August 22, 2024 • 26 mins
Discover the gripping true crime story of Richard Engelbert, a successful real estate agent from Littleton, Colorado, whose secret gay affair with his stepson, Harrison, led to a brutal murder. In this gripping episode of True Crime Case Files, we delve into the twisted family dynamics, the hidden camera footage that revealed the truth, and the dramatic trial that captivated true crime fanatics.
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:00):
Welcome to true Crime Case Files, where we dive deep
into the most shocking and perplexing crimes. Today we uncover
the tragic and complex story of Richard Engelbert, a successful
real estate agent whose hidden life and secrets fled to
his brutal murder. Richard Angelbert was a forty eight year
old man living in Littleton, Colorado. He was a well
(00:20):
known real estate agent in the community, often seen driving
around in his sleek black BMBO with the license plate
Sexy Realtor, showing homes to clients. Richard was married to Wendy,
a school principal, and had a stepson named Harrison. He
graduated from the University of Colorado with a degree in
business and had been in the real estate business for
over twenty years. People in Lyttleton trusted Richard because he
(00:43):
always seemed friendly and reliable. Richard lived in a large,
two story house with a well manicured lawn. His neighbors
often saw him working in the yard, greeting them with
a warm smile and a wave. He was involved in
local events and charity fundraisers, often sponsoring local Little League teams.
In attending church on Sundays, Richard seemed to have the
perfect life with a beautiful, homeless, successful career, and a
(01:07):
loving family. However, Richard had a secret life. For the
past two years, he had been in a sexual relationship
with his steps in Harrison. Richard kept this relationship hidden
from everyone, fearing it would ruin his reputation and career.
In addition to this, he continued to meet other men
for sex through his work, using the homes he showed
his secret meeting places. These double lives created a lot
(01:30):
of stress and tension for Richard. In the days before
his death, Richard was busy with work, closing deals and
meeting clients. He spent long hours at the office and
often came home late. He was looking forward to a
weekend get away to the Bahamas with his wife, Wendy,
hoping to relax and forget about his troubles for a while.
Richard was also planning to attend a Fourth of July
(01:50):
barbecue at a friend's house, where he expected to catch
up with old friends and enjoy some time away from
his hectic life. Richard's friends described him as charismatic and charming.
He had a way of making people feel comfortable and important.
Despite his friendly exterior, Richard was deeply troubled by his
hidden life. He felt guilty about his affair with Harrison
(02:11):
and the lies he told to keep it a secret.
He was also worried about Wendy finding out, fearing it
would destroy their marriage and his standing in the community.
In his last days, Richard was a man under pressure,
trying to juggle his public persona with this private turmoil.
His dreams of a perfect life were slowly unraveling, leading
to a tragic and violent end. On June twenty seven,
(02:32):
twenty fourteen, around three o'clock p m. Wendy and Telbert
returned early from her job as a school principal. She
was looking forward to a relaxing evening, maybe watching some
shows on Netflix and catching up on her favorite book.
As she walked through the front door of their house
on Bleak Street in Littleton, Colorado, everything seemed normal at first.
She put her keys on the kitchen counter and called
(02:54):
out for Richard, but there was no answer. Feeling a
bit uneasy, Wendy decided to check the basement, where Richard
often spent time working on his real estate files or
watching the History Channel. As she descended the stairs, she
noticed that the basement door was slightly ajar, which was unusual.
She called his name again, louder this time, but still
(03:14):
no response. When she reached the bottom of the stairs,
she was met with a scene of horror. Richard's lifeless
body was sprawled on the floor, surrounded by signs of
a violent struggle. There were blood stains on the carpet
and furniture, and Richard's face was bruised and battered. A
men's luxury belt was wrapped tightly around his neck, clearly
used to choke him to death. Wendy screamed in terror
(03:36):
and rushed to her husband's side, shaking him and desperately
trying to wake him up, but it was too late.
In a state of shock and disbelief, Wendy grabbed her
cell phone and dialed nine to one one. Her hands
trembled as she spoke to the operator, her voice cracking
with emotion. My husband is dead. I think he's been murdered,
she cried, struggling to catch her breath. The operator tried
(03:59):
to calm her down and instructed her to stay on
the line until the police arrived. Wendy's neighbor, Luby Johnson,
guns heard the commotion and came over to see what
was happening. She found Wendy sitting on the front steps
sobbing uncontrollably. Luby stayed with Wendy, trying to comfort her
while they waited for the police. The minutes felt like hours,
(04:20):
and Wendy's mind raced with questions about who could have
done this and why. When the police finally arrived, they
quickly secured the scene and escorted Wendy and Luby away
from the basement. Wendy was in a state of shock,
barely able to comprehend what had just happened. She kept
repeating who would do this to Richard over and over again,
her mind unable to process the brutal reality of her
(04:42):
husband's death. The discovery of Richard's body sent shockwaves through
the quiet community of Littleton. News of the murders spread quickly,
with neighbors and friends gathering outside the Engelbert home trying
to make sense of the tragedy that had struck their
seemingly perfect neighborhood. On June twenty seven, twenty fourteen, at
three point fifteen pm, the Lyttleton Police Department received a
(05:04):
frantic nine to one to one call from Wendy Engelbert.
Officers arrived at the scene within minutes, led by Detective
James Cattle, a seasoned investigator known for his meticulous approach.
The Engelbert home, located on the quiet Oak Street, was
quickly surrounded by police cars and yellow crime scene tape
was stretched around the perimeter. Detective Cattle and his team
(05:25):
entered the basement, where they were confronted with a grizzly scene.
Richard Engelbert's body lay on the floor with a men's
luxury belt wrapped tightly around his neck. Bloodstains were visible
on the carpet and nearby furniture, indicating a violent struggle.
