Behind the scenes of the Rebekah Barsotti case
Added 2022-07-27 01:21:48 +0000 UTCAfter quite a few emails, concerns from listeners, and confusion as to why we feel this case is so important, Dr. John and I decided to sit down and talk Barsotti in a way we haven't discussed publicly before. We start with a thoughtful message from a Patreon member and go from there. We answer some questions many have had. We explain the case, and how it evolved into where it is now.
A year ago today is the day Rebekah's dog Cerberus was found dead in a Montana river. After just 6 days in the water, his shock collar was embedded into his neck and unable to be removed. Rebekah's body would remain missing another 10 months despite continuous search and rescue efforts. When found ten months later Rebekah's remains were allegedly in better shape than her beloved dog. 💕 RIP Rebekah and Cerberus 💕
After listening, we hope you'll add your additional questions and thoughts to the comments below.
Lauren
Comments
This is so so informative
Crystal Swannack
2022-08-22 08:26:44 +0000 UTCThe more I listen the more I feel sympathy for Nathan. He is so real, we are all a bit like that but he doesn’t hide it and it seems to go at 100 mph. Frustrating? yes. In many ways. But if you are all over the place and very naive, being betrayed over and over again by people in authority and your own family, yeah I can see why you would be veering from trust to paranoia and with the confusing and awful cancer situation (I imagine there are health insurance situations as well as the fear and grief watching her suffer through treatment or the effects) I don’t know how many people would be acting calmly and rationally. So I don’t blame him for just wanting to be out of the limelight one minute and angry with Barsotti for making him look like an idiot with all the military play acting, the next.
Joanna Mulvaney
2022-08-14 18:17:28 +0000 UTCI for one am really impressed with your coverage of this case. I thought I heard Nathan say in the live that he thought they were "running guns" at one point. Is it possible that DB was doing something illegal with law enforcement, and that's why they have not investigated him? What does Barsotti have on them?
Jennifer Priebe
2022-08-12 14:01:50 +0000 UTCThank you Lauren and Dr. John for putting yourselves out there and covering this story. I appreciate your candidness and real information regarding the details of this story. Sometimes it’s a little frustrating and hard to listen to Nathan however he’s putting his life on the line, literally, and I can’t imagine how I would behave or what I would say if I were in his situation given the extreme abuse he has encountered in his life. He’s a much stronger person than I think I would be if I was in his shoes. Stay safe y’all! 💕
Paulee Gregory
2022-08-11 02:39:09 +0000 UTCYou made a lot of good point here. Ty!
Mary A Leck
2022-08-07 20:47:15 +0000 UTCThank you for shedding a light on this case. The manner in which the police have dealt with the entire situation makes this case important to cover on that count alone.The mainstream media plays the public against each other by either vilifying, or placing the police on a pedestal. Not cool.
Mary A Leck
2022-08-07 20:44:20 +0000 UTCWow! Thank you for this!!
