Podcast Summary: True Crime Obsessed – Episode 405: "Family Secrets: The Disappearance of Alissa Turney"

Introduction

In Episode 405 of "True Crime Obsessed," hosts Patrick Hines and Julia Bezzavalis delve deep into the mysterious and tragic disappearance of Alissa Turney. This episode unravels the complex family dynamics, systemic oversights, and enduring quest for justice that has spanned over two decades.

Background: The Final Day

The story begins on May 17, 2001, in Phoenix, Arizona. Alissa Turney, a 16-year-old high school junior, vanished on what was supposed to be a memorable end-of-year celebration.

• Sarah Turney recounts Alissa's last day:

  "Alyssa, do not leave the building whatsoever." ([03:19])

Alissa had spent the day at a water park with friends, a tradition that schools in Phoenix occasionally adopt to celebrate the end of the school year.

The Disappearance: A Heartbreaking Note

Upon returning home, Sarah and her father discovered alarming signs in Alissa's room.

• Characterizing the scene:

  "Everything in her backpack was dumped all over the floor. There's a note and her cell phone is next to the note." ([05:27])

• Alissa's poignant farewell:

  "Dad and Sarah, when you dropped me off at school today, I decided that I really am going to California. Sarah, you didn't want me around. Look, you got it. I'm gone, dad. That's why I saved my money. I took $300 from you, Alyssa." ([05:43])

This note suggested Alissa's intent to start anew in California, leaving behind unresolved tensions within her family.

Family Dynamics: Isolation and Control

Central to Alissa's disappearance is the abusive behavior of her father, Mike Turney. The household was rife with tension, manipulation, and overbearing control.

• Mike's obsession:

  "He was planting seeds. Alyssa's bad. Alyssa's crazy. Alyssa's unreliable. You can't trust a word she says." ([16:57])

• Parental neglect and overcontrol:

  • The family was a blended unit with six children, leading to strained relationships.
  • Sarah often felt overshadowed and burdened by the need to maintain household order in the absence of their mother.
  • Home video footage revealed Mike's intrusive nature, constantly monitoring and documenting the children's lives.

Systemic Failures: Labeling and Neglect

Despite Alissa being a minor, law enforcement's categorization of her as a "runaway" led to minimal intervention.

• Lack of police engagement:

  "They mark her as a runaway. But they do not come visit the house, they do not come speak to my father." ([06:44])

This oversight highlighted systemic flaws in handling such cases, especially concerning minors.

Inheritance of the Case: Reopening Old Wounds

Years later, in 2008, Detective William Anderson took over Alissa's case. His investigation shed new light on suspicious activities surrounding Mike Turney.

• Suspicious phone call:

  "There's this phone call at 5 in the morning. It's red flaggy." ([19:46])

• Mike's behavior questioned:

  "He introduced himself as former law enforcement. He's so happy that we're paying attention to this." ([41:26])

Detective Anderson noted inconsistencies in Mike's narrative and his reluctance to provide crucial evidence.

Arrest and Acquittal: A Twist of Fate

In August 2020, Mike Turney was arrested for possessing multiple pipe bombs and his disturbing manifesto.

• Courtroom developments:

  "Rule 20, Motion for Judgment acquittal. He will be released." ([86:36])

Due to the absence of Alissa's body and other critical evidence, the court acquitted Mike on charges related to her disappearance, leaving many questions unanswered.

Sarah Turney's Journey: From Defender to Seeker of Truth

Initially a staunch supporter of her father, Sarah Turney underwent a profound transformation upon confronting the grim realities of her family life.

• Realization of abuse:

  "I had to take the power back. It all stops here." ([93:12])

• Launching "Voices for Justice":
  Sarah began a podcast to amplify the voices of families affected by similar tragedies, striving to prevent generational abuse and systemic neglect.

Conclusion: Unanswered Questions and Ongoing Pursuit

The episode underscores the enduring impact of familial abuse and systemic deficiencies in addressing such deeply rooted issues. Sarah's relentless pursuit of truth and justice serves as a beacon for other families grappling with similar heartbreaks.

Notable Quotes:

• Sarah Turney on forgiveness:

  "Sarah forgives her younger self. None of this is her fault." ([06:09])

• Detective Anderson on procedural flaws:

  "I've never seen a single other case where a teenager had a cell phone and would do that." ([40:00])

• Sarah's affirmation:

  "This was the first moment she considered that her father wasn't telling the truth." ([77:08])

Final Thoughts

Episode 405 of "True Crime Obsessed" masterfully combines personal narratives, investigative insights, and emotional depth to present a compelling case study on the complexities of familial relationships and the quest for justice. Through Sarah Turney's unwavering determination, listeners are reminded of the profound effects of truth-seeking and the importance of systemic accountability.