Detective Cattle, a spry man in his late forties with
sharp eyes and a calm demeanor, took in the scene
with a steely resolve. The police began their investigation by
(05:49):
collecting evidence. They photographed the scene from various angles, documenting
every detail. The belt used in the murder was carefully
bagged as evidence, and detectives searched for fingerprints and any
clues that might lead to the killer. Detective Cattle noted
the overturned furniture and signs of a struggle indicating that
Richard had fought for his life. Forensic experts arrived to
(06:10):
process the scene, using luminal to detect blood traces and
collecting samples for DNA analysis. They meticulously calmed the area
for hair fibers and any other potential evidence. The brutality
of the murder shocked even the most experienced officers, but
they remained focused on gathering all the information they could.
Detective Cattle interviewed Wendy Engelbert, who was still in shock
(06:32):
from discovering her husband's body. She described her day and
the horrifying moment she found Richard. Her account was detailed
and emotional, but she insisted she had no idea who
could have done this. Wendy's alibi was quickly verified, as
she had been at work at the time of the murder. Next,
the police began canvassing the neighborhood. They spoke with neighbors,
(06:53):
including Luby Johnson. Gantz would come to Wendy's aid. Sarah
described hearing Wendy's screams and finding her on the front steps,
distraught and incoherent. Other neighbors mentioned seeing Richard earlier in
the day, but nothing seemed out of the ordinary. The
police also checked Richard's recent phone and email records, hoping
to find any leads. They discovered several suspicious messages and
(07:15):
calls suggesting that Richard had been meeting with various men
for illicit sex. This revelation added a new layer to
the investigation, pointing to potential motives related to Richard's hidden life.
As the day turned into evening, the police continued their work,
determined to find the person responsible for Richard Engelbert's brutal murder.
The scene was cleared and Detective Cattle and his team
(07:36):
reviewed the evidence collected, preparing for the next steps in
their investigation. The community of Littleton watched anxiously, hoping for
answers and justice for Richard Engelbert. The first suspect in
Richard Engelbert's murder was his wife, Wendy Engelbert. Wendy forty seven,
was a respected school principal in Lyttlton, known for her
intelligence and strong personality. She had been with the school
(07:59):
diay for over fifteen years and was heavily involved in
community activities. Her colleagues described her as dedicated and authoritative,
always striving for excellence. Wendy was brought in for questioning
the day after the murder on June twenty eighth, twenty fourteen.
Detective James Cattle led the interrogation, trying to piece together
(08:19):
her actions and emotions. Wendy appeared exhausted and distraught, but
she answered questions calmly. She recounted her day at work
and the horrifying discovery of Richard's body when she returned home.
Despite her composed demeanor, Wendy's anger and confusion were evident.
She expressed disbelief and frustration over the affair, insisting she
had no idea Richard was sexually involved with other men.
(08:43):
The revelation of the affair added tension to the interrogation
as Detective Cattle proded deeper into Wendy's feelings about her
husband's betrayal. Detective Cattle asked Wendy about her relationship with Richard.
She admitted they had a strong partnership, but mentioned that
they had faced some challenges recently. Wendy claimed she was
unaware of Richard's secret life. She explained she had recent
(09:04):
ski injury which had caused her difficulty in reading people's actions,
and suggested this might be why she missed any signs
of Richard's double life. Wendy's alibi was solid. She had
been at the school all day, attending meetings and preparing
for the upcoming school year. Colleagues and security footage confirmed
her presence at work during the time of the murder. Nonetheless,
(09:26):
her connection to the victim made her a person of interest.
Detective Cattle also explored Wendy's possible motives. Her reputation and
career were crucial to her, and Richard's affair threatened both. However,
Wendy firmly denied any involvement in the murder, maintaining her
innocence Throughout the questioning. She was co operative and provided
all requested information, including access to her phone and emails.
(09:49):
The police conducted a thorough search of the Engelbert home,
looking for any evidence that might link Wendy to the crime.
They found nothing incriminating, reenforcing her alibi and statements. Still,
the detectives remained cautious, aware that emotions could drive even
the most rational individuals to commit desperate acts. Wendy was
released after several hours of questioning, but she remained under
(10:11):
scrutiny as the investigation continued. The police kept a close
watch on her, monitoring her interactions and movements while they
explored other leads. The murder of Richard Engelbert was proving
to be a complex case, with layers of secrets and
motives slowly unraveling Harrison Engelbert, Richard's twenty one year old stepson,
(10:31):
was the next suspect. Harrison was a college student and
part time bartender, known for his troubled past. He had
been in and out of rehab in twelve step programs
as a teenager. Despite these challenges, Harrison was determined to
turn his life around and was pursuing a degree in
psychology at a local community college. On June twenty eight,
(10:52):
twenty fourteen, Harrison was brought in for questioning. Detective James Cattle,
aware of the sensitive nature of Harrison's relationship with Richard,
approached the interrogation with caution. Harrison appeared nervous but cooperative,
willing to share his side of the story. Harrison admitted
to the police that he had been in a secret
sexual relationship with his stepfather for the past two years.
(11:15):
He described feeling conflicted, struggling with the deceit and secrecy.
Harrison revealed that he had recently broken off the affair
after discovering that Richard had been cheating on him with
dozens of other men, using homes he showed as a
real estate agent as secret meeting places. During the interrogation,
Harrison expressed a mix of anger and sadness. He felt
(11:35):
betrayed by Richard, not only because of the affair, but
also because of the lies and manipulation. Despite his resentment,
Harrison claimed he had no intention of harming Richard. He
stated that he had been bartending on the night of
the murder, and several witnesses confirmed his ally. Detective Cattle
delved deeper into Harrison's possible motives. The young man's history
(11:56):
of emotional turmoil and substance abuse raised concerns, but his
efforts to stay sober and focused on his studies painted
a different picture. Harrison was open about his struggles and
his desire to move forward away from the toxic relationship
with Richard. The police also examined Harrison's electronic devices in
social media accounts, looking for any evidence of his involvement
(12:18):
in the crime. They found messages between him and Richard
that showed tension and conflict, but nothing that directly implicated
him in the murder. Harrison's DNA was found of the
crime scene, but as he lived in the house, this
was not unexpected. Harrison's cooperation and consistent alibi made it
difficult for the police to pind the crime on him.
(12:38):
He was released after several hours of questioning, but he
remained a key figure in the investigation. The police continued
to monitor his activities and interactions, searching for any inconsistencies
or new evidence that might shed light on his involvement.
