PRETEND

The Stalker: Fit to Stand Trial? Part 24

PRETEND

Show Notes

According to police, Shelbey Fernandez ran a stalking campaign for years. She used burner numbers, fake accounts and fake 911 calls. She asked Google how detectives trace a texting app, how long a burner number lasts, and whether police can tell when you’ve hidden a phone during a search warrant. Prosecutors charged her with 29 counts.

Her parents describe someone else. For years, Tanya and Rick have told me their daughter has the mentality of a 12-year-old. She watches blooper videos and Dancing with the Stars. She couldn’t possibly be behind any of this.

Now a judge has to decide which Shelbey is standing in his courtroom. Four days after her arrest, her lawyer asked the court whether she’s even competent to stand trial. Two experts examined her. Their reports are sealed. And if she isn’t competent, Arizona doesn’t simply drop the case. It tries to teach her how to stand trial, one lesson at a time.

On October 1, the judge made his decision, and I have the audio.

I also share what the latest on Rick’s court file. Plus, a conversation with Susan and Brittni, recorded in the weeks after the arrest.

Shelbey has pleaded not guilty, and none of the allegations have been proven in court. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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