in today’s digital age.
Note: The timestamps referenced correspond to the original transcript provided and are indicative of where the quotes and events occur within the episode.