227: WARNING: Canadian Version of Chris Watts | The Case of Robert Leeming
Serialously with Annie Elise
Deep Dive
Why was Robert Leeming dubbed the Canadian Chris Watts?
Robert Leeming was dubbed the Canadian Chris Watts due to the chilling similarities in their cases, including the murder of their partners and children, and the subsequent attempts to cover up the crimes.
What triggered the investigation into Jasmine Lovett and Aliyah Sanderson's disappearance?
The investigation began when Jasmine failed to show up for a pre-planned family dinner on April 19, 2019, and her sister Genevieve couldn't reach her through calls, texts, or Facebook messages. This led to a missing persons report being filed.
What evidence linked Robert Leeming to the disappearance of Jasmine and Aliyah?
Evidence included Robert being the last person seen with Jasmine and Aliyah, the use of Jasmine's credit card for food delivery, and the discovery of a makeshift fire pit containing burned items like a car seat, diapers, and children's books. Additionally, Robert's phone data showed he was in the Bragg Creek area around the time of their disappearance.
What was found during the search of Robert Leeming's home?
Police found a barricaded front door, sanded and cleaned walls, a pin-code-locked master bedroom, a gun safe with multiple firearms, shredded passport pieces, infant toys, and raw bacon scattered throughout the house. These findings suggested a possible cleanup and evidence destruction.
How did Robert Leeming confess to the murders?
Robert confessed to undercover officers posing as criminals. He admitted to killing Jasmine and Aliyah, hiding their bodies in the woods near Bragg Creek, and using gasoline and mulch to throw off cadaver dogs. He also described burning their belongings to make it appear as if they had run away.
What were the causes of death for Jasmine and Aliyah?
Jasmine died from multiple blunt force head injuries and a gunshot wound behind her left ear. Aliyah suffered multiple blunt force injuries to her head and a spinal injury, with additional evidence suggesting she had been sexually harmed. Both deaths were ruled as homicides.
What was Robert Leeming's defense during his trial?
Robert claimed Aliyah died accidentally after falling down the stairs, and he killed Jasmine in a fit of rage when she accused him of Aliyah's death. However, the medical examiner's findings contradicted his story, showing injuries inconsistent with an accidental fall.
What was the outcome of Robert Leeming's trial?
Robert was found guilty of second-degree murder for both Jasmine and Aliyah's deaths. He received an automatic life sentence with eligibility for parole after 22 years. His appeal in 2022 was unsuccessful, and his conviction was upheld.
How did Jasmine's family respond to the verdict?
Jasmine's family expressed relief and satisfaction with the verdict, stating that justice had been served. They also channeled their grief into raising awareness about domestic violence and supporting organizations like the Calgary Women's Emergency Shelter.
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