Lauren and John Matthias
2022-08-07 03:28:56 +0000 UTCTrue Crime is exactly that, true, real. This case is an example of your channel 'Hidden True Crime', as it uncovers 'hidden' characters associated with this case in some way. I think your professionalism, that does not discriminate against any of those who have agreed to be interviewed, not only in this case, allows those 'hidden' characters to share their knowledge, their experiences with those they may have been associated with. Crime is not rainbows and butterflies. Crime is more than totally innocent victims. Crime often involves associates who very well likely have past experiences of being victims of crime, who continue to experience re-victimisation, experience re-traumatisation, just like Nathan. He may not be everybody's rainbow and butterflies, but he is real, he is part of this case, he is one of those 'hidden' characters that no-one would be aware of, if it was not for your genuine concern bringing awareness and justice to this case. Nathan, who some may have difficulty with because they can't relate, may actually assist putting DB behind bars because of his courage to do what is right and to get justice also for RB. Domestic Violence is all around us, women are dying all around us. I appreciate how much you bring attention to it and it is evident how passionate you are trying to help women escape DV. You are the only channel I am a patreon member of, because I see your journalistic professionalism and I appreciate you respecting those you speak to behind the scenes and not disclosing anything they ask you not too. I think Dr. John plays a significant role in these cases too, especially those involving DV, as your content is not delivered by only a female, who some may feel DV is being discussed by a feminist, but is also supported by a man. I thnk his perspective not only as a man, as your husband, as a psychologist, assists in bringing awareness and acknowledgement to those that may not recognise they are in a DV relationship. As I was thinking of this, you began to read the comment of a member that stated you and Angela saved her and her mother's life which got me choked up. I believe in your passion and I believe That IS what its all about, bringing awareness and hoping a life can be saved, while not discriminating, bringing truth and hidden stories to the surface, for justice. I hope you and Dr. John follow your heart and trust yourselves and your beliefs. 💜
Kara Oastler
2022-08-04 04:50:36 +0000 UTCWhen I first heard Nathan I got really concerned for you and your channel, because of the Summer Wells case. When individuals with very similar personalities as Nathan and the PI got involved with the Summer Wells case. It completely derailed the investigation for Summer, and caused all kinds of unnecessary damaging drama. But I know you are a good journalist and listening to Nathan I could tell after some time he was genuine, but had a lot of paranoia. Now hearing his background, it makes more sense. Also I know you worry about the messiness of live cases. I don't think you should worry. If you are doing things with a nice clean bow- is it really real life true crime? Or is it a storybook? I like watching a story unfold through investigation and research. Watching the details build up on each other to find not just the story, but the truth.
Amber Ferdig
2022-08-02 04:14:37 +0000 UTCI love the realness of this case. It's raw and messy and raises the hackles. It's really True Crime. We have all gotten used to crime, and news in general, being packaged for us. We enjoy unwrapping it like a present. It's a puzzle to analyze and figure out. I admit I like this too. But I know that's not what crime really looks like. Thank you for showing us the Hidden side. I'm here fir it.
Katie Alosi
2022-07-31 09:01:49 +0000 UTCHello Lauren and Dr. Babe ignore snobs I'm proud of you, my daughter has dated some real losers and I'd hate to think she would be ignored because those associated with her are less than the most educated people in the world . I understand why people of color feel they don't get the same press as the Gabby Petito's of the world although my daughter is a young bubbly sweet Gabby type dont let it sway you your doing the right thing and thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Lisa Spears
2022-07-31 00:10:58 +0000 UTCAgreed
Madea Thinks
2022-07-30 20:27:53 +0000 UTCHi Lauren and Dr. John, I feel you both are keeping your viewers as up-to-date as you possibly can without revealing the things that you know but, cannot share with us. I feel that is because, the loyalty and obligations that you have in not revealing the things that you cannot share, create a small disconnect between your viewers and both of you. This disconnect makes discussing an ongoing crime such as the Barsotti and Daybell cases, a little lopsided as, the knowledge and facts are not able to be shared inclusively. I feel that perhaps digging into a Missing Person case that is older and as you said more complete could be a better fit. Your viewers, myself included, are like dogs with a bone; our bones being the facts of a case, and we cannot let go and bury our bones until we have exhausted every fact. In the older cases, there are more facts that we can sink our teeth into, and begin tearing that bone apart. I really do appreciate all the hard work you both put into your podcasts and YT videos. Your drive to help and your compassion in the handling of every detail that you want to put forth shows the true intentions of your hearts in these cases old or new. I am a fan for life with you both! I will also support you in any way that you need. Keep up your great work!
just sayin
2022-07-30 19:20:47 +0000 UTCSo respectful, careful & smart!!! Both of U r fanatical about facts, fact checking & being correct FIRST, BEFORE doing shows.. Bravo for being kind, respectful & informative to entire listener base of subs. Thank U both!
