
About this episode
This week, we are stepping outside our usual format to bring you a rare combination in true crime. First, we revisit a case we covered in episode 326. The 1981 disappearance of Lonene “Lonnie” Rogers, a young mother who vanished during a blizzard in rural Pennsylvania. For decades, her family lived with questions and silence. Now, after years of tireless advocacy by Lonnie’s daughter, there has been a major and unexpected development that may finally bring accountability.
Then, we turn overseas to a case that stunned us to learn about for the first time. An American student living in London finds himself at the center of a brutal homicide investigation after a young woman is found murdered in her apartment. What followed was an international trial, a disturbing defense strategy, and a verdict that has sparked intense conversation about power, control, and violence. Two cases. Two very different paths. One episode that reminds us how long justice can take, and why telling these stories still matters.
🎟 Catch up to FOUR bonus episodes per month plus full video episodes over on Patreon:
patreon.com/thefirstdegree
📸 Instagram: instagram.com/thefirstdegree
🕺 TikTok: tiktok.com/@thefirstdegreee
👤 Facebook: facebook.com/thefirstdegree
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Get every episode summarized
Each time The First Degree publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from The First Degree

DEEP DIVE: THE BUTT SNIFFER STRIKES AGAIN
The First Degree
Sep 3, 202647:01completed

Episode 418: Bigger Than the Trial
The First Degree
Sep 2, 20261:12:58pending

DEEP DIVE: WHAT IS WRONG WITH EVERYONE?
The First Degree
Aug 27, 202648:20pending

Episode 417: Stozek/McBrien
The First Degree
Aug 26, 202640:05pending