True Crime Garage - Episode: Asha Degree Part 1 (Episode 826) Summary

Release Date: March 5, 2025
Hosts: Nic and the Captain

Introduction

In Episode 826 of True Crime Garage, hosts Nic and the Captain delve deep into the haunting case of Asha Degree, a nine-year-old girl who disappeared on February 14, 2000. The episode is a meticulous exploration of the events leading up to her disappearance, the immediate aftermath, and the ongoing investigation that continues to stir public interest two decades later.

Case Background

Asha Jaquella Degree was born on August 5, 1990, and was the youngest child in the Degree family, residing in Fallston, Cleveland County, North Carolina. Described as timid, quiet, and an excellent student, Asha was also a skilled athlete, excelling in basketball as a point guard.

Timeline of Events on February 14, 2000

Friday, February 11, 2000:
Asha spent her day at her Aunt Keisha's house, enjoying a typical family day.

Saturday, February 12, 2000:
Asha had a challenging day as her undefeated basketball team suffered their first loss. The emotional toll was evident as both Asha and her teammates were visibly upset. Later that night, she attended a sleepover party at her cousin’s house, marking a fun-filled evening with numerous family members.

Sunday, February 13, 2000 (Valentine's Day):

• Morning:
  The Degree family attended church services at Macedonia Baptist Church, followed by a family gathering at Cousin Shalonda Brown's home. Gifts were exchanged, adding to the day's significance as it was also Harold and Aquila Degree's 12th wedding anniversary.

• Evening:
  A severe thunderstorm hit the area around 8:00 PM, causing power outages. The Degrees ensured all doors were locked as both parents worked full-time jobs. Around 2:30 AM, Harold Degree checked on his children, finding Asha and her older brother, O'Brien, asleep. Shortly after, unusual noises suggested Asha might have been moving within her sleep.

• Early Morning, February 14, 2000:
  Asha reportedly left her home quietly, dressed in specific clothing. Despite the locked doors, she was equipped with her house key in her book bag. By 6:30 AM, her mother discovered Asha was missing, prompting an immediate police search.

Discovery of Asha's Belongings

February 17, 2001:
Nearly a year after her disappearance, Asha's book bag was discovered in a tool shed near Highway 18 by Terry Fleming from Precision Grading. The bag contained:

• A black Tweety Bird pocketbook
• Candies from her recent basketball game
• Her house key
• Various clothing items, including a red vest with black trim and a pair of blue jeans with red stripes

Notable Quote:
Nick emphasizes the significance of these items:
"Asha Degree was born August 5, 1990... her house key is irrefutable evidence she had planned to stay long enough to head to school or get something she needed." [02:17]

Eyewitness Accounts and Initial Investigation

Two truck drivers reported seeing a girl matching Asha's description walking south on Highway 18 between 3:30 AM and 4:15 AM. This sighting occurred approximately 1.3 miles from her home, raising suspicions about her intentions and possible reasons for leaving.

Notable Quote:
The Captain reflects on the emotional impact of the case:
"As a parent, you’re still holding out hope... it's crushing." [29:32]

Investigation Developments

2015 Reinvestigation:
A renewed effort was made to uncover new leads, utilizing advanced technology and extensive detective work. This led to a significant breakthrough involving a sighting of Asha entering a dark green 1970s Lincoln Continental Mark 6 or Ford Thunderbird.

2018 Leads:

• Found Items:
  A photograph of an unidentified girl and a children's book, McEll's Pool by Dr. Seuss, were discovered alongside Asha's belongings. However, these items did not belong to Asha, adding layers of mystery to the case.

• Age-Progressed Photos and Rewards:
  In 2020, the FBI released age-progressed images of Asha at 29 years old and increased the reward for information to $45,000, combining local sheriff rewards with federal incentives.

Notable Quote:
Nic discusses the emotional toll on the Degree family:
"Their polygraph results were clear, and there was no evidence whatsoever to indicate this mother or father or child are responsible for Asia's disappearance." [45:33]

Public Outreach and Challenges

Despite extensive investigations and community involvement, key questions remain unanswered:

• Why Did Asha Leave?
  The primary question revolves around Asha’s intentions for leaving her home in the middle of the night, especially given the absence of any known family conflicts or personal issues.

• Handling of Evidence:
  Items found, such as the green marker and wallet-sized photograph, have puzzled investigators and have not clearly linked to any suspects.

• Media and Public Perception:
  The Charlotte Observer’s handling of the case, particularly the placement of Asha's photograph on page 75, has been criticized for not giving the case the prominence it deserves. Additionally, online speculation and unfounded accusations towards the Degree family have complicated the investigation.

Notable Quote:
Colonel expresses frustration with media handling:
"Do you know this girl? They ran the story at the bottom of page 75... it's ridiculous." [39:38]

Ongoing Efforts and Conclusion

The investigation into Asha Degree's disappearance remains active, with law enforcement urging anyone with information to come forward. The case continues to evolve with new leads and persistent community support, embodying the unwavering hope of finding Asha and bringing closure to her family.

Notable Quote:
Nick reinforces the call for public assistance:
"If anybody has any information about Asia Degree, about this case, anything at all, even if you think it's nothing, call it in." [62:30]

Looking Ahead

The episode concludes with a promise of continuing the investigation in Part 2, urging listeners to stay tuned as more information unfolds about Asha Degree's mysterious disappearance.

Key Takeaways:

• Asha Degree's Disappearance: Occurred on February 14, 2000, under mysterious circumstances with scant initial evidence.
• Ongoing Investigation: Renewed efforts have introduced new leads but have yet to solve the case.
• Community and Media Role: Significant community involvement and media coverage are crucial yet have faced criticism for handling aspects of the case.
• Public Appeal: Continual appeals for information highlight the enduring hope and dedication to resolving Asha’s disappearance.

For listeners seeking an in-depth understanding of the case, Episode 826 of True Crime Garage offers a comprehensive overview, setting the stage for Part 2 where further developments are anticipated.