Kathleen Suter
2022-07-30 00:07:21 +0000 UTCThanks for all your coverage!
Heather Carter
2022-07-29 04:04:11 +0000 UTCYup- if someone’s tried to kill you, this stuff feels more personal that’s for sure!
Tad Auty
2022-07-28 02:23:08 +0000 UTCI have been struggling with my own discomfort with this case - not because of relatability or interest. The intimidating atmosphere of Fear around D. Barsotti and the somewhat grating presentation of Nathan and the Private I added to my own anxiety. I tried to support Laura in the chat after that interview - because it was rough and I felt for her and wanted to offer support. I am a survivor of interpersonal trauma from a very damaging and coercive significant relationship. So these stories are challenging for me and the Barsotti presentation even more so. The threats of violence, intimidation, manipulation etc - - just too close for comfort at times for me.
hadda Forman
2022-07-28 02:12:29 +0000 UTCI was on the live when you realized the kid was on there. I thought the whole thing was fascinating! Was real. It was live. Not all crime victims and crime perpetrators are as nice looking as Lori Vallow. When that young man called in, he was so disjointed and all over the place that it was difficult to follow. I stuck with it only because I kept thinking… Is this for real? After the conversation was over, I feel bad for the guy. He clearly has huge trust issues. I for one am glad you are following other cases. The Daybell case will be giving and giving for years to come! You guys can keep us updated on that while you’re covering other stories. I think you have done a fantastic job and I am really enjoying it! Keep up the good work!
vickie taber
2022-07-28 01:17:28 +0000 UTCCatching up on this whole series. The absolute lack of interest and care by the police in Montana seems to be an institutional failure, their attitude towards missing indigenous women and girls is consistently awful so it’s not surprising that any opportunity to avoid investigating a missing adult woman is seized upon. Apparently in Missoula Women don’t die by the hand of former or current partners, they “run away” with a mystery man, “fall” in the river, “get lost” in the wilderness etc. Also this Nathan person. I can see why Lauren had handled him with care. Underneath all the ridiculous fantasy LARPing (that reminded me very much of John littlebear etc) there are some facts. I do have to say though that if Nathan was taking part in the mind game olympics, you could probably send him to the tiddlywinks qualifiers and he wouldn’t notice he was in the wrong place.
Joanna Mulvaney
2022-07-27 21:49:51 +0000 UTCThank you for sharing your thoughts. I find it quite interesting to think about the varied reactions people are having to the discussions about this case. I never thought about it being a "live case" versus a scripted presentation and I never had a value judgment about the people presenting their information. I am conscious of how disturbing it is to see this injustice unfolding. So much of our lives in America are watching this on a scale we could never have imagined. I see that it's easy to ascribe that discomfort to the characters who you've spoken with in front of us; to feel confused by the disjointedness of the presentations and information when it is unscripted and uncomfortable. I've had that feeling too, but subsumed those feelings in the deep sense of anger and fear that something like this blatant lack of integrity by the authorities could be happening here and now. My interest in this case lies in shedding light on a clear injustice in real-time in hopes that public pressure will bring outside parties to do the work the local police are for some reason unwilling to do. To find out the reasons for such blatant immorality and corruption. To even force the local populace to put pressure on those local police forces and kick them out of power. Thank you for covering this case. I for one would appreciate your continuing coverage of live cases, even more than the forensic psychological analysis of the criminal mind.
LauraK
2022-07-27 15:54:49 +0000 UTCAfter Nathan came on to recount the night he was shot, I prayed for his safety, along with yours and Rebekah's family. It's disturbing how much power David seemingly has over people. The sheriff couldn't even feign to take Angela's concerns seriously.... Does David have something to blackmail him with? Thank you for bravely continuing to shed light on this case. With that, I also would support you not taking on new open cases this deeply. 😬💜
Kim Cee
2022-07-27 11:24:22 +0000 UTCI know you touched on being in contact with the FBI and Dateline, so can we take that to mean that Rebekah’s case is no longer in danger of being swept under the rug? Also, I will not sleep tonight for thinking about David Barsotti’s poor dogs. If LE ever needs a reason to detain him, perhaps they can slap him wan animal cruelty charge. 🥺😡 I for one will donate, adopt, foster, or do whatever else needs to be done to rescue them from that monster.
