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Mom Confesses To Watching Daughter Get Dismembered & Got Turned On By It - Now Claims False Confession

By Stephanie Soo & Ramble

In this episode of Rotten Mango, the disturbing case of Victoria Martens' murder is explored, centering around the controversial confession of her mother, Michelle Martins. The summary details the interrogation tactics used to elicit Michelle's confession, which her attorney claims were overly coercive.

Inconsistencies between the suspects' accounts and physical evidence are examined, leading to speculation about what truly happened to Victoria. The legal aftermath and sentencing of the three suspects, Jessica Kelley, Fabian Gonzales, and Michelle Martins, are discussed, as well as the involvement of Victoria's family and authorities.

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Mom Confesses To Watching Daughter Get Dismembered & Got Turned On By It - Now Claims False Confession

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Mom Confesses To Watching Daughter Get Dismembered & Got Turned On By It - Now Claims False Confession

1-Page Summary

The False Confession and Interrogation Tactics

Michelle Martins claimed her confession was false, elicited by coercive questioning, Stephanie Soo says. Detectives used leading tactics like a nurturing tone while pressing Michelle, described as a people-pleaser with low intelligence susceptible to false confessions under pressure.

Critics say interrogators seemed to follow an "instruction manual" for eliciting false confessions. However, Soo notes detectives may have shown restraint given the case's monstrous nature. Still, Michelle's attorney alleged the tactics were overly leading.

The Conflicting Accounts and Evidence

The investigation revealed contradictions between suspects' accounts and evidence. Jessica blamed an unknown assailant, but Michelle implicated Jessica and Fabian. Fabian witnessed dismemberment but denied involvement, Soo says.

No [restricted term] was found in Victoria's system despite claims. Cell data suggested alibis for Fabian and Michelle, contradicting their statements. Victoria's autopsy showed signs of sexual assault by multiple perpetrators before her murder.

The Theories About What Actually Happened To Victoria

Online speculation implicates Jessica and an unknown male drug dealer in Victoria's murder and dismemberment, based on Jessica's behavior and her claim of an assailant, Soo explains.

Some theorize Jessica sold Victoria for drugs, leading to her assault or killing Victoria to cover it up. Opinions differ on Michelle and Fabian's responsibility despite their troubled histories, though most doubt their direct involvement.

Though doubts surrounded Michelle's confession, the three suspects were convicted, Soo says. Michelle received 12 years, Fabian 37.5 years for child abuse resulting in death and related charges. Jessica got 44 years.

The punishments drew public outcry for leniency given the crime's severity and the deceased child escalating charges.

Involvement and Actions of Victoria's Family and Authorities

Victoria's grandparents sued, claiming authorities failed to protect her despite abuse reports, though some criticized them too, according to Soo.

The decision to accept Michelle's confession despite contradictory evidence is seen as a misguided attempt to quickly "solve" the case. The DA's charge downgrade and false confession claim are viewed as efforts to avoid further scrutiny of investigation flaws.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Actionables

  • You can educate yourself on interrogation techniques by reading about the Reid technique and its alternatives to understand the dynamics of police questioning. This knowledge can help you critically evaluate news stories or legal cases involving confessions. For example, you might read "Criminal Interrogation and Confessions" by Fred E. Inbau et al., which outlines the Reid technique, and then compare it with "The Psychology of Interrogations and Confessions: A Handbook" by Gisli Gudjonsson, which offers a critical perspective.
  • Start a book club focused on true crime and legal system analysis to foster community learning and awareness. Each month, select a book or a series of articles that delve into criminal justice topics, such as false confessions, evidence analysis, or the impact of public opinion on legal cases. This could lead to informed discussions on cases like the one from the podcast, enhancing your critical thinking skills in a social setting.
  • Volunteer with organizations that work to prevent wrongful convictions to contribute to real-world solutions. By supporting groups like The Innocence Project or your local legal aid society, you can help address issues like those presented in the case. Activities might include fundraising, spreading awareness through social media, or participating in community events that aim to educate the public about the justice system's complexities.

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Mom Confesses To Watching Daughter Get Dismembered & Got Turned On By It - Now Claims False Confession

The False Confession and Interrogation Tactics

Michelle Martins claimed that her confession was false, raising questions about the interrogation tactics used by detectives that could have led to her coerced admission of guilt.

Michelle's Confession Was Likely False, Elicited by Coercive Questioning

Stephanie Soo and others express concern over the possibility that the interrogation environment, combined with Michelle's personality traits and the specific tactics used by police, may have resulted in a false confession.

