We Covered 10 Cases in January: Here's Where They Stand Now
Back in January, we laid out ten major true crime cases we were watching closely for the first half of 2026. Now that we are halfway through the year, the courtroom developments have been absolutely wild. In this episode, we are checking in on all ten cases to bring you the shocking verdicts, final sentences, and dramatic updates that have unfolded across the country.
The Quadruple Mansion Murders: Paul Caneiro
In New Jersey, the trial of Paul Caneiro concluded with a devastating guilty verdict on all counts, including four counts of first degree murder, aggravated arson, and weapons possession. Prosecutors proved that Paul wiped out his brother Keith's entire family due to financial greed before setting their Colts Neck mansion on fire. On May 19, 2026, Paul stood stoic as the judge called him a monster and sentenced him to four consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole.
The Utah Family Plot: Kevin Ellis and Tracy Grist
In Provo, Utah, the shocking conspiracy to murder Matthew Rastelli led to major convictions. Matthew's ex wife Katherine Restelli cooperated with the state, testifying against both her brother Kevin Ellis and her mother Tracy Grist. Kevin was found guilty of murder and sentenced to 15 years to life. Meanwhile, the mastermind mother, Tracy Grist, took the stand in her own defense, a decision that backfired completely before she was found guilty on all counts on April 21, 2026.
The Trial of Kelsey Fitzsimmons
In Massachusetts, former North Andover police officer Kelsey Fitzsimmons faced a bench trial for assault with a dangerous weapon following a mental health crisis involving postpartum depression. Kelsey took the stand and clearly pled her case, leading Judge Jeffrey Karp to find reasonable doubt regarding her intent to harm officers. Kelsey was acquitted on March 26, 2026, and is now reunited with her son while preparing a civil rights lawsuit.
Hidden in Plain Sight: Dale Warner
In Michigan, the search for Dee Ann Warner came to a tragic end when her remains were discovered inside a welded shut ammonia tank on her husband Dale's property. Following a tense trial, the jury found Dale Warner guilty of second degree murder and tampering with evidence. On May 7, 2026, Dale was sentenced to up to 60 years in prison, ensuring he will not be eligible for parole for at least 33 years.
The Grief Author's Conviction: Kouri Richins
In Summit County, Utah, children's book author Kouri Richins was convicted of poisoning her husband Eric with a lethal dose of fentanyl. Despite her defense calling zero witnesses, the jury took less than three hours to find her guilty. On May 13, 2026, which would have been Eric's 44th birthday, Kouri was sentenced to life in prison without parole, though she continues to deny the crime and vows to appeal.
Delays and Backlash: Sarah Clason
Washington State Patrol trooper Sarah Clason faced immense public backlash after being charged with DUI vehicular homicide in the death of Joe Vega Sanchez. Following delays, her trial has been pushed to September 28, 2026. Amid intense scrutiny over her paid administrative leave, Sarah officially resigned from the patrol on April 1, 2026.
The Bachelor Paternity Drama: Laura Owens
In Maricopa County, Arizona, Laura Owens faces 14 felony charges for allegedly faking pregnancies to extort men, including former Bachelor star Clayton Echard. After refusing an initial plea deal, Laura has been given a new deadline of June 29, 2026, to accept a revised offer that could spare her jail time.
No Body Trial Underway: Larry Millete
The highly publicized trial of Larry Millete is officially underway in California. Larry is accused of murdering his wife Maya, whose body has never been found after she sought a divorce. Opening statements began on May 18, 2026, and the courtroom has already seen emotional testimony from Maya's family.
The Au Pair Affair: Brendan Banfield
In Virginia, former IRS investigator Brendan Banfield was convicted of the double murder of his wife Christine and Joseph Ryan. His lover, au pair Juliana Magalhaes, testified to the elaborate plot to frame Ryan. Brendan's sentencing has been rescheduled for June 5, 2026.
The OnlyFans Stabbing: Courtney Clenney
OnlyFans model Courtney Clenney remains in custody without bond as her trial for the murder of boyfriend Christian Obumseli faces ongoing delays. Pretrial hearings have been chaotic, with the judge warning attorneys to keep the case from turning into a telenovela.
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