Katie Marlowe
2022-07-27 02:58:04 +0000 UTCIt sounds like Nathan wants to do right but has been taught to be afraid. But through his fear, he keeps coming back to try again. I have to respect that. I hope he stays safe.
Inner Peas
2022-07-27 02:20:10 +0000 UTCTo the Patreon who has helped her mum get away- you stay safe too. And I hope your mum grows and heals in the space you’ve helped her get. It can be a long process, but it’s worth it. I left my scary one 29 years ago at age 23- had a few years of stalking on and off- still have some hyper vigilance at times as residue. I haven’t shared a house with a man since then but I so appreciate feeling safe in my home and have a lovely boyfriend who has his own place. My experience with my husband taught me a lot about how precious safety and freedom are - it takes time but I can’t imagine tolerating any of my husbands behaviour now for a minute. Actually- I disappear in seconds if anyone even shows any signs of being like him- so that to me is one gift that can come from it all. I wish you and your mum well on this new stage in life and I hope she does some things just for herself and heals fast. Send her my love.
Tad Auty
2022-07-27 02:17:39 +0000 UTCThank you for sharing this with us, and filling in some gaps in my understanding of the Barsotti case. Much of the information is quite sensitive, indeed. Personally, I understood immediately, by Lauren’s reaction to Nathan in the chat, that connecting with him was critical. I actually wondered if others would be upset by his language and demeanor. He, after all, is the kind of character that, in the twist of some Hollywood film, might end up being the “bad guy.” But, to me at least (aside from obviously wanting justice for Rebekah), it’s the real-time playing out of this case, and y’all’s determination to help, that has me so invested. In any real life scenario, you have to take what you can get from whomever you can get it. This is “true” True-Crime, not just entertainment- and as such, requires that you value the information and experiences of people whose personalities run the gamut of the determined mother seeking justice to the crooked sheriff, and everyone in between. So, again, thank you for entrusting us with what’s been going on behind the scenes. I understand fully why you both are helping. Thank goodness you are.
Katie Marlowe
2022-07-27 02:10:50 +0000 UTCDavid sounds like such a- in technical aussie speak- a w*nker! But a very dangerous one with contacts and self inflating bravado.
Tad Auty
2022-07-27 02:07:15 +0000 UTCI'm glad you've been open to all points of view. It's tricky. And since you are both professionals, you understand the risks. As a J school graduate with good friends who are stilll covering cases in broadcast news, it's obvious to me that Barsotti case is not 'white washed' true crime for entertainment. This is the raw case. Unedited. It brings to light the types of situations, especially threatening ones, and people, some unsavory, some traumatized, all human. Plus all LE departments are not equal. While living in the Ozarks in Arkansas, Jasper, a city of 400 - this know-it-all city gal, came across this all the time. Perhaps witnessing this first hand allows me to ride the roller coaster vs looking for the solved case. Best to you, both. Stay safe.
Cindy
2022-07-27 02:05:28 +0000 UTCSuper scary bad that someone goes missing- when there are current domestic violence charges- disappears before court case- no police interview with her ex?! What the ?! I can’t believe they didn’t even appear to follow to anyone process - their resistance to investigating seems badly motivated. As John said it’s just normal protocol to interview parters or ex partners. As someone who has been through the scary husband stuff, it’s horrific to think that all my friends and family would be ignored if I went missing, Eventhough there is evidence of a history of DV. Smells like corruption and the fact they haven’t handed it to someone else or opened an investigation? Ugh!
Tad Auty
2022-07-27 01:32:50 +0000 UTC