Interrogation Tactics Used by Detectives on Michelle

Michelle Martins underwent a police interrogation where tactics employed by detectives are scrutinized. Soo describes the questioning where officers used a nurturing tone with a female officer holding Michelle's hand, pressing her for details about the gruesome events. Michelle's story varied multiple times, from initially claiming no knowledge of the circumstances leading to her daughter Victoria's death to later changing her statements about witnessing events or assuming Victoria was asleep.

Detectives re-entered the room multiple times, sometimes appearing angry, pushing Michelle for details about the sexual assault. They were described as employing leading questions, disbelieving her actions immediately after the event, such as making dinner, and pressing for specific information about what transpired.

Michelle, a People-Pleaser With Low Intelligence, Is Vulnerable to False Confessions

Michelle’s attorney and some who knew her argue that her low intelligence and her status as a people-pleaser may have made her particularly susceptible to giving a false confession. She was described as "very simple-minded," with an IQ around 90. Soo points out personality traits and situational factors, such as high levels of anxiety, low self-esteem, and being in a high-stress environment, such as an interrogation room for many hours, which could indeed make someone more likely to falsely confess under pressure.

Interrogation Tactics Criticized As Overly Leading, Potentially Compromising Michelle's Confession Validity

Observers and legal experts criticize the interrogation tactics as overly leading, potentially compromising the validity of Michelle's confession.

Detectives Used an "Instruction Manual" for a False Confession, Others Say They Showed Restr ...

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The False Confession and Interrogation Tactics

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The interrogation tactics used by detectives on Michelle included employing a nurturing tone, holding her hand, pressing for details about the events, re-entering the room multiple times, appearing angry, using leading questions, disbelieving her actions, and pressing for specific information about the circumstances surrounding the case.
  • False confessions occur when individuals admit to crimes they did not commit. Factors like prolonged interrogations, coercive tactics, low intelligence, anxiety, and high-stress environments can make someone vulnerable to giving a false confession. Understanding these factors is crucial in evaluating the validity of confessions and ensuring justice in legal proceedings.
  • Coercive interrogation tactics can raise concerns about the reliability of confessions in court. If a confession is obtained through coercion, it may be deemed invol ...

Counterarguments

  • Detectives may argue that their interrogation tactics are standard procedure and are designed to uncover the truth, not to coerce false confessions.
  • It could be argued that variations in Michelle's story were due to her trying to conceal her guilt rather than being a result of coercive interrogation tactics.
  • Law enforcement professionals might assert that the presence of multiple officers and the use of different tones (nurturing or angry) are part of a good-cop/bad-cop strategy intended to build rapport and elicit truthful responses.
  • Some may contend that an IQ of around 90, while below average, does not necessarily imply that an individual cannot understand the situation or is incapable of providing a valid confession.
  • Legal experts might argue that leading questions can sometimes be necessary to clarify details when a suspect is being vague or evasive.
  • It could be suggested that the Albuquerque Police Department's declaration of the confession as false was based on new evidence or insights, ra ...

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Mom Confesses To Watching Daughter Get Dismembered & Got Turned On By It - Now Claims False Confession

The Conflicting Accounts and Evidence

The investigation of Victoria Martens's death reveals a complex mix of contradictions and unclear evidence, with accounts from suspects Jessica, Fabian, and Michelle casting doubt on each other's statements and their relationship to the crime.

Suspects' Accounts Contradicted and Were Inconsistent With Evidence

Jessica Blamed an Unknown Assailant; Fabian Witnessed Her Dismember the Body but Denied Involvement

Jessica detailed a narrative involving a well-dressed Mexican man who allegedly committed the violent assault and murder due to a debt owed by her cousin, and threatened her life if she told anyone. Alternatively, Jessica was overheard suggesting she was not involved in the murder but was present for its aftermath. Conversely, Michelle recounted a story implicating Jessica and Fabian in the act of dismembering Victoria. Michelle's whereabouts at the time of the crime were also inconsistent with her initial interrogations, as cell data showed that she was not home.

Lack of [restricted term] in Victoria’s System and Alibis for Fabian and Michelle Cast Doubt On Suspects' Statements

There was no [restricted term] found in Victoria's system, despite initial claims of [restricted term] overdose by Michelle. Additionally, evidence indicated that Fabian and Michelle might not have been present at the time of Victoria's death, with alibis supported by cell data. Fabian's accounts were also contradictory; he professed his and Victoria's mutual love and claimed ignorance of the crime, despite admitting to witnessing Jessica's horrifying actions and receiving threats from her.

Autopsy: Victoria Sexually Abused Before Death; Timing, Circumstances Unclear

Victoria's Body Had Perimortem Trauma and an STD, Indicating Sexual Assault By Multiple Perpetrators

Victoria's autopsy revealed manual strangulation as the cause of death, classified as a homicide. Signs of sexual assault were present, including disturbing evidence such as perimortem trauma and a sexually transm ...

