#367: Girl With Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) Kills Her "Abuser"
Jun 18, 2024
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A chilling story of a girl with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) named Sarah who is manipulated, controlled, and ultimately commits a gruesome act. The podcast explores the challenges of interacting with different alters, childhood trauma, abusive relationships, and the complexities of DID in legal cases.
02:00:41
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Quick takeaways
The podcast highlights the complexities of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and its impact on individuals' behavior.
Sarah's traumatic past and abusive experiences contributed to her state of vulnerability and emotional distress.
Sarah's premeditated murder of Harold sheds light on the drastic consequences of unresolved trauma and mental health issues.
Debates around Sarah's claimed DID diagnosis raise questions about the accuracy of mental health assessments in criminal cases.
Despite her actions, Sarah's remorse and efforts towards personal growth reveal a desire for redemption and positive change post-conviction.
Deep dives
Sarah's Bond with Harold and Unfolding Trauma
Sarah shares a deep connection with Harold, who becomes a paternal figure in her life, offering to mentor her and provide support. Despite Harold's kind gestures, underlying unsettling behaviors emerge, culminating in him making inappropriate advances towards Sarah, leading to a traumatic and distressing situation.
Sarah's Tragic Childhood and Dysfunctional Family Dynamics
Sarah's childhood is marked by neglect, abuse, and dysfunctional family dynamics. Her parents show little care or guidance, with her mother focused on herself and her father struggling with emotional issues. Sarah and her sister, Ashley, shoulder the responsibility of caring for their three adopted brothers amidst a chaotic household.
Harold's Disturbing Behavioral Cues and Unwanted Advances
Harold, initially seen as a supportive figure, begins to display disturbing behavior towards Sarah. From sending inappropriate photographs to expressing romantic intentions, his actions take a dark and inappropriate turn, creating discomfort and fear in Sarah's life.
Sarah's Vulnerability and Traumatic Experiences with Men
A pattern of traumatizing encounters with men emerges in Sarah's life, where instances of assault and exploitation occur. Her early relationships with males reveal a harrowing cycle of abuse and trauma, perpetuating her vulnerability and emotional distress.
Sarah's Traumatic Past and Escalating Abuse
Sarah's history is marked by severe abuse and trauma, starting with an unidentified assailant who assaulted her and threatened her into silence. Her mother's dismissive response added to Sarah's distress. She coped with her trauma by turning to substance abuse, self-harm, and even watching graphic videos. Sarah's mental state deteriorated, leading to severe self-destructive behaviors like animal cruelty.
The Emergence of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)
As Sarah's trauma worsened, she displayed signs of DID, with distinct alters appearing to protect her. Vanessa, the primary alter, showed signs of severe depression and suicidal thoughts, while Alyssa emerged as the protector. Alyssa carried intense anger and a sense of needing to shield the system from harm. Myla and no-name were mentioned but with limited information.
The Chilling Act of Violence and Aftermath
Sarah's act of violence against Harold resulted from a culmination of trauma, as she felt trapped and sought freedom. The detailed account of Harold's murder, albeit cold-blooded, stemmed from Sarah's perceived need for escape. Harold's alleged innocence and Sarah's confession fueled debates among supporters and skeptics regarding her mental state and the circumstances surrounding the crime.
Sarah's Thorough Planning for the Murder
Sarah meticulously planned the murder of Harold, as evidenced by her premeditated actions leading up to the crime. She had already decided to kill Harold days before the incident, displaying a remarkable sense of calm as she prepared. Sarah researched items like bull tranquilizer, rope bondage techniques, and vulnerable neck spots, demonstrating her careful planning and intent.
Debates and Allegations Surrounding Sarah's Mental State
There are debates regarding Sarah's claimed Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and whether she faked it. While some argue that she genuinely has DID, others question the diagnosis accuracy, as evaluations at Larned State Hospital did not find her to meet the criteria for DID. The defense pled not guilty by reason of insanity, focusing on proving Sarah's DID and her state of psychosis during the crime. The complexity of Sarah's psychological profile, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and multiple disorders, adds layers to the debate over her mental state.
Sarah's Impact and Post-Conviction Actions
Despite being found guilty and sentenced to a lengthy prison term, Sarah's remorse and efforts towards personal growth and helping others are noted. She engages in training service dogs and expresses deep regret for her actions. Sarah's interactions in prison and her emotional struggles, as well as claims of being a victim of abuse, paint a complex portrait of her motivations and mental state during the tragic events that unfolded. Her actions post-conviction, including attempts at self-improvement, demonstrate a desire for redemption and a chance to contribute positively despite her past.
A man is laying face first, unconscious in his living room. Alyssa and Vanessa are standing over him. Alyssa reaches for the zip ties and binds his ankles together, three zip ties thick. Vanessa on the other hand is terrified. She’s screaming in her head to ‘STOP! This needs to stop! It’s taking things too far!’ But the words won’t come out; the only thing she can do is wait for a moment when Alyssa looks away—then Vanessa dives for the scissors. She cuts the zip ties off his ankles.
“NO!” Alyssa forces Vanessa aside and reties his ankles and his wrists. Vanessa lost her chance. She can only watch helplessly as Alyssa yields a massive hunting knife and sends it plunging into the man’s neck. Then she begins sawing—back and forth. They watch the blood soak into the carpet.
Police would later find the victim, Harold Sasko, and announce that his suspected killer was a 19 year old girl named Sarah.
However this episode is NOT Harold’s story. Neither Alyssa’s, nor Vanessa’s. This is the case of Sarah McLinn, diagnosed with DID, and the many, many people who believe she should be free.
RAINN Resources
Website link to CHAT w/ a trained staff member who can provide you confidential crisis support: https://hotline.rainn.org/online
Call the National SA Hotline anytime at: 800.656.4673