The complex dynamics between Richard and Harrison added a layer
of complexity to the case, leaving Detective Cattle and his
(12:59):
team with more questions than answers as they continued to
dig deeper, they hoped to uncover the truth behind Richard
Engelbert's brutal murder. Alexa Hernandez, thirty, was the third suspect
in the investigation. Alexa had a history with Richard Engelbert
that made her a person of interest. She had once
caught Richard having sex with her husband in the bathroom
(13:20):
of a house they were touring together, which led to
the end of her marriage. Known for her fiery temper,
Alexa had several confrontations with Richard since the incident. On
June twenty ninth, twenty fourteen, Detective James Cattle brought Alexa
in for questioning. Alexa was a waitress at a popular
local diner and had a reputation for being outspoken and
(13:40):
strong willed. She walked into the interrogation room with a
defiant expression, ready to defend herself. Detective Cattle started by
asking Alexa about her relationship with Richard. She admitted that
she despised him for ruining her marriage and causing her
immense emotional pain. Alexa described the day she discovered her
husband and Richard together as the worst day of her life.
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She had confronted Richard several times after that, demanding answers
and an apology, but he had always brushed her off.
When asked about her whereabouts on the day of the murder,
Alexi said she had been working a double shift at
a diner called Denny's. She provided the names of her
coworkers who could verify her alibi. Detective Cattle called the
diner and spoke with Alexi's manager, who confirmed that Alexa
(14:24):
had been at work all day. Multiple co workers also
confirmed seeing her during her shifts despite her solid alibi.
Detective Cattle explored Alexi's possible motives further. Her intense anger
toward Richard was evident, but she insisted she had moved
on and was focusing on rebuilding her life. Alexi shared
that she was taking night classes at a local community college,
(14:47):
hoping to become a social worker and help others who
had gone through similar struggles. The police searched Alexis home
and car, looking for any evidence that might link her
to the crime. They found nothing suspicious or incriminating. His
phone records and social media activity showed no contact with
Richard in the weeks leading up to the murder. Throughout
the interrogation, Alexa remained calm and composed, despite her obvious
(15:10):
disdain for Richard. She answered all questions directly and showed
no signs of guilt or deception. Detective Cattle noted her
cooperation in honesty, but knew they had to keep all
possibilities open. After several hours of questioning, Alexa was released.
The police continued to monitor her, aware that her past
with Richard made her a potential suspect. However, her alibi
(15:34):
and lack of evidence made it difficult to tie her
to the crime directly. The investigation into Richard Engelbert's murder
grew more complex with each interview. Detective Cattle and his
teen were determined to uncover the truth, but the web
of secrets and lies surrounding Richard's life made their task
increasingly challenging. They pressed on, hoping to find the piece
of evidence that would finally reveal the killer. On July three,
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twenty fourteen, the investigation took a druma turn. It was
a hot summer day in Littleton, Colorado, with temperatures reaching
the high eighties. Around ten o'clock am, Detective Jing's Cattle
received a call from the forensic lad They had found
crucial new evidence while re examining items from the crime scene.
Among Richard Engelbert's belongings was a small hidden camera disguised
(16:19):
as a smoke detector installed in the basement. Detective Cattle
and his team immediately retrieved the footage. The camera had
recorded the basement's activities for the past few weeks, capturing
Richard's secret meetings and interactions. As they reviewed the footage,
they discovered a recording from the day of the murder.
The video showed a heated argument between Richard and his stepson,
(16:41):
Harrison Engelbert. The argument quickly escalated into a physical struggle.
In the video, Harrison grabbed the luxury belt from a
nearby chair and used it to choke Richard in a
fit of rage. The footage captured the entire incident, providing
undeniable evidence of Harrison's involvement in the murder. The team
was shocked by the brutality and clear motive behind the
(17:02):
act anger and betrayal. With this new evidence, Detective Cattle
contacted Harrison and asked him to come in for further questioning.
Harrison arrived at the station unaware of the video evidence
against him. During the interrogation, Cattle confronted him with the footage.
Harrison's demeanor changed instantly. His initial calmness turned to panic
(17:23):
and desperation. Realizing he had been caught, Harrison broke down
and confessed. He explained that he felt trapped in the
relationship with Richard, manipulated by both his stepfather and his mother, Wendy.
The constant deceit and Richard's infidelity had pushed him to
his breaking point. Harrison admitted that, in a moment of
uncontrollable rage. He had killed Richard to free himself from
(17:45):
the suffocating situation. Detective Cattle carefully documented Harrison's confession, ensuring
every detail was recorded. The new evidence, combined with the confession,
left no doubt about Harrison's guilt. The police now had
a clear picture of the events leading up to Richard
Engelbert's murder and the complex web of secrets and lies
that had surrounded the case. On July fourth, twenty fourteen,
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just before noon, the Littleton Police Department made a decisive move.
With Harrison Engelbert's confession and the incriminating video evidence, Detective
James Cattell and his team were ready to arrest him
for the murder of Richard Engelbert. Harrison, twenty one, a
college student and part time bartender, had been living a
life of turmoil and confusion. Despite his attempts to overcome
(18:30):
his troubled past, the intense emotional pressure from his affair
with his stepfather and his mother's manipulations had driven him
to a breaking point. The police learned that Harrison, overwhelmed
by feelings of betrayal and manipulation, had killed Richard in
a fit of rage on the day of the arrest,
Detective Cattle and several officers arrived at Harrison's apartment. They
(18:51):
knocked on the door, and Harrison, looking pale and exhausted, answered,
He was handcuffed and read his rights. Harrison seemed resigned
to his fate, showing little emotion as he was led
to the police car. The neighborhood was quiet, but a
few curious onlookers watched as the scene unfolded. Back at
the station, Harrison was formally charged with the murder of
(19:13):
Richard Engelbert. Detective Cattle conducted a final interview to document
all the details of Harrison's confession. Harrison reiterated his feelings
of being trapped and manipulated by Richard and pressured by
his mother, Wendy. He described the events leading up to
the murder, including the violent argument that had escalated into
the fatal attack. Wendy Engelbert, Richard's wife and Harrison's mother,
(19:35):
was also brought in for questioning. The investigation had revealed
that Wendy had known about the affair for months and
had pressured Harrison to continue it. She feared that Richard's
reckless sexual behavior would ruin her chances in the upcoming
election for school superintendent. Wendy, however, was not directly involved
in the murder. Her deception and manipulation added a layer
(19:55):
of complexity to the case, but she was not charged
with any crime. Richard's family was shocked by the revelations.