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The Conflicting Accounts and Evidence

Additional Materials

Actionables

  • You can enhance your critical thinking skills by practicing analyzing complex scenarios. Start by reading a mystery novel or watching a crime drama, then pause at key moments to write down different theories and explanations for the events. Compare your theories as new information is revealed to see how well you can adapt your understanding based on evidence.
  • Improve your understanding of forensic science by participating in a citizen science project that involves DNA analysis. Websites like Zooniverse offer projects where you can help classify data that contributes to real scientific research, giving you hands-on experience with how DNA evidence can be used to solve cases.
  • Develop your ability to assess the reliability of witne ...

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Mom Confesses To Watching Daughter Get Dismembered & Got Turned On By It - Now Claims False Confession

The Theories About What Actually Happened To Victoria

Online sleuths and podcast discussions have proliferated with theories about the tragic murder and dismemberment of a young girl named Victoria. Various individuals have been named as possible perpetrators, and a morass of details complicate the picture of this horrific crime.

Netizens Suspect Jessica and an Unknown Male Drug Dealer in Victoria's Murder and Dismemberment

Speculations abound about who could be culpable for Victoria's death, with numerous online theorists suspecting the involvement of a woman named Jessica and a male drug dealer.

Jessica's Behavior, Attacking Fabian and Michelle, and Claims of an Unknown Assailant Lent Credence to This Theory for Some

Jessica's odd behavior, her attacks against others, and her claims of an unknown assailant have led some people to credit the theory that she was involved in the murder. These speculations are amplified by the detail that after Victoria's murder, Jessica was the only one to flee from the police, with the others going voluntarily.

Possible Explanation: Jessica Invited a Drug Dealer Who Assaulted and Killed Victoria; She Later Killed Victoria to Cover It Up

Some netizens believe that Jessica had dealings with a drug dealer to whom she sold Victoria in exchange for drugs. The theory posits that either the dealer assaulted Victoria and left, leading to Jessica killing and dismembering the girl to hide the crime, or the dealer committed the murder and Jessica then dismembered the body.

Michelle and Fabian's Responsibility in Victoria's Murder

People are divided on the involvement of Michelle and Fabian in the murder of Victoria, with some pointing to previous behaviors as potential indicators of complicity or negligence.

Michelle's History Of Bringing Men Into the Home and Failing to Protect Victoria After Abuse Allegations Drew Criticism, Despite Her Non-involvement in the Murder

Michelle Martins' confessions and history of bringing men into her home have drawn the ire of the public. While Michelle admitted to inviting men from dating websites to her house and according to a confession, watched them assault her kids and did i ...

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The Theories About What Actually Happened To Victoria

Additional Materials

Actionables

  • You can enhance your critical thinking skills by practicing analyzing different scenarios and their outcomes. Start by reading a news article or a case study and write down all possible explanations for the events described. Then, list the evidence that supports or contradicts each explanation. This exercise will help you understand the complexity of real-life situations and improve your ability to evaluate information critically, much like dissecting theories about a crime.
  • Improve your awareness of personal safety by creating a safety plan for yourself and your loved ones. Reflect on the story you heard and identify potential risks in your own environment. Develop a plan that includes checking in with family members regularly, establishing safe words, and having emergency contacts readily available. This proactive approach can help you feel more secure and prepared in case of any unforeseen events.
  • You can contribute ...

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Mom Confesses To Watching Daughter Get Dismembered & Got Turned On By It - Now Claims False Confession

The Legal Aftermath and Sentencing of the Suspects

Following the trial and amid controversies surrounding confessions, punishment has been meted out to Michelle Martins, Fabian Gonzales, and Jessica Kelley in the tragic case of a child's death. However, public opinion reflects a sentiment that these sentences do not match the gravity of the crime.

Despite Doubts About Michelle's Confession, the Three Suspects Were Convicted

Despite her claim of a false confession and the debates around her involvement, Michelle Martins and two other suspects were convicted. The entire case seemed to be shrouded in uncertainty and confusion, especially regarding Michelle’s role. Yet, all three suspects were charged and convicted. Fabian Gonzales and Jessica Kelley were similarly convicted but spoke as if they expected their release. Ultimately, the suspects received plea deals and were sentenced.

Michelle Sentenced To 12 Years, Fabian to 37.5 Years, for Child Abuse Resulting In Death

In the sentencing, all three individuals saw their charges decreased from the initial murder charge. Michelle Martins was sentenced to 12 years for child abuse resulting in death. Fabian Gonzales received 37.5 years for reckless child abuse resulting in death, conspiracy to tamper with evidence, and seven counts of tampering with evidence. Jessica Kelley, convicted of child abuse resulting in death, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, conspiracy to commit tampering, and three counts of tampering with evidence, was sentenced to 44 years. Fabian was reportedly released in 2019 to await his new trial.

