Podcast Summary: Something Was Wrong – Episode 1/3: WCN Presents: [J.E.] S6 Updates

Release Date: January 16, 2025
Host/Author: Broken Cycle Media | Wondery

Introduction

In the inaugural episode of the docuseries "Something Was Wrong," Broken Cycle Media alongside Wondery delves into the harrowing experiences of J.E. Reich, a journalist, editor, and survivor who has been profoundly impacted by the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and the subsequent stalking and harassment that followed. This episode serves as an update, shedding light on the ongoing quest for justice and the beginning stages of healing.

Background on J.E. Reich and Previous Episodes

J.E. Reich previously shared their traumatic experience related to the 2018 Tree of Life Synagogue shooting in Season 6, Episodes 5 and 6 of "Something Was Wrong." These episodes highlighted the devastating impact of the hate crime on J.E.'s community and the relentless stalking they and their family endured in its aftermath. Despite their courage in speaking out, justice remained elusive as harassment and death threats continued unabated.

The 2018 Tree of Life Synagogue Shooting

J.E. Reich recounts the October 27, 2018, attack at the Tree of Life Synagogue, marking it as the deadliest massacre of Jews on U.S. soil. The episode emphasizes the lingering fears and the urgent need to keep such memories alive to prevent desensitization and ensure accountability.

Unknown Speaker (04:29): "It was the biggest massacre of Jews on US soil in US history. Six months later, there was Poway in California... People barely remember Tree of Life anymore."

Reich adds personal context, highlighting the broader societal impact and the struggle to maintain awareness amidst ongoing social issues like the George Floyd murder and Antoine Rose II's death.

JE Reich (06:42): "He was a young adult who was murdered by a police officer who I believe was acquitted."

The Stalking and Harassment

Following the shooting, J.E. and their family became targets of a persistent and threatening stalker. The harassment included:

• Threatening Messages: The stalker frequently used violent imagery, referencing the Holocaust and specific threats against J.E. and their family.

  JE Reich (07:44): "She fantasized and spoke at length about how she would do it in multiple ways, like cutting my head off."

• Methodical Stalking: The perpetrator meticulously gathered information from public sources, such as J.E.'s Vanity Fair essay, to obtain contact details.

Unknown Speaker (08:24): "We think she read that essay and then figured out my stepfather's office phone number... and then was able to attain his cell phone number."

This relentless harassment led to significant personal and professional disruptions for J.E., including job loss and social isolation.

Investigation and Legal Proceedings

The episode details the prolonged investigation into the stalking case:

• Initial Investigation: After years of harassment, calls resumed in 2022, leading to renewed efforts by authorities.

  JE Reich (16:18): "The calls had ceased for a number of months. They started back up some time in 2022."

• Evidence Gathering: J.E.'s mother installed software on their stepfather's phone to record calls, resulting in 238 recorded calls presented as evidence, though the actual number is likely in the thousands.

• Identification and Arrest: The Miami FBI Field Office eventually identified and arrested the stalker in March 2023, though she was released on bond pending further proceedings.

  JE Reich (25:52): "She did plead guilty. There was overwhelming, hard forensic evidence that did show that these calls were made from her residence."

• Mental Health Assessment: Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations revealed undiagnosed mental health issues, leading to ongoing treatment for the perpetrator.

Emotional and Psychological Impact

J.E. Reich opens up about the profound personal toll the stalking took:

• Isolation and Disassociation: The constant harassment led to numbness and a disconnection from friends and everyday life.

  JE Reich (12:23): "It brought me back to a place of trauma, and I never used that word lightly."

• Anxiety and Health Issues: The stress culminated in severe anxiety and heart-related health problems, exacerbated by the impending legal proceedings.

• Victim Impact Statement: Crafting and delivering this statement was a pivotal moment for J.E., symbolizing a reclaiming of voice and identity.

  JE Reich (30:37): "I'm here in court today, here in front of you, to make my existence absolute."

• Symbolism and Resilience: Personal items, like a cherished necklace, served as symbols of heritage and strength during the court appearance.

  JE Reich (30:31): "There's a necklace that I always wear that my mother gave to me on my b'nai mitzvah... I saw the imprint of that mezuzah on my palm."

Conclusion and Current Status

As of the episode's release, J.E. Reich and their family continue to navigate the complexities of seeking justice and healing from the trauma inflicted by the hate crime and subsequent stalking. While the legal system has taken steps towards holding the perpetrator accountable, the emotional scars remain, underscoring the enduring impact of such crimes on survivors and their communities.

The episode concludes with a poignant reflection on reclaiming one's narrative and the ongoing journey towards healing.

JE Reich (31:22): "I am not victim number three. But I am not an abstract. I'm not an idea."

Notable Quotes

• Unknown Speaker (04:29): "It was the biggest massacre of Jews on US soil in US history. Six months later, there was Poway in California... People barely remember Tree of Life anymore."

• JE Reich (07:44): "She fantasized and spoke at length about how she would do it in multiple ways, like cutting my head off."

• JE Reich (25:52): "She did plead guilty. There was overwhelming, hard forensic evidence that did show that these calls were made from her residence."

• JE Reich (30:37): "I'm here in court today, here in front of you, to make my existence absolute."

• JE Reich (31:22): "I am not victim number three. But I am not an abstract. I'm not an idea."

Final Thoughts

This episode of "Something Was Wrong" offers an unflinching look into the aftermath of a terrorist attack and the relentless pursuit of justice by its survivors. J.E. Reich's story is a testament to resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity, highlighting the prolonged emotional and psychological battles that often follow such traumatic events. Through candid discussions and personal reflections, the episode not only honors the victims but also sheds light on the systemic challenges in addressing hate crimes and supporting survivors.

For more resources and to support the show, visit SomethingWasWrong.com.