They had seen Richard as a devoted husband and father,
unaware of his double life. The arrest of Harrison brought
a mix of emotions, grief for Richard's death, anger at
the betrayal, and a sense of tragic inevitability given the circumstances.
(20:17):
The community of Littleton was stunned by the news the
murder had exposed a hidden world of secrets and lies,
shaking the town to its core. As Harrison awaited trial,
the Engelbert family and the entire community tried to come
to terms with the shocking events that had unfolded. The
police had solved the case, but the emotional aftermath would
linger for a long time. The truth about Richard's life
(20:39):
and death had been revealed, but the scars left behind
would take much longer to heal. The trial of Harrison
and Gilbert began on August fifteen, twenty fourteen, in Lyttleton, Colorado.
The courtroom was filled with family, friends, and local media,
all eager to hear the details of the case. The
trial was a significant event in the community, drawing attention
(20:59):
from local and national news outlets. The prosecution was led
by District Attorney Laura Mitchell, a forty five year old
known for her strong courtroom presence and dedication to justice.
She argued that Harrison's murder of Richard Angelbert was premeditated
and driven by deep seated anger and betrayal. She presented
the hidden camera footage and Harrison's confession as key evidence.
(21:22):
Mitchell emphasized that Harrison's actions were the result of a
troubled and volatile relationship, but ultimately he was responsible for
the brutal death of his stepfather. The defense was represented
by non binary advocate z Barnes, a forty year old
attorney with a reputation for defending high profile cases. Barnes
argued that Harrison's actions were the result of intense emotional
(21:44):
turmboil and manipulation from both Richard and his mother, Wendy.
They claimed that Harrison's unstable mental state and the pressure
he faced made it difficult for him to control his actions.
Barnes sought a verdict of guilty, but with consideration for
a lesser charge, hoping for a more lenient sentence due
to the circumstances. During the trial, the victim's family, including
(22:04):
Wendy Engelbert and other relatives, sat quietly, visibly distressed by
the proceedings. They had been shocked by the revelations of
Richard's double life and the turmoil it had caused. Their
emotional reactions were palpable as they listened to the details
of the affair and the murder. On September five, twenty fourteen,
the jury returned with a verdict. Harrison Engelbert was found
(22:27):
guilty of second degree murder. The jury determined that while
Harrison had acted in a fit of rage, the killing
was not premeditated. The decision was met with mixed reactions.
Some felt the verdict was just given the emotional and
psychological factors involved. Others felt it was too lenient given
the brutality of the crime. Harrison was sentenced to twenty
(22:49):
five years in prison without the possibility of parole. The
sentencing brought a sense of closure to the case, but
the pain and trauma for Richard's family were far from over.
The Engelbert family struggled to find peace knowing that Richard's
death had been caused by someone so close to them.
The trial's impact extended beyond the courtroom. It forced the
community to confront the hidden realities of betrayal and manipulation,
(23:13):
leaving a lasting mark on Lyttleton. As the case concluded,
the Engelbert family and the town of Littleton began the
difficult process of healing from the shocking events that had unfolded.
After the trial of Harrison Engelbert concluded in September twenty fourteen,
life in Littleton, Colorado, slowly began to return to normal,
but the impact of the case lingered. The community, deeply
(23:35):
shaken by the brutal murder of Richard Engelbert and the
subsequent revelations, faced a long process of healing and adjustment.
Harrison Engelbert, now serving a twenty five year prison sentence,
remained in the Colorado Department of Corrections. His life behind
bars was marked by the same struggles he faced outside,
dealing with his own emotions and the consequences of his actions.
(23:58):
In prison, Harrison was rewardedly quiet and withdrawn, focusing on
completing his education through available programs. He used the time
to reflect on his past decisions and seek counseling for
his emotional issues. Wendy Engelbert, Richard's wife, had her own
challenges to face. The trial had exposed her knowledge of
Richard's affair and her manipulative actions, which had a significant
(24:20):
impact on her personal and professional life. The scandal affected
her candidacy for school superintendent, a position she had been
campaigning for diligently despite her previous efforts to present a
perfect image. The revelations led to her withdrawal from the race.
Wendy tried to rebuild her life away from the public eye,
seeking therapy to cope with the emotional fallout and to
(24:42):
address the impact of the scandal on her reputation. Richard
Engelbert's family and friends were left to grapple with their
grief and the shocking details revealed during the trial. They
struggled to come to terms with Richard's double life and
the way it had ended. Support groups and counseling sessions
became crucial for those affected by the tragedy, providing a
(25:02):
space for them to process their emotions and seek support
from others who had faced similar situations. The Littleton community
also felt the effects of the case. The murder and
its aftermath stirred conversations about gidden lives, betrayal, and the
importance of communication within families. Local media, including the Denver
Post and nine News, covered the story extensively, bringing the
(25:24):
tragic events to a broader audience and sparking discussions about
the complexities of such cases. In the months following the trial,
Littleton began to move forward, though the scarreds of the
case remained. The community held memorials and support events to
honor Richard Engelbert's memory and to support those affected by
the crime. The Engilbert family's tragedy served as a sobberging
(25:45):
reminder of the hidden struggles that can lie behind closed doors.
As life resumed its normal pace, the case remained a
poignant chapter in Littleton's history, a reminder of the deep
impact of betrayal and violence on individuals and communities alike.
The story of Richard Engelbert's murder is a tragic reminder
of the complexities and hidden secrets that can lurk beneath
(26:06):
the surface of seemingly perfect lives. It's a tale of manipulation,
deceit and the devastating consequences of living a double life.