Criticism Over Leniency ...

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The Legal Aftermath and Sentencing of the Suspects

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Counterarguments

  • The sentences were the result of plea deals, which are a common legal practice aimed at reducing the time and resources required for a trial, and may have been agreed upon by the prosecution based on the evidence available and the likelihood of securing a conviction at trial.
  • The justice system operates on principles of law and due process, not public opinion; the sentences handed down must be based on the evidence presented and the applicable legal statutes, not the emotional responses of the public.
  • Sentencing guidelines are designed to ensure consistency and fairness in the legal process; judges are bound by these guidelines and must also consider factors such as the defendants' criminal history, the circumstances of the crime, and potential mitigating factors.
  • The concept of retribution must be balanced with the principles of rehabilitation and the possibility of reform; the criminal justice system aims to punish offenders but also to offer them a chance to reintegrate into society.
  • The severity of public opinion may not always reflect an informed understanding of the legal complexities involved in a case; the legal system is designed to operate independently of public sentiment to avoid mob justice.
  • The call for brutality and extreme retribution goes against the principles of human rights and the prohibitio ...

Actionables

  • Start a book club focused on criminal justice themes, inviting friends and community members to join discussions about the legal system, sentencing, and reform. This can foster a deeper understanding and awareness of the issues presented in the case you heard about. Choose books that tackle these subjects, like "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander, and use them as a springboard for conversation.
  • Write letters to your representatives expressing your c ...

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Mom Confesses To Watching Daughter Get Dismembered & Got Turned On By It - Now Claims False Confession

Involvement and Actions of Victoria's Family and Authorities

The case of Victoria has stirred controversy and criticism of the family's actions and the response of law enforcement and other authorities.

Grandparents Sue, Claim Authorities Failed to Protect Victoria Despite Abuse Reports

Grandparents Criticized For Not Protecting Victoria

Victoria's grandparents, who are Michelle's parents, have decided to sue the state with the claim that not enough was done to protect Victoria after multiple calls to Child Protective Services (CPS). This lawsuit has generated mixed responses from the public. While some empathize with the grandparents, others feel that they, too, could have done more to safeguard Victoria.

Stephanie Soo mentions that there's a belief among netizens that authorities failed to adequately protect Victoria despite being called consistently, leading to further doubt about the official narratives of the case.

Albuquerque Police and DA Criticized For Investigation Handling, Alleged Cover-Up Attempts

Decision to Accept Michelle's Confession, Despite Lack of Corroborating and Contradictory Physical Evidence, Seen As Misguided Attempt to "Solve" the Case Quickly

Netizens speculate that the Albuquerque Police Department may have been more interested in resolving Victoria's case quickly rather than thoroughly, as evidenced by their decision to accept Michelle's confession. This suspicion is compounded by the fact that there was no [restricted term] found in Victoria's system, contradicting the assertion that she had been force-fed the drug, which casts doubt on the reliability of the confessions made.

DA's C ...

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Involvement and Actions of Victoria's Family and Authorities

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The grandparents' decision to sue the state could be seen as an effort to hold the system accountable and ensure that future cases are handled more effectively, rather than a failure on their part to protect Victoria.
  • Authorities, including the Albuquerque Police and CPS, may have been constrained by legal limitations, resource constraints, or systemic issues that made it difficult to take more decisive action in Victoria's case.
  • Accepting Michelle's confession could have been based on a broader context of evidence and not solely on the physical evidence, which might not have been fully detailed in the public narrative.
  • The DA's decision to downgrade charges might have been based on a strategic legal approach to ensure a conviction with the evidence available, rather than an attempt to avoid scrutiny.
  • Interrogation techniques can be complex, and while there may be concerns about the reliability of Michelle's confessions, law enforcement may have followed standard procedures that are commonly accepted in the ...

Actionables

  • You can enhance your critical thinking skills by practicing analyzing complex situations with incomplete information. Start by reading news articles or case studies and list out the known facts, the assumptions made by the reporters or participants, and any potential biases or missing information. This exercise will train you to question narratives and seek a more comprehensive understanding of events, much like scrutinizing the handling of a legal case.
  • Improve your advocacy skills by volunteering with a local organization that works to hold authorities accountable. Look for groups that focus on transparency and justice, such as watchdog agencies or legal aid societies. By participating, you'll learn how to effectively demand accountability from institutions, which is crucial when addressing issues like the mishandling of legal cases.
  • Develop a better understanding of the le ...

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