Something Was Wrong: Indiana Delvey (S22 E10) – Detailed Summary
In the gripping tenth episode of the award-winning docuseries Something Was Wrong, hosted by Tiffany Reese from Broken Cycle Media | Wondery, listeners delve deep into the tumultuous journey of Megan Stoner, a survivor turned perpetrator whose manipulative actions have left a trail of fraud and devastation in Indiana. Released on December 26, 2024, this episode meticulously unpacks Stoner's web of deceit, her legal battles, and the profound impact on her victims and community.
1. Introduction to Megan Stoner's Manipulations
The episode opens with Tiffany Reese recounting previous interactions with Megan Stoner, highlighting her manipulative tendencies and audacious lies aimed at escaping jail time. In the last installment, Stoner engaged in deceitful conversations with Alyssa and Justin from a Facebook group, fabricating stories about financial hardships and even faking the death of a non-existent child to garner sympathy and bail support.
Notable Quote:
Tiffany Reese [04:00]: "These conversations illustrated once again Stoner's manipulation, lies, and next level audacity."
2. Plea Hearing and Sentencing
As anticipation builds, the narrative shifts to Stoner's plea hearing on November 22, 2023. Alyssa, a key figure in the investigation, provides an insider's perspective on the group's anxiety leading up to the hearing, doubting whether Stoner would accept the plea deal or push for a jury trial despite overwhelming evidence against her.
Notable Quotes:
Alyssa [04:18]: "We were all waiting on pins and needles to see what she does. Is she going to take the plea or is she going to request a jury trial?"
Ultimately, Stoner accepts the plea, much to the dismay of her associates who felt the sentence was disproportionately lenient.
Stoner's Reaction:
Megan Stoner [07:06]: "I was absolutely shocked."
3. Alleged Tesla Rental Scams
A central focus of the episode is Stoner's elaborate scam involving multiple Tesla vehicles. Between June 1, 2021, and July 28, 2023, Stoner reportedly drove various Teslas, often flaunting them on social media as gifts from generous donors or symbols of her supposed success. This lavish display raised suspicions within the community, leading to in-depth investigations by individuals like Alex Sort.
Investigative Findings:
Alex [13:22]: "The biggest mystery is how she got these Teslas and where these Teslas came from."
Alex's investigation revealed discrepancies in insurance documents and lease agreements, suggesting Stoner's use of forged information and identity theft to secure these luxury vehicles. This culminated in a lawsuit filed by Mason Motors LLC against Stoner for breach of contract, fraud, and misrepresentation, demanding over $64,618 in damages.
Notable Quote:
Alex [24:02]: "She was scamming and trying to keep up her appearance."
4. Community Impact and Legal Proceedings
The fallout from Stoner's actions extends beyond financial loss, affecting personal relationships and community trust. Alyssa narrates the group's efforts to confront Stoner, leading to legal actions and prolonged court battles. The episode details Stoner's subsequent incarceration periods, probation violations, and the tragic passing of her mother during her legal struggles.
Legal Developments:
Tiffany Reese [25:24]: "On October 28, 2023, Stoner called Alyssa from jail and they discussed the release of the case documents."
Further legal complications emerged with Stoner's probation being revoked due to multiple non-compliance issues, including inappropriate conduct and potential encouragement of fraud among community corrections program participants.
5. Reflections from Alyssa
Alyssa shares her emotional journey, emphasizing the personal toll of Stoner's deceit and the satisfaction of seeing justice served. She highlights the collective effort of the group to expose Stoner's manipulations and the relief felt when the legal system began to hold her accountable.
Notable Quote:
Alyssa [44:15]: "After everything, I feel like this is the icing on top of the cake for me."
6. Ongoing Legal Actions and Final Thoughts
The episode concludes with updates on the ongoing legal actions against Stoner, including efforts to enforce the judgment in Indiana and the challenges Stoner faces in fulfilling her financial obligations. Stoner's own conversations from jail reveal her acknowledgment of the lawsuit and her contemplation of future restitution efforts.
Legal Update:
Tiffany Reese [48:00]: "On July 5, 2024, an order was issued to domesticate foreign judgment for Mason Motors LLC to move the lawsuit from Utah to Indiana."
Alyssa reflects on the enduring impact of Stoner's actions, underscoring the importance of accountability and the healing process for victims.
Conclusion and Upcoming Episode Tease
As the episode wraps up, Tiffany Reese hints at future developments in Stoner's case and the broader implications for fraud victims seeking justice. Listeners are left anticipating the next chapter in this complex saga of deception and redemption.
Upcoming Tease:
Tiffany Reese [46:23]: "Next time on Something Was Wrong... Currently pending."
Final Remarks: Something Was Wrong continues to shed light on the dark corners of human behavior, offering listeners a comprehensive look into the mechanisms of trauma, manipulation, and recovery. This episode serves as a testament to the resilience of victims and the relentless pursuit of truth by those determined to break the cycle of abuse.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- Tiffany Reese [04:00]: "These conversations illustrated once again Stoner's manipulation, lies, and next level audacity."
- Alyssa [04:18]: "We were all waiting on pins and needles to see what she does."
- Megan Stoner [07:06]: "I was absolutely shocked."
- Alex [13:22]: "The biggest mystery is how she got these Teslas and where these Teslas came from."
- Alex [24:02]: "She was scamming and trying to keep up her appearance."
- Alyssa [44:15]: "After everything, I feel like this is the icing on top of the cake for me."
For those intrigued by Megan Stoner's story and the intricate dance of deceit and justice, Something Was Wrong offers an unflinching exploration of one individual's impact on many lives. Stay tuned for more revelations in upcoming episodes.