Thank you for joining us on this episode of True
Crime Case Files. Stay tuned for more in depth investigations
into the most perplexing crimes.
Welcome to true Crime Case Files, where we dive deep
into the most shocking and perplexing crimes. Today we uncover
the tragic and complex story of Richard Engelbert, a successful
real estate agent whose hidden life and secrets fled to
his brutal murder. Richard Angelbert was a forty eight year
old man living in Littleton, Colorado. He was a well
(00:20):
known real estate agent in the community, often seen driving
around in his sleek black BMBO with the license plate
Sexy Realtor, showing homes to clients. Richard was married to Wendy,
a school principal, and had a stepson named Harrison. He
graduated from the University of Colorado with a degree in
business and had been in the real estate business for
over twenty years. People in Lyttleton trusted Richard because he
(00:43):
always seemed friendly and reliable. Richard lived in a large,
two story house with a well manicured lawn. His neighbors
often saw him working in the yard, greeting them with
a warm smile and a wave. He was involved in
local events and charity fundraisers, often sponsoring local Little League teams.
In attending church on Sundays, Richard seemed to have the
perfect life with a beautiful, homeless, successful career, and a
(01:07):
loving family. However, Richard had a secret life. For the
past two years, he had been in a sexual relationship
with his steps in Harrison. Richard kept this relationship hidden
from everyone, fearing it would ruin his reputation and career.
In addition to this, he continued to meet other men
for sex through his work, using the homes he showed
his secret meeting places. These double lives created a lot
(01:30):
of stress and tension for Richard. In the days before
his death, Richard was busy with work, closing deals and
meeting clients. He spent long hours at the office and
often came home late. He was looking forward to a
weekend get away to the Bahamas with his wife, Wendy,
hoping to relax and forget about his troubles for a while.
Richard was also planning to attend a Fourth of July
(01:50):
barbecue at a friend's house, where he expected to catch
up with old friends and enjoy some time away from
his hectic life. Richard's friends described him as charismatic and charming.
He had a way of making people feel comfortable and important.
Despite his friendly exterior, Richard was deeply troubled by his
hidden life. He felt guilty about his affair with Harrison
(02:11):
and the lies he told to keep it a secret.
He was also worried about Wendy finding out, fearing it
would destroy their marriage and his standing in the community.
In his last days, Richard was a man under pressure,
trying to juggle his public persona with this private turmoil.
His dreams of a perfect life were slowly unraveling, leading
to a tragic and violent end. On June twenty seven,
(02:32):
twenty fourteen, around three o'clock p m. Wendy and Telbert
returned early from her job as a school principal. She
was looking forward to a relaxing evening, maybe watching some
shows on Netflix and catching up on her favorite book.
As she walked through the front door of their house
on Bleak Street in Littleton, Colorado, everything seemed normal at first.
She put her keys on the kitchen counter and called
(02:54):
out for Richard, but there was no answer. Feeling a
bit uneasy, Wendy decided to check the basement, where Richard
often spent time working on his real estate files or
watching the History Channel. As she descended the stairs, she
noticed that the basement door was slightly ajar, which was unusual.
She called his name again, louder this time, but still
(03:14):
no response. When she reached the bottom of the stairs,
she was met with a scene of horror. Richard's lifeless
body was sprawled on the floor, surrounded by signs of
a violent struggle. There were blood stains on the carpet
and furniture, and Richard's face was bruised and battered. A
men's luxury belt was wrapped tightly around his neck, clearly
used to choke him to death. Wendy screamed in terror
(03:36):
and rushed to her husband's side, shaking him and desperately
trying to wake him up, but it was too late.
In a state of shock and disbelief, Wendy grabbed her
cell phone and dialed nine to one one. Her hands
trembled as she spoke to the operator, her voice cracking
with emotion. My husband is dead. I think he's been murdered,
she cried, struggling to catch her breath. The operator tried
(03:59):
to calm her down and instructed her to stay on
the line until the police arrived. Wendy's neighbor, Luby Johnson,
guns heard the commotion and came over to see what
was happening. She found Wendy sitting on the front steps
sobbing uncontrollably. Luby stayed with Wendy, trying to comfort her
while they waited for the police. The minutes felt like hours,
(04:20):
and Wendy's mind raced with questions about who could have
done this and why. When the police finally arrived, they
quickly secured the scene and escorted Wendy and Luby away
from the basement. Wendy was in a state of shock,
barely able to comprehend what had just happened. She kept
repeating who would do this to Richard over and over again,
her mind unable to process the brutal reality of her
(04:42):
husband's death. The discovery of Richard's body sent shockwaves through
the quiet community of Littleton. News of the murders spread quickly,
with neighbors and friends gathering outside the Engelbert home trying
to make sense of the tragedy that had struck their
seemingly perfect neighborhood. On June twenty seven, twenty fourteen, at
three point fifteen pm, the Lyttleton Police Department received a
(05:04):
frantic nine to one to one call from Wendy Engelbert.
Officers arrived at the scene within minutes, led by Detective
James Cattle, a seasoned investigator known for his meticulous approach.
The Engelbert home, located on the quiet Oak Street, was
quickly surrounded by police cars and yellow crime scene tape
was stretched around the perimeter. Detective Cattle and his team
(05:25):
entered the basement, where they were confronted with a grizzly scene.
Richard Engelbert's body lay on the floor with a men's
luxury belt wrapped tightly around his neck. Bloodstains were visible
on the carpet and nearby furniture, indicating a violent struggle.
Detective Cattle, a spry man in his late forties with
sharp eyes and a calm demeanor, took in the scene
with a steely resolve. The police began their investigation by
(05:49):
collecting evidence. They photographed the scene from various angles, documenting
every detail. The belt used in the murder was carefully
bagged as evidence, and detectives searched for fingerprints and any
clues that might lead to the killer. Detective Cattle noted
the overturned furniture and signs of a struggle indicating that
Richard had fought for his life. Forensic experts arrived to
(06:10):
process the scene, using luminal to detect blood traces and
collecting samples for DNA analysis. They meticulously calmed the area
for hair fibers and any other potential evidence. The brutality
of the murder shocked even the most experienced officers, but
they remained focused on gathering all the information they could.
