Dateline NBC The Trouble with Sarah
20 snips
Jan 20, 2026 Detective Skylar Rocks, a Chambers County investigator, delves into the mysterious death of Joe Hartsfield, revealing a web of past relationships and suspicious incidents surrounding Sarah Hartsfield. Ashley, Joe's stepdaughter, shares chilling accounts of childhood abuse and family dynamics, adding depth to the investigation. The discussion covers Sarah's manipulative behavior, questionable alibis, and a history of troubling incidents linked to her. The intense court proceedings culminate in a guilty verdict, prompting reflections on broader implications for unresolved cases.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Small Inconsistencies Reveal Bigger Pattern
- Sarah's behavior around Joe's hospitalization contained many small inconsistencies that hinted at deliberate deception.
- Detective Skylar Rocks used those inconsistencies and digital evidence to see a pattern others initially missed.
Accusations Of Arson Follow Early Marriage
- Titus's ex-wife Angela caught Sarah pouring gasoline and later saw her leaving a house doused in gasoline.
- Police repeatedly believed Sarah's version and she was never charged for those arson attempts.
Brother's Inherited Home Burns After Visit
- Cody inherited his grandmother's house and watched it burn after Sarah visited and removed items.
- He and others suspected Sarah set the fire and rescued a child, but no charges followed.