Episode Summary: "Justice Delivered" – This Doesn't Happen to People Like Me

Release Date: April 11, 2025

Introduction

In the gripping final episode of the ten-part true crime series, "This Doesn't Happen to People Like Me," hosted by Mike Boudet of Sword and Scale, listeners are taken through the harrowing conclusion of Tina Lohman's case against Bradley Yawn. This episode, titled "Justice Delivered," delves into the culmination of a brutal crime, the intense courtroom drama, and the profound impact on Tina's family and the community.

The Crime and Investigation

On November 9, 2021, Tina Lohman, a 77-year-old grandmother, encountered Bradley Yawn and his accomplice, Karen Blackledge, on Cook's Lane in Quincy, Illinois. What was supposed to be a routine assistance for Tina’s car trouble turned into a nightmare as Bradley brutally robbed, assaulted, and raped her, leaving the town in shock.

Heidi Lohman, Tina's daughter, recounts the terrifying encounter:

"Yan and his accomplice Karen Blackledge came across 77-year-old Tina Loman on November 9, 2021. She was having car trouble on Cook's Lane. Jan sexually assaulted her as he drove them to her North Bottoms road home. That's where he continued the sexual assault." [02:05]

Despite Tina's willingness to comply, Bradley's actions were violent and senseless, leaving the community and Tina's family seeking answers.

The Trial

Bradley Yawn's trial concluded on July 17, 2023. Throughout the trial, prosecutors presented overwhelming evidence, including photos, videos, and testimonies from medical professionals and Tina's husband. However, a lingering question remained: What was Bradley's motive?

Josh Jones, the prosecutor, highlights the randomness of the act:

"I don't think that I can even put myself in a position to think like he does and try to answer that question." [04:20]

Brandon Yawn maintained his innocence throughout, even representing himself in court. His irrational and incoherent arguments baffled both the court and the observers.

David Adam, a news editor, expressed his confusion:

"Why? What the fuck kind of a social. Life does this guy have?" [03:24]

Despite Bradley's denial, the evidence against him was irrefutable, leading to a unanimous guilty verdict on all counts.

Victim Impact Statements

The heart of the trial lay not just in proving Bradley's guilt but also in conveying the profound loss and trauma experienced by Tina's family. Tina's children and grandchildren took the stage to deliver powerful impact statements, sharing their grief and the lasting scars left by the crime.

Heidi Lohman passionately addressed the court:

"My mom was a wonderful mother, grandmother, great grandmother... Today, I know we cannot hold you accountable for her death in this court, but we all know that you're responsible for her death." [18:10]

Carly Lohman, Tina's granddaughter, shared her anguish:

"685 days since I first heard your name and knew your face... Today means nothing. Nothing miraculous is going to happen and I will feel no peace leaving the courtroom today." [23:05]

Derek Lohman, Tina's son, highlighted systemic failures:

"The real tragedy is the legal system that failed Tina Loman in the first place... Bradley Yawn has proven that he cannot live in a normal society without assaulting others and needs to be removed from society permanently." [20:45]

These statements underscored the emotional toll on Tina's family and the quest for justice.

Sentencing

On September 25, 2023, Bradley Yawn faced sentencing. Prosecutor Josh Jones sought the maximum penalties for each of the crimes committed, cumulatively totaling 130 years. He emphasized the unparalleled brutality of Bradley's actions:

"This is the crime that calls out for that penalty, and this is the defendant that calls out for that punishment." [27:00]

The judge delivered an unexpected verdict, labeling Bradley as the "most reprehensible person" he had encountered in his career and imposing the maximum sentence. Shortly after, an additional 7-year sentence was added for a prior charge, bringing Bradley's total to 137 years in prison.

Josh Jones remarked on Bradley's behavior:

"You are the most reprehensible person I've had in court before me... you're going to be perfect for 130 years in prison." [31:30]

The sentencing marked a significant moment of relief for Tina's family, who had endured nearly two years of legal battles.

Aftermath and Reflections

Despite the sentencing, the ordeal left lasting trauma on Tina's family and the Quincy community. The episode highlights the family's ongoing struggle with loss and the systemic issues that allowed Bradley's release prior to the crime.

Heidi Lohman reflected on personal losses:

"Life has been very different without my grandma... I just hope she knows that she got justice." [38:51]

Carly Lohman discussed changes in her life:

"I don't feel as safe in Quincy. I don't stop to help people as much. I have changed completely." [40:30]

David Adam offered a broader perspective on community safety:

"The world isn't as kind and caring of a place as we once thought that it was... you just can't be as trusting." [41:30]

The episode concludes with a poignant reminder of Tina Lohman's life beyond the tragedy, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and protecting vulnerable members of society.

Mike Boudet sums up:

"Tina Loman's life was so much more than how it ended... This is a cautionary tale. Beware of your surroundings and take reasonable steps to protect yourself and your family." [45:49]

Conclusion

"Justice Delivered" serves as a powerful closure to Tina Lohman's tragic story, highlighting not only the quest for justice but also the profound personal losses endured by her family. It underscores systemic flaws, the randomness of violence, and the enduring impact on a community. The episode invites listeners to reflect on safety, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of justice in the face of unimaginable cruelty.

Notable Quotes:

• Josh Jones [00:10]: "The criminal justice system and trials are not what you see on TV..."

• David Adam [02:05]: "Bradley Yawn robbed Tina Loman. He stole her car, her jewelry, her money and much, much more."

• Carly Lohman [24:16]: "He's nothing but a coward. You're so weak and little that you had to attack a 77-year-old woman to feel like you're something."

• Josh Jones [27:00]: "If any crime deserves 130 years, what crime could it be?"

• Heidi Lohman [40:30]: "I don't go out at night anymore. I will not stop on the side of the road, nor will I help other people on the side of the road."

This summary encapsulates the emotional and procedural journey of Tina Lohman's case, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the events, their aftermath, and the broader implications on justice and community safety.