Detective Cattle interviewed Wendy Engelbert, who was still in shock
(06:32):
from discovering her husband's body. She described her day and
the horrifying moment she found Richard. Her account was detailed
and emotional, but she insisted she had no idea who
could have done this. Wendy's alibi was quickly verified, as
she had been at work at the time of the murder. Next,
the police began canvassing the neighborhood. They spoke with neighbors,
(06:53):
including Luby Johnson. Gantz would come to Wendy's aid. Sarah
described hearing Wendy's screams and finding her on the front steps,
distraught and incoherent. Other neighbors mentioned seeing Richard earlier in
the day, but nothing seemed out of the ordinary. The
police also checked Richard's recent phone and email records, hoping
to find any leads. They discovered several suspicious messages and
(07:15):
calls suggesting that Richard had been meeting with various men
for illicit sex. This revelation added a new layer to
the investigation, pointing to potential motives related to Richard's hidden life.
As the day turned into evening, the police continued their work,
determined to find the person responsible for Richard Engelbert's brutal murder.
The scene was cleared and Detective Cattle and his team
(07:36):
reviewed the evidence collected, preparing for the next steps in
their investigation. The community of Littleton watched anxiously, hoping for
answers and justice for Richard Engelbert. The first suspect in
Richard Engelbert's murder was his wife, Wendy Engelbert. Wendy forty seven,
was a respected school principal in Lyttlton, known for her
intelligence and strong personality. She had been with the school
(07:59):
diay for over fifteen years and was heavily involved in
community activities. Her colleagues described her as dedicated and authoritative,
always striving for excellence. Wendy was brought in for questioning
the day after the murder on June twenty eighth, twenty fourteen.
Detective James Cattle led the interrogation, trying to piece together
(08:19):
her actions and emotions. Wendy appeared exhausted and distraught, but
she answered questions calmly. She recounted her day at work
and the horrifying discovery of Richard's body when she returned home.
Despite her composed demeanor, Wendy's anger and confusion were evident.
She expressed disbelief and frustration over the affair, insisting she
had no idea Richard was sexually involved with other men.
(08:43):
The revelation of the affair added tension to the interrogation
as Detective Cattle proded deeper into Wendy's feelings about her
husband's betrayal. Detective Cattle asked Wendy about her relationship with Richard.
She admitted they had a strong partnership, but mentioned that
they had faced some challenges recently. Wendy claimed she was
unaware of Richard's secret life. She explained she had recent
(09:04):
ski injury which had caused her difficulty in reading people's actions,
and suggested this might be why she missed any signs
of Richard's double life. Wendy's alibi was solid. She had
been at the school all day, attending meetings and preparing
for the upcoming school year. Colleagues and security footage confirmed
her presence at work during the time of the murder. Nonetheless,
(09:26):
her connection to the victim made her a person of interest.
Detective Cattle also explored Wendy's possible motives. Her reputation and
career were crucial to her, and Richard's affair threatened both. However,
Wendy firmly denied any involvement in the murder, maintaining her
innocence Throughout the questioning. She was co operative and provided
all requested information, including access to her phone and emails.
(09:49):
The police conducted a thorough search of the Engelbert home,
looking for any evidence that might link Wendy to the crime.
They found nothing incriminating, reenforcing her alibi and statements. Still,
the detectives remained cautious, aware that emotions could drive even
the most rational individuals to commit desperate acts. Wendy was
released after several hours of questioning, but she remained under
(10:11):
scrutiny as the investigation continued. The police kept a close
watch on her, monitoring her interactions and movements while they
explored other leads. The murder of Richard Engelbert was proving
to be a complex case, with layers of secrets and
motives slowly unraveling Harrison Engelbert, Richard's twenty one year old stepson,
(10:31):
was the next suspect. Harrison was a college student and
part time bartender, known for his troubled past. He had
been in and out of rehab in twelve step programs
as a teenager. Despite these challenges, Harrison was determined to
turn his life around and was pursuing a degree in
psychology at a local community college. On June twenty eight,
(10:52):
twenty fourteen, Harrison was brought in for questioning. Detective James Cattle,
aware of the sensitive nature of Harrison's relationship with Richard,
approached the interrogation with caution. Harrison appeared nervous but cooperative,
willing to share his side of the story. Harrison admitted
to the police that he had been in a secret
sexual relationship with his stepfather for the past two years.
(11:15):
He described feeling conflicted, struggling with the deceit and secrecy.
Harrison revealed that he had recently broken off the affair
after discovering that Richard had been cheating on him with
dozens of other men, using homes he showed as a
real estate agent as secret meeting places. During the interrogation,
Harrison expressed a mix of anger and sadness. He felt
(11:35):
betrayed by Richard, not only because of the affair, but
also because of the lies and manipulation. Despite his resentment,
Harrison claimed he had no intention of harming Richard. He
stated that he had been bartending on the night of
the murder, and several witnesses confirmed his ally. Detective Cattle
delved deeper into Harrison's possible motives. The young man's history
(11:56):
of emotional turmoil and substance abuse raised concerns, but his
efforts to stay sober and focused on his studies painted
a different picture. Harrison was open about his struggles and
his desire to move forward away from the toxic relationship
with Richard. The police also examined Harrison's electronic devices in
social media accounts, looking for any evidence of his involvement
(12:18):
in the crime. They found messages between him and Richard
that showed tension and conflict, but nothing that directly implicated
him in the murder. Harrison's DNA was found of the
crime scene, but as he lived in the house, this
was not unexpected. Harrison's cooperation and consistent alibi made it
difficult for the police to pind the crime on him.
(12:38):
He was released after several hours of questioning, but he
remained a key figure in the investigation. The police continued
to monitor his activities and interactions, searching for any inconsistencies
or new evidence that might shed light on his involvement.
