Murder With My Husband - Episode 279: The Yacht Slaying - The Murder of Jackie and Thomas Hawks
Release Date: July 28, 2025
Introduction to the Case
In Episode 279 of "Murder With My Husband," hosts Peyton and Garrett Moreland delve into the chilling true crime case of Jackie and Thomas Hawks, a retired couple whose dream of sailing on their luxurious yacht turned into a nightmare. The episode meticulously unpacks the events leading up to their mysterious disappearance, the subsequent investigation, and the eventual revelation of the perpetrators behind their tragic fate.
Background of the Victims: Thomas and Jackie Hawks
Thomas Hawks, a 57-year-old Vietnam War veteran, had dedicated his life to serving his country and community. His career spanned roles as an Air Force security police officer, firefighter, and probation officer. Additionally, Thomas pursued bodybuilding as a passion, reflecting his disciplined and resilient nature. Jackie Hawks, 47, met Thomas in 1986 at a friend's chili cook-off in Arizona. Despite a challenging start—including a motorcycle accident that temporarily left her in a wheelchair—Jackie quickly became the heart of Thomas's life, bringing warmth and stability to his two sons, Ryan and Mat.
Together, Thomas and Jackie epitomized the ideal retired couple, investing their earnings to secure an early retirement. By October 2002, they fulfilled their dream by relocating to Newport Beach, California, and purchasing a $300,000, 55-foot yacht named "Well Deserved." Their idyllic life was defined by sailing adventures along the California coast, symbolizing their hard-earned peace and fulfillment.
Notable Quote:
"We're finally retired, and then you're just like, no, there's no possible way that my dad put an ad out to sell this boat to come be with me." — Peyton Moreland [44:58]
The Sale of the Yacht and Disappearance
As life seemed perfect, a pivotal change occurred in 2004 when Peyton and Garrett Hicknife, Thomas's eldest son, welcomed their first child. The Hawks, eager to spend more time with their growing family in Arizona, decided to sell their prized yacht. By November 10th, an ad placed in a boating magazine caught the attention of Skyler and Jennifer Deleon, a seemingly affluent couple interested in purchasing the vessel.
On November 15th, the Hawks embarked on one final voyage aboard "Well Deserved," intending to showcase the yacht to the Deleons. Shortly after, the couple vanished without a trace, leaving friends and family bewildered. Initial investigations revealed alarming signs: the yacht's dinghy was improperly secured, essential deck tarps were removed, and valuable personal items went missing, suggesting foul play rather than a simple sailing mishap.
Notable Quote:
"It’s like trying to rob a bank now and trying to get away with it." — Garrett Moreland [17:46]
Introduction to Suspects: Skyler and Jennifer Deleon
Skyler and Jennifer Deleon emerged as the primary suspects when discrepancies surfaced during the yacht sale. While Skyler initially portrayed themselves as a financially stable former actor from "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers," deeper investigations uncovered a troubling history. Skyler, grappling with significant debt and a background in armed robbery, was revealed to be involved in money laundering. Their sudden willingness to pay the yacht’s hefty amount in cash raised suspicions about the legitimacy of their intentions.
Further scrutiny revealed that the Deleons had met Thomas and Jackie only eight days before the disappearance and had forged crucial documents to facilitate the purchase, including a power of attorney with alarming discrepancies in signatures. These inconsistencies hinted at coercion or deceit, prompting authorities to intensify their investigation.
Notable Quote:
"This is a massive red flag to police. Why would a couple sign over their power of attorney to someone they had met twice who was buying their boat?" — Peyton Moreland [31:00]
Police Investigation and Uncovering the Truth
The Newport Beach Police, upon receiving the missing persons report, meticulously pieced together the Hawks' last known movements. Surveillance footage from Target linked Jennifer Deleon to the area around the time of the yacht's disappearance, further tightening the case against her and Skyler. DNA evidence collected from the Hawks' abandoned vehicle confirmed Skyler's presence during the critical timeframe, undermining their claims of innocence.
Investigations into the notary involved in the yacht sale exposed fraudulent activities, revealing that Kathleen Harris had backdated and falsified documents for a bribe of $2,000. This revelation was pivotal, demonstrating a deliberate attempt to manipulate legal proceedings and obscure the true nature of the yacht transaction.
The breakthrough came when Alonzo Machine, a supposed witness to the sale, confessed under a deal to testify against Skyler, unveiling the orchestrated plan to murder the Hawks for financial gain. His testimony exposed the involvement of John Fitzgerald Kennedy, a gang member, who played a crucial role in the deception and execution of the crime.
Notable Quote:
"They brutally murdered people." — Garrett Moreland [43:38]
The Trial and Sentencing
The trial unfolded with shocking revelations as the prosecution presented overwhelming evidence against Skyler and accomplices. Alonzo's confession detailed the harrowing events on the yacht, where Thomas and Jackie were forcefully taken, coerced into signing over their assets, and ultimately murdered by being tied to the yacht's anchor and thrown overboard.
Jennifer Deleon, despite being indirectly involved, faced her own trial. Offered immunity in exchange for testimony against Skyler, she chose instead to maintain her innocence, resulting in her conviction and sentencing to two life terms.
Skyler and John F. Kennedy were sentenced to death for their heinous crimes, while Alonzo received 20 years for voluntary manslaughter. The closure seemed near until an unexpected twist emerged.
Notable Quote:
"They brutally murdered people. Stealing from them, and you're telling me they can be reformed? Bull crap." — Garrett Moreland [49:26]
A Twist in the Tale: Skyler’s Confession
While awaiting execution, Skyler Deleon made a surprising confession: the motive behind the Hawks' murder was to fund gender-affirming surgery through a federally funded inmate program in California. This revelation sparked outrage and frustration among the hosts and listeners, questioning the nature of justice and rehabilitation within the prison system.
Despite the gravity of their crimes, Skyler's ability to access resources for personal transformation while incarcerated highlighted perceived disparities in the penal system, leaving victims' families and the public grappling with feelings of unresolved injustice.
Notable Quote:
"And it has nothing to do with gender. But it bothers me that they get to go and live out their dream that they wanted." — Peyton Moreland [47:27]
Hosts' Reflections and Final Thoughts
Peyton and Garrett Moreland concluded the episode by expressing their deep frustration and anger over the case's outcome. The hosts grappled with the emotional weight of the Hawks' loss and the unsettling reality that justice, while served legally, may not align with the emotional closure desired by the victims' families.
They highlighted the complexities of the criminal justice system, debating the balance between punishment and rehabilitation, especially in cases involving severe crimes motivated by personal gain. The episode ended on a somber note, underscoring the lasting impact of such tragedies on all involved.
Notable Quote:
"So freaking annoying. It doesn't feel like justice to me." — Garrett Moreland [51:43]
Conclusion
Episode 279 of "Murder With My Husband" offers a comprehensive and emotionally charged exploration of the Yacht Slaying case. Through detailed narration, insightful analysis, and candid reflections, Peyton and Garrett Moreland shed light on the dark interplay of greed, deception, and the quest for personal fulfillment at the expense of innocent lives. The episode serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring scars left by such crimes and the ongoing struggle for meaningful justice.