My Friend Daisy - Episode 8: Cycle of Violence

Release Date: May 7, 2025

In Episode 8 of My Friend Daisy, titled "Cycle of Violence," host Jenn Swann unpacks the harrowing murder case of 19-year-old Daisy De La O. This episode delves deep into the complexities of intimate partner violence (IPV), the intricacies of the legal battle following Daisy's untimely death, and the broader societal implications of communities turning to social media for justice.

Introduction

The episode opens with the emotional turmoil faced by Claudia Gutierrez, Daisy's mother, as she takes the stand in her son Victor's murder trial. Claudia's testimony provides a poignant glimpse into the personal struggles and systemic challenges surrounding the case.

Background of the Case

Claudia Gutierrez recounts the days leading up to Victor's arrest for Daisy's murder. On February 25, 2021, just two days after Daisy was found dead, Victor disappeared. Claudia describes her frantic efforts to locate her son, leading to a pivotal meeting where she confronts him about Daisy's murder.

Notable Quote:

• Claudia Gutierrez: "At the end of the day, I'm literally a son of a killer." ([22:16])

Key Testimonies and Evidence

Claudia Gutierrez’s Testimony

Claudia narrates her interactions with Victor and Daisy, highlighting the strained relationship and the lack of communication that culminated in tragedy. She details her attempts to reach out to both Victor and Daisy, ultimately leading to her confrontation with Victor.

Notable Quote:

• Claudia Gutierrez: "I didn't take that to be any sort of admission of guilt." ([05:33])

Prosecutor Leslie Hinshaw’s Insights

Leslie Hinshaw, the prosecutor, introduces the concept of an "adoptive admission," interpreting Victor's non-verbal response to Claudia's direct question about Daisy's murder as an implicit confession.

Notable Quote:

• Leslie Hinshaw: "Domestic violence is very, there's a very specific, very much studied cycle of violence that happens with domestic violence victims." ([14:22])

Legal Strategies and Closing Arguments

In her closing argument, Leslie presents compelling DNA evidence and surveillance footage showcasing Victor's suspicious activities post-murder. She meticulously details the violent nature of the crime, emphasizing Victor's premeditation and calculated actions.

Notable Quote:

• Leslie Hinshaw: "Whether he chose to bring the knife with him or whether he saw the knife and chose to pick it up. Those are conscious decisions." ([30:38])

Contrastingly, Defense Attorney A.J. Bain challenges the prosecution's case by questioning the reliability of the DNA evidence and highlighting the absence of direct eyewitnesses. He suggests alternative theories, aiming to cast doubt on Victor's sole culpability.

Notable Quote:

• A.J. Bain: "The defendant committed a first-degree murder when he murdered Daisy De La O. He intended to kill her." ([25:15])

Themes Explored

1. Intimate Partner Violence (IPV): The episode sheds light on the cyclical nature of IPV, illustrating how victims often find themselves trapped in patterns of abuse that are challenging to break.

2. Systemic Failures: Claudia's experience underscores potential gaps in the legal and protective systems, especially concerning minors and victims of domestic abuse.

3. Emotional Toll on Families: The narrative delves into the profound emotional strain on families caught in the aftermath of such tragedies, highlighting the complexities of maternal bonds and betrayal.

4. Role of Social Media: Drawing from the podcast's overarching theme, the episode touches upon how platforms like TikTok can mobilize communities in the pursuit of justice, though this episode focuses more on the courtroom dynamics.

Insights and Reflections

Jen Swann reflects on the multifaceted nature of the case, emphasizing the intersection of personal trauma and systemic challenges. Claudia's wavering testimony and emotional state reveal the deep psychological impacts of such events, both on individuals and their relationships.

Notable Quote:

• Claudia Gutierrez: "If the cops and everything would have done their job properly, my dad would have been in jail. I would have never existed." ([22:25])

The episode also highlights Leslie Hinshaw's dedication to prosecuting IPV and sex crimes, offering listeners an inside look into the motivations and challenges faced by legal professionals in such sensitive cases.

Emotional Highlights

• Claudia's Struggle: Claudia's testimony oscillates between clarity and confusion, showcasing the debilitating effects of trauma.

• Graphic Descriptions of the Crime: Leslie's detailed recounting of the murder, including the 58 stab wounds, adds a visceral layer to the narrative, emphasizing the brutality of the act.

• Motherly Bonds and Betrayal: The contrast between Claudia and Susie's empathetic support underscores the universal pain of mothers dealing with the loss and betrayal of their children.

Conclusion

"Cycle of Violence" offers a compelling and heart-wrenching exploration of Daisy De La O's murder case, weaving together personal testimonies, legal intricacies, and broader societal issues. Through Claudia Gutierrez's poignant narrative and Leslie Hinshaw's prosecutorial insights, the episode paints a comprehensive picture of the challenges in seeking justice amidst cycles of violence. Jen Swann's empathetic storytelling ensures that listeners gain a profound understanding of both the human and systemic elements at play, leaving them contemplating the enduring impacts of such tragedies on individuals and communities alike.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Claudia Gutierrez: "At the end of the day, I'm literally a son of a killer." ([22:16])
• Leslie Hinshaw: "Domestic violence is very, there's a very specific, very much studied cycle of violence that happens with domestic violence victims." ([14:22])
• Leslie Hinshaw: "Whether he chose to bring the knife with him or whether he saw the knife and chose to pick it up. Those are conscious decisions." ([30:38])
• A.J. Bain: "The defendant committed a first-degree murder when he murdered Daisy De La O. He intended to kill her." ([25:15])
• Claudia Gutierrez: "If the cops and everything would have done their job properly, my dad would have been in jail. I would have never existed." ([22:25])

My Friend Daisy continues to unravel the layers of Daisy De La O's tragic story, offering listeners a nuanced perspective on crime, justice, and the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable loss.