The complex dynamics between Richard and Harrison added a layer
of complexity to the case, leaving Detective Cattle and his
(12:59):
team with more questions than answers as they continued to
dig deeper, they hoped to uncover the truth behind Richard
Engelbert's brutal murder. Alexa Hernandez, thirty, was the third suspect
in the investigation. Alexa had a history with Richard Engelbert
that made her a person of interest. She had once
caught Richard having sex with her husband in the bathroom
(13:20):
of a house they were touring together, which led to
the end of her marriage. Known for her fiery temper,
Alexa had several confrontations with Richard since the incident. On
June twenty ninth, twenty fourteen, Detective James Cattle brought Alexa
in for questioning. Alexa was a waitress at a popular
local diner and had a reputation for being outspoken and
(13:40):
strong willed. She walked into the interrogation room with a
defiant expression, ready to defend herself. Detective Cattle started by
asking Alexa about her relationship with Richard. She admitted that
she despised him for ruining her marriage and causing her
immense emotional pain. Alexa described the day she discovered her
husband and Richard together as the worst day of her life.
(14:01):
She had confronted Richard several times after that, demanding answers
and an apology, but he had always brushed her off.
When asked about her whereabouts on the day of the murder,
Alexi said she had been working a double shift at
a diner called Denny's. She provided the names of her
coworkers who could verify her alibi. Detective Cattle called the
diner and spoke with Alexi's manager, who confirmed that Alexa
(14:24):
had been at work all day. Multiple co workers also
confirmed seeing her during her shifts despite her solid alibi.
Detective Cattle explored Alexi's possible motives further. Her intense anger
toward Richard was evident, but she insisted she had moved
on and was focusing on rebuilding her life. Alexi shared
that she was taking night classes at a local community college,
(14:47):
hoping to become a social worker and help others who
had gone through similar struggles. The police searched Alexis home
and car, looking for any evidence that might link her
to the crime. They found nothing suspicious or incriminating. His
phone records and social media activity showed no contact with
Richard in the weeks leading up to the murder. Throughout
the interrogation, Alexa remained calm and composed, despite her obvious
(15:10):
disdain for Richard. She answered all questions directly and showed
no signs of guilt or deception. Detective Cattle noted her
cooperation in honesty, but knew they had to keep all
possibilities open. After several hours of questioning, Alexa was released.
The police continued to monitor her, aware that her past
with Richard made her a potential suspect. However, her alibi
(15:34):
and lack of evidence made it difficult to tie her
to the crime directly. The investigation into Richard Engelbert's murder
grew more complex with each interview. Detective Cattle and his
teen were determined to uncover the truth, but the web
of secrets and lies surrounding Richard's life made their task
increasingly challenging. They pressed on, hoping to find the piece
of evidence that would finally reveal the killer. On July three,
(15:57):
twenty fourteen, the investigation took a druma turn. It was
a hot summer day in Littleton, Colorado, with temperatures reaching
the high eighties. Around ten o'clock am, Detective Jing's Cattle
received a call from the forensic lad They had found
crucial new evidence while re examining items from the crime scene.
Among Richard Engelbert's belongings was a small hidden camera disguised
(16:19):
as a smoke detector installed in the basement. Detective Cattle
and his team immediately retrieved the footage. The camera had
recorded the basement's activities for the past few weeks, capturing
Richard's secret meetings and interactions. As they reviewed the footage,
they discovered a recording from the day of the murder.
The video showed a heated argument between Richard and his stepson,
(16:41):
Harrison Engelbert. The argument quickly escalated into a physical struggle.
In the video, Harrison grabbed the luxury belt from a
nearby chair and used it to choke Richard in a
fit of rage. The footage captured the entire incident, providing
undeniable evidence of Harrison's involvement in the murder. The team
was shocked by the brutality and clear motive behind the
(17:02):
act anger and betrayal. With this new evidence, Detective Cattle
contacted Harrison and asked him to come in for further questioning.
Harrison arrived at the station unaware of the video evidence
against him. During the interrogation, Cattle confronted him with the footage.
Harrison's demeanor changed instantly. His initial calmness turned to panic
(17:23):
and desperation. Realizing he had been caught, Harrison broke down
and confessed. He explained that he felt trapped in the
relationship with Richard, manipulated by both his stepfather and his mother, Wendy.
The constant deceit and Richard's infidelity had pushed him to
his breaking point. Harrison admitted that, in a moment of
uncontrollable rage. He had killed Richard to free himself from
(17:45):
the suffocating situation. Detective Cattle carefully documented Harrison's confession, ensuring
every detail was recorded. The new evidence, combined with the confession,
left no doubt about Harrison's guilt. The police now had
a clear picture of the events leading up to Richard
Engelbert's murder and the complex web of secrets and lies
that had surrounded the case. On July fourth, twenty fourteen,
(18:08):
just before noon, the Littleton Police Department made a decisive move.
With Harrison Engelbert's confession and the incriminating video evidence, Detective
James Cattell and his team were ready to arrest him
for the murder of Richard Engelbert. Harrison, twenty one, a
college student and part time bartender, had been living a
life of turmoil and confusion. Despite his attempts to overcome
(18:30):
his troubled past, the intense emotional pressure from his affair
with his stepfather and his mother's manipulations had driven him
to a breaking point. The police learned that Harrison, overwhelmed
by feelings of betrayal and manipulation, had killed Richard in
a fit of rage on the day of the arrest,
Detective Cattle and several officers arrived at Harrison's apartment. They
(18:51):
knocked on the door, and Harrison, looking pale and exhausted, answered,
He was handcuffed and read his rights. Harrison seemed resigned
to his fate, showing little emotion as he was led
to the police car. The neighborhood was quiet, but a
few curious onlookers watched as the scene unfolded. Back at
the station, Harrison was formally charged with the murder of
(19:13):
Richard Engelbert. Detective Cattle conducted a final interview to document
all the details of Harrison's confession. Harrison reiterated his feelings
of being trapped and manipulated by Richard and pressured by
his mother, Wendy. He described the events leading up to
the murder, including the violent argument that had escalated into
the fatal attack. Wendy Engelbert, Richard's wife and Harrison's mother,
(19:35):
was also brought in for questioning. The investigation had revealed
that Wendy had known about the affair for months and
had pressured Harrison to continue it. She feared that Richard's
reckless sexual behavior would ruin her chances in the upcoming
election for school superintendent. Wendy, however, was not directly involved
in the murder. Her deception and manipulation added a layer
(19:55):
of complexity to the case, but she was not charged
with any crime. Richard's family was shocked by the revelations.
They had seen Richard as a devoted husband and father,
unaware of his double life. The arrest of Harrison brought
a mix of emotions, grief for Richard's death, anger at
the betrayal, and a sense of tragic inevitability given the circumstances.
(20:17):
The community of Littleton was stunned by the news the
murder had exposed a hidden world of secrets and lies,
shaking the town to its core. As Harrison awaited trial,
the Engelbert family and the entire community tried to come
to terms with the shocking events that had unfolded. The
police had solved the case, but the emotional aftermath would
linger for a long time. The truth about Richard's life
(20:39):
and death had been revealed, but the scars left behind
would take much longer to heal. The trial of Harrison
and Gilbert began on August fifteen, twenty fourteen, in Lyttleton, Colorado.
The courtroom was filled with family, friends, and local media,
all eager to hear the details of the case. The
trial was a significant event in the community, drawing attention
(20:59):
from local and national news outlets. The prosecution was led
by District Attorney Laura Mitchell, a forty five year old
known for her strong courtroom presence and dedication to justice.
She argued that Harrison's murder of Richard Angelbert was premeditated
and driven by deep seated anger and betrayal. She presented
the hidden camera footage and Harrison's confession as key evidence.
(21:22):
Mitchell emphasized that Harrison's actions were the result of a
troubled and volatile relationship, but ultimately he was responsible for
the brutal death of his stepfather. The defense was represented
by non binary advocate z Barnes, a forty year old
attorney with a reputation for defending high profile cases. Barnes
argued that Harrison's actions were the result of intense emotional
(21:44):
turmboil and manipulation from both Richard and his mother, Wendy.
They claimed that Harrison's unstable mental state and the pressure
he faced made it difficult for him to control his actions.
Barnes sought a verdict of guilty, but with consideration for
a lesser charge, hoping for a more lenient sentence due
to the circumstances. During the trial, the victim's family, including
(22:04):
Wendy Engelbert and other relatives, sat quietly, visibly distressed by
the proceedings. They had been shocked by the revelations of
Richard's double life and the turmoil it had caused. Their
emotional reactions were palpable as they listened to the details
of the affair and the murder. On September five, twenty fourteen,
the jury returned with a verdict. Harrison Engelbert was found
(22:27):
guilty of second degree murder. The jury determined that while
Harrison had acted in a fit of rage, the killing
was not premeditated. The decision was met with mixed reactions.
Some felt the verdict was just given the emotional and
psychological factors involved. Others felt it was too lenient given
the brutality of the crime. Harrison was sentenced to twenty
(22:49):
five years in prison without the possibility of parole. The
sentencing brought a sense of closure to the case, but
the pain and trauma for Richard's family were far from over.
The Engelbert family struggled to find peace knowing that Richard's
death had been caused by someone so close to them.
The trial's impact extended beyond the courtroom. It forced the
community to confront the hidden realities of betrayal and manipulation,
(23:13):
leaving a lasting mark on Lyttleton. As the case concluded,
the Engelbert family and the town of Littleton began the
difficult process of healing from the shocking events that had unfolded.
After the trial of Harrison Engelbert concluded in September twenty fourteen,
life in Littleton, Colorado, slowly began to return to normal,
but the impact of the case lingered. The community, deeply
(23:35):
shaken by the brutal murder of Richard Engelbert and the
subsequent revelations, faced a long process of healing and adjustment.
Harrison Engelbert, now serving a twenty five year prison sentence,
remained in the Colorado Department of Corrections. His life behind
bars was marked by the same struggles he faced outside,
dealing with his own emotions and the consequences of his actions.
(23:58):
In prison, Harrison was rewardedly quiet and withdrawn, focusing on
completing his education through available programs. He used the time
to reflect on his past decisions and seek counseling for
his emotional issues. Wendy Engelbert, Richard's wife, had her own
challenges to face. The trial had exposed her knowledge of
Richard's affair and her manipulative actions, which had a significant
(24:20):
impact on her personal and professional life. The scandal affected
her candidacy for school superintendent, a position she had been
campaigning for diligently despite her previous efforts to present a
perfect image. The revelations led to her withdrawal from the race.
Wendy tried to rebuild her life away from the public eye,
seeking therapy to cope with the emotional fallout and to
(24:42):
address the impact of the scandal on her reputation. Richard
Engelbert's family and friends were left to grapple with their
grief and the shocking details revealed during the trial. They
struggled to come to terms with Richard's double life and
the way it had ended. Support groups and counseling sessions
became crucial for those affected by the tragedy, providing a
(25:02):
space for them to process their emotions and seek support
from others who had faced similar situations. The Littleton community
also felt the effects of the case. The murder and
its aftermath stirred conversations about gidden lives, betrayal, and the
importance of communication within families. Local media, including the Denver
Post and nine News, covered the story extensively, bringing the
(25:24):
tragic events to a broader audience and sparking discussions about
the complexities of such cases. In the months following the trial,
Littleton began to move forward, though the scarreds of the
case remained. The community held memorials and support events to
honor Richard Engelbert's memory and to support those affected by
the crime. The Engilbert family's tragedy served as a sobberging
(25:45):
reminder of the hidden struggles that can lie behind closed doors.
As life resumed its normal pace, the case remained a
poignant chapter in Littleton's history, a reminder of the deep
impact of betrayal and violence on individuals and communities alike.
The story of Richard Engelbert's murder is a tragic reminder
of the complexities and hidden secrets that can lurk beneath
(26:06):
the surface of seemingly perfect lives. It's a tale of manipulation,
deceit and the devastating consequences of living a double life.
Thank you for joining us on this episode of True
Crime Case Files. Stay tuned for more in depth investigations
into the most perplexing crimes.
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